Asia's most beautiful island attracts more tourists amid Thailand-Cambodia border tension

By Hoang Vu July 29, 2025 | 06:52 pm PT

Tourists walk on a beach in Canggu, Badung regency on Bali island, Indonesia. Photo by AFP

The number of foreign visitors to Bali has increased by 10–15% following the escalation of border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand since July 24.

Military conflict between the two Southeast Asian nations has prompted many foreign tourists to alter their travel plans, opting for Bali over traditional destinations such as Bangkok or Siem Reap, the South China Morning Post reported.

According to the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI), tourist arrivals to Bali have surged in recent days as travelers seek safer alternatives amid the conflict, which has displaced hundreds of thousands and claimed dozens of lives.

"Bali is seen as a safe destination, so many tourists have chosen to come here instead of continuing their trips to Thailand," said I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, vice president of PHRI in Bali.

Bali was recently named Asia's most beautiful island at the Reader's Choice Awards by DestinAsian magazine.

The island attracted 6.3 million international visitors in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels, and aims to welcome 6.5 million tourists this year.

Local authorities have stepped up efforts to address visa violations and inappropriate behavior by foreign visitors in a bid to protect the island's image and promote responsible tourism.

Bali has also been dealing with a series of challenges, including a rise in crimes involving foreigners.

Authorities are tightening control over long-term visitors and unlicensed accommodation providers to curb transnational criminal activity. Tourists have also been advised to exercise caution when participating in adventure tourism, following a series of recent accidents.