Bali’s Tourism Revival: Bringing Visionaries Together for a Sustainable Future

img Jason Astono | September 28, 2024

Amid Bali tourism’s resurgence as a top global travel destination, the island is welcoming waves of international visitors, with over 1.31 million arriving in July 2024 alone from Bali Central Bureau of Statistics. The streets of Kuta, Seminyak, and Ubud are bustling with travelers from Australia, China, and Europe. Australia, in particular, stands out as the biggest source of visitors, accounting for almost 24.80% of Bali’s international arrivals, according to The Bali Sun. Yet, amidst this booming growth in Bali tourism, concerns about sustainability and the preservation of Bali’s unique identity have come to the forefront. I’m Jason, a journalist from Bukit Vista. Let’s listen to what are the people from Bali had to say about this opportunity.

Jing (Blue Cap) delighting our partners at Round Table Talk, 26th September 2024

On September 26, 2024, Bukit Vista held a Round Table Talk in Canggu, gathering some of Bali’s most influential developers, investors, and thought leaders at a quaint local eatery. The room buzzed with energy as figures like Bu Anggun and Johannes from OXO Development, Terje from Sevenstone Indonesia, Pak Dodo and Pak Candra from local contractors, Ilyas, Omri from The Kedungu Fund and Gawain from Bali Business Club took their seats. The conversations ranged from the future of villa development to strategies for protecting Bali’s natural and cultural heritage—a dynamic exchange of ideas centered around Bali’s tourism and sustainability.

Bali Tourism's Call for Collective Action: A Vision for Sustainable Development

Clients and partners delighted with wonderful meal during the discussion.
As the discussion unfolded, one message was clear: everyone has a role to play in ensuring that Bali’s growth benefits both its people and its environment. Certain people, usually reserved when it comes to such topics, It’s easy to sit back and let things slide, assuming someone else will handle it. But we’re all seeing the impact of unchecked development—deforestation, overcrowding, and a rising carbon footprint.
 
This pointed to the situation in Ubud and Canggu, where large tracts of forested land have been cleared to make way for high-end villas. The irony, he explained, is that these areas were once naturally cool and shaded. Now, developers are installing air conditioners to combat the heat—a short-sighted fix that only increases the environmental burden. Why not integrate natural ventilation, use more trees, and design villas that breathe with the landscape? This idea could be the vision of all construction happening in Bali to promote harmony with the nature

A New Standard for Bali: The Tri Hita Karana Certification

From there, the conversation turned to a concept that’s gaining traction—Tri Hita Karana, a traditional Balinese philosophy that promotes harmony between people, nature, and the spiritual realm. Imagine a certification that symbolizes a commitment to these values. It could become the ‘Champagne’—from Champagne, France or ‘Prosciutto di Parma’ from Parma, Italy—of sustainable tourism. The idea? Create a Tri Hita Karana Certified Property label, so when travelers see it, they know they’re getting an experience that’s authentically Balinese and eco-conscious.
Villa Owned by Local Label

Such properties would not just comply with environmental standards but also engage guests in a deeper appreciation of Balinese traditions—offering, for example, guided tours with local elders or hands-on workshops in traditional crafts. Properties like Uluwatu’s Hidden Gem Traditional Wooden Villa and Authentic Balinese 4BR Villa w/ Pool & Greenery have successfully leveraged traditional Balinese design to create distinct identities that appeal to tourists seeking an authentic experience. Over time, this label could become a new benchmark for sustainable travel in Bali, pushing less ethical operators to adapt or risk being left behind. The group agreed: integrating Tri Hita Karana principles into development would not only protect Bali’s cultural heritage but also offer a unique selling point in a crowded market.

Rethinking Tourist Attractions: From Carbon Footprints to Community Footprints

Kuta Promenade
Propposed Idea - Subak Promenade

From Carbon Footprints to Community Footprints

Towards the end of the evening, talk shifted to a topic that got everyone buzzing—creating eco-friendly tourist attractions that do more than just look good on Instagram. The discussion proposed a vision of Bali’s beaches and rice fields transformed into pedestrian-friendly promenades, free of motorbikes and cars. Imagine a place where tourists stroll along lush green paths, with local warungs (food stalls) serving up home-cooked meals, it would cut down on emissions and give visitors a deeper connection to the land.

The concept of creating destinations that foster a sense of belonging resonated deeply. When people feel connected to a place, they are more inclined to protect and preserve it. Stories of local communities in such as Sungai Watch standing up against large-scale projects that threatened their water resources illustrate this shift. It’s clear that travelers are no longer just looking for attractions that offer superficial enjoyment; they are seeking experiences that are meaningful, educational, and rooted in sustainability. This growing interest in responsible tourism suggests a desire for destinations that prioritize engagement and a deeper connection to the environment and local culture.

Charting a New Vision for Bali’s Future

bali tourism
Partners and Clients of Bukit Vista enjoying the dinner from the Round Table Talk
By the end of the night, it was clear that these visionaries are united by a shared goal: to build a Bali that embraces progress without sacrificing its soul. Whether through certifications like Tri Hita Karana, eco-friendly infrastructure, or sustainable villa designs, the message was unanimous—Bali’s tourism future must be rooted in respect for its traditions, its people, and its natural environment.
 

If you’re navigating the Bali property market, seeking the right piece of land, or aiming to develop a property that aligns with the latest real estate trends in Bali, partnering with Bukit Vista as your Bali villa management company can offer you a competitive edge. Our team, armed with decades of experience and a wealth of data, is ready to support your investment journey. 

At Bukit Vista, we not only offer guidance but also foster a community where investors can exchange insights and strategies. Whether you’re looking for professional assistance aiming to understand the Bali property market more deeply, we invite you to join our network of successful investors. Together, we can turn your investment into a sustainable, profitable venture that contributes positively to Bali’s future. Visit us at Bukit Vista to learn more about how we can achieve remarkable results together. Let’s inspire delight in every guest and make your investment journey in Bali a triumphant success.

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