Here's bittersweet travel news: our well-loved travel destination Bali has recently reopened to international tourists – however, Singaporeans will have to wait.
On October 14, Indonesian authorities have announced that the holiday island of Bali is welcoming visitors from 19 countries, marking the first since Indonesia closed its borders to foreign travellers 18 months ago. The countries, chosen for their low Covid-19 cases, are Bahrain, China, France, Hungary, India, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and the United Arab Emirates.
Of course, certain conditions have to be met. All international travellers must be fully vaccinated and have insurance that covers Covid-19 treatment. They are also subject to a five-day quarantine at their own expense for five days upon arrival. Previously, all international tourists would have to fly into Jakarta to serve their quarantine before heading to Bali.
This is, of course, a step in the right direction. But a question now pervades: when will Indonesia open up to Singapore tourists?
In an interview with CNBC, Indonesia's Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno said: "[With] Singapore and Australia, definitely, we are continuing to talk,” he said. According to him, conversations are focused on ensuring reopening "will be done first on a safe and secure basis."
Patience you must have, young padawans. In the meantime, you can still experience Bali in Singapore. Or head to these alternative VTL cities instead.
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