A top professor of tourism in Bali has spoken out about the negative impacts the industry is having on the island’s cultural identity. Professor I Gusti Bagus Rai Utama, who is the Chancellor of Dhyana Pura University in Dalung, Bali, shared his observations with reporters. Speaking to the press, Prof Rai explained “The tourism industry …
Culture
One of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Bali is to go and watch a live performance of the Kecak dance. Known as the fire dance, the Kecak has become an icon of the island around the world. Want to read more? Our Bali Sun Premium Members always get full access to our best …
On Sunday 14th, April, the roads of the popular resort of Ubud will be closed to honor the royal cremation at Puri Agung Ubud. For many Balinese people living in Ubud, this will be the first royal cremation of its kind in their lifetime, and tourists are welcome to observe part of the ceremony. Bali’s …
Major renovations will soon be underway to save one of Bali’s most famous and spiritually significant temples. Uluwatu Temple, which has been perched at the edge of the cliff for centuries, is in an increasingly precarious position and there are cracks in the cliffside below. Officials in Badung Regency have confirmed that major renovation works …
Tourists planning on visiting Bali, specifically its temples, are being reminded that temple etiquette is non-negotiable. The reminder comes after a family on vacation on the island visited a famous Bali temple and outrightly flouted the rules. Bali’s temples are not ancient relics that hold only historical significance. Balinese temples are living, thriving, and very …
Foodies love Bali! Although the story of ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ assigned ‘pray’ to Bali, Elizabeth Gilbert could have just as well had a life breakthrough over a nasi goreng as she did over an Italian pizza. Want to read more? Our Bali Sun Premium Members always get full access to our best content, ad-free!
Tourists are becoming increasingly aware of the impact that their travels and adventures have on the places and people they visit. As Bali enters a new area of ‘sustainable and culturally appropriate’ tourism, Bali lovers are seeking excursions, tours, and workshops that do no harm. Want to read more? Our Bali Sun Premium Members always …
Bali’s most famous spirit liquor, arak, was given something of a PR boost over the last few years as leaders on the island sought to promote the classic drink to tourists. While the campaign took off in many ways, the oomph did not sustain as hoped. The second wave of the Arak revival is on …
As Bali reckons with balancing existing mass tourism and moving forward with more sustainable and culturally respectful tourism, travelers are being encouraged to stay in hotels that celebrate the island’s heritage. Heritage hotels or hotels with a strong commitment to cultural preservation offer tourists an exciting opportunity to really immerse themselves in the Balinese way …
Bali’s Nyepi festival is just around the corner. The Day of Silence is the most important day of the Balinese calendar. On the 11th of March 2024, the island will fall silent to honor Nyepi Day. Both locals and tourists will be required to stay indoors, not use electricity, and respect the holy day of …
As Bali’s Nyepi festival approaches tourists and tourism providers on the island are being urged to a where to the rules. The holy day of silence is the most important day in the Balinese Hindu calendar. On the 11th of March, the island of Bali will fall into a gentle silence as the start of …
Bali’s Nyepi Day is coming up on the 11th of March. Also known as the Day of Silence, it has strict rules for both locals and tourists, including no travel for the duration of the holy day. While Nypei Day technically starts at 6 am on the 11th of March and the silence is broken …