These adorable and intelligent creatures are a significant part of Bali’s allure. However, interacting with monkeys requires caution and awareness to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

In this article, we will provide you with essential tips and precautions to stay safe while monkeying around in Bali.

1. Understand Monkey Behavior: To navigate your encounters with monkeys effectively, it’s important to grasp their behavior. Monkeys are curious, agile, and known for their dexterity. They are attracted to shiny objects and may attempt to snatch them. Moreover, monkeys are territorial creatures, especially when it comes to their young ones. Respect their space and avoid sudden movements that might provoke them.
2. Choose Reliable Monkey-Friendly Locations: When planning your visit to Bali, make sure to choose monkey-friendly locations that prioritize safety measures. The Monkey Forest in Ubud is a popular destination where you can observe monkeys in their natural habitat. The area is well-managed by experienced staff who ensure the safety of both visitors and monkeys. By selecting reputable places, you can minimize the risks associated with monkey encounters.
3. Maintain a Respectful Distance: While monkeys may seem approachable, it’s crucial to maintain a respectful distance. Avoid direct eye contact, as it can be interpreted as a sign of aggression. Instead, observe them from a safe distance, allowing them to carry on with their activities undisturbed. Remember, it’s their home, and we are the guests.
4. Secure Your Belongings: Monkeys are notorious for their nimble hands and mischievous nature. To protect your belongings, it’s advisable to secure them in a backpack or a zipped bag. Avoid carrying food openly, as monkeys have a keen sense of smell and might try to snatch it from you. By keeping your possessions safe, you can prevent any unwanted monkey-business.
5. Do Not Feed the Monkeys: Feeding monkeys may seem like a fun activity, but it can have adverse effects on their behavior and overall health. Human food is not suitable for monkeys and can cause digestive problems and malnutrition. Additionally, feeding monkeys can encourage dependency on humans and alter their natural foraging behaviors. Let them find their own food sources in the forest to maintain their well-being.
6. Stay Vigilant during Monkey Interactions: If you choose to interact with monkeys in designated areas, exercise caution. Always supervise children closely and ensure they follow the guidelines. Avoid teasing or startling the monkeys, as they may react unpredictably. If a monkey approaches you, remain calm and slowly back away. Remember, respect and caution are key to a safe encounter.
7. Seek Immediate Medical Attention if Bitten or Scratched: While rare, monkey bites and scratches can transmit diseases such as rabies. If you are bitten or scratched by a monkey, seek immediate medical attention. Thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water, apply antiseptic, and consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and necessary treatment.

Interacting with monkeys in Bali can be a delightful and memorable experience if approached with caution and respect. By understanding their behavior, choosing reliable locations, maintaining a respectful distance, securing your belongings, refraining from feeding, staying vigilant, and seeking medical attention if necessary, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter with these fascinating creatures.

Remember, it’s all about coexisting harmoniously with the wildlife while appreciating the natural beauty of Bali.

The post Staying Safe Around Monkeys in Bali: Tips and Precautions appeared first on Hydromed Bali | Canggu | Seminyak.

Embrace the Serenity of Ubud’s Rice Terraces
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Bali’s countryside with a visit to the famous Ubud rice terraces. As you wander through the emerald-green fields, you’ll witness the harmony between man and nature. Take a deep breath and let the fresh air rejuvenate your senses. Capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shot amidst the cascading terraces and feel connected to the earth.

Dive into the Crystal Clear Waters of Nusa Penida
If you’re a diving enthusiast or simply crave an underwater adventure, Nusa Penida is a paradise waiting to be explored. Dive into the crystal clear waters and be mesmerized by the vibrant marine life that thrives beneath the surface. From majestic manta rays to playful sea turtles, you’ll encounter a diverse array of species. Snorkel your way through the colorful coral reefs and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Conquer Mount Batur at Sunrise
Prepare for an early morning adventure as you embark on a trek to the summit of Mount Batur. The challenging yet rewarding hike will take you through dense forests and volcanic landscapes. As the sun begins to rise, you’ll witness a spectacular panoramic view that will leave you in awe. The vibrant hues painting the sky will make every step worthwhile. Don’t forget to capture the awe-inspiring moment and cherish it forever.

Immerse Yourself in Balinese Culture at Tanah Lot Temple
No visit to Bali is complete without delving into its rich cultural heritage. Make your way to the iconic Tanah Lot Temple, perched atop a rock formation surrounded by the Indian Ocean. Witness the traditional Balinese dance performances and indulge in the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans. As the sun sets, watch the temple illuminate, creating a magical ambiance that will captivate your heart.

Unwind on the Pristine Beaches of Seminyak
After all the adventure and cultural exploration, it’s time to relax and soak up the sun on the idyllic beaches of Seminyak. With its golden sands and azure waters, this coastal paradise offers the perfect setting for unwinding. Whether you prefer to lounge under a palm tree with a good book or ride the waves on a surfboard, Seminyak has something for everyone. Indulge in delectable cuisine at beachfront restaurants and witness vibrant sunsets that will take your breath away.

Conclusion
Bali is a true gem that awaits your discovery. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Ubud’s rice terraces to the exhilarating underwater world of Nusa Penida, and the cultural wonders of Tanah Lot Temple, this island paradise offers an endless array of adventures. Whether you seek serenity, adrenaline, or cultural immersion, Bali has it all.

So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and get ready to uncover nature’s treasures in Bali. Embark on a journey that will leave you with memories to cherish forever. Your Bali adventure starts now!

The post Bali Adventures Unveiled: Exploring The Nature’s Treasures appeared first on Hydromed Bali | Canggu | Seminyak.

The mepeed tradition continues to be passed down from generation to generation and is forbidden to be abolished because it is sacred. The sacred value of this tradition lies in the purpose of mepeed namely mendak (looking for) tirta or toya ning (holy water) which is in Taman Beji Temple. Furthermore, the holy water will be used during the Pujawali event. The meaning of Mepeed is to walk hand in hand, therefore residents who come are required to come in groups and are not allowed to come alone. The mepeed which was held in Sukawati village was unlike the mepeed which was held in other villages where usually the participants were only attended by women who accompanied neatly while nyuun (carrying something over their heads) gebogan. The mepeed in this village was also attended by men, children, youth, to the elderly who walked side by side wearing Balinese’s payas (clothing).

The mapeed tradition is one of the unique cultures and traditions in Bali that has been passed down from generation to generation until now, and even then not all traditional villages on the Island of the Gods have it, but only a few certain villages maintain their ancestral heritage. What we usually see is the accompaniment of mothers wearing traditional uniforms, both the color of the clothes (usually white) and the sarong/cloth, their hair in a bun and even the shawl tied at the waist is also uniform, then they walk hand in hand carrying a gebongan offering that is of average height. to go to a temple. Apart from being a number of leading tourist objects in Bali, many unique cultures and traditions can be a special attraction for tourists, so that there are many variations of entertainment that they can watch, making holiday activities not boring. The procession of the Mapeed tradition is also a camera object for photographers.

In this article we will make you experiencing the vibes of mepeed tradition in Sukawati, Gianyar. Out of the squalor and chaos of the market, a stream of waving long bamboo flagpoles or penjors start to appear. Accompanied by the sound of gamelan gong and crashing cymbals, more heads appear over the hill. Women dressed to perfection in full pakain adat (traditional dress) walking carefully through the rubble in newly acquired high heels and little girls painted up like dolls, are followed by boys in more regal gear.

Traffic stops. The pecalang (banjar guards) keep everyone in line, and photographers get in everyone’s way as they try for the perfect shot. Those not involved, sit on their stoops watching the show. Makeup? No one is spared! When the gods are concerned, more is more. Boys, girls, young men and mature women are all painted up like princesses! Of course after all the expense of a makeup session, selfies are mandatory, so before and after and during the rest stops, everyone is photographed to death. It is of course, a mark of prestige to be able to complain ‘oh I was photographed so many times! They just wouldn’t leave me alone!’ while retaining a demure demeanour. But it’s all good fun and I am sure the gods are as happy as the mortals to have so much respect shown to them!

The place? Sukawati. The Occaision? Odalan – the bi-annual birthday celebration for the Pura Desa – one of Sukawati’s main temples. It is a ceremony that every temple in Bali celebrates, with varying degrees of elegance and extravagance. The mapeed are made as a gesture of gratitude to the gods, but it a wonderful sight for us mere mortals as well.

Sukawati banjars are known for their extraordinary processions that can sometimes, for the really big ones, stretch for half a kilometer or so. Sukawati seems to have more lines of beautiful girls than anywhere else on the island and it is always fun to watch, along with other villagers, who are not involved in that particular ceremony.

The children lead, followed by gamelan and groups of married woman chanting ancient rhythms as perfumed smoke fills the air. The market was symbolic, at least to me – from the rubble and chaos arose the purified temple folk, transformed into celestial beings before their gods. Later, as the procession finished and people were returning home, those godlike and gilded folk took their place on their motorbikes and the dream, the illusion hovered somewhere closer to reality. Wonderful Bali.

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How come Indonesia is not famous for its chocolate?

Indonesia may be the third-largest producer of cacao in the whole wide world, but sadly, most of the cacao is used to produce low-quality chocolate with lots of added sugar and palm oil. Fermentation is a key factor in the making of quality chocolate but fermentation is a time-consuming process and of course, time of money. Most of the cacao is bought by big companies who pay the cacao farmers poorly and it results in not-so-great chocolate.

Luckily, the times are changing for the cacao farmers in Bali. Chocolate producers like Pod Origin, Big Tree Farms and Ubud Raw Chocolate value chocolate of the finest quality. Single-origin, slow-roasted on low-fire, organically grown without the use of pesticides and fair trade and respecting the local farmers. This not only means that you can get a bite of amazing chocolate during your island stay but you can also visit some of these chocolate farms and factories and learn more about this superfood that we can’t get enough of.

Why do we love it so much all over the planet? Chocolate doesn’t only taste delicious, it is the ultimate comfort food and on top of that, it is also healthy; a true superfood! Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidant and minerals such as zinc and selenium. Eating ‘real’ chocolate is beneficial for your body, skin, brain and overall feeling of wellbeing.

A chocolate holiday to Bali.

There are some great places to visit on the island, turning you from a chocolate addict into a chocolate expert. See the cacao trees, taste the fruit, and learn about the entire process from bean to your favourite chocolate bar. Let’s take a closer look at these chocolate sites of interest one by one:

1. Pod Chocolate

Pod chocolate is now a famous chocolate brand in Bali. You can buy their chocolate bars everywhere around the island in shops, cafes and high-end resorts. However, it all started out in a little hut shaded by trees next to Bali Elephant Camp in the village of Carangsari near Ubud. Founder Toby Garritt was wondering why chocolate is not made here on Bali Island where the cacao trees grow. Pod chocolate is a 100% Balinese chocolate sweetened with nectar instead of sugar. The cacao trees are grown at sustainable eco farms where farmers get paid a fair price for their hard work and the chocolate is manufactured onsite at the Pod chocolate factory. There are many flavours to try out. A personal favourite of mine is the 80% dark chocolate bar and the peppermint dark chocolate.

Pod Origin.

Where Toby Garritt himself once made his own very first chocolate bar, in that little hut between the trees, that is where you can now go to visit the Pod Origin Factory & Farm. Combine it with a visit to Bali Elephant Camp, Sangeh Monkey Forest or a rafting tour on the Ayung River, and you have got the perfect family day out. You get to try all 20 types of Pod chocolate and you can make your own stack of chocolate elephants to take home with you. The chocolate tour costs Rp. 250,000. Entrance only is Rp. 95,000. Pod Origin, Jl. Tukad Ayung, Carangsari, Petang, Kabupaten Badung, Bali. Contact:  0813-3738-8778. Open every day from 8 am to 6 pm. Find your villa close to Pod Origin, in the lush tropical rainforest and emerald rice paddies of Ubud.

Pod Main Factory and Outlet

With the growing demand for Pod chocolate, a new factory has opened its doors on the road to Bedugul. This boutique chocolate factory features European machines and highly-trained local chocolatiers. Also here, you can get follow a chocolate-making workshop and get the chocolate artisan in you out. Choose a gift box, choose your chocolate, select your toppings and start creating. Your box of homemade chocolates makes a lovely gift for a special loved one back home (if you can resist the temptation of eating it yourself, that is!). The fresh chocolate making class costs Rp. 100,000. Pod Factory, Jalan Denpasar-Singaraja No.29, Mengwi, Bali. Contact: +62 361 209 1011. Open every day from 8 am to 5 pm

Pod Chocolate Café Sunset

Don’t have time to visit the factories in the heart of Bali or still craving for some more? Not to worry – you can visit Pod Sunset Shop & Cafe in Kuta, on your way to the airport even. Where to get the best hot chocolate in Bali? Probably this is the place, topped off with chewy marshmallows. Yum! Pod Chocolate Cafe Sunset, Jl. Sunset Road No.89, Kuta, Bali. Contact:  (0361) 8496228. Open every day from 9 am to 6 pm

2. Primo Bali

Not so many people know about Primo chocolate but your visit to this chocolate factory in Kerobokan (in between Seminyak and Canggu) will be rewarded with a warm, personal welcome and an interesting chocolate tour. Primo is a small-scale producer of organic single-origin chocolate. The Italian owner and founder of Primo Chocolate works closely together with local cacao farmers who exclusively work with traditional, sustainable farming methods. The beans are roasted at low temperatures over long periods of time to get the most delicate flavours out. Primo is involved with every step of the chocolate-making process, ensuring chocolate of the finest quality.

BEAN TO BAR ACTIVITIES AT PRIMO

The ‘bean to bar activities’ at Primo are praised with good reviews and Primo Chocolate has also recently been featured on the Netflix documentary series Chef’s Table Season 4. A chocolate making class at Primo Chocolate costs USD 50. You will get to sort the cacao beans and temper the chocolate with your own hands. Really interesting, fun and delicious! You can also go on the cacao temptation tour,  a 4-hour trip into the mountains where will meet the farmers and learn about their sustainable harvesting methods and fermentation techniques. This tour costs USD 65.

Primo Bali, Jalan Bumbak Dauh No.130, Kerobokan, Kuta Utara, Kerobokan, Bali. Contact: 0811-392-942. Open Monday to Saturday 8 am – 6 pm. Closed on Sundays

3. Sorga Bali Chocolate

A little bit far away from everywhere and everything, but if you happen to be in the neighbourhood, perhaps travelling from Sanur in the south to Candidasa in the east, it is worth to stop by at Sorga Bali Chocolate Farm. There is a chocolate factory you can visit and the surroundings are beautiful. Go check it out the beach swing and take some photos at the super cute, highly Instagrammable Hobbit-inspired houses. At Sorga Chocolate, you can also do a chocolate workshop and design every little piece of chocolate individually. What a feast!

Sorga Bali Chocolate, Jl. Pura Mastima, Jasri, Karangasem, Bali. Contact: +62 0363 21687. Open Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm and Sundays from8 am to 4.30 pm.

4. Ubud Raw Chocolate Factory

The raw chocolates made by Ubud Raw Chocolate Factory in Ubud are completely guilt-free and super-duper delicious. Organic raw cacao, coconut milk and coconut sugar do the trick to create this creamy, healthy, raw, vegan chocolate infused with goji berries, mint and/or nuts. Yes, the Ubud Raw chocolates are dairy-free and utmost munchable. One note of warning though, once you start munching on these babies, you won’t get enough! Luckily, you can get yourself a jar to take home with you. The latest flavour at Ubud Raw is wild orange and fig, to celebrate their 4th birthday. I, for one, can’t wait to taste it. Visit one of their stores in Ubud and indulge a raw piece of chocolate with a coconut latte. It is divine! Ubud Raw Chocolate Factory store, Jl. Raya Sayan 74  and Jl. Goutama 8 in Ubud. Contact: (0361) 97579. Open Monday to Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm. Closed on Sundays.

5. Chocolate Spa Treatments in Bali

Thanks to the many antioxidants found in dark chocolate, it not only makes your taste buds go wild, it can also do wonders to your skin. More than enough reasons to go treat yourself to a chocolate spa treatment or even better, a full-blown chocolate spa package. Chocolate dreams come true @ Bali Spa. This spa, with venues in Seminyak, Legian, Kuta and Ubud, offers a special chocolate-themed spa package. The package includes a massage with natural cocoa cream, followed by chocolate/cinnamon body scrub and topped off with a creamy hot chocolate bath! Wow! The treatment lasts 140 minutes and it costs Rp. 500.000 per person. Bali Spa, Jl. Camplung Tanduk, Seminyak, Kuta, Kabupaten Badung, Bali. Contact: (0361) 737933 Opening hours: 10 am to 11 pm

At Rumah Spa, more chocolate bliss is available. Rumah Spa in Jimbaran features a heavenly spa package that combines red wine and chocolate. A superb combination that sends you straight into a blissful state of mind. The ‘chocolate, wine & me’ spa package takes 180 minutes and it features red wine body splash, aromatherapy massage, chocolate body scrub, bubbler flower bath and hair spa or face spa. Oh, and it comes with a complimentary glass of red wine. The price of this package is IDR 1,190,000. Rumah Spa, Jalan Kutilang No.2, Jimbaran, Bali. Contact: 0812-3774-2426. Opening hours: 10 am to 8 pm. Chocolate massage creams, scrubs, facials and baths, chocolate heaven appears to be a found right here on the island of Bali.

The post Bali Chocolate Holiday Travel Guide appeared first on Hydromed Bali | Canggu | Seminyak.

1. Bali Bungalow Hotel Kuta

Centrally located, Bali Bungalo Hotel Kuta is highly preferable for you who yearns for that stay that could easily lead you to the frenzies of famous tourist spots. What’s best, this hotel is located in one of the most famous tourist districts and the famous Kuta beach with high waves suitable for surfing enthusiasts! YEAH!

At an affordable price, this hotel offers you a spacious room for you to relax in after a long, tiring day. You also have free access to WIFI that grants you access to search for your next day’s destination. Psst, there is also a swimming pool for you to immerse yourself in. Just perfect for Bali backpackers!

2. Rai House Sanur

Sanur would never go wrong for a calm, quiet stay. A spot for various water activities, you water activities enthusiasts should consider a stay in and around Sanur. How about a stay at Rai House Sanur? Situated in the heart of Sanur, this comfortable yet affordable accommodation is suitable for you Bali backpackers. Rai House Sanur features comfortable, clean rooms and bathrooms with a shower. You could choose various types of room and adjust it to your needs. Staying with a friend? Perhaps choose a double bedroom instead! The rooms are also equipped with air conditioners, so you do not need to worry about being exposed to the heat of Bali! What’s more, prices include breakfast all in, and these friendly staff would be more than excited to help you plan for a water adventure in the seas of Sanur. Need an airport transfer? This hotel also provides you with this service!

3. Link Costel Denpasar

Located an 8-minute drive away from Puputan Badung Square, Link Costel Denpasar is a contemporary 2-star accommodation featuring a 24 hours front desk service, a nice-looking terrace, and a beautiful mini garden. What’s more, this accommodation is also conveniently located near Ngurah Rai International Airport. The prices included daily breakfast and housekeeping, to keep your room clean and comfortable. Decorated with dark wood furnishings, these air-conditioned rooms are fitted with a clothes rack and a flat-screen cable TV. The bathroom also features a shower that comes with towels and free toiletries. Link Costel Denpasar is a go-to for an affordable, yet comfortable stay for your backpacking journey in Bali. The friendly staff can even assist you with local information and recommendations on where to go in Bali. What more to ask for, backpackers?

4. Inna Bali Heritage Hotel

Conveniently settled in the center of Denpasar, Inna Bali Heritage Hotel offers a classic-style accommodation with an outdoor pool featuring green, nice-looking garden. The spacious air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, a desk, and a wardrobe. What’s more, it is also equipped with coffee/tea making facilities. Boasting a warm atmosphere situated by the edge of the pool, Taman Tirta Restaurant serves various foods, ranging from Indonesian, oriental, and western dishes that you can adjust to your cravings! You can also opt for this restaurant for a relaxing drink night after that tiring backpacking trip. What’s more, this budget hotel has a 24-hour front desk and provides an on-site ATM for your convenience during your stay. Psst, it also has a picnic area where you can enjoy a BBQ with all these complete BBQ facilities! Perfect, right?

5. The Paica, Canggu

Ahh Canggu– one of the best places to plan for a stay in. If you consider a stay in the Canggu Area, with clean, comfortable rooms suitable for backpackers alike, The Paica Canggu is one of the best options you have! Nestled in a natural river setting, this hotel boasts a spectacular, misty view around. Suitable for you seeking a quiet, calming area for a stay. This hotel provides an open-air seating area and a dining room with TV. A fully-equipped kitchen offering free water and tea/coffee making facilities is also available for you to use. All rooms in The Paica are also equipped with air conditioner and private bathrooms with hot water, showers, and free toiletries.

Need a service that’ll ease your trip around Bali? Ask no more! The friendly staff at The Paica can arrange for shuttle service and airport transfer amongst others at additional charge. Situated conveniently, this accommodation is only 7 km away from Seminyak Square and Petitenget Beach.

6. Teba House Ubud

Teba House Ubud is another budget hotel particularly suitable for you backpackers! This hotel is only a 10-minute walk to the famous Monkey Forest spot. Sure, by walking, you can even save more money to this spectacular destination, right? Teba House Ubud Guest House offers Balinese-style rooms with spacious balconies equipped with a wardrobe, work desk, and tea/coffee making facilities. It has free WIFI across all corners of the buildings. What’s more, you can watch nightly Balinese dance performances in Ubud Village, which is only within walking distance from the property. Centrally located in Ubud, a 10-minute walk from the Monkey Forest, Teba House Ubud Guest House offers Balinese-inspired rooms with spacious balconies. It has massage services, a chargeable airport shuttle service and free Wi-Fi. For guests’ convenience, this hotel also provides car and bicycle rental facilities. It also has a tour desk which organizes excursions to various tourist attractions. The friendly staff will happily assist you to make the most of your backpacking trips!

7. Ayu Lili Garden Hotel

For you, backpackers looking for lodging with affordable rates and prioritized comfort, Ayu Lili Garden Hotel could be an option for you. Though affordable, this accommodation offers adequate facilities with top-quality service. Its excellent service will make you feel at home. Ayu Lili Garden Hotel is situated in Legian, Kuta area. The location is highly strategic, in which Ngurah Rai airport is only 9 kms away which takes you around 20 minutes to get to. This place is also close to Bali Bomb Monument, only a 3,5 km drive away. This room features a comfortable clean room you can adjust your need to. You will have free access to WIFI in every corner of the building with a private bathroom complete with a shower and complimentary toiletries. What’s more, each room is equipped with a balcony and a safe. And the best part, you also have access to an outdoor swimming pool! Need a recommendation on where to go for your backpacking trip? This hotel also provides a service where you can easily book ticket reservations. Convenient, right?

Now that you have browsed around the affordable yet comfortable hotels for backpackers in Bali we have provided you with, it’s time for you to make a plan about visiting us in Bali. Since we’re still in the middle of the ongoing pandemic, always adhere to the established health protocols during your visit anywhere, anytime. Make sure to always be safe and cautious during your holiday! Have fun!

The post Bali Hotels Around 100k, Backpackers Will Crave For This appeared first on Hydromed Bali | Canggu | Seminyak.

This year Maybank Indonesia will provide the original and favourite course for the run, which features the beautiful natural scenery of Gianyar and the friendliness of its residents.

Additionally, Race Pack Collection Day, a separate event catered to runners, will take place on Aug. 26-27 in Bhagawan Park, Benoa, Bali. The announcement of the Maybank Marathon 2022 was delivered by the president director of Maybank Indonesia, Taswin Zakaria, at the lender’s head office in Senayan, South Jakarta.

He was accompanied by the main partner of the executive board of the All-Indonesia Athletics Association (PB PASI), represented by secretary-general Tigor Tanjung and the Indonesian runners’ community. “With pride and pleasure, today we announce the reorganization of the Elite Label Road Race Maybank Marathon in Bali. Since it was first introduced in 2012, the Maybank Marathon is the first and only marathon event in the country that has consistently obtained certification from the World Athletics Body, World Athletics [formerly IAAF], Association of International Marathons and Distance Races [AIMS] and PB PASI. And since 2020 the Maybank Marathon has held the title Elite Label from World Athletics.

In its journey, the Maybank Marathon has also become a qualifying event for the National Games [PON] and also the Boston Marathon,” said Taswin.  It is the only marathon in the country that is included in the World Athletics 1 calendar and AIMS. It has also entered the list of 175 qualifying events for the World Championship Abbott World Marathon Major (Abbott WMM) Wanda Age Group World Rankings and has entered the official race directory of the Boston Marathon. “The Maybank Marathon event in 2022 is expected to raise the spirits of running enthusiasts who have long been waiting for the challenge of running in the open, especially in Bali, as well as being one of the efforts to reactivate the implementation of outdoor sports events in Indonesia,” said Taswin.

He is confident that Bali has the ability to accommodate runners from all over the world, which will further promote economic recovery, especially in tourism. “We will prepare adequate infrastructure and ensure that comfort and safety factors are maintained to support the smooth implementation of the Maybank Marathon, as in previous years,” added Maybank Marathon project director Widya Permana. In addition to infrastructure preparations, Maybank Indonesia will provide training and educational activities for runners prior to the event. It will include a running clinic, Sunday morning runs, as well as training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and life support.

As in the past, a fun part of the festivities is “Race Pack Collection Day,” which takes place at Taman Bhagawan, Tanjung Benoa in Bali on 26-27 August.

Speaking of marathon, you might interested to check that Bali has ceremonial ‘Rerainan’ marathon in November, 2021. Click and read  https://www.hydromedicalbali.com/bali-holidays-rerainan-marathon-in-november-2021/

The Maybank Marathon is the only marathon event in Indonesia that, from its inauguration, has possessed certification from World Athletic (formerly the International Association of Athletics Federations or IAAF). Since 2020, the Maybank Event in Bali was elevated to the status of an “Elite Label” event by World Athletic. The Maybank Marathon in Bali is the only marathon event in Indonesia listed as a major “road running event” on the calendars of World Athletics and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

The announcement launching the Maybank Marathon 2022 in Bali was made by the President Director of Maybank Indonesia, Taswin Zakaria, at the Maybank headquarters in Senayan, Jakarta, confirming a partnership with the Indonesian Athletic Association (PB PASI).

The 2022 marathon in Bali will operate over three categories:

• Full Marathon of 42.195 kilometers
• Half-Marathon of 21.1 kilometers
• 10 Kilometer Event

Past events have sold out very quickly. Aspiring registrants are urged to register immediately on 16 April 2022.

Online registration opens online on 16 April 2022 via this link https://www.maybank.co.id/Maybank-Marathon.

The Bali event has received many accolades, including listing as:

• “World’s Must Run Before You Die” by ACTIVE
• “The 52 Best Races on Earth in 2016” by Runner’s World
• “Best Marathon 2016”
• “Best Half-Marathon 2015”
• “The Most Popular Sports Events 2018” from Venue Magazine

The President Director of Maybank, Taswin Zakaria, said: “The Maybank Marathon event in 2022 will awaken the enthusiasm of running sports hobbyists who have long been waiting for the challenge of running in the open, especially in Bali, as well as representing an efforts to reactivate outdoor sporting events in Indonesia.”

Widya Permana, Project Director for Maybank Marathon, said: “We will prepare an infrastructure sufficient to ensure that the factors of comfort and security support the smooth running of the Maybank Marathon, as in previous years.”

“Maybank Indonesia has the vision of elevating the Maybank Marathon to become the icon of world-class sports tourism in Indonesia, especially in Bali. In addition to having infrastructure readiness, Bali can accommodate runners from all over the world. We hope that the Maybank Marathon 2022 event in Bali in August will also impact the economy and encourage the recovery momentum of the Bali tourism industry,” said Taswin.

In the run-up to the Maybank Marathon in Bali, the event organizers will conduct training and education programs as part of the “Road to Maybank Marathon Bali 2022″ held in several larges cities in Indonesia. These programs will include running clinics, Sunday morning runs, and Emergency CPR training and life support.

Participation Costs

Once registration opens on 16 April 2022, the cost of participation for the Maybank Marathon Bali 2022:

General Registration

Indonesian Nationals

• Full-Marathon Rp. 900,000
• Half-Marathon Rp. 750,000
• 10-Kilometer Rp, 600,000

Foreign Nationals

• Full-Marathon Rp. 1,500,000
• Half-Marathon Rp. 1,000,000
• 10-Kilometer Rp. 800,000

A 30% discount is available for those downloading and registering using the M2U ID Application or paying with a Mayback Credit Card:

Discounted Prices

Indonesian Nationals

• Full-Marathon Rp. 630,000
• Half-Marathon Rp. 525,000
• 10-Kilometer Rp, 420,000

Discounted Prices

Foreign Nationals

• Full-Marathon Rp. 1,050,000
• Half-Marathon Rp. 700,000
• 10-Kilometer Rp. 560,000

Likewise, Maybank Marathon Anywhere 2021 participants who have completed the run challenge and purchased merchandise will get early access for Maybank Marathon 2022 registration. The price for participation and terms and conditions are available on Maybank Indonesia’s website. Maybank Marathon has received international recognition, having been acknowledged as one of the “world’s must-run races before you die” by Active, the 52 Best Races on Earth 2016 by Runner’s World, Best Marathon 2016, Best Half-Marathon 2015 and the Most Popular Sports Event 2018 by Venue Magazine.

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Sure, it can interrupt some of your plans, and you won’t be able to hit the beaches, the boutiques or spas for 24 hours. But before you start looking at ways to escape the island, let us tell you why you’ve hit the holiday jackpot if you happen to be in Bali during this spiritual celebration, as well as tips on what to prepare, where to stay, and even how to spend the day – every answer to your nagging Nyepi FAQs.

This year, Nyepi falls on Thursday March 3rd 2022, beginning at 6am and finishing 24 hours later at 6am on March 4th. The date of Nyepi changes each year according to the Balinese calendar, so you’ll want to check ahead if you’re already planning next year’s Bali escape.

For the Balinese, Nyepi is a Hindu celebration that marks the start of a New Year – a day to cleanse the island from the previous year’s misdoings and bad omens, establishing a pure and positive year ahead. The whole island shuts down for a full 24 hours, and the streets are off limits to everyone. Even the airport closes for a full day, with planes being rerouted above so not to disturb the silence below. Everyone must remain inside their homes, villas or hotels without any disturbances – this means no travelling, transport, work, sound, or even light. In short, it’s pure bliss.

On Nyepi Day, the Balinese will be busy meditating, praying and spending silent time at home with their families. But for non-Hindus, the answer is quite simply: nothing (other than plenty of relaxation). However, prior to Bali’s Day of Silence, the streets come alive with the sweet sounds of traditional gamelan and reams of colourful offerings. You’ll also spot villagers excitedly preparing and sculpting enormous papier-mâché monsters (called Ogoh-Ogoh) which, on the night before Nyepi, are paraded through the streets with loud music, bursts of fire and people lining the streets to add to the community spirit. It’s a spectacular contrast to the silent serenity that follows. Note: due to the current Coronavirus situation, only certain Ogoh-Ogoh parades can take place, with reduced numbers.

Nyepi (Day of Silence) will see Bali with no internet access.  The internet will be limited or even shut down on the island for 24 hours from 6 a.m. on Saturday to 6 a.m. on Sunday. Strategic facilities like hospitals will be spared from the restriction. The policy, issued by the central government, was made after the Bali Religious Council called on internet providers to shut down operations in Bali to ensure Nyepi, a holy day for Hindus, ran smoothly.

The Communications and Information Ministry responded to the call by sending notices to internet providers, requesting that they respect the call. The ministry, however, is not forcing providers to turn off internet access.  “However, we hope the providers will oblige for a more peaceful Nyepi,” said the head of the Bali Communications and Information Agency, Nyoman Sujaya.  Telephone and short text message services will operate normally at Nyepi.  The chairman of Bali Internet Providers Association (APJII Bali), I Gede Yudhatama, said the association had agreed to block only social media in Bali during Nyepi on Saturday.

“From several meetings, we found the urgency is to block access to social media, not to turn off all internet access,” the APJII Bali chairman I Gede Yudhatama told The Jakarta Post on Thursday. The social media platforms to be blocked during Nyepi is still being discussed. However, he said it would at the very least affect Indonesia’s top five: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Line and WhatsApp.  Gede said the decision was made after the APJII heard the explanation from the inter-religious leaders regarding their call to turn off internet access.  Operators have said turning off the internet service would be technically difficult. Gede said it could have a serious impact on customers as many, like hotels and hospitals,  stored their data on the internet. Gede expressed hope that the call would be met by all members of APJII Bali, with a total of 53 providers.

Telkom Indonesia has announced that it will turn off its Indihome internet and TV service for 24 hours. “Telkom as a state firm providing digital communication service will follow the government’s policy,” said the general manager of Telkom Denpasar, I Komang Widnyana Karang.  Internet provider Tri has also announced through text message to customers that internet access will be limited. Telkomsel has done the same.

Bali Interfaith Communication Forum (FKUB) chairman Ida Pengelingsir Agung Putra Sukahet said the religious leaders felt the need to block social media to make the Day of Silence more solemn. “Social media have become distracting and they disrupt Nyepi,” he said. The chairman of the Bali Hotel Association, Ricky Putra, said the hotel management expected to obtain clear information about internet access and relay it to hotel guests. A Denpasar resident, Tri Wahyuni, said she hoped she could still access the internet on Saturday. But the native of Palembang did not mind not accessing Facebook for a day.

Internet outages during holy days and festivals are not confined to Bali, and they also happen regularly in Pakistan, India, and other countries. Shutdowns can weaken investor confidence in country economies, and “set a bad precedent which can be leaned on by governments to suppress political activity during elections or. As connectivity and reliance on the Internet grows, so does their harmful impact.

While the Bali shutdown is a limited one, several other countries have enforced long-term outages in recent months:

• The government of India has repeatedly cut off Internet users, particularly in the disputed Kashmir region, where there were 19 shutdowns between mid-2016 and mid-2017.
• Iran began blockingsome Internet service on Dec. 30 to combat large-scale protests.
• The Houthis, a northern insurgent group in Yemen, has shut down the Internetfor short stretches, and it has also blocked some sites and throttled Internet speeds.
• Access Now counted 61 shutdownsworldwide in the first three quarters of 2017. India, Pakistan, Iraq, Turkey, and Syria were the countries with the most shutdowns, with India the leader by far.

In Bali, many Hindus observe four prohibitions – no fire, travel, activity, or entertainment – during the Nyepi holiday. While Indonesia is a majority Muslim country, more than 80 percent of Bali residents are Hindu.

“Many Hindu people are addicted to gadgets,” the BBC quoted Hinduism Society head Gusti Ngurah Sudiana as saying. “I hope during Nyepi they can be introspective.” Religious, civil, and law enforcement leaders asked the Bali government for the mobile Internet shutdown. This year is the first time the government approved the request, after denying it last year, the BBC reported.

Part of the reason for the shutdown request was to prevent tourists from taking selfies during the holiday, a representative of Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia, the country’s leading authority on Hinduism, told News.com.au. In recent years, many governments are placing a greater emphasis on national security and political control than on personal data privacy. “The result is the mainstreaming of shutdowns,” Nicolas Seidler, senior policy adviser at the Internet Society.

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It can be said that ogoh ogoh is the most interesting event among the series of Nyepi Ceremony. Ogoh ogoh are paraded in the Pengrupukan night, which is a day before the Saka New Year or so called Nyepi Day.

Ogoh-ogoh whose appearance is very scary is usually paraded around the village or town by the Banjar or traditional village society which is dominated by the youth.

Ogoh-ogoh are statues built for the Ngrupuk parade, which takes place on the eve of Nyepi day in Bali, Indonesia. Ogoh-ogoh normally take the form of mythological beings, mostly demons. As with many creative endeavours based on Balinese Hinduism, the creation of Ogoh-ogoh represents spiritual aims inspired by Hindu philosophy.

The main purpose of the making of Ogoh-ogoh is the purification of the natural environment of any spiritual pollutants emitted from the activities of living beings (especially humans). The forms of Ogoh-ogoh represent the Bhuta-Kala (Bhuta: eternal energy, Kala: eternal time), according to Hindu teachings. The imperceptible potentials of nature cannot be thoroughly explored by anyone. Philosophically, civilized men are required to manage the natural resources without damaging the environment itself.

During the procession, the Ogoh-ogoh is rotated counter-clockwise three times. This act is done at every T-junction and crossroad of the village. Rotating the effigies during the cremational parade and the eve of Nyepi represents the contact of the bodies with the spirits. It is intended to bewilder the evil spirits so that they go away and cease harming human beings. The Ogoh-ogoh is a very recent addition to the Nyepi ceremonies, first appearing in Denpasar in the early 1980s. At that time, they were carefully monitored for any criticism of the Suharto regime.

Similar to checking out the floats before the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, Ogoh-ogoh statues can be viewed sprouting from the villages 3-4 weeks prior to Nyepi. During this time, you can see the Ogoh-ogoh in the final phases of construction.  Going around to the different Banjars (communities) to see all the creative designs and witness the dedication that goes into the statue construction will boost the overall experience. The youth in every Banjars are always very excited when nyepi’s day is going to come.

They are very excited because there will be time to gathered together with their friends to creating the Ogoh Ogoh which also can be symbolism of pride among the youth generation. The youth in every banjar will try brings up the best idea of creating the ogoh ogoh so they will catch up the public attention. The excitement is just not come from the youth but also every people in Bali. Ogoh ogoh is parade that they are waiting each year to be watch of because its bring joy and happiness towards the society of Hindu or Bali in specific.

The name ogoh ogoh is taken from Balinese “ogah-ogah” which means something which is shaken. In fact, when ogoh-ogoh is paraded around it is always shaken by the carriers of ogoh ogoh to make it looks like moving or dancing. Besides that, the pose of one ogoh-ogoh to the others is different and various, so each will have different moves when it is shaken. Even, now with the development of technology, many ogoh-ogoh can be moved assisted by machine or other tools. There are so many version of ogoh ogoh history in Bali. Some people argued that ogoh-ogoh have been known since the era of Dalem Balingkang (ancient Balinese kingdom). At that time, ogoh-ogoh is used in the procession of Pitra Yadnya or so called Ngaben. There is also another argument stated that the existence of ogoh-ogoh is inspired by the tradition Ngusaba Ndong-Nding from Selat Village, Karangasem which also used a similar figure to repel evil spirit.

Usually, before the Pengrupukan night, an ogoh-ogoh festival will be held in Puputan Park Denpasar. Ogoh-ogoh which could enter into this event are selected from some region of Denpasar. This event is hold to honor and appreciate the creation of ogoh-ogoh which possesses high art and theme value. Ogoh ogoh which are entered this festival are not haphazardly taken, because they have been undergone a selection process. These ogoh-ogoh must have high value of art, theme, and entertainment.

Ogoh ogoh festival in Puputan is usually held a few hours before Sandi Kala or evening. After the festival overs, Pengrupukan night is continued with ogoh ogoh parade from villages or banjar around the area of Denpasar. In other regencies beside Denpasar like Gianyar, Tabanan, or Buleleng, ogoh ogoh festival is also periodically held. However, sometimes the festival is not done in Pengrupukan, but in particular events such as Town Anniversary, and so on.

Recently there are two ogoh ogoh that catch a lot of attention in Denpasar. These ogoh – ogoh are coming from Banjar Tain siat and Gemeh. Peoples in Bali are always wait for these banjar’s idea for their ogoh ogoh, because they always bring new innovation every year towards their ogoh ogoh. Peoples especially the youth are always compared these two banjar when its come to ogoh ogoh and it will be inspiration for youth around Bali for their ogoh ogoh in the next year. This year, Banjar Tain siat brings up the idea of “Kepet Agung”.

Ogoh-ogoh Kepet Agung stands proudly with a towering height of about 8 meters, looking futuristic with a fan resembling a moving wing behind it. “Kepet Agung means a big fan, its philosophy is to provide coolness,” said Komang Gede Sentana Putra alias Kedux Garage, the drafter of Ogoh-ogoh Kepet Agung, met Wednesday (2/3/2022) afternoon. Kedux said the fan philosophy was based on the situation leading up to Nyepi this year, which was full of uncertainty regarding whether or not the ogoh-ogoh parade was allowed, which made the public, especially the yowana confused. “I brought up this theme with the hope that the community will get a breath of fresh air. Because behind the making of this ogoh-ogoh there was confusion, because it’s okay to do it or not,” said Kedux.

“With this Kepet Agung, I hope that information from the center (government) will be clearer, firmer, and provide fresh air for the community or young women in Bali.”Kepet Agung, said Kedux, was made for about 1 month. Made with environmentally friendly materials, but inside it is equipped with hydraulic technology that will make the ogoh-ogoh look like they are moving during the procession. “My message is people in Bali, so that the ogoh-ogoh procession can be maintained by the crowd, so that the transmission of (Covid-19) does not occur and so that in the future we can again carry out crowd cultural activities,” said Kedux who also known proficiently as a modified motorcycle builder.

Meanwhile, the Ogoh-ogoh Pasung Maya whose concept was created by the Banjar Gemeh artist, Marmar Herayukti, looks unique because the ogoh-ogoh’s neck is cut off without a head, while around it many heads seem to surround the ogoh-ogoh. Marmar said, Pasung Maya was based on the story of Maya Raksa, nicknamed Prabu Sastrapisuna who controlled the virtual world (not real). It is said that Maya Raksa really wants to expand her power in the real world. Maya Raksa went through asceticism for years until finally she was bestowed with a supernatural power that was able to manipulate every reality, pulling her into the virtual world.

Slowly Maya Raksa took over every ‘intelligence’ and ‘courage’. He seems to be the source of every intelligence that is not really true. “After the loss of the desire for life, humans lose their logic and are bound to and slave to the trap of the Pasung Maya spell,” explained Marmar. His magic really penetrates the weak souls who have previously been implanted with data illusions about reality. Lies, horrors that constantly gnaw at the mind, leaving trauma so that they dissolve in virtual illusions, life without life. “The souls died from the world before the body,” said Marmar.

But later with the blessing of the universe, the chosen people will appear as ‘Nangiyang Tutur’ the awakener of consciousness and purify life. That’s when the Kala decides. Two ogoh-ogoh which were conceptualized by two young artists from Denpasar City will be paraded in their respective banjar areas, unlike before being paraded around the Denpasar Traditional Village area. This follows the direction of the Governor of Bali Wayan Koster, who finally allowed ogoh-ogoh only at the area of each banjar to anticipate the transmission of Covid-19.

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Included in this list of countries are the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia among others. This is HUGE news as Bali may again be able to rise through the ranks of popular tourist destinations around the world.

The announcement is a major surprise as we weren’t expecting any changes to be made before April. No doubt the omicron’s freefall speed decline in cases, mixed with pressure from the tourism industry and envy of the other countries that have reopened, have played a massive roll in this decision. It will be interesting to see if there is still a large interest from the travel community to visit Bali after 2 years of very strict COVID restrictions.

Bali has been essentially closed down for the past two years only allowing foreigners in on the rarest of occasions. Last month, they welcomed their first flight since the shutdown, but since the demand for trips to Bali has been slow to grow.

Until this announcement travelers needed to take a pre-departure COVID test AND quarantine upon arrival just to take ANOTHER COVID test 3 days later. On top of that the “VISA on arrival” program had not yet been reinstated, meaning that travelers needed to apply in advance to enter the country. This process is both expensive and time-consuming.

With this announcement, travelers from the United States, UK, Australia, and Canada will be issued a visa on arrival again and be able to skip the costly quarantine. The decision and repeal of restrictions is strictly for the island of Bali. The government is taking steps to ensure that travelers do not spread the virus off of the Island by requiring results of a PCR test from any foreigner trying to leave Bali.

The top officials in the country are also in favour of the campaign for removing the mandatory 3-day quarantine and the return of visa-on-arrival (VoA). As of now, a number of travellers from Europe are refraining themselves from travelling to Bali due to its extensive and costly quarantine. Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Binsar Panjaitan said in a press conference that the trial may be introduced before March 14 if some positive development is noticed in the coming one week.

Bali Governor I Wayan Koster confirmed that Bali would drop the quarantine policy for international travelers by March 7. “The zero quarantine policy will be implemented for travelers who plan to visit Indonesia through Bali,” Koster said on Friday. The government will also resume the visa on arrival policy by March 7 for visitors from 23 select countries. “We will resume VoA policy for visitors 23 countries: United States, Canada, Australia, England, Netherlands, Germany, Qatar, France, Japan, South Korea, Italy, New Zealand, UAE, Turkey, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Philippines, and Cambodia,” Koster added. However, requirements will be implemented to prevent Covid-19 transmission from visitors. Bali is open for Americans as long as they hold an e-visa.

When Bali opened widely to tourists in February, Singapore Airlines was the only operator offering direct flights to and from Bali. But as entry rules ease, more airlines are increasing services. Indonesian carrier Garuda has already resumed direct flights from Australia to Bali, while Australian budget airline Jetstar will resume services between Bali and seven Australian cities in April. Meanwhile, airlines such as Malaysia Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines are operating flights to Bali from several European and US cities with some stopovers.

Requirements to enter Bali for international tourists:

1. Foreign travellers need to show their proof of hotel booking payments for at least four days.
2. Travellers wishing to enter Bali must be fully vaccinated or must have received booster jabs.
3. RT PCR tests will be conducted at the entry and travellers will have to wait for their negative results at the hotel.
4. On the third day of their arrival, travellers will have to conduct another RT PCR test at their hotels.
5. While mandatory hotel quarantine is set to be scrapped, foreign visitors are still required to show proof of a hotel booking (of their choice) with at least four nights paid for in advance. They must also test negative for COVID-19 within 48 hours of departure.
6. Travelers must also hold proof of health insurance with a coverage value of at least US$25,000, which covers the treatment of COVID-19.

The minister further said that if the test is negative, travellers will be allowed to do other activities under health protocols. He also said that Bali was chosen for this pilot project trial because the rate of two-dose vaccination is higher here than any other provinces in Indonesia.

If the trial is successful, the Indonesian government will expand the quarantine-free travel policy across the country on or even before April 1.

Indonesia Institute President, Ross Taylor, said he expects the initial uptake of flights to be a little slow as some travellers may initially be hesitant to head overseas, but as the Australian winter sets in and Bali enters its dry season, cravings for a winter escape will be high.

Getting to Bali is a little trickier than it once was, with flag carrier Garuda Indonesia flying from Sydney to the Indonesian holiday hotspot just once each week, with a return leg via Jakarta. Qantas and Jetstar make things a bit easier, with direct flights from both Sydney and Melbourne returning from next week; Virgin Australia will follow, with flights from Sydney and Melbourne from May 2. All tourists must be fully vaccinated to enter Bali and along with the usual PCR test prior to leaving Australia, just need to do one test on arrival. If this test comes back positive, you can still enter the country but will recover at a central isolation facility. Any traveller wishing to visit another part of Indonesia can do so after taking another PCR test on day 3 of their visit and returning a negative result.

Indonesia as a whole plan’s to keep the “Zero COVID Policy” in place for the rest of the country. A policy that many countries in Asia are still clinging to. However in this point in the pandemic, it seems that the policy may be futile. Many of the strictest countries, like Australia and Austria, are beginning to open their borders…And maybe Asia will follow soon.

As of today, the country has reported 5,826,589 positive cases and 151,135 deaths. Despite being an island chain that is roughly the size of the United States, most of those people live on a handful of islands in highly urbanized areas. For many people in East Asia, face masks and social distancing are quite normal after so many contagious diseases over the past twenty years. Indonesia has not reached that point yet.

The government is trying everything necessary to maintain complete control of the pandemic without destroying much of Bali’s tourism-based economy in the balance. When visiting Bali, it’s important to note that masks are required in most public settings. Not everywhere is open and some local restrictions apply. Though in low-risk “green” areas such as Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Sanur or Ubud, most hospitality and tourist venues are operating as normal.

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Next year’s World Tourism Day will be held on September 27, 2022. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) is the United Nations specialized agency entrusted with the promotion of responsible, sustainable and universally accessible tourism.

Its headquarters are in Madrid, Spain. UNWTO is the leading international organization for the promotion of tourism as a driver of economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability. It provides leadership and support in advancing knowledge and tourism policies and serves as a global forum for tourism policy and a source of tourism research and knowledge. It encourages the implementation of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism Development, Competitiveness, Innovation & Digital Transformation, Ethics, Culture & Social Responsibility, Technical Cooperation, UNWTO Academy, and Statistics.

The official languages of UNWTO are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism stood at an all-time high: 1 out of 10 jobs worldwide depended on tourism and international tourist arrivals reached 1.5 billion in 2019. Against a backdrop of heightened uncertainty, UNWTO conveyed the Global Tourism Crisis Committee to guide the tourism sector as it faced up to the COVID-19 challenge.

Next year’s World Tourism Day theme is “Rethinking Tourism”. The 24th General Assembly session was held from November 30 to December 3, 2021, in Madrid, Spain.

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has long considered the public and private sector to be integral partners in fulfilling its general mandate of promoting sustainable development in tourism. In addition, UNWTO is the only agency of the United Nations that has private sector members that participate in the governance structure. We believe that the public and private sectors share many common objectives which, in today’s globalized world, can be more effectively tackled through collaboration and the establishment of partnerships. UNWTO members have endorsed the Management Vision and Priorities of the Secretary-General which seeks to position tourism as a policy priority, lead in knowledge creation, enhance the Organization’s capacity through building new and stronger partnerships, and offer better value for existing Members while also expanding membership.

The worldwide outbreak of COVID-19 brought the world to a standstill, and tourism is the worst affected of all major economic sectors. Against a backdrop of heightened uncertainty, up-to-date and reliable information is more important than ever, both for tourists and for the tourism sector. UNWTO’s priorities shifted towards recovery of tourism increasing its efforts: By cooperating closely with the World Health Organization (WHO), the lead UN agency for the management of this outbreak; by ensuring with WHO that health measures are implemented in ways that minimize unnecessary impact on international travel and trade;  by standing in solidarity with affected countries; and by emphasizing tourism’s proven resilience and by standing ready to support recovery.

“It is absolutely crucial to work towards the enhancement of a new generation of partnerships, partnerships not only with governments, not only with civil society and academia but equally partnerships with the business community in the context of the perspective of implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, creating the conditions for an inclusive and sustainable development – the best way to prevent crises and conflicts in today’s world”. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General

To realize the Management Vision, UNWTO’s work is based around five distinct pillars:

1. making tourism smarter through celebrating innovation and leading the digital transformation of the sector;
2. making tourism more competitive at every level through promoting investment and promoting entrepreneurship;
3. creating more and better jobs and providing relevant training;
4. building resilience and promoting safe and seamless travel; and
5. harnessing tourism’s unique potential to protect cultural and natural heritage and to support communities both economically and socially.

Membership of the UNWTO includes 158 states, six territories (Flemish Community (1997), Puerto Rico (2002), Aruba (1987), Hong Kong (1999), Macau (1981), Madeira (1995)),[5] and two permanent observers (Holy See (1979), Palestine (1999)). Seventeen state members have withdrawn from the organization for different periods in the past: Australia (citing poor value for money), Bahamas, Bahrain, Belgium, Canada (Canada withdrew from the World Tourism Organization when it appointed Robert Mugabe as a leader in 2013), Costa Rica, El Salvador, Grenada, Honduras, Kuwait, Latvia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Panama, Philippines, Qatar, Thailand, United Kingdom and Puerto Rico (as an associate member). The Netherlands Antilles was an associate member before its dissolution.

“Bali, Indonesia, has been designated to host World Tourism Day 2022 with the theme “Rethinking Tourism” at the 24th General Assembly Session of The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) which was held on November 30 – December 3, 2021, in Madrid,” the Indonesia Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement quoted by Suara.com, Friday, December 3, 2021. In the UNWTO General Assembly in Madrid, Nglanggeran Village in Yogyakarta received an award as one of the UNWTO’s Best Tourism Villages along with 43 other villages from 32 countries. Nglanggeran village was given recognition for its natural and cultural resources as well as innovative and transformative actions and commitments towards tourism development that are in line with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Indonesia has a great interest in advancing global tourism agendas, especially the recovery of the tourism industry in the post-pandemic. During the meeting, Indonesia paid attention to the impact of the pandemic on tourism workers especially women. Indonesia has designed various programs to support female workers during the pandemic.

For information, the UNWTO General Assembly is a biennial meeting of UNWTO member countries to discuss world tourism policies. UNWTO member countries agreed that tourism is a pillar of development that absorbs many jobs, inclusive, and sustainable. For this reason, any country must continue to accelerate the recovery of world tourism after the COVID pandemic. UNWTO is the UN agency that has the authority to promote responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism. Currently, UNWTO has 160 member countries, 6 associate members, 504 affiliate members, and 2 observers (Vatican and Palestine). Indonesia has been a member of the UNWTO since 1975.

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