Despite its image of azure seas and tropical tranquillity, recent visitors could be forgiven for thinking the biggest problemof Bali is not too few tourists but too many.

Polluted beaches, traffic jams and over-development beg the question: Does Bali need more tourists?

Yes, say officials who are planning a second airport and opening more direct flights from Hong Kong to cash in on China’s expanding middle class, as more and more holiday accommodation is developed.

“Having all these world leaders here for the East Asia Summit will be a great promotion for Bali,” Bali Tourism Board chairman Ida Bagus Ngurah Wijaya said, referring to the gathering of 20 Asia-Pacific leaders in November. US President Barack Obama is this year expected to be one of millions of visitors to Bali, raising hopes of a tourism windfall by reassuring potential travellers.

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