BALI —long celebrated as the heart of Indonesia’s tourism industry—saw its vibrant image drastically altered when the Covid-19 pandemic struck in early 2020. The usually bustling I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport fell silent, streets once crowded with tour buses and motorbikes emptied, while hotels and restaurants that had been filled with international guests were forced to close their doors.
As the government imposed international travel restrictions, Bali’s economy—of which more than 50 percent depends on tourism and its supporting sectors—was hit hard. With tourists unable to visit, a domino effect rippled across the island: hotels lost guests, restaurants shut down, drivers had no passengers, and small traders who thrived on tourist crowds faced devastating losses.
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Thousands of tourism workers were laid off, with many losing their jobs entirely. A significant number returned to their villages, relying on family farmlands, livestock, or selling agricultural products in modest ways. Local governments and community groups promoted a “back to village” movement as a survival strategy.
The pandemic proved to be one of Bali’s toughest tests. The economy plunged, poverty levels rose, and social inequality became more pronounced. Yet, amid the crisis came lessons in resilience and creativity. Bali’s tourism, once heavily reliant on mass tourism, began shifting toward models that emphasized sustainability and quality over quantity.
For industry players, the pandemic left an indelible mark. Among them was Fransiska Handoko, then General Manager of Risata Bali Resort. Just as she had endured the hardships following the Bali Bombings, the Covid-19 crisis became another defining experience—teaching her once again the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and innovation in navigating the collapse of an industry that is vital to Bali’s future. **
