A New Chapter in Board Game History: Monopoly Arrives in Bali
The world’s most iconic board game, Monopoly, has officially launched its long-anticipated Bali Edition, placing the Indonesian island among global destinations such as Dubai, Sydney, and Phuket. This edition is more than a collector’s item—it’s a strategic tourism initiative, cultural showcase, and a celebration of Bali’s charm, heritage, and identity.
Monopoly Bali Edition: A Global Tribute to a Local Paradise
The Monopoly Bali Edition brings the magic of the island to coffee tables worldwide. Created by Winning Moves under official license from Hasbro, the game features famous Balinese landmarks, cultural icons, and natural wonders, offering players a unique way to explore the island’s rich narrative through strategy and play.
Official Launch at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa
The game was unveiled at Maya Ubud Resort & Spa, one of the destinations spotlighted on the Monopoly board. The venue hosted an event filled with Balinese cultural performances, traditional Kecak dances, and dignitaries from the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Jesus Gisbert Carbonell, Chief Operating Officer of Maya Ubud, stated,
“Hosting the launch of MONOPOLY: Bali Edition is a milestone for both our resort and the island’s tourism industry. This collaboration captures the soul of Bali through a timeless and interactive experience.”
Why Bali Was Chosen for Monopoly
Bali is now the first location in Indonesia to receive its own official Monopoly board. According to Jennifer Lau, Partnerships Manager at Winning Moves, the decision to honor Bali with a custom edition was driven by its international reputation, spiritual depth, and tourism potential.
“We want to create a game that not only celebrates Bali’s beauty but also educates players about its culture, sustainability, and landmarks.”
Iconic Locations Featured on the Monopoly Bali Board
Explore Bali’s Most Recognizable Landmarks
The Monopoly Bali board includes top-tier cultural and natural destinations, such as:
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces – A UNESCO World Heritage Site reflecting Bali’s ancient Subak irrigation system.
- Uluwatu Temple – A sea temple perched on dramatic cliffs, symbolic of Balinese spirituality.
- Tirta Empul – A revered water temple where purification rituals are practiced.
- Gunung Batur – An active volcano and adventure destination.
- Sungai Ayung – The island’s longest river, ideal for eco-tourism and rafting.
Cultural and Culinary Icons on the Board
In addition to landmarks, the board includes traditional Balinese foods like nasi goreng and ayam betutu, and culturally significant experiences such as:
- Beach clean-up community cards
- Restoration fees as penalties
- Eco-conscious rewards and events
These thoughtful integrations promote environmental stewardship and reinforce cultural sustainability—key priorities for the island.
Supporting Sustainable Tourism Through Play
The Monopoly Bali Edition was developed with sustainability in mind. The game’s mechanics include challenges and tasks that simulate real-life efforts to preserve nature and support local culture. For example, Community Chest cards may require players to “join a beach cleanup,” while Chance cards might issue “restoration fees” for conservation.
A Board Game That Educates and Inspires
Ni Made Ayu Marthini, Deputy Minister for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the educational value of the game:
“We’re building emotional connections and sparking curiosity through storytelling. This game introduces Bali to people who may never have considered it before. It makes tourism tangible, aspirational, and educational.”
Monopoly’s 90th Anniversary and Global Reach
Launched in 1935, Monopoly is celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2025. It has reached over 1 billion players in 114 countries, making it one of the most influential board games of all time. The launch of the Bali edition further solidifies the game’s cultural relevance in the 21st century.
The Creative Collaboration Behind the Board
The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy worked hand-in-hand with Winning Moves to ensure the edition reflected Bali’s diversity—from North Bali’s waterfalls to the southern beaches, and everything in between.
“We chose destinations that would balance exposure across Bali,” said Marthini. “We wanted people to learn about areas beyond the south.”
Maya Ubud’s Exclusive Monopoly Experience
To commemorate the launch, Maya Ubud Resort & Spa is offering an Afternoon Tea Indulgence: Board Game Edition. Available daily until May 24, the experience includes an elegant afternoon tea and the chance to play Monopoly Bali Edition in the serene setting of Ubud. Prices start at IDR 200,000++ per person.
Bali Tourism Board Applauds the Launch
Ida Bagus Agung Partha Adnyana, Head of the Bali Tourism Board, praised the initiative as both strategic and poetic:
“Monopoly isn’t just a game—it’s a story about dreams, values, and decisions. The Bali Edition lets players experience Bali as a living culture, not just a vacation spot.”
What This Means for Indonesia’s Tourism Future
This collaboration could open doors for other Indonesian destinations to receive similar treatment. Officials hope that the Monopoly: Indonesia Series becomes a broader campaign to introduce international audiences to Wonderful Indonesia.
Where to Buy Monopoly Bali Edition
The game is now available for purchase through:
- Selected retail stores in Bali and Jakarta
- Major e-commerce platforms
- Hotel gift shops like Maya Ubud Resort
A Game That Reflects a Destination
The Monopoly Bali Edition is more than a board game. It’s a celebration of Bali’s cultural identity, an invitation to travel, and a subtle call to action for sustainable tourism. It reinforces Bali’s role on the world stage not just as a destination, but as a narrative of heritage, ecology, and artistry.
Whether you’re a traveler, a culture enthusiast, or a lifelong Monopoly fan, this edition offers something far beyond play—it offers a chance to connect with Bali in a whole new way.
