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Govt’s strict travel requirements for Bali prompt holidaymakers to cancel trips
Based on Bali Governor Circular Letter No. 2021/2020, those entering Bali by air transport are required to present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result for COVID-19, at the latest two days prior to the date of departure. Those using other modes of transportation will have to show a negative antigen rapid test result. The regulation will be in effect from Dec. 18 to Jan. 8.
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Domestic tourists spend time at tourist destination Tegallalang in Gianyar, Bali on Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2020. (Antara/Fikri Yusuf)
T
he government’s recent decision to implement a stricter health protocol for trips to Bali during the Christmas and New Year’s holiday has prompted thousands of travelers to cancel their plans to go to the resort island.
Based on Bali Governor Circular Letter No. 2021/2020, those entering Bali by air transport are required to present a negative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test result for COVID-19, at the latest two days prior to the date of departure. Those using other modes of transportation will have to show a negative antigen rapid test result. The regulation will be in effect from Dec. 18 to Jan. 8.
Dio Raditya, an employee at a private company, rescheduled his family trip to Bali after learning about the PCR test requirement.
The 25-year-old said he initially booked a flight with national flag carrier Garuda Indonesia in April, but the airline canceled all flights due to COVID-19. He then rescheduled the flight for the year-end holiday and was set to depart on Dec. 27.
“I was going to take the trip with five other family members, if we all have to take PCR tests it will be very expensive,” Dio told The Jakarta Post in a phone interview. He said he might cancel the plans altogether if the airline does not allow another reschedule request.
“Right now, my family is planning to spend the New Year at home because going out will not be as fun anyway since there are many restrictions,” he added.
According to the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), the government’s newest regulation for trips to Bali has triggered around 133,000 airline refund requests, a tenfold increase compared to the normal situation.
