Bali To Crackdown On Illegal Tourist Money Exchange Counters At Top Attractions

The Bali Sun

Leaders in Bali have committed to cracking down on illegal money changers and money exchange scams in and around top attractions in Ubud.

The situation is being investigated by the Bali Civil Police team, Satpol PP, in an effort to ‘clean up’ the tourism sector.

  

Satpol PP Gianyar has been working to identify, close down, and bring to justice illegal money-changing operations in the popular tourist destination of Ubud.

Officers have confirmed that they have identified a series of operations that were not only conducted by opportunistic scammers but also by establishments deliberately set up for criminal activities. Satpol PP Ginayar has been clear that these operations must be closed down immediately to protect tourists and the reputation of the world-famous destination.

The Acting Head of the Gianyar PP Police Officer, I Made Arianta, confirmed that there are currently 105 known money-changing operations in the Gianyar Regency area, which includes Ubud, Tegallalang, Tampaksiring, and Sayan.

He cited a number of violations that his teams have discovered during their recent investigations, including money-changing outlets that do not showcase the legally registered name of the PT company, moneychangers offering above-average exchange rates, operations using semi-permanent buildings or short-term contracts, illegally hired employees or staff not in uniform, and not displaying permits.

He confirmed that a number of the 105 recorded moneychangers have only been in operation for 2-3 months, noting a rise in the number of illegal outlets in the area.

Arianta told reporters, “These businesses need to be coached, considering that lately there have been complaints from the community of business people and tourists about the MC service that is not up to standard.”

Arianta and his team held a meeting, inviting moneychangers and business owners to attend a coaching session to ensure that all operations had the necessary information to work within the law.

He told reporters that the moneychanger “entrepreneur gathering activity was for general coaching. For entrepreneurs who did not come, they will be followed up with follow-up coaching to check the license because there is an indication of scamming or fraud carried out by money changer employees.”

“Actions like this are usually done by moneychangers who have not been licensed, so we feel the need to do licensing compliance coaching for moneychanger business actors in Gianyar.”

Arianta told tourists that all licensed moneychangers in Bali should display their permit from Bank Indonesia in a clearly visible place.

He also urged tourists and the general public to report any suspicious activities directly to the police, so that investigations can be launched.

  

Money-changing scams have been a longstanding issue in Bali and many popular destinations worldwide.

Only in May 2025 were Bali tourists warned of common and easy-to-fall-for money scams. While many seasoned Bali tourists who return to the island year after year know how to avoid these common scams, it is something that first-time visitors often learn about after it’s too late.

To avoid money changer scams, tourists are advised to use an ATM to withdraw cash where possible, rather than exchanging money. There are plenty of legitimate money exchange out there. For those staying in resort hotels, this is often a service that is available within the resort complex, and top hotels will not only display their licences but also offer the correct exchange rate on the day.

It is also possible to exchange cash at most banks in Bali, though tourists must remember to bring their passports with them. There are also plenty of genuine money exchange outlets upon arrival at both the international and domestic terminals at I Gusti Ngruah Rai International Airport.

Tourists are urged to always count their money on top of the counter when they receive their exchange. This is standard practice, and a legitimate money changer will not be offended. In many money exchange scams, the teller will count out the full amount of the exchange in front of the tourist, then, as they shuffle the notes into a pile, swipe several notes under the counter to keep for themselves.

               

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This Week's Bali News

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Qantas slashes prices on flights to Bali, Thailand, and Japan

Qantas has launched a massive sale on flights to popular Asian destinations, with Aussie fan favourite Bali among the best deals.

The one-week sale means customers can now score deals on over 80,000 seats on flights to destinations including Bali, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan and India.

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After deadly floods in Bali, its people want answers. Many are blaming overtourism

Unexpected and deadly flooding rocked Bali last week, at a scale many have never experienced before.

The floods, which peaked on Wednesday, killed at least 18 people, inundating and destroying homes, villas and shops across large swathes of the island.

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Father warns the Australian Real Estate Market Is Set for a major Correction

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Over 15,000 Foreigners in Bali Registered with BPJS Health: What the Regulations Say

BPJS Kesehatan (BPJS Health) has confirmed that more than 124,000 foreign nationals are currently registered as participants in Indonesia’s National Health Insurance (Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional or JKN) programme, with around 15,000 of them based in Bali.

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New North Bali International Airport Runway Could Be Operational As Early As 2028

The Indonesian Government is under pressure from some communities in North Bali who want to see progress on election campaign promises to build a new international airport in the region.

The North Bali International Airport project has been on and off the cards for nearly a decade.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Indonesia’s Lewotobi Laki-Laki volcano erupts as alert level raised; Bali airport not affected

A volcano in eastern Indonesia has erupted multiple times, spewing a column of ash kilometres into the sky after authorities raised its alert level to the highest, prompting a local airport to suspend operations on Saturday.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Bali Marks 119 Years of Puputan Badung: Historic Stand Against Colonialism

The 119th anniversary of Puputan Badung in Denpasar, Bali, on Saturday, September 20, 2025, has become a significant moment for the city’s post-disaster recovery, said Denpasar Deputy Mayor I Kadek Agus Arya Wibawa.

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Diving With Manta Rays In Bali Is A Once In A Lifetime Underwater Adventure

One of the most magical experiences anyone can have in life is diving with manta rays.

There are so few places on earth where it is possible to encounter these truly majestic and peaceful creatures, and thankfully, Bali is one of them.

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Art & Bali 2025 makes grand debut as Bali’s first international art fair 

The inaugural edition of Art & Bali marked a new chapter for Bali’s arts scene as the island’s first international art fair transformed Nuanu Creative City into a stage for contemporary art, where ancestral memories meet digital futures. 

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Paying The Bali Tourism Tax Could Become Far Easier For Travellers

The Governor of Bali, Wayan Koster, has visited Jakarta to meet with ministers from the central government to discuss various issues, including flood relief and the Bali Tourism Tax Levy.

Governor Koster is hopeful that changes can be implemented to make payments easier for tourists.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

Last Weeks Bali News

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Bali tourists will now have to comply with this new rule before landing

International tourists travelling to Bali and Indonesia more broadly now need to have an app downloaded and ready on their smartphone, with their digital documents and forms completed and ready for inspection.

Blog With Photos & Details Here

UAE, Vietnam, Indonesia remain top e-visa destinations for Indians

E-Visas are becoming popular among Indian travellers. A recent report shows that 82 percent of visa applications were electronic this year. UAE, Vietnam and Indonesia are top destinations. Sri Lanka saw the biggest increase in e-Visa applications. Digital visa systems help countries attract more Indian tourists. Governments are adopting e-Visas to boost tourism.

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 Family-Friendly Festivals Kick Off In Bali’s Popular Nusa Dua

The good times are coming to town in Nusa Dua this September and October. Starting this weekend, Nusa Dua welcomes the return of Big Bounce Bali, and in October, the resort will celebrate the incredible Nusa Dua Festival.

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Leaders Issue Updates On Bali Flood Recovery Efforts In Tourism Resorts

As Bali begins its recovery from major flooding this week, leaders in the province are calling on tourism attractions and the tourism sector as a whole to strengthen disaster mitigation.

Flash flooding triggered by the worst rains in more than 70 years has killed at least 14 people in the province this week.

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 Why Is Indonesia's Rainy Season Starting Early in 2025?

Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has officially declared the start of the rainy season, with several regions already transitioning from dry weather this September. Typically, the rainy season begins later in the year, but this time it has come earlier than expected.

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Bali to draft bylaw banning land conversion this year

Bali Governor Wayan Koster confirmed that discussions will begin this year on drafting a regional bylaw prohibiting land conversion, following directives from the Minister of Environment, who identified land conversion as one of the causes of severe flooding.

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No significant effect on tourist activity in Bali post-flood says Minister

Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana confirmed that tourist activity and destinations in Bali remain unaffected despite recent flooding on the island.

She made the statement during her visit to several flood-affected areas on Saturday (September 13).

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Indonesian Tourism Board Highlights Ease Of Travel Between Bali And Central Java

Indonesia’s national tourism board, Wonderful Indonesia, is designed to highlight all of the most incredible travel destinations that the country has to offer.

Since Bali is the country’s flagship tourism destination, Wonderful Indonesia is on a mission to highlight how the province can be used as a launchpad to explore more areas of the archipelago on an easy multi-stop vacation.

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 Leaders Call For Bali Tourism Tax Funds To Be Spent Fixing Island’s Waterways To Reduce Future Flood Risk

Leaders in Bali are calling for funds generated through the Bali Tourism Tax Levy to be spent on supporting the island’s waterway management system, known as the subak.

This UNESCO-protected water management system has been used on the island for centuries, but rampant development over the last 50 years has hugely affected water flow, and the devastating floods of the last week are evidence of such.

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2 Southeast Asian countries named among world's cheapest destinations for digital nomads

Malaysia ranked third and Indonesia 4th in a list of 10 cheapest countries for digital nomads, according to a report from Global Citizen Solutions, a firm that specializes in residency and citizenship by investment.

The company analyzed the cost of living, the cost of co-working, the cost of a hot desk and digital nomad visa programs in 64 different countries to determine its list. Factors taken into account included housing, groceries, transportation, and other essential living costs.

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