Sanur, one of Bali’s most beloved coastal destinations, is entering an exciting new era as it establishes itself on the world stage for medical and wellness tourism. The spotlight recently turned to Sanur after The Meru Hotel earned a coveted position on the Savour BlackBookAsia Unadulterated List 2025, celebrating the 100 Best Hotels in the World. Alongside The Meru, the iconic Bali Beach Hotel also secured recognition, elevating Sanur’s reputation as both a cultural and medical tourism hub.
This recognition underscores not only the excellence of these hotels but also Bali’s broader vision of combining luxury hospitality with world-class healthcare, ensuring that visitors enjoy both rejuvenation and high-quality treatment within the same destination.
The Meru Hotel: Luxury Redefined
Located on Sanur’s southeastern shoreline, The Meru Hotel stands out as a modern symbol of Balinese hospitality. Its design merges contemporary elegance with local cultural elements, offering a tranquil beachfront experience. Guests benefit from world-class services, eco-conscious operations, and an atmosphere of authentic Balinese warmth.
Being ranked among the best hotels globally not only places The Meru at the forefront of Bali’s luxury travel industry but also aligns with Indonesia’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. As medical and wellness travel grows in demand, The Meru offers an ideal sanctuary for international visitors seeking comfort during medical treatment or wellness retreats in Sanur’s new Special Economic Zone (KEK).
Bali Beach Hotel: A Legacy of Heritage
While The Meru captures global headlines, the neighboring Bali Beach Hotel remains a beloved landmark in Bali’s hospitality history. Originally the island’s first multi-storey hotel, it symbolizes the roots of Bali’s tourism industry. Today, as part of the Heritage Collection, the Bali Beach Hotel blends modern luxury with nostalgia, preserving Balinese culture while meeting international hospitality standards.
Its inclusion in the Savour BlackBookAsia list reaffirms the importance of heritage hotels in preserving Bali’s identity. Guests not only enjoy premium amenities but also connect with the island’s rich legacy, making the hotel an attraction in its own right for cultural travelers.
InJourney’s Role in Shaping Sanur’s Future
Both The Meru Hotel and Bali Beach Hotel are managed by InJourney, Indonesia’s state-owned tourism holding company. InJourney is spearheading a comprehensive redevelopment strategy for Sanur, including luxury hospitality, cultural preservation, and advanced medical facilities.
The centerpiece of this vision is the Bali International Hospital, a cutting-edge healthcare facility set within the Special Economic Zone. Once fully operational, it will offer specialized medical services designed to attract international patients, positioning Sanur as Southeast Asia’s go-to destination for medical tourism.
Sanur’s Transformation into a Medical and Wellness Hub
The government of Indonesia, through the Ministry of State-Owned Enterprises, has identified Sanur as a key site for medical and wellness tourism. By integrating healthcare with hospitality, Sanur offers a seamless experience for international patients—world-class medical treatment complemented by five-star accommodation and the natural beauty of Bali.
In addition to the hospital, Sanur now features modern clinics, wellness centers, and a new retail and lifestyle development: ICON Bali Mall. This impressive complex includes a floating market, vertical forest, cultural amphitheater, and premium retail outlets, providing visitors with lifestyle, leisure, and cultural immersion alongside their healthcare journey.
Economic and Social Benefits for Bali
The transformation of Sanur into a medical and wellness hub is already delivering positive economic and social impacts. The Special Economic Zone (KEK) is expected to create thousands of new jobs across healthcare, hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors.
Local businesses benefit directly from the increased influx of medical tourists and their families, who often extend their stay for leisure activities. This growth not only strengthens Sanur’s economy but also enhances Bali’s standing as a diverse tourism destination beyond its well-known beaches and cultural attractions.
A Vision for Sustainable Tourism in Indonesia
Indonesia’s medical tourism initiative is about more than infrastructure—it is about setting new benchmarks for sustainable, inclusive, and innovative tourism. By balancing luxury hospitality with cultural heritage and cutting-edge healthcare, Sanur is becoming a blueprint for integrated tourism development in Asia.
The government’s long-term commitment ensures that Bali’s transformation is guided by principles of sustainability, ensuring benefits for both local communities and international visitors.
Looking Ahead: Sanur’s Bright Future
With The Meru Hotel and Bali Beach Hotel achieving global recognition, Sanur is firmly positioned on the world map. As the Special Economic Zone continues to expand, Sanur will attract travelers seeking not only the beauty of Bali but also advanced healthcare, holistic wellness, and authentic cultural experiences.
From luxury resorts and heritage landmarks to modern hospitals and cultural malls, Sanur is redefining the meaning of tourism by merging leisure, healthcare, and cultural enrichment. The awards given to The Meru and Bali Beach Hotel are just the beginning of Sanur’s evolution into one of the world’s premier destinations for medical and wellness tourism.
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