Post Reality Era—On a warm afternoon in Bali, I, Jason, had the opportunity to dive into the mind of Jing Cho Yang, the CEO of Bukit Vista, as he shared insights on the transformative concept of the “post reality era.” Through our discussion, Jing explored how digital interactions are reshaping Bali’s tourism, hospitality, and business landscapes, presenting both challenges and opportunities in a world increasingly defined by online perceptions.
Jing‘s observations reflected a deep understanding of this era where online impressions often outshine real-life interactions, especially for destinations rich in culture and beauty. As he delved into the implications of this shift, he illustrated how Bali’s businesses can harness digital influence to create authentic connections with a global audience—without losing sight of the island’s essence.
What is the Post Reality Era?
The “post reality era,” as defined by Jing, is a time when people’s perceptions and decisions are increasingly driven by virtual interactions and online content. In this era, what individuals see, hear, and believe online holds more sway than their in-person experiences. “You trust businesses and even form entire beliefs about places based on what you see digitally,” he explains, emphasizing that our primary mode of engaging with new places and businesses has shifted to digital platforms, where photos, reviews, and content shape a place’s “reality” before we ever set foot in it.
For Bali, a destination traditionally celebrated for its tangible beauty and culture, this shift has profound implications. The tourism industry, especially, must now consider how online experiences and digital reputations affect perceptions, long before visitors arrive on the island. The post reality paradigm contributes to Bali’s overdevelopment by prioritizing digital appeal over sustainable growth. Driven by demand for “Instagrammable” spots, developers often overlook environmental and cultural sustainability in favor of high-profit, short-term projects.
This trend shifts focus from authentic, community-centered tourism to rapidly expanding luxury developments, undermining Bali’s cultural heritage and environmental balance. As properties are designed to meet online expectations, traditional landscapes and community values risk being overshadowed by the pursuit of digital popularity.
The Shift in Business Dynamics: From Physical Presence to Digital Credibility
Jing reflects on his early days in Bali, recalling that business success once hinged on location. Shops and restaurants fought for visibility along major streets like Boulevard Street, where foot traffic ensured brand recognition. Now, however, he notes that businesses can thrive without a physical storefront, provided they maintain a compelling digital presence. “In Bali today, your digital presence is just as critical as your physical space, if not more,” he says.
For experiential businesses—such as nightclubs, restaurants, or gift shops—the physical presence still matters, but their success now depends equally on online interactions. Instagram feeds, Google reviews, and YouTube videos craft their reputations, generating visitor interest and trust before any actual visit. This transformation marks a significant shift from a tangible, place-based economy to one that hinges on virtual influence.
Post Reality Tourism: The Quest for the “Instagrammable”
Jing observes a growing trend among Bali’s visitors: many arrive with pre-set expectations shaped by social media. Tourists often come seeking Instagrammable moments, drawn by curated images and reviews. “People come to Bali, see something beautiful, take a photo, and immediately turn back to their phones,” he explains, illustrating how experiences are now filtered through the lens of shareability. The experience of the place itself often takes a back seat to how it’s portrayed online.
This behavior reflects a broader shift in what travelers value. In the post-reality era, destinations are judged not by the depth of the experience but by how well they align with digital expectations. Bali, with its lush landscapes and cultural richness, offers plenty of real-life beauty, but the pressure to create “share-worthy” moments means visitors are frequently interacting with the island through their screens, less engaged in the authentic Balinese culture and more in the projected, curated version.
Toward a Balanced Future: Bridging Virtual and Physical Realities
Looking to the future, Jing underscores the importance of balance in the post reality era. Bali’s identity must remain intact amid the demands of digital tourism, meaning that local businesses, residents, and visitors alike should be aware of the influence digital platforms exert on perceptions of the island. By fostering online trust and sharing genuine, culturally rich experiences, Bali can navigate this era without sacrificing its essence.
Bali’s post reality era brings both challenges and opportunities. While digital interactions redefine business and visitor expectations, there remains a space to preserve authenticity. Jing Cho Yang and his team at Bukit Vista are setting an example by blending digital engagement with a commitment to Bali’s true spirit—reminding us that, in the post reality era, there’s still value in the tangible, lived experience.
At Bukit Vista, we envision a future for Bali that balances growth with cultural and environmental sustainability. Our multi-part series on sustainable development explores strategies that honor Bali’s heritage while addressing the demands of modern tourism and business. This series provides insights into a responsible development path that respects Bali’s natural beauty and traditions, aiming to inspire thoughtful actions in the industry.