News
Island news
What's happening across the Gili Islands and Bali: boats and transport, events, openings and the stories shaping island life.
Bali news·2 hours ago
GOCO Hospitality expands Fivelements from Bali to Montenegro, with new openings in Samui and Switzerland
Fivelements, a wellness retreat brand founded in Bali in 2010 and acquired by GOCO Hospitality in 2024, is expanding globally. The original Ubud retreat in Bali will reopen in late 2026 after a redesign, with a more extensive transformation planned for 2028. New locations include Fivelements Samui in Thailand, set to open in early 2027 as the brand's flagship with a longevity clinic. Further expansion includes Switzerland in 2029 and Kolašin, Montenegro, in 2030. A Spanish location is also in development, though no date has been announced. This expansion reflects a trend in high-end wellness towards integrated protocols and longer stays.
18 min read
Bali news·3 hours ago
Lisa Snowdon visits Bali wellness retreat after separation from fiancé
TV presenter Lisa Snowdon, 54, recently visited a wellness retreat in Bali following her separation from George Smart, her partner of 12 years. Snowdon shared on Instagram that wellness for her is about connection, including meeting people, engaging in conversations, physical activity, mindfulness, and occasional emotional release. She mentioned having a "good old cry" during her trip. Snowdon also stated that she feels stronger mentally and physically after participating in activities like pilates and hot Bikram yoga. Concerns about her relationship status arose when she was seen without her engagement ring and Smart was largely absent from her Instagram since January. The couple had previously dated two decades ago, rekindled their romance in 2014, and became engaged in 2016. Last year, Snowdon indicated she was not in a rush to marry, viewing marriage as a contract and preferring a relaxed approach.
7 min read
Bali news·7 hours ago
Sarana Multi Infrastruktur disburses Rp8.1 trillion for 16 projects in Bali and Nusa Tenggara
PT Sarana Multi Infrastruktur SMI has disbursed Rp8.1 trillion US$457 million in regional loans to finance 16 public facilities across Bali and Nusa Tenggara through July 2026. These projects, which include roads, hospitals, markets, ports, and agricultural irrigation networks, are part of regional government development plans and are expected to generate socio-economic benefits. In Bali, seven regional governments have accessed SMI loans for projects such as the expansion of Bangli Regional General Hospital RSUD Bangli and road infrastructure in Gianyar and Badung. In Nusa Tenggara, financed projects include the West Nusa Tenggara Province Hospital RSUD Provinsi NTB and Jelojok Market in Central Lombok. Nationally, SMI has committed Rp37.19 trillion about US$2.1 billion for 96 projects across 79 regional governments through July 2026. Financing provided under the 2021 National Economic Recovery PEN program has also increased the capacity and revenue of several public facilities, such as RSUD Bangli and RSUD Provinsi NTB.
5 min read
Bali news·7 hours ago
Palestinian refugee temporarily detained in Bali for alleged immigration violations
A Palestinian refugee is being temporarily held at the Denpasar Immigration Detention Center in Bali for further examination after being suspected of violating Indonesian immigration rules. The 35-year-old man, MAFA, was reported by residents for allegedly operating as a tourism services vendor in Jungutbatu Village on Nusa Lembongan Island, Klungkung District. Officials from the Klungkung Immigration Office found evidence suggesting he had engaged in activities that violated immigration regulations, including promoting tourism packages through social media. Denpasar Immigration Detention Center Chief Teguh Mentalyadi stated that MAFA was formally detained on Wednesday, September 9, and transferred to the Denpasar Immigration Detention Center in Jimbaran, Badung District. The Klungkung Immigration Office determined that MAFA violated Article 75 1 of Law No. 6 of 2011 on Immigration. Due to MAFA's refugee status, the Denpasar Immigration Detention Center will coordinate with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees UNHCR and other relevant parties to ensure compliance with applicable regulations during further immigration measures.
6 min read
Must readLombok news·9 hours ago
Makana Pang wins inaugural Capítulo Perfeito at Lombok's Desert Point
Makana Pang has won the first-ever Capítulo Perfeito event held at Desert Point, Lombok, Indonesia. This marks the first time in 12 editions that the perfect-tube surfing event has taken place outside of Portugal. Pang, from Hawaii, beat Bruno Santos, Ícaro Ronchi, and Usman Trioko in the final, securing a wildcard entry into Capítulo Perfeito 2027 in Carcavelos. The event saw eight surfers ride six-foot waves for six hours at Desert Point, a location known globally for tube riding that had not previously hosted an event of this scale. Pang achieved a total score of 17.57, including the only Perfect 10 of the competition. He expressed honor at participating in the inaugural event and described getting a Perfect 10 in the final as a dream come true. Rui Costa, founder of Capítulo Perfeito, noted the challenge and risk of hosting the event in remote Lombok but confirmed Desert Point delivered, validating their concept of rewarding only time and quality inside the barrel.
4 min read
Must readBali news·9 hours ago
TransNusa launches direct flights between Bali and Phuket
TransNusa has introduced nonstop flights connecting Bali and Phuket, offering a direct air link between these two Southeast Asian island destinations. The inaugural service from I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport took place on September 9, 2026. The flight duration is approximately four hours. Initially, the route will operate four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, before becoming a daily service from October 3, 2026. This new route eliminates the need for connecting flights, making it easier to combine Bali and Phuket in a single itinerary. Datuk Bernard Francis, TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer, stated that the route aims to boost tourism, create economic opportunities, and strengthen TransNusa's hub in Bali. The direct connection also facilitates international passengers combining Phuket and Bali with other Indonesian destinations. Flights depart Bali at 11:30 AM, arriving in Phuket at 2:35 PM. Return flights leave Phuket at 3:35 PM, arriving in Bali at 8:35 PM. The service uses an Airbus A320 with 174 seats. Introductory one-way fares start at IDR 2,399,000 or USD 135. TransNusa offers three fare products: SEAT 20kg baggage, SEAT-PLUS, and FLEXI-PRO 30kg baggage, hot meal, priority boarding, flexible changes. This launch precedes Thailand's new visa-exemption rules, effective September 15, 2026, which could encourage multi-destination trips for long-stay travelers and remote workers. The Phuket launch is part of TransNusa's broader ex
6 min read
Must readBali news·22 hours ago
Perth woman faces $10,650 bill after New Year's Eve mix-up in Bali
Hayley Davis, a Perth woman, incurred a $10,650 bill for a New Year's Eve VIP daybed at Atlas Super Club in Kuta, Bali, after misinterpreting the cost. She believed the daybed, which included a private pool and a performance by American rapper Swae Lee, cost $1650. During the event, she attempted to tip the waitress with the remaining $7000 on her tab due to a language barrier, leading to the group receiving numerous bottles of alcohol. It took three days for Davis to realize the actual cost when her card was declined for a small purchase, revealing the $10,650 charge. Her friends eventually paid their shares of the bill, though an additional $700 in interest had accumulated. Davis admitted to converting the currency incorrectly.
17 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Fashion-focused hotels from Paris to Bali offer unique experiences for style-conscious travelers
For travelers who appreciate fashion, certain hotels around the world offer more than just luxurious stays; they provide a deep connection to the fashion industry. These establishments, from historic European palaces to modern resorts, are designed to immerse guests in a world of style. In Florence, Italy, Hotel Lungarno, owned by the Ferragamo family, showcases Renaissance art and Murano glass, placing guests near prime shopping and the city's fashion heritage. Milan's Portrait Milano, also a Ferragamo property, is set in a 16th-century seminary in the Quadrilateral della Moda, offering an insider's view of the city's fashion roots. Paris features several iconic hotels with strong fashion ties: Hôtel Plaza Athénée, known for its Dior connections and appearances in popular culture; Hôtel de Crillon, a historic palace favored by couture clients and fashion editors, with suites designed by Karl Lagerfeld; and the Ritz Paris, once home to Coco Chanel, offering gilded glamour and a partnership with fashion brand FRAME. In London, the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park provides spacious closets and concierge access to Harrods, along with an award-winning afternoon tea. For a more tropical fashion experience, the W Bali — Seminyak in Bali, Indonesia, recently launched "Club Lacoste," a padel court with an in-house Lacoste boutique. New York's The Mark is a hub for the city's fashion scene, famous for its Met Gala connections and Bergdorf Goodman access. Nammos Mykonos in Greece integrates
8 min read
BreakingBali news·1 day ago
Mount Anak Krakatau eruption causes travel disruptions across Indonesia, affecting Bali flights
The eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau is causing significant travel disruptions across Indonesia, impacting over 170,000 passengers and more than 1,558 flights as of September 7. While Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta International Airport is the most affected, Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport has also experienced some delays, primarily with domestic flights. Gede Eka Sandi Asmadi, Communication & Legal Division Head of I Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, stated that most international flights to and from Bali are operating normally with minor delays. Airport management is coordinating with airlines and AirNav Indonesia to monitor airspace and provide service recovery, including drinks and snacks, for affected passengers. Travelers are advised to confirm their flight status with airlines before heading to the airport and can contact the InJourney Airports Contact Center at 172 for airport-related information. Six volcanoes, including Mount Anak Krakatau, have erupted across Indonesia since August 31, though authorities confirm these events are not interconnected. Indonesia's national tourism board, Wonderful Indonesia, reminds travelers to prioritize safety, check destination conditions, and monitor updates from management, accommodation providers, and transportation operators.
4 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Australian man damages Bali billboard due to family stress
Police in Denpasar have identified the motive behind a 41-year-old Australian man's actions in damaging a glass billboard in Pecatu, Badung District, Bali Province. According to Denpasar Police Spokesperson First Inspector I Gede Adi Saputra Jaya, the man was experiencing stress from family problems, which led to a loss of emotional control. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 8, at Gabet's Pub Restaurant & Karaoke in Pecatu, South Kuta Subdistrict. CCTV footage showed the man, identified as JDB, throwing a drink, causing a disturbance, and then throwing a rock at the establishment's glass billboard, causing it to shatter. He then left the scene on a black Yamaha XMAX motorcycle. South Kuta police investigated the incident, reviewing CCTV and interviewing witnesses, leading to JDB's arrest on Wednesday, September 9. During questioning, JDB admitted to the damage, citing family issues as the cause of his emotional distress. He apologized to the management of Gabet's Pub Restaurant & Karaoke, and police facilitated an amicable settlement between both parties.
6 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Goddess Retreats introduces new Reset program in Seminyak, Bali
Goddess Retreats, a women-only wellness retreat provider, has launched a new program called Reset Goddess at its Seminyak sanctuary in Bali. The seven-day, six-night all-inclusive program is designed for women seeking a restorative getaway with no fixed itinerary, allowing guests to choose activities such as yoga, spa treatments, or relaxation by the pool. The program includes luxury accommodation, daily spa treatments, movement and mindfulness sessions, contrast therapy, 16 chef-prepared meals, cultural connections like fire and cacao ceremonies, a flower mandala ritual, a Balinese offering-making workshop, and a chauffeured shopping tour of Seminyak and Petitenget. Round-trip airport transfers are also included. Founder Chelsea Ross stated that the Reset Goddess program aims to remove the planning burden often associated with wellness breaks, offering an accessible package starting from USD$2,099 per person. Goddess Retreats, founded in 2003, offers various women-only programs focusing on wellness, healing, longevity, and active styles such as Surf, Pilates, Fitness, and Padel.
9 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Deputy minister urges regions to adopt Denpasar's waste handling model
Deputy Coordinating Minister for Food Hanif Faisol Nurofiq has called on other regional governments to emulate Denpasar City and Badung District's waste management strategies. During a visit to Denpasar on Thursday, Nurofiq reviewed waste sorting practices at Pedungan 5 Elementary School and praised Denpasar City Government's commitment to environmental cleanliness despite busy tourism. He highlighted the city's efforts in promoting waste sorting from households to hotels and schools, noting that elementary students are already processing organic waste at home. Denpasar has reportedly reduced waste sent to the Suwung landfill by around 70 percent, with a target to complete its waste management plan by December, leaving the landfill to receive only residue. The central government, in collaboration with regional governments, is also preparing waste-to-energy infrastructure to be operational by the end of 2027. Nurofiq expressed hope that Bali would receive the Adipura award in 2027, following major waste management reforms since 2025.
7 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
TransNusa launches direct flights between Bali and Phuket
TransNusa has introduced a new nonstop flight service connecting Bali and Phuket, operating four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The four-hour flights use a 174-seat Airbus A320. Starting October 3, the airline plans to increase services to daily, continuing through Phuket's peak travel season until March 2027. This new route is TransNusa's fourth international service from Bali, adding to existing flights to Perth, Singapore, and Guangzhou. Bernard Francis, TransNusa's chief executive, stated the airline aims to create "ultimate island experiences that bring the best of sun, sea and healing to our passengers."
13 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Nine top hotel restaurants in Bali for fine dining and casual meals
Vici, a long-term Bali resident, highlights nine hotel restaurants across Bali that offer exceptional dining experiences, suitable for various occasions from fine dining to family meals. These establishments, located in areas such as Uluwatu, Ubud, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Seminyak, and Canggu, are open to non-staying guests. The selection includes Mana Uluwatu for cliffside ocean views and sunset cocktails, Waatu at The Ungasan for fire-cooked local produce, and Tangelo at Cicada Resort Bali Ubud for Indonesian cuisine with valley views. Ayung Terrace at Four Seasons Ubud offers modern Indonesian dishes with jungle views, while Sundara at Four Seasons Jimbaran provides beachfront dining with an infinity pool. Kayuputi at The St. Regis Bali Resort is noted for fine Asian-inspired cuisine and an award-winning wine list, and Seasalt at Alila Seminyak features Japanese-inspired seafood. Dome at Desa Potato Head offers modern Asian fusion and natural wines, and Paparempa at Noema Resort Pererenan celebrates Indonesian heritage flavors. Prices for main courses generally range from IDR 80,000 to IDR 330,000++. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular times and special events.
15 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Early morning scuba diving in Bali offers unique experiences and solitude
For travelers seeking a unique experience in Bali, the "quiet hour" before sunrise offers unparalleled scuba diving opportunities. This period, lasting about ninety minutes, provides solitude before the island becomes busy with day boats and beach clubs. The best diving in Bali is not about secret sites but about timing, allowing access to experiences others cannot easily reach. Neptune Scuba Diving is mentioned as an operator that fits within Bali's scuba diving landscape, offering a range of dives from shore entries to wreck dives and blue-water encounters around offshore islands. Discerning divers should look for operators who limit group sizes and offer private dawn departures. An example is the USAT Liberty wreck near Tulamben, which is busy by mid-morning but empty at dawn. Early dives at the wreck offer sightings of bumphead parrotfish, unique sunbeam effects inside the hull, peak visibility, and the chance to share the ship with only a guide. For those new to scuba diving, the wreck provides a gentle introduction. Across the strait, Nusa Penida offers encounters with manta rays year-round and mola mola from July to October. Early morning dives or snorkeling at cleaning stations on Penida allow for more natural animal behavior. Staying on Penida and departing at first light is recommended for the best experience. The east coast villages of Amed and Tulamben offer a retreat-like diving experience, with quiet villas and dive centers acting as private concierges. The ritu
7 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Australian traveler faces A$10,650 daybed bill in Bali due to currency mix-up
An Australian traveler experienced a significant financial shock during a New Year's Eve celebration in Bali when a currency mix-up led to a A$10,650 daybed bill. Hayley Rose Davis, from Perth, booked a daybed at Atlas Super Club in Kuta Beach, believing it cost A$1650. Her credit card payment initially failed, and a friend's attempt showed insufficient funds, but Davis completed the transaction over the phone, attributing the issues to banking problems. The group ordered various items, including vodka, shishas, cocktails, burgers, chips, and oysters. Towards the end of the night, Davis offered remaining credit as a tip, which staff converted into bottles of alcohol. She later learned that one bottle of tequila she gave away was worth A$600. The full extent of the mistake became clear three days later when her card was declined, revealing a A$10,650 charge for the daybed. Davis also incurred an A$700 interest payment on her credit card. Her friends eventually paid their shares of the bill.
9 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
TransNusa launches new direct Bali to Phuket flight service
TransNusa Airlines has introduced a new direct flight service between Bali and Phuket, with the inaugural flight arriving with 174 passengers. The Tourism Authority of Thailand TAT welcomed the new route, which operates four times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays using an Airbus A320-200. Flight 8B541 departs Bali at 11:30 hrs and arrives in Phuket at 14:35 hrs, with the return flight departing Phuket at 16:40 hrs. This service adds approximately 700 seats per week from Bali to Thailand, supporting TAT's Airline Focus strategy and the Thai Government's Ease of Travelling policy. The new route aims to enhance air access within Southeast Asia and boost tourism from Indonesia to Phuket, known for its beaches, gastronomy, culture, wellness, and lifestyle experiences. This is TransNusa's second direct route to Thailand, following the Jakarta–Bangkok service that began on 6 August 2026. These services are part of a Memorandum of Understanding between TAT and TransNusa Airlines, focusing on destination marketing, travel product development, and improved air connectivity. Indonesia recorded 429,778 arrivals to Thailand between 1 January and 7 September 2026, with a target of 890,000 Indonesian visitors for 2026. Leisure travel is a primary motivation, with many Indonesian visitors returning to Thailand and exploring destinations like Bangkok, Songkhla, Chon Buri, Phuket, and Krabi.
4 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Hotel Komune Bali: A 5-star beachfront resort for families and wellness enthusiasts
Hotel Komune, a 5-star beachfront resort in Bali, offers a balance of family-friendly amenities and luxurious experiences. Located on the black sand of the Keramas surf break, the resort provides interconnecting beachfront king suites with private pools. Dining options include The Beach Club, which features a kids' menu with playful names and adult choices ranging from Indonesian dishes to international cuisine, and The Health Hub, catering to various dietary restrictions with healthy bowls, wraps, and guilt-free desserts. The resort's kids' club offers screen-free activities like a skate park, flying fox, cubby house, trampolines, and daily programs such as bead decorating, kite making, and chicken feeding. Evening kids' movies are shown on the lawn. For adults, the spa offers deep-tissue massages, facials, body scrubs, and other treatments. Komune is also known for its world-first permanent night surfing installation, yoga and Pilates studios with regular retreats, and a fully equipped gym. The staff's friendliness and warmth are highlighted as a key reason for guests to return.
11 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Chef Enrico Bartolini returns to AMICI Bali for an exclusive dinner
Chef Enrico Bartolini will return to AMICI Bali for an exclusive one-night collaboration on Sunday, October 4, 2026. He will join Executive Chef Alessandro D’Amico to present a menu that combines AMICI's identity with Bartolini’s culinary philosophy. AMICI, located in Seminyak, is a contemporary Italian restaurant conceived by Chef Bartolini, known for its refined technique and Italian hospitality. The evening will begin with a canapé reception, followed by a five-course dinner served in AMICI’s indoor dining room and open-air veranda. The menu is designed as a conversation between the two chefs, reflecting AMICI’s contemporary direction while introducing Bartolini's distinctive style. The full menu will be a surprise, but one confirmed dish is Risotto Enrico Bartolini, the chef’s signature beetroot “Acquerello” risotto with butter, Gorgonzola, and walnut. Bartolini holds 14 Michelin stars across his restaurants. The dinner is limited to 100 guests, offering an intimate experience. Guests can choose the five-course menu alone or with a curated wine selection. This event offers an opportunity to experience Chef Enrico Bartolini cooking in the restaurant he envisioned, combining Italian tradition, contemporary refinement, and hospitality. For more information, visit amici-bali.com.
3 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Byrd Wine Carnival Vol. 4 returns to Sanur on September 19
Byrd House Bali will host the fourth annual Byrd Wine Carnival on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in Sanur. This beachfront event combines wine tasting with food, music, and entertainment. The carnival will feature five wine brands and over 20 wine selections from various global regions. The main tasting session, offering unlimited wine, runs from 5 PM to 8 PM. Beyond wine, the event includes live DJ sets, flamenco performances, a cabaret show, interactive games, bar takeovers, bartender flair, and a 360-degree spin photo booth. The carnival aims for an informal, social atmosphere, encouraging guests to explore wines while enjoying the relaxed setting of Byrd House Bali on Segara Beach. Byrd House Bali itself is a lifestyle destination offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Indonesian and Japanese dishes, artisan pastries, gelato, coffee, and creative cocktails. The event provides an opportunity to experience this venue while enjoying an evening of wine, music, and community by the sea.
3 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
TransNusa launches direct Bali-Phuket flights
TransNusa has launched a new nonstop flight service connecting Bali and Phuket, with the maiden flight departing on September 9. This new route aims to eliminate layovers, reducing travel time to a four-hour flight. TransNusa Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Bernard Francis stated that the service bridges two major tourism capitals, boosting regional tourism and creating economic opportunities. The airline also aims to strengthen its hub in Bali, providing direct access to destinations like Wakatobi, Lombok, Manado, and Bima. Additionally, TransNusa operates routes from Bali to Singapore and Perth. The Bali-Phuket route will operate four times weekly on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, expanding to daily service on October 3, 2026. Flights depart Denpasar DPS at 11:30 and arrive in Phuket HKT at 14:35. Return flights depart Phuket HKT at 15:35 and arrive in Denpasar DPS at 20:35. An Airbus A320 with 174 seats is deployed for the service. Introductory promotional fares start from IDR2,399,000 USD135 one-way.
6 min read
Must readBali news·2 days ago
PLN Bali strengthens communication during power outages
PLN Bali's Distribution Regulatory Implementation Unit UP2D is enhancing its disruption service system through the PLN Command Center. This initiative aims to improve communication with customers during power outages, addressing complaints about lack of information regarding restoration times. Petrus Irwan Ichwansaputra, PLN UP2D Bali Manager, stated that managing disruptions involves not only quick restoration but also keeping consumers informed. The strengthened system ensures Command Center Officers confirm outage reports with customers and provide regular updates for widespread outages lasting over an hour. After repairs, officers will confirm power restoration. This program, part of Yantek Campus Volume 2 and themed "Command Center from the Heart," focuses on technical skills, customer communication, occupational safety, and using technology like the APKT Mobile application for recording outages. Petrus emphasized understanding the varied impact of outages on customers, from traditional activities to business operations and public services. PLN UP2D Bali also prioritizes occupational safety by communicating updated procedures and work methods to staff.
4 min read
Bali news·2 days ago
Pura Luhur Uluwatu: a sea temple on Bali’s cliff edge
Pura Luhur Uluwatu is a Balinese Hindu sea temple located in Pecatu on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, set high on a limestone cliff approximately 70 meters 230 feet above the Indian Ocean. This shrine complex is part of the Sad Kahyangan, a group of directional temples that define Bali's spiritual geography and protect its outer edges. The temple's layout includes ancient stone courtyards, cliff-top walls, and coastal vegetation at the island's southwestern tip. Pathways along the escarpment offer views of the Indian Ocean, with low walls, shrines, and viewpoints. The temple, dedicated to deities like Batara Rudra, has historical roots dating back to the 10th century, with significant development in the 11th century and later associations with the Javanese sage Nirartha. The name "Pura Luhur Uluwatu" signifies an elevated and spiritually exalted temple at the cliff area. The complex follows Balinese temple conventions with gateways, courtyards, and inner sanctums, featuring carved stone gates and pavilions with tiered meru roofs. Local limestone is used in much of the structure, with decorative carvings and guardian figures. Resident long-tailed macaques live around the temple. Visitors can explore the outer precincts and cliff walks to view the coastline, while religious observances take place in the inner courtyards. Access to the temple is by road from other parts of Bali.
6 min read