Bali Named “The Best Island” in Asia-Pacific, Tops DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards

Bali has once again solidified its status as a premier global tourist destination, clinching the title of “The Best Island” in the Asia-Pacific region at the 2025 DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards.

The Indonesian island outshone strong contenders in the “Best Island” category, including the Maldives, Boracay (Philippines), Phuket (Thailand), Phu Quoc (Vietnam), Palawan (Philippines), Koh Samui (Thailand), Langkawi (Malaysia), Penang (Malaysia), and Lombok (Indonesia).

For 18 consecutive years, readers of DestinAsian magazine have crowned Bali their favorite island, lauding its pristine beaches, lush rice terraces, world-class surf breaks, and profound spiritual culture. The island’s appeal is further enhanced by its luxury resorts, breathtaking coastal landscapes, and thriving arts scene, which continue to attract travelers from across the globe.

The Indonesian government is dedicated to fostering sustainable, high-quality tourism, collaborating with local communities, regional authorities, and industry stakeholders to ensure Bali remains a top destination.

Other Indonesian Highlights

Indonesia shone in multiple categories at the 2025 awards:

• Best Airlines: Garuda Indonesia secured sixth place.
• Best Airports: Ngurah Rai International Airport (Bali) ranked fourth, while Soekarno-Hatta International Airport (Jakarta) took fifth.

Full Rankings

Best Islands in Asia-Pacific

1. Bali, Indonesia
2. Maldives
3. Boracay, Philippines
4. Phuket, Thailand
5. Phu Quoc, Vietnam
6. Palawan, Philippines
7. Koh Samui, Thailand
8. Langkawi, Malaysia
9. Penang, Malaysia
10. Lombok, Indonesia

1. Bangkok
2. Singapore
3. Tokyo
4. Ho Chi Minh City
5. Kuala Lumpur
6. Hong Kong
7. Seoul
8. Sydney
9. Shanghai
10. Taipei

1. Singapore Airlines
2. Emirates
3. Thai Airways
4. Qatar Airways
5. Malaysia Airlines
6. Garuda Indonesia
7. Cathay Pacific
8. Japan Airlines
9. Vietnam Airlines
10. Philippine Airlines

1. Singapore Changi Airport
2. Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
3. Hong Kong International Airport
4. Ngurah Rai International Airport, Bali
5. Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Jakarta
6. Kuala Lumpur International Airport
7. Hamad International Airport, Doha
8. Haneda Airport, Tokyo
9. Incheon International Airport
10. Istanbul Airport

Impact on Bali’s Property Market in 2025

Bali’s latest accolade as the Asia-Pacific’s “Best Island” is poised to bolster its property market in 2025, reinforcing its status as a prime investment hub. The sustained recognition is likely to drive demand for both residential and commercial properties, particularly luxury villas and leasehold estates favored by expatriates and holiday-home buyers.

With Ngurah Rai International Airport ranking among the region’s top airports, improved accessibility could further spur interest from international investors. Coupled with the government’s focus on sustainable tourism, this could lead to rising property values, especially in sought-after areas like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Source:
JakartaGlobe.com
BaliExpat.com

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Three Airlines Launch Direct Flights to Indonesia; Korea-Bali Route Included

Three airlines are scheduled to start direct flights to the most popular places of interest in Indonesia. They are Jeju Air, Batik Air Malaysia, and Super Air Jet.

The announcement was made in the presence of Nia Niscaya who is the Minister of Creative and Tourism’s Chief expert in the field of tourism and Creative Economy, during the hybrid edition of “The Weekly Brief with Sandi Uno” that was held on July 22 2024.

“These new flights will significantly improve accessibility to Indonesian cities,” Nia declared.

The three new routes are:

1. Jeju Air (Jeju – Denpasar)

Beginning on October 27, 2024 Korean carrier Jeju Air will offer flights from Incheon, Seoul, to Denpasar, Bali, seven days a week. The plane will have the capacity for 180 people for each flight.

This route offers easy connections for Korean residents from different cities, via Incheon, Seoul, the capital of South Korea, to Bali.

2. Batik Air (Kuala Lumpur – Various Indonesian Cities)

Batik Air Malaysia will launch flights from Kuala Lumpur to four destinations in Indonesia. Here are the specifics:

• The flight will depart from Kuala Lumpur – Surabaya: From 1 August 2024 using Boeing 747-800 airplanes. The flights will be operated twice daily with the maximum capacity of 150 passengers for each flight.
• Kuala Lumpur – Lombok: Beginning on August 1, 2024 using the same type of aircraft. Flights will run 4 times per week, with the capacity of 150 passengers on each flight.
• Kuala Lumpur – Padang: Beginning on 10 August 2024 with seven flights per week and an maximum capacity of up to 150 people on each flight. “Padang is a popular shopping destination for Malaysians, known for its embroidery, songket (traditional fabric), mukena (prayer robe), and creative economy products,” Nia explained.
• Kuala Lumpur – Pekanbaru: Beginning 10th August 2024 with seven flights per week and 150 passengers on each flight.

3. Super Air Jet

Super Air Jet will offer flights from Kuala Lumpur to Aceh, beginning on the 3rd of August 2024. Its Airbus 320 aircraft will operate seven times per week and have a capacities of up to 180 travelers on each flight.

Nia spoke about the attraction of Aceh to Malaysian travelers due to being home to Tsunami Museum. “The museum is a powerful tale, and the architecture is impressive. The tragedy of the tsunami is a reminder of the power of God,” Nia said.

She pointed out that air travel is responsible 70 percent of the foreign visitor arrivals to Indonesia. She was hopeful that these new routes to flights would dramatically boost foreign tourism which is the goal for 9.5 millions to 14.3 million visitors by 2024.

As of May 20, 2024 Indonesia has welcomed 5.24 million foreign visitors, which is 36.7 percent of the top possible range.

Source: https://en.tempo.co/read/1894802/three-airlines-launch-direct-flights-to-indonesia-korea-bali-route-included

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Bali in Q1 2024: A Boom in Tourism and Real Estate

A resurgent travel industry is driving a surge in Bali’s tourism and real estate, fueled by a shift in tourist preferences and a resurgent travel industry driving this surge in tourism and real estate.

Here’s a breakdown of the trends shaping this vibrant market:

Bali Tourism on the Rise

Explosive Growth: There has been an explosion in visitor numbers in recent years. It is anticipated that there will be 7 million foreign arrivals by the end of 2024, which is a huge increase from the 5.2 million visitors in 2023.

Strong Start: The tourism industry in Bali began the year with a bang, welcoming 420,000 visitors in January, and 450,000 visitors in February, indicating an increase of 25% year-on-year in the number of tourists.

Peak Season Anticipation: An estimate of well over half a million visitors each month is expected during the busiest months (June-September), surpassing even pre-pandemic levels for visitors during this period of time.

Shifting Tourist Landscape

Evolving Preferences: Tourist preferences are evolving, with many tourists looking beyond Seminyak and Canggu as traditional hotspots of Bali. This new trend of splitting time between Canggu and Uluwatu has really caught on in recent years.

Uluwatu’s Rise: A steady rise in demand for rental villas in Uluwatu has resulted in a low vacancy rate for Uluwatu’s rental villas, thanks to this shift.

Investing Focus: Savvy investors are taking advantage of Uluwatu’s high occupancy rates, recognizing that it is an excellent location to invest in real estate.

Uluwatu: A Hotspot for Development

Q1 Boom: Q1 2024 witnessed a flurry of exciting new developments in Uluwatu. Established names are expanding their reach, and the area is becoming a hub for innovative projects.

Emerging Hotspot: Uluwatu’s growing allure is attracting a diverse range of developers, catering to various styles and budgets. This ensures a healthy mix of properties, further enhancing the area’s appeal.

Real Estate Market Flourishes

Tourist Impact: The influx of tourists has significantly impacted Bali’s real estate market, driving demand for high-quality accommodation.

Beyond Uluwatu: The surge extends beyond Uluwatu, with areas like Nyang Nyang, Suluban, Thomas Beach, Padang Padang, Balangan, and Melasti experiencing growing investor interest.

Proven Success: Excel Real Estate’s strong Q1 performance, with successful villa and land sales, reflects the market’s vibrancy.

Looking Ahead: A Positive Trajectory

Government’s Ambitious Goal: The Indonesian government aims to attract 12 million tourists to the country in 2024, with Bali playing a central role as the main gateway. Given the impressive start to the year, this target seems achievable.

Benefits for Investors: As tourism recovers to pre-pandemic levels, the real estate market is poised to benefit significantly. Investors seeking high occupancy rates and strong returns should explore opportunities in Uluwatu and other emerging areas.

Conclusion

Bali’s tourism and real estate sectors are experiencing a dynamic period of growth. With a resurgent tourist market and evolving travel preferences, the island offers exceptional investment opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront villa or a strategic investment property, Bali has something for everyone.

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Bali Soaring In Popularity With European Tourists

The latest travel data shows that Bali is soaring in popularity with tourists from Europe.

The Island of the Gods has long been the vacation destination of choice for Australian tourists, and this year it seems Bali is topping the charts with tourists from Europe too.

With international flights to Bali more accessible than ever before, it’s easy to see why Bali is becoming a must-visit destination for European tourists.

For decades, Bali has been a much-loved destination for European travelers, many of whom have visited the island as part of backpacking adventures and honeymoon getaways.

Now, Bali is becoming a destination for annual summer vacations for European tourists.

Speaking to reporters, the trustee of the Bali Sales and Marketing Community (BASACOMM), Gufron, explained that the number of tourists from all demographics of travelers is increasing as Bali enters the high season.

Gufron said that Australian tourists figures are set to increase 30% this year, with European travel trends coming along close behind.

Gufron said, “This means Bali continues to move, even for the Australian market. Apart from Australia, tourists from Europe also have the potential to visit Bali. Like Germany, tourist visits from that country will increase by 14.23 percent in 2024.”

Gufron noted that although there are increasing numbers of flights available to Bali, more flights are needed direct from major European cities to Bali if these travel trends are to be supported.

He shared, “In fact, the current challenge is the airline flight. Airline prices are quite high, especially in Europe. Therefore, there must be a policy from the government.”

The travel expert shared his suggestions for the industry in order to capitalize on the rising demand from European tourists to travel to Bali.

He noted that there are sufficient direct flights from major cities across Australia, including Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, but that it is tricky for most European tourists to fly to Bali without catching a connecting flight.

Gufron said, “BASACOMM suggests that there is a need for additional direct flights. Indeed, there are direct flights from Qatar, Turkey, Singapore and others, but they are still very lacking.”

Most tourists flying from western and central Europe to Bali must take a layover before jetting off to the Island of the Gods once again.

The most affordable and frequent layover for European tourists is in Dubai, with flights departing for Bali on a daily basis.

Others take a layover in Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Singapore before catching a shorter flight to Denpasar.

These layovers can add additional travel time and often increase the cost of travel directly.

Tourists from most European nations can travel to Bali and Indonesia more broadly on a 30-day visa on arrival.

The visa costs IDR 500,000 and can be paid for on arrival or arranged prior to arrival via the Indonesian e-visa website.

Tourists from 97 nations are eligible for the e-visa on arrival, and holding this visa entitles tourists to use the newly installed autogates at Bali’s Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport.

During this upcoming high season, the ability to use the autogates is set to be a real-time saver for tourists who will be able to complete their immigration arrivals process in just a matter of seconds.

It is no surprise that Bali is increasing in popularity with European tourists. Bali has been on a mission to promote the island as a destination where tourists can stay for a long time.

With the average tourist stay in Bali sitting at 3-5 days and many tourists visiting for a long weekend, Bali has been working to encourage tourists to stay longer and spend more.

For European tourists its very difficult to visit for just a couple of days and with so much to explore, staying 10-14 days in Bali is the perfect amount of time to feel rested and rejuvenated on vacation and explore the very best of what the island has to offer.

Source: https://thebalisun.com/bali-soaring-in-popularity-with-european-tourists/

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Starlink Launches Trial in Bali, Making Island Even More Appealing to Digital Nomads

Bali, the picturesque Indonesian island known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, has taken a significant step toward becoming an even more attractive destination for digital nomads with the trial launch of Starlink. SpaceX’s satellite internet service is set to revolutionize connectivity in remote areas, providing high-speed internet access that could transform Bali into a digital nomad’s paradise.

Enhanced Connectivity

One of the main challenges for digital nomads in Bali has been inconsistent internet service. While major urban areas and tourist hotspots often have reliable connectivity, rural and more secluded parts of the island can struggle with slow and unstable internet. Starlink’s trial aims to change this by offering high-speed satellite internet that is accessible virtually anywhere on the island. This enhancement will enable digital professionals to work seamlessly from Bali’s more remote and serene locations without worrying about connectivity issues.

Attracting More Digital Nomads

Bali has long been a favored spot for digital nomads, thanks to its affordable cost of living, beautiful scenery, and rich cultural experiences. The introduction of Starlink is expected to amplify these advantages, attracting even more remote workers who prioritize reliable internet access as a crucial aspect of their lifestyle. With Starlink, digital nomads can expect internet speeds that rival those of major cities, making Bali an even more viable option for long-term stays and professional productivity.

Boost to Local Economy

The influx of digital nomads facilitated by Starlink’s trial launch is anticipated to have a positive impact on Bali’s local economy. Increased demand for accommodation, co-working spaces, and local services can provide a significant economic boost. Moreover, digital nomads often engage with the local community, supporting businesses ranging from cafes and restaurants to wellness and recreational activities. This economic stimulation can contribute to the island’s recovery and growth, especially important in the post-pandemic era.

Supporting the Local Tech Ecosystem

Starlink’s presence in Bali could also foster the development of the local tech ecosystem. Improved internet infrastructure can attract tech startups and innovative projects to the island, potentially turning Bali into a hub for tech entrepreneurs and innovators. This could lead to more job opportunities for locals and contribute to the island’s economic diversification beyond tourism.

Environmental and Cultural Considerations

While the benefits of Starlink are substantial, it is essential to consider the environmental and cultural impact of increased digital nomadism. Balancing the influx of foreign workers with the preservation of Bali’s natural beauty and cultural heritage will be crucial. Sustainable practices and responsible tourism will be key to ensuring that the island’s charm and environment are maintained for future generations.

Conclusion

The trial launch of Starlink in Bali marks a significant milestone for the island’s digital infrastructure. By providing reliable, high-speed internet access, Starlink is set to make Bali an even more appealing destination for digital nomads, potentially transforming the island into a global hotspot for remote work. This development promises not only to enhance the digital nomad experience but also to contribute positively to Bali’s local economy and tech ecosystem. As the island braces for this technological upgrade, the focus will be on harnessing these benefits while preserving the unique charm that makes Bali a beloved destination worldwide.

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In 2024, Bali hopes to attract 1.5 million tourists from the People’s Republic of China.

Under the direction of Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism and the Creative Economy, the island of Bali is expected to receive 1.5 million tourists from mainland China by the year 2024. Compared to the number of visitors from the People’s Republic of China that was attained in 2023, the new aim indicates an increase of 707,000 Chinese visitors.

According to Wisnu Sindhutrisno, the Regional Marketing Director for the Tourism Ministry, Chinese tourists who visit Bali will travel to and from the island on one of the thirteen airlines that are currently operating flights between the mainland of China and the island. This information was originally reported by Detik.com. The following is a further statement: “We count a current seat capacity of 1.1 million (between PRC and Bali). This will be pushed to the point where the capacity for searing reaches 1.5 million.

According to Wisnu, the Chinese government asserts that forty million people from the People’s Republic of China will have vacations outside of the country in the year 2024. This number is significantly higher than the 10 million people from the Mainland of China that travelled outside of China in the year 2023. Although Wisnu stated that the Tourism Ministry is still dedicated to drawing “quality tourists” to Indonesia, he also stated that Indonesia is looking for tourists who are willing to spend a significant amount of money and stay for extended periods of time. According to him, the typical length of stay for Chinese tourists in Bali is between five and seven days.

It was brought to Wisnus’s attention that there are four peak travel times for travellers from China to places outside of China each year.

According to Wisnu, sixty-five percent of the Chinese tourists that visit Bali nowadays are members of the millenial generation, while the remaining tourists are those who are forty years old or older. According to him, Chinese tourists typically go to places that provide them with one-of-a-kind travel and cultural experiences. He also mentioned that Chinese tourists prefer to visit places that are “Instagrammable” and are good for taking selfies.

As the COVID-19 pandemic comes to an end, the official from the Tourism Ministry stated that the government of the People’s Republic of China is encouraging its residents to have vacations within the country. As a result, the People’s Republic of China is making an attempt to revive its domestic tourism industry. According to Wisnu, China states that the 40 million potential international outbound tourist market has only returned to a level of 10 to 15 million. This is despite the fact that the local market is quite large.

According to Wisnu, there were a total of 707,347 Chinese tourists that visited Indonesia during the months of January and November 2023. As the market in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) begins to revive, Chinese tourists made up 5.4% of all foreign tourists in December 2023.

On Saturday, January 20, 2024, the Chinese airline Juneyao successfully completed its inaugural flight, which originated from Shanghai and ended in Denpasar. With 164 passengers on board, an Airbus A320neo with the designation HO 1355 took off from Shanghai at 8:35 a.m. local time and arrived in Denpasar at 3:50 p.m.

Bali is now a daily destination for Juneyao Airlines’ flights.

It is the intention of the Chinese airline to replace the Airbus A320neo with a larger Boeing 787 Dreamliner that is capable of transporting between 360 and 400 passengers in order to accommodate the anticipated increase in the number of passengers travelling to Bali. The Ministry of Tourism is attempting to persuade Juneyao Airline to increase the number of passengers it can transport to Bali and are also considering the possibility of flying extra flights to Jakarta and Yogyakarta.

In the meantime, the general manager of PT Angkasa Pura I, which is in charge of managing the Bali Airport, mentioned that Juneyao Airlines is the 38th airline that operates international flights to the Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali.

source: https://balidiscovery.com/

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