Although the pandemic is not over yet, we know many of you are eager to visit your bucket-list destinations again. If Bali or Lombok has been on your mind, then it is time to book your next holiday!
Currently, travelling to the island of Gods (Bali & Lombok) is possible for locals and foreign nationals who hold a Single-Entry Business Visas 211, KITAS, KITAP (work permit, residency) or with diplomatic visas. As Indonesia prepares to begin mass inoculations against COVID-19, we predict that borders will reopen and domestic tourism (at least) will resume soon.
On 15 Feb 2021, Indonesia said it has inoculated 73% of its 1.48 million health workers in the first stage of its vaccination program. The second stage starts this week and lasts through May, targeting over 38 million older adults, wet market merchants, teachers and civil servants. The health ministry says there are about 18 million ready doses of the Sinovac vaccine, enough for 9 million recipients through mid-March. Of the doses, 70% will be distributed on Java and Bali islands. (Source: Nikkei Asia https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Coronavirus/Coronavirus-Free-to-read/Coronavirus-latest-Australia-receives-first-batch-of-Pfizer-vaccine)
However, before you make a decision on where to go or where to holiday next, we highly recommend you consider these important 3 facts:
1. Have the ‘new normal’ habits been adopted?
The Indonesian government has embraced the ‘new normal’ and is encouraging the adoption of new habits. Some of these habits include, but are not limited to, the compulsory use of masks, frequent sanitizing, social distancing, temperature checks at all entrances, and health inspections at public places.
2. Are new standards of cleanliness health and safety protocols been imposed?
Another important thing to find out is if new standards of cleanliness, health, and safety, and strict procedures have been imposed to ensure the wellbeing of the visitors. Realizing that the comfort and security of the prospective tourists must be put on top priority, the Indonesian government has implemented Cleanliness-Health-Safety Protocols in all aspects of tourism, including accessibilities, amenities, and attractions. InDOnesia CARE was recently launched as a collaborative effort of tourism industries that are taking various preventive measures to make your favorite destinations safe.
3. Are the areas you plan to visit COVID-FREE?
There are pockets of Indonesia that are COVID-FREE, believe it or not? Early February 2021, as the number of COVID-19 cases in Indonesia continues to grow, two remote traditional groups have yet to record a single case throughout the pandemic. They are two tribes in West Java — the people of Baduy and Kasepuhan Ciptagelar. Surprisingly, no positive cases have ever been detected.
In Lombok, there have been only a few cases of coronavirus reported since 2020. While the island is still closed for international tourists, Lombok International Airport in Central Lombok remains open for domestic use only. Airlines offering domestic flights to Lombok spray their aircraft fleet with disinfectants and offer hand sanitizer and health education for passengers. And if you’re looking to head to Nusa Lembangan, the good news is no test is needed to enter the island! Lots of businesses have reopened and are accepting pre-bookings with flexible cancellation terms.
At Malimbu Cliff Villa, we have introduced Enhanced Cleaning Protocols since May 2020. These protocols are practised daily by our local staff and will continue to do so to prevent the spread of the virus. Best of all, our prime location is the best place for social distancing should you wish to getaway to a peaceful and quiet place for just you and your family/friends.
Our 2021 rates are now available with flexible cancellation terms.
Contact our Villa Manager Jun on +62 819 1710 4413 for special local rates or click here to read more about our private clifftop villa.