Travel agents in Bali are facing a challenging landscape as the trend towards independent booking continues to rise. With tourists now able to easily plan their own vacations, travel agents are fighting to stay relevant and secure great-value travel deals to attract customers.
The Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies in Bali (ASITA) recently held a meeting to address the future of travel agents on the island. One of their main goals is to work with tourist attractions, both private and government-managed, to secure discounted entry tickets for tourists.
ASITA Chairman Putu Winastra highlighted the disparity in ticket prices for tourists brought in by travel agents compared to independent travelers. This discrepancy has prompted ASITA to push for benefits for their members who adhere to regional regulations.
Another pressing issue for ASITA is the development of a dedicated pick-up area at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport for large tour groups. This initiative aims to streamline the pick-up process and create a more organized environment for both tour groups and independent travelers.
While the need for travel agents may not be as high as it was in the 1990s, ASITA estimates that around 50% of Bali’s annual tourists still rely on booking agents in some capacity. The association is advocating for more support from the sector to ensure travel agents can continue to serve this significant portion of the market.
As the tourism industry in Indonesia evolves, Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Uno emphasized the country’s commitment to sustainability and development goals. Indonesia aims to position itself as a top tourist destination that prioritizes climate change issues and overall welfare. With unique destinations beyond Bali, Indonesia is on a journey to become the country of choice for tourists worldwide.