'I miss the past, but we like the money': The Bali-fication of a laidback surfers' island

The article discusses the changing landscape of a laidback surfers' island, which is experiencing a transformation due to increasing tourism. Locals are divided in their reactions to this phenomenon. While some welcome the promise of more economic opportunities, others express a sense of nostalgia for the island's past and its more laidback lifestyle. The article highlights the tensions between the desire for development and the preservation of the island's unique character. Tourists are drawn to the island's natural beauty and surf spots, leading to a surge in construction and commercialization. However, this rapid change is causing concern among the local population, who worry about the potential loss of their traditional way of life. The article suggests that the island is undergoing a "Bali-fication," where the influx of tourism and development is transforming the island's character, potentially leading to a conflict between the needs of the local community and the demands of the tourist industry.