Bali hopeful of September reopening

Could we be back on Bali's beaches this autumn?

Bali’s governor, Wayan Koster, has officially released a three-stage reopening plan, meaning the island could be open to international tourism by September.

The plan will begin with the opening of tourism for local Balinese communities this week, followed by domestic tourism in August and international tourists in September.

Phase One of the reopening is scheduled for July 9 and will be aimed predominantly at local businesses. This will include health services, restaurants, government offices, local markets and places of worship.

Phase Two will begin on July 31 and will see the reopening of tourism attractions, including temples, beaches, places of interest and tourism activities. At this time, Bali will reopen domestically.

Phase Three will see the return of international visitors and it’s hoped this stage will begin on September 11. However, this date is subject to change according to coronavirus developments. It should also be noted that the reopening of borders is a national decision, not a provincial one.

“To that end, we must surrender ourselves and pray so that we will be graced,” Koster is reported to have said following a religious ceremony this weekend.

During each phase of reopening, strict health protocols will be in place, including the wearing of masks and social distancing.

Bali has so far reported 1,849 coronavirus cases and 20 deaths.