The Thailand-Cambodia conflict is reshaping travel trends across Southeast Asia. As violence erupts along the shared border of the two nations, tourists are shifting plans in search of safer alternatives.
Bali, with its reputation for safety, comfort, and cleanliness, is emerging as a preferred destination. Local tourism authorities expect this shift to fuel a 10 percent increase in visitor arrivals to the island.
Thailand-Cambodia Conflict Alters Travel Plans
An armed conflict broke out on July 24 at the Thailand-Cambodia border, resulting in over 30 fatalities and the evacuation of more than 100,000 people. This escalation has raised safety concerns among international travelers.
Thailand, long considered a major competitor to Bali in attracting foreign tourists, may now see a decline as travelers opt for more stable environments. The situation has prompted quick changes in travel plans, with many seeking alternative Southeast Asian destinations.
Bali Tourism Growth Expected to Hit 10 Percent
Industry leaders in Bali believe the current instability in Thailand and Cambodia presents an opportunity for the island. I Gusti Agung Ngurah Rai Suryawijaya, Chairman of the Indonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Badung, stated, “There’s a positive impact. Some tourists who had originally planned to visit Thailand are now redirecting their trips to Bali. I estimate that there will be about a 10 percent increase in arrivals, with hotel occupancy rates reaching 75 to 80 percent.”
According to Suryawijaya, tourists prioritize destinations that offer safety, comfort, and cleanliness – qualities that Bali is known to deliver. “Tourists are choosing Bali because the situation here is relatively safe and conducive. Essentially, they’re looking for safety, comfort, and cleanliness to enjoy a peaceful holiday,” he added.
Recent data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) supports this optimism. In May 2025, hotel occupancy in Bali stood at over 58 percent. Meanwhile, data from Angkasa Pura showed that I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport handled 11.4 million passenger movements in the first half of 2025, up from 11.2 million in the same period last year. Of these, 7.2 million were international passengers.
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Industry Leaders Push for Promotion and Quality
To capitalize on this momentum, tourism leaders are urging action. Perry Markus, Secretary of PHRI Bali, emphasized the need for strategic efforts. “This trend is quite likely, as tourists prefer to vacation in safe and comfortable destinations,” he said.
He also noted that to secure long-term gains, the local government and tourism stakeholders must increase promotional efforts and enhance services and attractions. Markus added, “We hope to not only see higher occupancy but also longer stays from visitors.”
According to BPS Bali, the average length of stay for tourists in May 2025 reached 2.61 nights—an indicator that could improve with more attractive and quality offerings.
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Positive Outlook Amid Regional Uncertainty
Despite the tragic nature of the Thailand-Cambodia conflict, Bali has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position in Southeast Asia tourism. While stakeholders express concern and sympathy for those affected by the unrest, they remain focused on maintaining Bali’s image as a safe and desirable travel destination.
“I hope the situation in Thailand and Cambodia improves soon for the sake of regional stability and the overall well-being of the tourism sector in Southeast Asia,” said Suryawijaya.
With shifting tourist flows and renewed confidence in Bali’s safety and services, the island appears poised for steady tourism growth in the months ahead.
Source: travel.detik.com, rri.co.id
Image: Gustavo Frazao / Getty Images