BALI – latest updates

Om Swastiastu ...Read the full report at http://www.balidiscovery.com/update/update749.asp
A busy news week in Bali: The island recorded its fifth rabies death of 2011 and 121st death since the disease's outbreak in 2008. The former top tourism official in Bali has been formally indicted on corruption charges. Those in Bali's automotive sector are concerned about a new progressive tax for multiple vehicle owners. Wild weather is playing havoc on marine operators around Bali. And, we have the latest on the constantly changing plans for a new highway in Bali's south to relieve traffic congestion.

Bali's war on drugs continues. A Thai woman is facing a possible death sentence after being caught smuggling drugs concealed in her digestive tract. And, one of the Bali-Nine has had his life sentence reaffirmed by the Supreme Court.

In airline news, the Indonesian low-cost airline Mandala has suspended all services and been given 45 days to reorganize and get airborne again or face permanently losing their business license.

There's also environment and development news: Read how environmentalists are working to restore water to Bali's river systems. The Indonesian Constitutional Court has rejected efforts to overturn Bali's new zoning law. And, a survey by the Bali Post shows that 74% of the public want illegal buildings demolished.

Lots of news on the hotel and tourism beat. The controversy surrounding the unlicensed operation of the Best Western Kuta continues – we have an update. The governor wants illegal "kafes" closed to help stop the spread of HIV/AIDS. A seven-week experiment on closing a section of Kuta's main street every Saturday night has come to an end.

There are articles this week revealing why Bali is home to some of the best hotels in the world: Four Bali hotels make it to Conde Nast's Gold List. A receptionist is returning from New Zealand after competing in an international competition for front office personnel. There's news on an exciting Indonesian Chef cooking up a storm at the Banyan Tree Ungasan. And, a team of Bali sommeliers "stumble" their way through France's top vineyards - all in the name of professional education.

Also, if Indonesian Tourism Minister has his way, you'll soon be able to play golf near the Kintamani volcano.

Bali Update travels to the to Borobudur temple to interview Sean Flakelar, General Manager of the Amanjiwo. We find out about life at the Resort after the eruption of Mt. Merapi.

Art and culture new coverage looks at steps to clean up the image of Besakih Temple and we share details of a Bali puppet team traveling to Chennai, India in February.

Thanks to Gending Kedis and Bali Theatre at the Bali Safari and Marine Park for helping to make this edition of Bali Update possible. Contact us if you'd like to advertise your products on Bali Update and www.balidiscovery.com


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