Bali United's New Goalkeeper Coach Speaks Out on the Tourism Slump in His Hometown Ubud
Ubud native Kadek Wardana shares his joy at being promoted to goalkeeper coach for Bali United's senior team, while expressing sadness over the prolonged tourism slump in his hometown. He notes that foreign tourists have left Bali and domestic visitors now prefer coastal areas like Uluwatu and Canggu over Ubud.
In an interview with sports media outlet BolaSkor, I Made Kadek Wardana, a coach originally from Ubud, spoke about his new role as goalkeeper coach for Bali United's senior team since February 2021. While expressing joy at learning from experienced Brazilian goalkeeper coach Marcelo Pires, Kadek also voiced genuine sadness over the tourism collapse in his hometown.
According to Kadek, Ubud—once bustling with foreign tourists—has seen tourism come to a near-complete standstill for about a year and a half since the pandemic began. Most foreign tourists have already left Bali, and domestic travelers increasingly prefer coastal areas such as Uluwatu and Canggu over Ubud.
Kadek expressed gratitude that the government designated Bali as a priority province for vaccination, hoping that widespread vaccination would soon allow tourism to reopen and recover.
Things to Consider
Travelers planning to visit Ubud should check the current operating status of accommodations and restaurants via official websites or social media in advance, as hours and availability may be reduced compared to pre-pandemic levels. Visitors may also consider supporting the local economy by patronizing small businesses and craft shops in the area.
Source: BolaSkor