With a number of high profile infrastructure upgrades in the pipeline, travelling to Bali may soon be much smoother and convenient for all!
1. Benoa- Nusa Dua toll road 
South Bali is notorious for traffic jams, and clogged streets, and this new toll road aims to reduce just that. The new toll road connects Benoa Harbour- Ngurah Rai International Airport- Nusa Dua, and it is estimated that this new road will reduce travelling time between Sanur and Nusa Dua from an hour to just 10 minutes, thus reducing traffic jams significantly.
The Benoa-Nusa Dua toll road was inaugurated by President Yudhoyono on July 13th, but motorists were allowed to use the facilities free of charge until 1 Oct 2013. In true Balinese fashion, the inauguration was accompanied by traditional Hindu blessings and rituals to drive away negative forces. The Pakelem ritual of sacrificing life animals was also performed.
Besides its functional purpose, it is also touted as the most beautiful toll road in Bali, and it runs over the sea, although care was taken to ensure that traditional fishing boats can still pass underneath.
2. New Terminal at the Ngurah Rai International Airport
Tourist demand has constantly grown in Bali, and Bali’s international airport is suitably expanding to accommodate it. The current airport receives 17 million passengers a year, and the new terminal will enable it to handle a capacity of up to 25 million.
The new terminal was opened on 19th September, and new facilities include 7 baggage belts, 20 security checkpoints and 26 immigration counters. Hopefully this translates to shorter queues, less waiting time, and more efficient clearances for all who love to visit Bali.
3. Simpang Siur underpass
Simpang Siur on the Dewa Ruci intersection is the vital link between many of South Bali’s tourist activities. Tourists travelling to the international airport, Sanur, Seminyak, Ubud and Nusa Dua all converge upon this road at the intersection. It is thus not surprising that massive jams are a common sight.
This may all change, with the building of the Simpang Siur Underpass that aims to ease the choking congestion of tourist oriented South Bali. Ease of travel and comfort of tourists will certainly be improved, and no longer will you have to fear that you may miss your flight because of the bad jam!
