Historical Context: The Origins of Bali’s Hospitality Industry
In the early days of tourism, pioneers like Wija Wawo-Runtu, Adrian Zecha, and Walter Spies worked to preserve Bali’s cultural heritage, turning it into a major draw for tourists. Early developers respected local customs and embraced sustainable development practices, incorporating principles like —the concept of harmony between humans, nature, and the spiritual world—into their designs. Buildings were thoughtfully created with spaces for temples and shrines, reflecting a deep understanding of Balinese animist beliefs, while prioritizing environmentally conscious construction methods and resource management. This approach not only honored traditions but also supported long-term sustainability.
However, as modern developers entered the scene, this reverence for tradition and commitment to sustainable development started to fade. The presence of Sanggah or Pamerajan—the small family temples, along with daily offerings like Canang Sari and Banten, which were once integral to every Balinese household—is now slowly diminishing. Both local and foreign developers began focusing on short-term profits, often overlooking sustainable practices and neglecting the long-term impacts on Bali’s cultural and natural landscape. Without strong guidance from regulatory authorities, the rapid growth of the hospitality industry has begun to threaten the island’s traditional values, sacred practices, and ecological balance. Now we move on to the implication of this phenomenon, the Post-Reality World.
Impact of Social Media: The “Santorini Syndrome” and the Post-Reality World
Modern Development Challenges: Profit Over Preservation
Looking back to the Roots about Balancing Tradition and Innovation to achieve Sustainable Development
