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Island news
What's happening across the Gili Islands and Bali: boats and transport, events, openings and the stories shaping island life.
Bali news·3 hours ago
Golfphoria 2026 returns to Bali International Golf with festival atmosphere and world record target
Bali International Golf BIG is hosting Golfphoria 2026, an annual golf tournament designed to be a festival-like experience. This year's event, held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, features a Reggae theme and aims for a Guinness World Record with 312 participants, following its previous Indonesian MURI Record for the largest virtual golf tournament. Players will virtually compete on the Dunluce Links of Royal Portrush. The tournament offers a large prize pool, including hole-in-one challenges, motorcycles, luxury holiday packages from Komodo Luxury and IndonesiaJuara Trip, cash prizes, and golf accessories. Supported by 47 sponsors, Golfphoria 2026 also includes a social responsibility program, "Everyone Can Play Golf, Everyone Has the Right to Get a Chance," offering free golf training to children from orphanages in Denpasar. President Director of Bali International Golf, Sayyid Haekal, stated that Golfphoria aims to make golf accessible to everyone. The event is part of BIG's vision to become a premier sports and lifestyle destination in Bali, expanding its facilities with a billiards arena, padel courts, and a running track. Juara Holding Group, through Komodo Luxury and Bali Premium Trip, supports the event, linking golf with broader travel experiences in East Indonesia.
6 min read
Bali news·3 hours ago
Menjangan Island: Bali's hidden gem for nature and cultural immersion
Menjangan Island, located 10km off Bali's northwest shore, is a tiny island within the West Bali National Park Conservation Area. It is one of six islands in Bali Province, alongside the main island, Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Serangan Island. The island is named after the Javanese word for deer, "Menjangan," and is home to Java Deer, which can be seen swimming to Bali each spring. While overnight stays are not permitted on Menjangan Island, visitors can enjoy day trips for snorkeling, diving, visiting the Menjangan Temple with its Lord Ganesha statue, and exploring mangroves. Accommodation options near West Bali National Park include NusaBay Menjangan by WHM, offering luxury stays inside the park from USD 100 with activities like snorkeling and guided walks. The Menjangan by LifestyleRetreats provides 4-star service in beach villas, Javanese-style joglo villas, and luxury suites from USD 85 per night, set within a 382-hectare property known for its birdlife, including the critically endangered Bali Starling.
4 min read
Must readBali news·7 hours ago
Top 10 activities in Ubud, Bali
Ubud, Bali, offers a blend of Balinese culture, outdoor activities, and unique experiences. The area is known for its traditional customs, crafts, and temples. Visitors can explore lotus-filled temple ponds, watch royal courtyard dance performances, and discover a grotto carved into the rice fields of Sanggingan. The article highlights 10 recommended activities, including visiting the Ubud Monkey Forest, dining at local warungs, exploring temples like Pura Taman Saraswati and Tirta Empul, and attending dance performances at Puri Saren Agung. Other activities include the Campuhan Ridge Walk, discovering a hidden grotto in Sanggingan, exploring the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, and visiting art museums such as Museum Puri Lukisan and the Agung Rai Museum of Art ARMA. The article also suggests experiencing traditional Balinese healing practices with a balian. It advises visitors to allow for spontaneous detours and to approach cultural experiences with respect.
21 min read
Must readBali news·9 hours ago
Indonesia plans Bali international financial center to attract global investors
Indonesia is developing Bali into an international financial center, aiming to attract global investors seeking alternatives amid geopolitical tensions. Luhut Pandjaitan, chairman of Indonesia's National Economic Council, stated that investors are interested in moving assets to Bali due to its peaceful environment. To compete with established hubs like Singapore, Hong Kong, and the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia plans to improve transparency and address corruption. Legislation for the financial center has been passed, with details on its location and incentives expected soon. The hub may operate under international commercial law, similar to Hong Kong's "one country, two systems" framework. This initiative is part of President Prabowo Subianto's strategy to boost economic growth to 8% by 2029, leveraging Indonesia's digital infrastructure, AI development, and young workforce. Despite concerns from MSCI regarding transparency and market governance, Luhut affirmed the government's commitment to reforms to build investor trust and strengthen the economy.
3 min read
Bali news·9 hours ago
Indonesia supports US prosecution of alleged Bali bombing mastermind Hambali after 23 years
Indonesia has expressed support for the United States' decision to prosecute terror suspect Encep Nurjaman, also known as Hambali, who has been held at Guantanamo Bay for over 20 years. Coordinating Minister for Law, Human Rights, Immigration, and Corrections Yusril Ihza Mahendra stated that Indonesia welcomes the US government's prosecution of the case and has no plans to seek Hambali's return. Hambali, arrested in Thailand in 2003 and transferred to Guantanamo Bay in 2006, is accused of being a senior figure in Jemaah Islamiyah JI and involvement in the 2002 Bali bombings. Indonesia's stance on his return changed due to questions about his citizenship status and potential legal complications, including the country's single-citizenship policy and the statute of limitations for certain crimes. Hambali was reportedly carrying Thai and Spanish passports at the time of his arrest, and official documents confirming his Indonesian citizenship have not been obtained. He is currently being prosecuted by a US military court alongside two Malaysians, Mohammed Nazir Lep and Mohammed Farik Amin, who are also allegedly linked to the Bali attacks. Indonesia will continue to monitor the case, believing US prosecution to be the most appropriate path.
6 min read
Bali news·12 hours ago
Byrd House Bali introduces weekly themed BBQ nights at the Beach Deck in Sanur
Byrd House Bali's Beach Deck in Sanur has launched BBQ Nights, a weekly dining program featuring different grilling themes each evening from 6pm to 10pm. Mondays and Tuesdays are dedicated to BBQ Meat, offering premium cuts and classic barbecue dishes. Wednesdays and Thursdays feature the Seaside Grill, focusing on fresh seafood with coastal seasonings. On Fridays and Saturdays, Ring of Fire presents smoky signature creations and open-fire cooking. Sundays conclude the week with Sunday BBQ, combining selections from both land and sea. Executive Chef Luca Masini oversees the program, which emphasizes quality ingredients and the experience of dining by Sanur's coastline. Prices for the BBQ nights start from IDR 110,000. For more information and reservations, guests can contact Byrd House Bali via WhatsApp at +62 85179667935 or visit byrdhousebali.com.
2 min read
Bali news·15 hours ago
Sofitel Bali and Bali Life Foundation open new school in Southwest Sumba
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, in collaboration with Bali Life Foundation, officially opened a new school in Southwest Sumba on July 15, 2026. Located within the Tambolaka community, the school aims to provide a safe learning environment for children. The opening ceremony was attended by the Regent of Southwest Sumba, Ratu Ngadu Bonu Wulla, representatives from Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort including General Manager Jean-Pierre Joncas, Director of People & Culture Nia Edward, and Senior Director of Marketing Communications & PR Aulianty Fellina, as well as the Bali Life Foundation team, local leaders, teachers, students, and residents. The school's funding came from Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort's inaugural charity gala, "An Evening of Elegance & Empathy," held on November 14, 2025, which raised IDR 500,000,000. Building on this success, Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort will host its second annual charity gala, "An Evening of Purpose & Possibility," on December 11, 2026, again in partnership with Bali Life Foundation, to create further opportunities for children and families across Indonesia.
2 min read
Must readBali news·15 hours ago
Dutch nationals blacklisted from Bali over alleged discriminatory run club
Two Dutch expatriates have been banned from returning to Bali after being accused of operating a run club that allegedly excluded Indonesian nationals. The club, Entourage Bali, stated it was created to foster a community for "digital nomads in Bali" and help newcomers connect. However, social media posts went viral, with some users labeling the group as discriminatory for allegedly not accepting locals. One Indonesian woman, Annisa Rahmadani Maclean, claimed her application was delayed due to her Indonesian name and number, while her husband's application was immediately accepted due to his Western name and number. Bali's Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, condemned the event and imposed an entry ban on the Dutch pair, identified as JAS, 35, and HQV, 37, who have since left for Singapore. Marantoko stated that foreign nationals cannot create their own rules or exclusivity within Indonesia. Entourage Bali responded, maintaining inclusivity and attributing rejections to errors in their automated approval process for WhatsApp groups and running events, which automatically rejected some Indonesian numbers. They also stated that Indonesians represented almost 25 percent of ticket holders at a recent silent disco run and announced a pause on all events, taking full accountability. Balinese-based Indonesian Senator Niluh Djelantik commented that local hospitality should not be mistaken for a license to disrespect, and using public spaces while rejecting local res
5 min read
Must readBali news·16 hours ago
Indonesia pushes for Bali to become international financial hub
Indonesia is actively pursuing the transformation of Bali into an international financial center, a move described as a "matter of survival" by Luhut Pandjaitan, President Prabowo Subianto’s special adviser and economic tsar. Pandjaitan highlighted Bali's peaceful environment as an attractive alternative for investors seeking stability amidst global conflicts, citing a friend's desire to relocate assets from Abu Dhabi due to Middle East turmoil. Speaking at the Nusa Dua Forum on July 17, Pandjaitan, who is also chairman of Indonesia’s National Economic Council, addressed recent investor withdrawals from Indonesia, pledging increased transparency and efforts to combat corruption to build trust. Parliament passed legislation for the financial center just 20 days after initial discussions, with the center potentially operational as early as next month. It will operate under international commercial law, similar to a "one country, two systems" model, aiming to enhance Indonesia's credibility. Pandjaitan dismissed skepticism about Indonesia's ability to compete with established financial hubs, noting that investors, including Ray Dalio and the Porsche family, appreciate Bali's "aura." He also expressed optimism about Indonesia's economic growth, aiming for 8 percent by 2029, supported by digitalization and a skilled workforce. Despite challenges like the budget for Prabowo’s free meals program being cut and concerns from global index provider MSCI, Pandjaitan remains confident in
9 min read
Bali news·17 hours ago
Desa Potato Head Bali: A beachfront creative village in Seminyak
Desa Potato Head Bali, located on Seminyak's shoreline, is a beachfront creative village that combines hospitality, art, music, design, wellness, and community. The property features thoughtful architecture, cultural programming, and ocean views. Guests can participate in a complimentary Waste Tour to learn about waste-management initiatives and create recycled items in a workshop. Accommodations include handcrafted furnishings and private outdoor spaces, with some suites offering expanded living space, private plunge pools, and Indian Ocean views. Dining options include Kaum for regional Indonesian cuisine, Ijen for seafood, Tanaman for plant-based dishes, and Dome for wine and shareable plates. The Beach Club and Sunset Park offer relaxed settings for drinks with ocean views. For relaxation, guests can use the beachfront pool, Desa Spa, or wellness experiences such as meditation, sound therapy, and breathwork. A fitness center and daily wellness programming are also available. Activities include yoga, creative workshops, and exploring art installations. Beyond the Desa, Seminyak Beach, local boutiques, cafés, galleries, and nightlife are accessible. Features include beachfront access, a fitness center, pool, wellness facilities, parking, vegan and vegetarian meals, water refill stations, wheelchair accessibility, babysitting services, and connecting rooms. The property is located at Petitenget 51B, Seminyak, Badung, 80361 Indonesia, approximately 9 miles 15 km from Ngurah R
16 min read
Must readBali news·22 hours ago
Bali running club pauses operations amid allegations of blocking local residents
Entourage Bali, a running club known for its "silent disco" events, has temporarily halted all activities following accusations that it systematically prevented local Indonesian residents from joining. Leaked screenshots reportedly show applicants being asked for their nationality and then rejected if they were Indonesian. The organization, which caters to digital nomads and tourists, issued an apology on Friday, stating it "made errors in automated approval processes for our WhatsApp group and non-running events," leading to a bias where some Indonesian numbers were incorrectly rejected. The controversy has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with locals and expats criticizing the group for allegedly creating exclusive foreign-only communities on public Balinese roads. Despite previous claims that 25% of participants were locals, an Australian runner observed that approximately 95% of a recent event's attendees were foreign. Entourage Bali operates in Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud, managing WhatsApp networks for foreigners to find housing, sell items, and attend social meetups. The organizers have confirmed internally that all upcoming events are paused.
12 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Bali's eco-stays offer sustainable travel experiences
Bali prioritizes sustainability in its tourism sector, offering a range of eco-stays, bamboo buildings, and regenerative tourism initiatives. These accommodations provide a deeper connection to Balinese culture and landscape, often at affordable prices. Hideout in Karangasem Regency is known for its bamboo architecture and activities like private yoga, Balinese healer visits, guided treks, and silversmithing workshops. Sarinbuana Eco Lodge in the Tabanan Hills features a permaculture garden, natural pools, sauna, and access to waterfalls, with options for birdwatching and jungle exploration. Firefly Eco-Lodge Bali near Ubud, featured on Netflix, offers bamboo treehouses surrounded by rice paddies. For a truly sustainable adventure, Astungkara Way in Tabanan Regency provides overnight stays on a regenerative farm and multi-day treks, including communal sleeping platforms, home-cooked meals, harvesting, farm visits, trekking, and cultural immersions like learning gamelan. The platforms for Astungkara Way were donated by Desa Potato Head in Seminyak.
4 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Two Dutch men banned from Indonesia over alleged discriminatory run club event in Bali
Two Dutch expatriates have been banned from Indonesia by Bali's Immigration department for allegedly organizing a run club event, "Entourage Bali," that discriminated against local residents. The event, a "Silent Disco running event," was condemned by Bali's Director General of Immigration, Hendarsam Marantoko, who stated that foreign nationals are not permitted to manage events in Indonesia. The two men, identified as JAS, 35, and HQV, 37, left Bali for Singapore on Wednesday night and have been placed on a travel ban list. Complaints arose online, including from an Indonesian woman who stated her application to join was to be reviewed, while her husband's application with a "western name and number" was immediately accepted. Balinese-based Indonesian Senator Niluh Djelantik also criticized the event, stating that utilizing public spaces while rejecting local residents is unacceptable. Entourage Bali issued a statement apologizing for any offense, attributing the issue to errors in an automated approval process for their WhatsApp groups, which incorrectly rejected some Indonesian phone numbers. They claimed Indonesians represented nearly 25% of ticket sales for the silent disco run and have paused all events. This incident occurs as Bali immigration increases its crackdown on foreign nationals working on tourist visas, with the Australian Smartraveller website advising Australians to understand their visa conditions.
7 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Bali run club suspends operations amid exclusion claims
Entourage Bali, a popular running club known for its 'silent disco' events, has suspended all operations following allegations that it systematically rejected local Indonesian residents from joining. Leaked messages reportedly showed organizers asking applicants for their nationality and then rejecting those identified as local, stating the platform was for digital nomads. This policy has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with locals and expatriates criticizing the group for creating exclusive foreign-only communities on public Balinese roads. While the club previously claimed a mix of foreigners and locals, an Australian runner who recently attended an event estimated that 95% of participants were foreign. Entourage Bali operates across Canggu, Uluwatu, and Ubud, also managing WhatsApp networks for foreigners. The organizers have not commented publicly but confirmed in internal messages that events are paused due to the "commotion."
10 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Air New Zealand rebooking leads to 30-hour travel ordeal for autistic child en route to Bali
A mother and her 9-year-old autistic son experienced a 30-hour travel ordeal to Bali after their direct Air New Zealand flight was cancelled and rebooked. Kama Kanic had reserved a Skycouch for her son's comfort, but the rebooked itinerary involved three countries, multiple aircraft, no Skycouch, unsuitable seating, and no special meals, despite special requests on their booking. Kanic reported a lack of communication and support from the airline, leading to her son's distress. Upon arrival in Bali, they lost two days of their holiday recovering. Initially, Air New Zealand deemed her request to extend their return flights by two days as "not reasonable." However, after Kanic posted about her experience on social media, Air New Zealand apologized, offered the transcript as a training opportunity for staff, and changed their return flights at no additional cost, reinstating a Skycouch.
9 min read
BreakingBali news·1 day ago
High waves expected in South Bali from July 23-26, 2026
The Meteorology, Climate, and Geophysics Agency for Denpasar, Bali BMKG-Bali has issued a warning for high waves in the southern, southeast, and southwest coastal areas of Bali, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa from July 23-26, 2026. Waves are predicted to reach heights of 1.25 to 2.5 meters due to strong winds from the east to southeast. Cahyo Nugroho, Head of BMKG Region III Denpasar, stated that surface wind patterns, blowing from east to southeast at speeds of 4-30 knots, are influencing these conditions. The affected areas include the Badung Strait, the southern Bali Strait, the southern waters of Bali Island, and the southern Lombok Strait. The BMKG advises fishermen, marine tourism operators, inter-island shipping operators, and those involved in marine activities to exercise caution and monitor weather updates. Fishing boats are at risk with wind speeds of 15 knots and wave heights of 1.25 meters, while barges face risk at 16 knots and 1.5-meter waves.
3 min read
Must readLombok news·1 day ago
House Awasi: a glass and stone home overlooking Lombok's mountains and sea
House Awasi, designed by Caceres + Tous, is set for completion in 2024 on Lombok, Indonesia. This modern home is designed to blend with the natural landscape, using glass to maximize natural light and offer views of the surroundings. Constructed with stone for durability and steel for a modern aesthetic, the materials are chosen to suit Lombok's tropical climate. The design also incorporates elements that reflect Lombok's cultural heritage, including the intricate crafts and arts of the Sasak people, such as weaving and woodcarving. House Awasi aims to be a blend of nature, culture, and modern architecture.
2 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud to open later this year as brand's first Indonesian property
IHG Hotels & Resorts will open Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud later this year, marking the Kimpton luxury lifestyle brand's debut in Indonesia. Located near Ubud's Art Market, Ubud Palace, and Water Palace, the hotel aims to blend with Bali's creative energy. It will offer 101 accommodations, including rooms, pool suites, and private pool villas. The culinary program features five dining options, including Imamura Ubud, an omakase experience by Michelin-starred Chef Hirofumi Imamura, and Shaku by Imamura, a Japanese izakaya. Wellness facilities include a two-story fitness studio, recovery facilities, and Sakshi Spa, which uses Balinese healing traditions. Signature Kimpton perks include the "Forgot It, We’ve Got It!" program for travel essentials, Kimpton Kickstart for daily coffee, tea, and pastries, and Kimpton Social, an evening gathering. Austin Jones, General Manager, stated the hotel is designed to be a vibrant gathering place for guests and locals. The name "Suntaya" combines Sanskrit words for stillness and vitality, reflecting Ubud's balance of retreat and gathering. The architecture, designed by Denton Corker Marshall, interprets Balinese ceremonial processions and follows the natural contours of Ubud's hillside and riverside landscape.
5 min read
Bali news·1 day ago
Critically endangered Bali mynah chick hatches at Zoo Atlanta
Zoo Atlanta announced the successful hatching of a critically endangered Bali mynah chick. This species, native to Southeast Asian forests, is known for its white feathers and ability to mimic sounds. With fewer than 20 Bali mynahs remaining in the wild due to a small natural range and poaching, over a thousand live in zoos and breeding programs globally. The new chick is the first successful offspring from a breeding pair recommended by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' Species Survival Plan. While currently growing behind the scenes, the chick may eventually be on display year-round at Zoo Atlanta.
2 min read
Must readBali news·1 day ago
Indonesian man faces 15 years in prison for shooting Moroccan tourist and security guard in Bali nightclub
A 49-year-old Indonesian man, H.S.H., faces up to 15 years in prison after shooting a Moroccan tourist and a security guard at a nightclub in Canggu, Bali, on July 17. The incident occurred around 2:50 a.m. at an entertainment venue on Jalan Pantai Berawa in Kuta Utara district, Badung regency. H.S.H., who was intoxicated and tested positive for THC, MDMA, and amphetamine, fired a Glock pistol during a brawl, wounding a 25-year-old Moroccan national, E.A., in the right knee and a 32-year-old security guard, I.M.Y.M., in the left thigh. The suspect attempted to flee to Kuala Lumpur but was arrested at Soekarno-Hatta Airport on July 18. Police seized the Glock pistol, ammunition, and other related items. Badung Police Chief AKBP Joseph Edward Purba stated the motive was "rage while under the influence of alcohol." H.S.H. is charged with unlawful possession and use of firearms and ammunition, and assault causing serious injury.
4 min read
Must readLombok news·1 day ago
Lombok sea salt contaminated with microplastics, study finds
A recent study revealed that sea salt sold in markets across Lombok Island, Indonesia, contains microplastics. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters, form when larger plastic waste breaks down, often ending up in the ocean. Since sea salt is produced by evaporating seawater, it is particularly susceptible to contamination if the source water contains microplastics. Researchers led by Anna Ida Sunaryo Purwiyanto collected 20 salt samples from 10 markets on Lombok Island, finding microplastics in every sample. While contamination levels varied, the consistent presence indicates widespread contamination in the ocean surrounding Lombok. Crystal sea salt showed higher microplastic levels than fine salt, likely because fine salt undergoes washing and filtering processes that remove some particles. The study suggests that additional washing and filtering could further reduce contamination. Researchers also noted the absence of standardized guidelines for microplastics in salt products, recommending that microplastic monitoring be integrated into national food safety and salt quality standards. Tamara Galloway, a microplastics researcher not involved in the study, confirmed that the presence of microplastics in sea salt has been known for some years and that the risk to human health from ingesting microplastics in sea salt is very low compared to other sources.
4 min read
Must readBali news·2 days ago
LovFest 2026 to showcase North Bali's culture and natural attractions
LovFest 2026 is scheduled to take place at Lovina Beach from July 24th to 28th. The Buleleng Regency Government and local community are organizing the event, which will feature the theme "Theater of Dolphins." I Nyoman Wisandika, Head of the Buleleng Culture and Tourism Office, and Gede Angga Prasaja, Head of the Cultural and Tourism Marketing Division, stated that the festival aims to highlight Lovina's attractions beyond dolphins, including rice paddies, sunrises, sunsets, and local arts and culture. The festival will be extended to four days this year and involve more tourism stakeholders, creative communities, arts groups, and local communities. Activities will be divided into two zones. The Tasik Madu and Titik Nol Lovina areas will host traditional art performances, such as the Barong dance, and sunset DJ entertainment during the first two days. On July 27th and 28th, events will move to Binaria Beach, featuring folk entertainment like Bondres, MSME exhibitions, and a creative market with local artisans. The festival will also include 35 local culinary vendors and 40 food and craft businesses. Free activities range from cross-country running and a cattle race to mini sailboats, sunset yoga, a book review workshop, a Barong Lawang sunset performance, and a mass fishermen's dance with approximately 150 dancers. Organizers are targeting 25,000 visitors, an increase from last year's 20,000.
5 min read
Must read
Bali news·2 days ago
Tourist in Bali loses $14,000 in crypto after sharing unlocked phone with woman
A tourist in Bali reportedly lost $14,000 in cryptocurrency after giving an unlocked phone to a woman who offered to add herself on Instagram. The incident, reported by ABAB news, involved a group of women distracting the tourist after a few drinks, leading to his cryptocurrency wallet being emptied. This type of social engineering attack, which exploits attention and trust, is increasingly targeting travelers in Bali's pubs and beach clubs. Organized gangs use tactics such as asking to take a picture or exchange contact details to gain access to unlocked phones. If the victim is distracted or intoxicated, fraudsters can quickly access and deplete cryptocurrency wallets. Indonesian law enforcement, after receiving a police report, deployed undercover intelligence personnel who located and apprehended the culprits. The individuals are currently detained and face charges, with potential deportation.
7 min read