Insiders Say Bali Tourists Are Seeking A Mix Of Adventure And Relaxation

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Travel data can tell us a lot about trends and tourist demand, but the juicy details can be shared by those on the inside.

Tourism workers have been talking to reporters about their observations between domestic and international visitors in Bali and the experiences they seek. They say international tourists to Bali are all about finding the balance between adventure and relaxation. 

One local barista from the popular tourist coffee shop Quickie in Seminyak shared his observations with reporters.

Gea said, “Foreign tourists really like the beach, from sunbathing, surfing, even jogging on the beach. They also really like stopping to buy coffee to go, which is close to where they live, to buy coffee and breakfast menus.”

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The general consensus from tourism workers in Bali, when asked about the differences between international and domestic tourists, is that foreigners generally seek more adventurous and nature-based activities.

They say international tourists are generally genuinely interested in learning more about Balinese culture and customs.

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This is great feedback for leaders on the island who have been working to promote more enthusiasm for culture-based tourism on the Island of the Gods.

Following a rise in disrespectful and illegal behavior from a small minority of foreigners on the island, leaders have been working to promote ‘sustainable and culturally dignified tourism’ on the island.

This includes encouraging tourists to try more Balinese food, buy more locally produced souvenirs, visit temples and other sites of cultural significance, or even catch a cultural show. 

With a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation being the top priorities for tourists in Bali, village-based tourism coordinators are responding accordingly.

Up in the north of the island, for example, in Penuktukan Village in Buleleng Regency, the community has come together to create an adrenaline-fueled downhill mountain biking experience that is proving increasingly popular with tourists. 

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Travel trends have also shown that activities like white water rafting and ATV riding have bounced back in popularity after the pandemic.

In East Bali, demand for outdoor and adventure activities continues to rise. In far, outside of the popular cultural attractions and beach clubs, ATV riding and rafting are some of the most in-demand tourist activities on the island.

Many tourists choose to book rafting and ATV with companies just outside of Ubud.

But for those looking to get a little off the beaten track, be sure to explore white water rafting, and tubing is best expired on the Telaga Waja River in Karangsaem Regency in East Bali. 

On the relaxation front, Bali is home to some of the best spas in all of Indonesia. Leaders are also working to improve the wellness offering on the island even further.

Speaking last month, the Head of the Bali Tourism Board, Tjok Bagus Pemayun, launched a new campaign called “Ethnowellness of the Archipelago,” which focuses on promoting traditional wellness practices from across Indonesia to tourists in Bali.

This ranges from traditional herbal medicine to massage, from yoga and meditation to indigenous Balian healing practices. 

The Head Barista of The Crafe in Denspasr, Rizal, shared his observations with reporters about what domestic tourists look for in their adventures to Bali.

He said, “A lot of local tourists go to Bali to go to beach clubs, yes. However, quite a few of them also go to Bali to try coffee places in Bali. Many tourists also go to Bali just to come to an event, as there are also lots of events and music held in Bali.”

Beach clubs like Atlas Beach Fest are an example of an entertainment venue that is catering to tourists across demographics. The club brings in some of Indonesia’s biggest musicians and artists popular with music lovers from around the world.  

It’s clear to both tourism workers and tourists themselves that Bali is a destination that caters to everyone.

The Island of the Gods is truly a destination that makes dreams come true; from coffee connoisseurs to beach lovers, party animals, culture vultures, adrenaline seekers, and those looking to rest and restore, Bali really does have it all.