Although an accohol ban seems to be something in the minds of a couple of Islamic political parties ifn Indonesia at the moment, and I have no interest in whether not Bali goes 'dry', I have been amazed by the reaction of the Australian media. 'Bali finished as a destination for Aussies'. 'Being a beautiful destination is not enough', and all,sorts of baloney.

I would have thought that anyone who can't go without grog for a couple of weeks has what is politely called 'a drink probpem'?

ttbn, Cast your mind back to your 20's if you want to understand the situation.

Regardless of your views on the proposed changes, they will devastate the tourism industry with the big winners being the likes of Thailand and the Whitsundays here at home. I have property in the Whitsundays, so bring it on.

But seriously, to accurately gage the effects of any proposed changes, you must look at it from the eyes of those who will be most effected, in this case 18 to 25's even 30's.

Thanks rechtub. Are saying that it is the 20-35 year olds who are potentially problem drinkers?

Hi,
I think we have to come to terms with the undeniable fact that this Island is in fact their sovereign property and as such they are entitled to govern in in any way the decide regardless of what others (including Australia) may think, want or dictate.
Don't they shoot prisoners and don't they flog people?
Na folks, forget Bali and go to Vietnam or Thailand. It's a lot better and more safer.

....Thanks rechtub. Are saying that it is the 20-35 year olds who are potentially problem drinkers?

ttbn, No, anyone who drinks can be a problem drinker if they cant control their drinking, however, I would put money on the fact that the greatest percentage would fall into that category, although I would suggest more towards the under 25's, but I didn't think this was about problem drinkers, because to some 'non drinker' any drinking is a problem.

Personally, I doubt it will happen, but who knows.

Rehchub,

It probably won't happen. The thing I found odd was the reaction here in the media. And I still maintain that anyone who can't go without alcohol for a week or two does have a problem. There are undoubtedly people it wouldn't bother, but the fuss made didn't reflect that probability. It made us appear to be the drunks that many on the world think we are. Anyway, it is entirely the call of the Indonesians; and they might be sick enough of drunken louts to forgo the money they bring in. However, the money will probably win.