Bali updates for February

Om Swastiastu ...


The immigration department has suddenly introduced changes in the visa-on-arrival system. Read why tourism officials and tourism businesses are less than unanimous in their praise for the new program.

Other leading news stories this week include a critical review on Bali's handling the rabies epidemic by experts at a conference organized by Bali's Udayana University; a report that overpass highways may be under construction near Kuta before the end of 2010; a threat to close the 500-car fleet of Blue Bird Taxis in Bali; and the bad news that PLN power outages, despite assurance from PLN to the contrary, may not be over yet.

The Governor has called on entrepreneurial schools to be established to teach the Balinese how to compete internationally. Erosion on the beaches of Nusa Dua prompt emergency talks between Melia Bali and Badung's Regent. And, the Denpasar Municipal government is building bicycle paths in Renon and Sanur.

Plans have been announced to build a new luxury hotel on Sanur Beach – The Regent Bali.

In a hurry to get to Bali? Cathay Pacific is changing its Trans-Pacific schedules permitting same day connections between Los Angeles and Bali over Hong Kong.

We introduce a new celebrity chef at The Elysian and have a final interview with the very personable Robert Lagerwey who is leaving the helm of The Bulgari Resort Bali.

Want to talk to the animals? Read about the coverage the Mara River Resort and Balidisocvery.com received last weekend in The Sydney Morning Herald.

Finally, the island is abuzz with news of a new property law that will allow easier ownership of land in Bali for foreigners. Read this week's editorial and why we wonder if such a change bodes badly for the people of Bali and their culture.

Full report is available at: http://www.balidiscovery.com/update/update699.asp


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