Bali Updates

Om Swastiastu ...


A busy news week in Bali.

7 Iranians "mules" were arrested with stomachs full of capsules of crystal meth at Bali's airport; the long-quiet case of corruption by as many as 94 immigrations officers at Bali airport has resurfaced as prosecutors prepare to file charges; the Garuda pilot charged with negligent manslaughter in the crash of a jet in Yogyakarta is acquitted on appeal; a committee of Bali legislators want an "ad hoc" committee on rabies formed; and governor Pastika stands firm, insisting the culling of stray dogs remains a key element of his anti-rabies campaign.

On the brighter side of the news: KLM returns to Bali after a 12 year hiatus; the 2009 winners of Bali's Tri Hita Kirana awards are announced; Bali's minimum wage to increase in January 2010; and the government calls on officials, hotels and restaurants to maximize the use of batik fabric.

Congratulation to one of our loyal readers in Australia – Helen Flavel - who's just received long-overdue recognition for her humanitarian work among the people of Bali.

Bali will introduce an innovative "visa-on-board" program on December 25, 2009, on the Garuda flight from Tokyo to Bali. If the test runs go well, they may be extended to other inbound destinations.

The Bali Hotel Association announces it Board of Directors for 2010.

Mark you calendar for an important of wood cuts, engravings and etchings coming in January to the Ganesha Gallery and a rare 3-day Christmas sale at Jenggala Ceramics December 18-21, 2009.

We've got pictures from a wonderful "thank-you" party for the travel industry and press held last week at the Four Seasons Private Residences.

Finally, feel free to read our mail in the latest installment of "We Get Mail."



Om Çanti Çanti Çanti Om ...
J.M. Daniels - Bali Update
Bali Discovery Tours

Read the full report at: http://www.balidiscovery.com/update/update692.asp