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As Bali gears up for another busy holiday season, local authorities are working hard to avoid the traffic headaches that plagued the island last year. In 2023/4, Bali’s roads were congested, and it became an all-too-familiar sight of tourists abandoning their taxis and running with luggage down the Bali Mandara Toll Road to catch their flights.

This year, officials are determined to ensure that visitors enjoy their holidays.

While Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, Christmas and New Year are still widely celebrated public holidays, especially by the growing Christian and Catholic communities. Bali, with its tropical charm and festive spirit, has long been a favorite destination during this time, drawing a mix of international and domestic tourists.

Most international tourists arrive at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, while many local visitors choose to drive to the island. This influx of vehicles on top of Bali’s already congested roads creates a perfect storm for traffic jams, especially during the holiday season.

To help alleviate these problems, Bali authorities are focusing on major trouble spots, including the airport, Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua, Canggu and other popular tourist routes. Increased traffic management and more staff on the ground are part of the strategy to keep things running smoothly.

Some tips for a stress-free holiday in Bali

If you’re planning to visit Bali this holiday season, it’s important to be prepared. Traveling between popular destinations, catching a flight or going out for a leisurely day can take longer than usual, so it’s a good idea to leave extra time for your journey. Despite traffic measures, delays are inevitable, so giving yourself some breathing space will help you avoid stress.

Bali’s charm is timeless, and with a little patience and planning, you’ll be able to enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer without worrying about getting stuck in traffic.