I never actually visited Bali before the fateful attacks of 2002, but if I am to believe what I hear it was a thriving mecca overcrowded with tourists from all over the world.  I always imagined this to be the case, with the current tourist climate being fairly quiet and scarce in comparison.

My perception, however, is completely incorrect!  Prior to the ill-fated event, 1.3 million foreign tourists visited the island each year. Immediately afterwards this number dropped by 30% – this was only an initial decline and it would seem even secondary attacks that took place three years later wouldn’t deter the foreign visitors with most recent figures reporting that 2.3 million foreign tourists visit Bali on an annual basis.  Please note that these are only “foreign” tourists and do not allow for domestic tourists, or those relocating from other parts of Indonesia to seek work in the lucrative tourist market.

It comes as absolutely no surprise then, that Bali’s infrastructure is buckling under the pressure of the increased traffic – especially in and around Kuta hence the announcement that no more hotels will be developed within the main tourist zone in an attempt to share the tourists with other parts of the island, and give the infrastructure a chance to catch up with what is required of it.

Getting around in Bali is easy, especially when you have a driver that you trust!  Feel like royalty and get chauffeured around in style!

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