The Traveling Witch

Indonesia’s Minister for Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, recently addressed the growing issue of illegal villas in Bali during the World Water Conference . He emphasized that many villas are operating without necessary construction and business permits, leading to various illegal activities. A notable incident involved a private villa in Canggu being used as a drug den, resulting in the arrest of four individuals involved in methadone production and marijuana cultivation. Minister Uno highlighted that this misuse underscores the urgent need for stricter regulations and enforcement. During a meeting on tourism sector standardization in Kuta, Minister Uno expressed disappointment over the low awareness among business operators regarding proper permits and certifications. He urged local authorities to educate the public on Indonesian National Standards (SNI) for Cleanliness, Health, Safety, and a Sustainable Environment (CHSE). Minister Uno also confirmed the suspensio...

Bali's tourism authorities have announced that Tourism Task Force Officers will now perform bi-monthly spot checks at popular attractions to ensure compliance with the new regulations. This initiative targets all tourists, including those renting villas or opting for long-term stays in Bali. During these inspections, tourists must present proof of having paid the Tourism Tax Levy and show their QR code for verification. Whether you're visiting Bali for a short vacation or staying long-term in a rented villa , adhering to these requirements is crucial . As the high season kicks off, with a surge of tourists expected until August, officials aim to ensure that everyone complies with the fee payment. This influx includes visitors staying in rented villas, underscoring the need for adherence across all types of accommodations. Since the Bali Tourism Tax Levy was introduced on February 14, 2024, it has generated over USD 7.1 million for the Bali Provincial Government. However, t...

Tattoos serve as a powerful form of personal expression, permanently capturing moments, beliefs, and memories on one's skin. Making the decision to get a tattoo should be approached with caution, especially when it comes to staying sober. The experience of Rhiannon Cunningham, a London expat, vividly illustrates why maintaining sobriety is vital when getting inked. Recently, Rhiannon shared her experience on TikTok, revealing how she woke up with a tattoo of an upside-down Bintang beer bottle on her foot—a choice made during a night out in Bali. Her story quickly went viral, resonating with many viewers and highlighting the risks of impulsive decisions influenced by alcohol. Her tale began with an impromptu night of drinking with a man she had just met. Despite having warned a friend earlier about avoiding " silly " tattoos while on vacation, Rhiannon found herself making the same error. She recalled the moment they decided to get tattoos together after only knowing...