Story By: Lee Bullen, Sub Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency:  Newsflash

Bali authorities have opened the UK hotspot’s famous beaches after weeks of strict lockdown – but only for foreigners will local residents still banned.

The two beaches have been reopened in the regency of Badung in the Indonesian island of Bali, however locals have been told to remain patiently at home for their turn as only tourists can use them for now.

A spokesperson for Badung’s tourism department confirmed that the beaches are open for foreign surfers, however other activities such as strolling on the shore and sunbathing are still not allowed.

The spokesperson said: “We are loosening [restrictions] on two beaches, Labuan Sait and Canggu, because the waves are popular among surfers.”

According to local media, surfers have been spotted sneaking through the bushes to avoid road blocks just so they can ride the waves.

The island locked down in late March amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The spokesperson also said that mental health concerns caused by staying indoors for weeks was a factor for loosening restrictions: “They are stressed out from being at home the past three months.

“So we are loosening [the measures] a little, but they have to adhere to protocols by passing through the monitoring posts in those two locations.”

However, locals are still not allowed to access the beaches.

Badung’s tourism spokesperson explained: “I implore local residents to restrain themselves because there is still time to enjoy the beaches. Let the foreigners [enjoy access] first for [the sake of] image.”

However, Bali governor Wayan Koster slammed the reopening: “I will be telling the head of the Tourism Agency [in Badung]. Tourism is not open. I disagree, and [‘new normal’] has not been applied.”

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