The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, in collaboration with local governments, has introduced a “3B tour package”, encouraging tourists to explore Banyuwangi, West Bali, and North Bali, in an effort to alleviate overtourism in southern Bali.
In response to the issue of overtourism which continues to affect the southern and central regions of Bali, the ministry, alongside the regional governments of Banyuwangi, Jembrana, and Buleleng, launched a tourism package billed as the “3B tour package” – 3B stands for Banyuwangi, Bali Barat (West Bali), and Bali Utara (North Bali) – on Friday, the 20th of September.
The announcement of the “3B tour package” was made by Nia Niscaya, the ministry’s Senior Tourism and Creative Economy Expert, during a press briefing in Jakarta on Monday, the 23rd of September.
“This tour package aims to redistribute the flow of tourists, who have primarily been concentrated in southern Bali, by encouraging visits to the northern and western regions of the island,” explained Niscaya to the press, who also underscored that the tourism package is designed for both international and domestic tourists.
Following the scheme detailed by the “3B tour package”, Banyuwangi serves as the entry point for this tour. Situated at the eastern tip of Java Island, it is accessible by both land and air from various major cities across the island. From Banyuwangi, tourists can continue their journey to North Bali and West Bali via a fast boat from Boom Beach to Lovina, with a stop at the pier in Pemuteran Village, Buleleng. The village, furthermore, offers a range of attractions, including religious tourism and the annual Pemuteran Bay Festival.
The “3B tour package” provides a mix of nature and cultural tourism, supported by the transportation infrastructure that facilitates ease of travel. In Banyuwangi, visitors can enjoy a variety of natural attractions, such as Ijen Crater, Alas Purwo National Park, Tabuhan Island, Baluran National Park, and the cultural experiences offered in Kemiren and Gombengsari Villages. in West Bali, highlights include surfing spots at Medewi Beach and Dlod Berawah Beach, as well as visits to Gilimanuk and the West Bali National Park. Lastly, in North Bali, tourists can explore the picturesque villages of Tembok and Les.
The ministry, meanwhile, expressed its optimism that the “3B tour package” will appeal to a large number of visitors.
“With the fast boat service, tourists can stay overnight in Banyuwangi before continuing to Lovina Beach [in North Bali] – a journey which takes just two hours,” Niscaya added.