Passengers forced to use bottles as toilets break on Bali to Brisbane flight

Virgin has been forced to hand out refunds to an entire plane of passengers after a disaster on-board a flight from Bali to Brisbane.

Virgin is grappling with the fallout of a disaster on-board a flight from Bali to Brisbane, after all toilets malfunctioned mid-air and passengers were forced to improvise in humiliating conditions.

The ordeal unfolded on Thursday afternoon when Virgin flight VA50 departed Denpasar. The rear lavatory was already out of service, but the six-hour Boeing 737 MAX 8 service was not delayed or cancelled due to limited engineering support in Bali.

Midway through the journey, the situation worsened when the remaining two toilets failed completely.

“One elderly woman was unable to hold on and suffered the humiliation of wetting herself in public,” a passenger told The Australian.

The ordeal unfolded on Thursday afternoon when Virgin flight VA50 departed Denpasar.

The rear lavatory was already out of service, but the six-hour Boeing 737 MAX 8 service was not delayed or cancelled due to limited engineering support in Bali.

“Midway through the flight, every toilet failed. For the remaining three hours, the cabin crew informed us we would need to relieve ourselves in bottles or ‘on top of whatever was already in the toilet’.”

The airline said customers would be credited for the flight and contacted directly with updates. (Photo by Saeed KHAN / AFP)

According to the passenger, a foul smell filled the air as urine seeped onto the cabin floor.

Virgin Australia confirmed the incident, apologising to those affected.

“A Virgin Australia flight from Denpasar to Brisbane on Thursday evening experienced an issue during the flight which affected the serviceability of the lavatories,” the airline said in a statement.

“We sincerely apologise to our guests and thank our crew for managing a challenging situation on board.”

           

Don't just visit Bali, experience it! This weekly “Bali Travel & Real Estate News” summary is your key to unlocking a richer, more informed journey.

Tune in each week and discover how to make the most of your time in paradise.

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This Week's Bali News

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Indonesia Expands Bali Immigration Patrols and Introduces New Hybrid Visa System to Curb Tourist Violations and Protect Tourism-Dependent Economy

Indonesia has stepped up enforcement in Bali by expanding immigration patrols and rolling out a new Hybrid Visa System in response to a sharp rise in tourist violations. With the island’s economy heavily reliant on tourism, authorities aim to safeguard public safety, maintain Bali’s global reputation as a safe and welcoming destination, and ensure that visitor behavior aligns with local laws. The combined measures are designed to deter overstays, unauthorized work, and visa misuse while supporting the sustainable growth of Bali’s tourism sector.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali Foreign Tourists Reach 6.3 Million in 2024, Deportations on the Rise

 The number of Bali foreign tourists reached 6.3 million in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels and cementing the island as Indonesia’s top tourism gateway. The arrivals accounted for nearly half of Indonesia’s 13.9 million foreign visitors that year.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Australia’s Unmatched Obsession with Bali: Discover the Secrets Behind This Affordable and Beautiful Getaway in 2025

Bali isn’t budging from its spot as Australia’s favorite overseas escape in 2025, welcoming 2.6 million Aussie visitors and proving it still owns the crown. Picture this: cheap flights, jaw-dropping scenery, and a culture that buzzes with life, all just a few hours from the east coast. Those super-short distances from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane mean hopping on a budget carrier and landing in paradise is as easy as pie. 

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Insights From Bali Immigration Highlight Island’s Ongoing Surveillance Of Tourists

Indonesia’s Immigration Teams have been increasing surveillance on tourists to Bali over the last six months.

With Bali Immigration teams recording an alarming spike in the number of violations in the first quarter of 2025, officials were clear that the situation needed to be brought under control.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali Remains a Top Australian Travel Destination: New Study Seeks Aussie Insight

Bali, the Island of the Gods, continues to captivate Australian travellers, cementing its status as a top air travel destination.

With its sun-drenched beaches, vibrant culture, and short flight times from Australia, it’s no surprise that over 1.5 million Aussies flocked to Bali in 2024. This makes Australians the largest group of international visitors.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Immigration Officers Confirm Bali Tourists Must Carry Passports At All Times

Tourists in Bali are under increasing surveillance by immigration authorities.

Following a rise in the number of visa violations detected by the Indonesian Immigration Agency earlier this year, new policies are in place to keep a close eye on tourists, travellers, digital nomads, and expats across the country. 

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Leaders Pledge To Improve Travel Conditions For Tourists In Bali’s Nusa Penida

Leaders in Bali’s Nusa Penida have pledged to tackle the island’s issues with traffic congestion. The tiny outlying islands have seen a sharp rise in the number of tourist visits annually, and major changes must be made if the growth is to be sustained long-term.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

 Bali’s Governor Inspects Bali Airport And Calls For Improvements For Tourists

Bali’s Governor Wayan Koster has conducted a spot check at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

The visit comes as part of an island-wide mission to improve services for tourists and ensure that security is upheld across the province.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Monkeys At Popular Bali Temple Branded As ‘Criminal Enterprise’

The resident troop of monkeys at Uluwatu Temple has been branded as a ‘criminal enterprise’.

The wild monkeys who live at one of Bali’s most important temples have reached international fame before, and have now hit headlines in The Wall Street Journal.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Indonesia AirAsia suddenly cancels Bali flights, stranding Aussie travellers

Indonesia AirAsia will suspend flights between Bali Denpasar and Cairns Airport from next month, the Queensland hub has confirmed.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Last Weeks Bali News

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Sanur’s New Tourist Shuttle Service Gets Top Reviews From Tourists

The Denpasar City Government is in the process of trialing a new electric shuttle bus service in the resort area of Sanur.

The trial kick-started on 1st August 2025 and so far is getting positive reviews from international tourists.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Indonesia at 80: From Sleeping Tiger to Roaring Lion

Every August, 17th the air in Indonesia crackles with a special energy. 

It’s a mix of red and white flags, patriotic songs, and a palpable sense of pride as the nation celebrates Hari Kemerdekaan, its Independence Day. 

I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this spectacle for 27 years, building a life here with my Indonesian family and a business that supports 70 Indonesian staff and their families. 

Blog With Photos & Details Here

 Fire Destroys 17 Villas at Eco-Luxury Resort in Bali’s Tabanan

Tabanan, Bali. A massive blaze tore through the Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort in Buwit village, Tabanan, on Friday, destroying 17 villas in the upscale property known for its rice field surroundings.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Why Tourists Keep Returning to Bali: Now, The Island’s Enduring Appeal in 2025

Bali’s reputation as an irresistible getaway shows no signs of waning. Fresh travel numbers reveal the island boasts one of the world’s highest-return visitor rates. Agoda’s latest report on booking patterns places Bali in a prestigious fourth spot on the 2025 Return Visitor Ranking, behind only Bangkok, Japan, and Seoul. This data speaks volumes: Bali doesn’t merely enchant newcomers; it cultivates loyal fans who come back to savour once more the extraordinary interplay of tropical landscapes, rich culture, and fresh experiences.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Indonesia's Bali launches QRIS tap payment system for public transport

Bali Island, Indonesia's premier tourism hub, on Thursday introduced the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) tap payment system for public transportation, aiming to enhance passenger convenience, senior officials said.

The initiative, which allows users to make payments by tapping without scanning, was jointly promoted by local authorities and Bank Indonesia's Bali branch.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

 Bali’s Waterbom Voted As The Best Waterpark In The World

Bali’s family-favorite Waterbom Waterpark has just been named as the Best Waterpark in the World in the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2025.

This major achievement is being celebrated as a win for both Waterbom and Bali as a world-leading destination.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

 Bali urged to stop illegal foreign businesses threatening locals

 A senior legislator has asked the Indonesian government to crack down on foreigners illegally running businesses in Bali, saying they pose a serious threat to local communities and small enterprises.

“We call on the government to act decisively. Bali must not be allowed to turn into a free market that ends up hurting its own people,” deputy chair of Commission VII of the House of Representatives (DPR), Chusnunia, said.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

The Meru Hotel And Bali Beach Hotel Earn Global Recognition, Elevating Sanur As A Medical Tourism Hub

The Meru Hotel in Sanur, Bali has recently made its mark on the global hospitality stage, securing a spot on the highly esteemed Savour BlackBookAsia Unadulterated List 2025. This recognition not only places The Meru among the 100 Best Hotels in the World but also earns it the title of Bali’s Best Hotels & Resorts. The award is a testament to the hotel’s exceptional quality and service standards, solidifying its place as a top-tier destination in the international travel industry.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali’s Tabanan Is Home To Natural Wonders And No Tourist Crowds Right Now

Tourism leaders in Bali’s Tabanan Regency have confirmed that visitor numbers have been in decline in recent weeks.

While the end of high season is in sight, visitor numbers are starting to drop, but Tabanan Regency is feeling surprisingly quiet right now, which is good news for explorers who prefer the crowd-free feel.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bingin Beach in Bali Temporarily Pauses Demolition Work, Offering Tourists a Unique View of Ongoing Changes

Demolition work at Bali’s Bingin Beach was temporarily halted after a major fire broke out at the site on Monday, August 18, 2025. The fire spread quickly across several buildings that were being dismantled as part of a government initiative aimed at removing structures that violated spatial planning laws and encroached on state-owned land. The incident has added complexity to an already contentious issue involving long-standing businesses and community members.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

This Week's New Special Real Estate Deal

RETIRE IN BALI – BALI LUXURY RETIREMENT VILLAS

Don’t Dream It, Live It:

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa

An extraordinary retirement haven, where your dreams of a serene and fulfilling Bali lifestyle come to life.

Location, Location, Location:

Why Bali’s East Coast is a Retiree’s Dream

When it comes to retirement, choosing the right location can make all the difference. Bali’s East Coast, with its tranquil beaches, breathtaking scenery, and pure air, offers an idyllic setting for your golden years.Bali Luxury Retirement Villas Saba Bali Indonesia

Steps from the Sea:

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Location Pantai Saba 200 Mtrs. from Beach

Imagine starting your day with a leisurely walk on the beach, feeling the soft sand between your toes and the gentle ocean breeze on your face.

Our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas are just a short 200 meter stroll from a picturesque beach which is considered by many tourists and locals alike as one of the best beaches for families on Bali’s East Coast, inviting you to embrace the island’s natural beauty.
Safe and Family-Friendly:

Pantai Saba Beach, renowned for its safety and calm waters, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the stunning views, you’ll find peace and serenity here.

Spectacular Sunrises:

Witness the magic of Bali’s sunrises, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. The clear air and unobstructed views offer glimpses of distant volcanoes, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Mt Rinjani 120 KM away

Breathe Easy: The Gift of Clean Air

Bali’s East Coast air, carried by trade winds and largely untouched by pollution, is a breath of fresh air – literally. Studies show that clean air contributes to longevity and improved health, making it a valuable asset for retirees.

Bali Oasis: Designed for Retirement Living

Returning to your private villa after a day of exploration or relaxation feels like a true homecoming.

We’ve meticulously designed these homes with the needs and desires of retirees in mind.

Solid Teak front entrance door Ensures strong security and long lasting quality with very little upkeep.

Bali Luxury Retiremnet Villa with Solid Teak front door entrance

Forget about the upkeep of a large house. Our villas are thoughtfully sized to minimize maintenance, allowing you to focus on enjoying your retirement to the fullest.
Private Carport:

Secure parking for your vehicle or a hired driver, ensuring you have the freedom to explore Bali at your own pace. 

 Retirement Villa AI Floor Plan

Open & Airy: 

Glass block walls and ample windows create a bright and welcoming atmosphere, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.
Refresh and Rejuvenate:

Start your day with an invigorating swim in your optional private pool.

It’s the perfect way to stay active and energized, right at your doorstep.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Pool:

Climate Control:

Enjoy year-round comfort with air conditioning in living areas and bedrooms.

Screen doors let in the refreshing ocean breeze during cooler months most of the year. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Main Entrance with Tinted glass

Energy Efficiency:

Reflective glass windows reduce air conditioning costs, keeping your home cool and comfortable while saving you money.

High Quality Finishing:

Durable & Stylish: Granito-style tile floors offer timeless beauty and require minimal upkeep. Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Floors.

Thoughtful Design: Retirement Villas That Prioritize Your Comfort and Lifestyle

We understand that your retirement home should be a sanctuary – a place where you can relax, recharge, and enjoy the best that life has to offer.

That’s why we’ve poured our hearts into designing villas that cater to the unique needs of baby boomers.

Light-Filled Living: Large windows and glass block walls create a bright and cheerful ambiance, while screen doors allow you to enjoy fresh air and ocean breezes.

Bali Luxury Villa Floor Living Room

Easy Maintenance:

Durable tile floors and high-quality cabinetry minimize upkeep, so you can spend your time doing what you love.

Relax, Entertain, and Savor: Your Villa’s Heart and Soul

Beyond the tranquil bedrooms and refreshing pool lies the heart of your villa – a space designed for relaxation, connection, and culinary delights.

Unwind in Style:

Sink into the plush comfort of a brand-new recliner couch, perfect for unwinding with a good book or enjoying a movie night.

Stay Connected:

Invite friends over for a cozy gathering or stretch out and savor the peaceful ambiance.

A dedicated workstation, complete with self-charging ports and ample lighting, ensures you can stay connected with loved ones, manage your finances, and pursue your online passions.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Living Room Work Station

Embrace Nature’s Tranquility:

Step into your private courtyard garden, a serene oasis where you can meditate, enjoy your morning coffee, or simply bask in the beauty of nature.

This lush green space, visible from both bedrooms and the living room, adds a touch of serenity to your everyday life.

Luxury Retirement Villa Courtyard Garden

Gather & Celebrate:

The dining area, with its elegant solid teak table and seating for four, sets the stage for memorable meals with family and friends.

Enjoy delicious food, share stories, and create lasting memories in this inviting space.

Culinary Delights:

The well-appointed kitchen is a chef’s dream, featuring:

Ample counter space and storage.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Kitchen

Fully electric kitchen with electric oven and electric induction stove for safety and easy cleaning.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Kitchen

A huge refrigerator with two doors for freezer and refrigerator

Custom-made cabinetry adds a touch of elegance, provides even more convenience.

With affordable housekeeping services readily available, you can spend less time on chores and more time enjoying your retirement.

Your Private Sanctuary: Luxurious Bedrooms and Spa-Like Bathrooms

Retreat to the tranquility of your master suite, a haven of relaxation and comfort designed with your well-being in mind.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bedroom East View

Thoughtful Touches:

Custom-Designed: Every detail, from the spacious bed to the ample wardrobe space, has been carefully considered to create a luxurious and functional space.

Vanity Area: A well-lit vanity with a large mirror ensures you can prepare for your day in style.

Reading Nook: Curl up with a good book in the cozy reading corner, complete with perfect lighting.

Huge closets and wardrobes with plenty of storage space

Massive Backdrop with makeup mirror and table with plenty of natural light.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bedroom Backdrop Make Up Table

Huge Wardrobes to fill with new Clothing

Master Bedroom Huge Wardrobes

A large mirror is included to check out your latest Bali purchases.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Large mirror

Spa-Like Bathroom:

Indulge in the ultimate pampering experience in your elegant bathroom, featuring:

Dual Sinks: His and hers sinks offer convenience and add a touch of luxury.

Soaking Tub: Relax and unwind in the spacious tub, complete with a safety handle for easy access.

Relax and unwind as you enjoy your courtyard garden

Open the screen window and have fresh air come into your bathtub. How nice is that?

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bathroom

Open-Air Shower: 

Enjoy a refreshing shower while taking in the view of your private courtyard garden.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Master Bathroom Shower

Elegant guest bedroom and bathroom:

 Your guests will feel equally pampered in the comfortable guest bedroom, which boasts many of the same features as the master suite, including a courtyard view, a large bed, and ample storage.

The private bathroom offers a full-size shower for added convenience.
Guest Suite: Comfort and Convenience:Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom
Your guests will feel right at home in the comfortable and well-appointed guest suite.

It also has a beautiful view of the garden court which allows lots of light for the makeup mirror and the full sized dressing mirror.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom

The screen window can also be opened to allow fresh ocean breezes.

With its own private bathroom and ample wardrobe space, it’s the perfect place for friends and family to stay when they visit.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villa Guest Bedroom TV Backdrop

Lovely bathroom with shower.

This guest bedroom comes equipped with a slightly smaller bathroom but still with a loveless sink and full size shower and toilet.

Security and Peace of Mind:

We understand the importance of feeling safe and secure in your retirement home. While our community is known for its tranquility, we offer the option of full-time security services for added peace of mind.

Bali Luxury Villa 1 A Night

Call to Action:

Experience the luxury and comfort of our thoughtfully designed Bali Luxury Retirement Villa .

Contact us today to schedule a tour and discover the perfect place to call home in Bali.

Unmatched Location: Your Gateway to the Best of Bali.

Location is paramount, and our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas offer the ideal setting for a fulfilling retirement.

With 27 years of experience building in Bali, we have handpicked this location to provide the perfect blend of convenience, tranquility, and access to essential amenities.

Healthcare at Your Fingertips:

Peace of mind comes from knowing that quality healthcare is nearby.

The Kasih Ibu Hospital, just a 5-minute drive away, provides excellent emergency care and a range of wellness programs for baby boomers.
Kasih Ibu Hospital Saba 5 Min Drive

For more specialized needs, the brand-new Bali International Hospital, a 20-minute drive, offers world-class medical services, including anti-aging treatments and specialized care.

 

Bali International Hospital 20 Min Drive

Modern Conveniences:

A short drive brings you to the vibrant heart of Sanur, where the new Icon Mall offers a plethora of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Stroll along the 6-kilometer white sand beach, indulge in a spa treatment, or stock up on groceries at one of the modern supermarkets.

New Bali Icon Mall Sanur Billed a son of Largest in S/E Asia Now Open

Affordable Luxury:

Experience the ease and convenience of Bali living. Fresh fish, local produce, and even coconuts can be delivered right to your door at a fraction of the cost back home.
Plus, affordable housekeeping services allow you to spend your time enjoying retirement, not doing chores.

Retiree for up to 70 % Less

Cost of Retiring Up to 70% Less

Bali’s low cost of living, combined with the potential for rental income from your villa, allows you to stretch your retirement savings further and enjoy a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle.

Don’t miss out!

Only one Villa available at this time – Discounted by 5%

Experience the benefits of a prime location in Bali. Contact us today to learn more about our Bali Luxury Retirement Villas and start planning your dream retirement.

Bali Luxury Retirement Villas present a unique opportunity. Here, your retirement dreams and financial goals can intertwine.

Affordable Luxury: 

Bali’s low cost of living lets you enjoy a luxurious lifestyle without depleting your savings.

Imagine daily massages, gourmet dining, and exciting adventures, all within your reach.

Family Haven: Your loved ones will be eager to visit you in paradise. No more worrying about expensive flights for family reunions – they’ll be booking their tickets as soon as they can!

Investment Potential: Bali’s real estate market is booming, especially for properties catering to retirees. With long-term lease options and strong rental demand, your villa can generate a steady income stream, adding to your financial security.

The Numbers Make Sense:

Starting at just 4.6 Miliar IDR (for other currencies exchange rates click here), our villas are a fraction of the cost of comparable properties in many Western countries.
Secure Long Term Leases Included:

Secure Your Bali Legacy: 

Unprecedented Long Lease with Two Extensions Included at no extra cost

Forget the typical Bali lease worries. We offer you an unparalleled opportunity to own your tropical paradise for up to three generations.

Consecutive Leases, One Owner: This is not just a lease; it’s a legacy. Legally secure three consecutive leases in your name, providing you with total ownership for two to three times longer than most leases.

Unmatched Flexibility & Control: Resell your lease, pass it on to loved ones, or simply enjoy your villa for many decades to come. The choice is entirely yours.

Prime Location, Exclusive Clientele: Nestled in a sought-after area, our villas cater to discerning individuals aged 55-75 seeking a luxurious and tranquil lifestyle.

Stand Out From the Crowd: Most Bali villas come with remaining lease terms of 20-30 years. Your exceptional long term leases is an exceptional investment, offering peace of mind and long-term value.

Interested in learning more about this unique opportunity? We prefer to discuss the details in private.

Please contact us to schedule a personalized consultation.

Potential for Hudge Profits:

Your base cost over the term of the leases equals only 57,500,000 IDR per Year or 791,666 per month.

Estimated monthly rental incomes for similar villas at our currrent rental rates equal 20,000,000 Idr to 30 million Rupiah per month.

You don’t have to be a rocket scientist to figure out your villa can become a lucrative investment, allowing you to enjoy your retirement while building your wealth.

You may in fact want to purchase two. One for your retirement and one for strictly investment which can also be utilized from time to time to accommodate the multiple amount of children, grandchildren and friends that will want to come visit you in Bali which is currently the second most sought after destination in the world.

Live Your Dream, Grow Your Wealth:

Imagine a retirement where you can indulge in your passions, travel, and spend quality time with loved ones, all while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle and watching your investment flourish.

ONLY ONE PROPERTY AVAILABLE.
LIMITED AVAILABILITY –ACT NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT:



We only have BLRV-A-1 available for sale at this moment.

Priced To Sell:

Discounted 5 % Until Oct 30 th. 2024.

Sales Price 4.48 Miliar

Live in the place the world is raving about!
Contact us today to learn more about this Great retirement opportunity


For English or Bahasa Indonesia call Azizah, a registered Notaris at +62 811-3864-993

“The owners of this company are the perfect combination of long-time international experience and in-depth subject-matter knowledge and relevant local expertise, networking, and the right licenses to run this business and advise their clients. The properties on offer are at prime locations with huge growth”

Erik M. Former CEO of telecommunications company Jakarta. 2023

For information or inspection in English or Bahasa Indonesia Please call or Whatsapp Xander: +628113890507

Email: info@bestbalirealestate.com