Championship. Mentawai Surfing. - Indonesia Tourism News. Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise Vol. VIII No

Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise

Vol. VIII No. 5, 2013

Mentawai Surfing

Championship Photo by Tim Hain

Rip Curl Surfer Pepen Hendriks

www.ultimoparadiso.com - Indonesia Tourism News

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Vol. VIII No. 5, 2013 www.ultimoparadiso.com BOARD of DIRECTOR

Dewantoro Umbu Joka Tonny Wijadjanto [email protected]

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Igo Kleden [email protected]

Accor boosts Indonesia’s tourism by welcoming 300 German travel influencers

REPORTER Tri Wibowo [email protected] ADVERTISING & Ben Sisko MARKETING DIRECTOR [email protected] Tania Yudick Ariant [email protected]

ACCOUNTING

Ni Komang Suciani

TRANSLATOR

Indira Sari Paputungan

CONTRIBUTOR

Christovao Vinhas [email protected]

DISTRIBUTOR

Martin Sanjaya

BANK Account

580 129 3435, Permata Bank Jl. Dewi Sartika - Denpasar

[email protected]

Overseas: Malaysia - maxiINFO, 32-3-1, Jalan Medan Putra 4 Medan Putra Business Centre. Off Jalan Damansara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur. Australia - Mr. Andre Wecklif Antonio. T, D/a 262 Wardel rd, Dulwich Hill-Sydney – NSW – 2203. Australia. THAILAND - Andrea Capucci, 94/23 Wichitsongkram Rd. Kathu, Phuket 83120, Ph. 076 249 688. WASHINGTON DC - Aria Salaka 19233 - Wheatfield Terrace - Gaitthersburg, MD 20879. CANADA - Johanne Dube, 152, rue Notre-Dame est, 8 etage, Montreal, Qc, Canada H2Y 3p6. NETHERLAND - Vrijburglaan 72051 LA Overveen +31 235253619. ITALY - Viaggi del Mappamondo, Viale Regina Margherita 270 - 00198, Rome, Ph. +39 06 48789200, Fax. +39 06 4815506. FRANCE - Europasia Commercial Agency, 15, rue Vallete 75005, Paris. GERMANY - Hattersheimerstr, 19, Frankfurt 60326. CZECH REPUBLIC - Mr. Miroslav Radakovic, Na Zamecke 6/409 140 000 Prague Czech Republic, Ph. +420 261219316 - 19, Fax. +261 219320. CUBA - Viaggi del mappamondo - Cuba, c/o Hotel Sevilla, Trocadero y Zuleta y Prado, 55, La Habana, Ph./Fax. +53 07 8669767. SLOVENIA - Miss. Polona Pirnat, c/o Kompas D.D, Prazakova 4, 1514, Ljubyana, Slovenia.

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island explorer

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nusantara

In collaboration with Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and Garuda Indonesia, Accor presents ‘Wonderful Indonesia’ night during Meier’s Weltreisen – Far East Live Seminar 2013

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ccor, the leading international hotel operator in Asia-Pacific, hosted almost 300 key German travel influencers at the Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana Hotel to help attract more European visitors to the region. The participants were leading travel agents from Meier’s Weltreisen and other tour operators, along with international airline representatives, business partners, and media from Germany. The Far East Live Seminar is a destination and hospitality familiarization program organised by Meier’s Weltreisen, Europe’s leading travel agent with a network of more than 800 travel agents across Germany and Austria. The annual event runs for two weeks, including pre-tours throughout neighbouring Asian countries and a 3-day seminar. “We have two decades of strong presence in Indonesia and a long-standing commitment to support the country’s growth as a world-class tourism destination,” said Gerard Guillouet, Senior Vice President, Accor Malaysia Indonesia Singapore. “As the host of Far East Live Seminar 2013 in Bali, we mark another important milestone to the Indonesian hospitality industry. Through this collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Garuda Indonesia and Meier’s Weltreisen on Far East Live Seminar 2013,we are taking this dedication to the next level and aim to raise awareness among international and especially German travellers of the wonderful experiences Indonesia has to offer.” This initiative is part of Accor’s continuing effort to promote Indonesia as a tourist destination to international travellers, following a commitment made between Accor and Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy last year. The group has launched a dedicated page on its Accorhotels.com booking website to help visitors discover the destinations in the archipelago and will continue to work with its global networks to attract more visitors to the country.

Grand Opening Dinner: presenting Accor brands and wonderful Indonesia CV. Paradiso Timur Raya Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai No. 620 Suwung, Denpasar-Bali-Indonesia P/F: +62 361 - 727010 E: [email protected] [email protected]

Guests and delegates to the opening dinner of Far East Live Seminar 2013 were warmly entertained with Indonesian culture, food and beverages as well as traditional dances. Participants

were presented with a set of Garuda Indonesia Airlines boarding passes that took them through a unique dining ‘journey’ around the hotel property to learn more about Indonesia and Accor’s brands. Chefs from Accor hotels in Bali prepared more than 30 special Indonesian dishes served in six rooms decorated with different themes to give the participants a diverse culinary experience that would give them a true taste of Indonesia. One room, decorated and hosted by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, was named the “Heart of Indonesia” and introduced 16 Indonesian focus destinations - Toba (North Sumatera), Thousand Island (Jakarta), Kota Tua-Sunda Kelapa (Jakarta), Borobudur (Central Java and Jogjakarta), Bromo-TenggerSemeru (East Java), Kintamani-Danau Batur (Bali), Menjangan, Pemuteran (Bali), Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua (Bali), Rinjani (West Nusa Tenggara), Komodo Island (East Nusa Tenggara), Ende Kelimutu (East Nusa Tenggara), Tanjung Putting (Central Kalimantan), Toraja (South Sulawesi), Bunaken (North Sulawesi), Wakatobi (Southeast Sulawesi), and Raja Ampat (West Papua). The roof top Infinity Pool is transformed into a romantic serenity space with the theme, “Under the Indonesian stars”, with lots of floating candles and a canopy over the pool adorned with string lights. All guests are given a lantern to release en mass into the sky to create the Pullman own Indonesian star experience. Pullman and MGallery brands will be introduced to the guest by Accor team. At Garden Pool area, guests and delegates learned more about Novotel and Mercure properties while enjoying various barbeque options and highly popular beef rendang - voted most popular dish in the world by CNN Travel followers. Ibis family properties inspired the decoration of The Restaurant area with warm family atmosphere, large beautiful orchids harmonize throughout the venue and stalls of street food vendor in every corner. Live shadow Bali performers enrich the ambience while Accor team shares the update of ibis family brand to all guests. Focus to develop luxury and upscale brands and European Optimum Service Standard The hosted event helped Accor shine a spotlight on Bali as a world-class destination in front of a

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Distribution Domestic: BALI - Kuta, Ngurah Rai Airport, Nusa Dua, Sanur, Denpasar and Ubud Area. JAKARTA - Ahmad Sufyani - Jl. Tomang Raya No. 63 - Jakarta 11440. Surabaya - Jl.Jend.Basuki Rahmat 129-137, Surabaya 60271, Ph : 031 – 5316364, Fax: 031 – 5315435. Yogyakarta - Jl.Rumah Makan Gudeg 60 Citro, Laksda Adisucipto Km 9, Yogyakarta 55281, Ph.0274-488663. Manado - Resort Scuba Diving-Liveboard. Manado, Hp. 08114303655 / 081 340 247 788 Fax. 656720685, LOMBOK - Lombok Eksotis, Jl. Adi Sucipto No. 43, Ampenan - Lombok 83234, Ph. (0370) 643014, Fax (0370) 646840. KUPANG - Jl. Perintis Kemerdekaan III/38 - Walikota Kupang Phone: 0380 822102 SUMBA BARAT - Jl. Sudirman No. 5 Waikabubak - Sumba Barat. SUMBA TIMUR - Melanthon, Jl. Eltari No. 41 Matawai - Sumba Timur, Ph. 081353977788, 085239118181. LABUAN BAJO Martin Meotoda, Ph. 081338151744

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MARKETING GRAPHIc DESIGNER

group ofworld travel influencers who can bring more visitors to the country. Accor sees Bali as a strategic destination and has an ambitious plan to scale up its network in Bali. Gerard Guillouet said, “I would like to call particular attention to two great additions to our portfolio in Indonesia this year - Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua (415 rooms) - which represents our first-ever luxury hotel on the island - and The Amarterra Villas Nusa Dua, a secluded 39-villa property of tranquillity and serenity in the south-eastern coast of Bali, joining the MGallery Collection. Both represent our focus on luxury and upscale brands this year.” To help drive European tourists to explore Indonesia, Accor recently announced that eleven hotels in Bali and Lombok have been accredited to deliver “Optimum Service Standards” for European guests, ensuring that inbound European travellers receive the highest level of service when they visit these destinations. Accor is the first international hotel operator to introduce Optimum Service Standards, beginning in Bali and Lombok, which will enable accredited hotels to better meet the expectations of European travellers through services such as multi-lingual (German, French, Dutch and Russian) front desk staff and in-room booklets, authentic local dinners (Balinese/Indonesian style), European TV channels and other services to make them feel at home when they travel to Indonesia. Pullman Bali Legian Nirwana hotel is one of the hotels accredited with the standards and has delivered this world-class service to the 300 participants of this seminar. ***

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Indonesian Weaving to Open New York Trend Repot

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ollection of clothing made from Indonesia woven fabric was presented in front of hundreds of members of the oldest and largest association mode in the U.S., Fashion Group International.

According to the press release of Cita Tenun Indonesian, fashion collection made from woven fabric by Auguste Soesastro and Ardistia Dwi Asri became an opening of Trend Report Fall Winter 2013/2014 in New

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York, Monday (15/4). Auguste’s collection has the theme of Ecological Luxuries, which is made from woven fabric typical of Palembang, Bali, Sambas and some other areas. Ardistia’s design uses Balinese and Garut woven fabric under the theme of Chic Androgynous. The event hosted by world-class designer, Diane Von Furstenberg, and judge of America’s Next Top Model, Bryan Boy, was held at the Time & Life Building Auditorium and was attended by more than 600 audiences. Margaret Hayes, Global President for the Fashion Group International, said that the design of Auguste and Ardistia offering new colors in the fashion world of the United States. “Both the designers’ collections are so wearable and offer new colors in the fashion world of the United States. Fashion Group International expects more potentials grow from countries such as Indonesia in the world market, “she said. While Chairwoman of the Association of Cita Tenun Indonesia, Okke Hatta Rajasa, hopes that this moment could be the start of a journey of Indonesia weaving into the world arena. “In the future, we expect Indonesia weaving to fill retail market of world fashion, interiors and textiles,” she said. (*)

Mangku Pastika: I have no Doubt to Build Monorail in Bali

European Union and Kemenparekraf to Develop Flores Ecotourism

Firmansyah Rahim

He further said that in addition to improving the economy and tourism, Firman also hopes that in the future NTB and NTT region will be breadbasket regions through the product of beef that has been the source of the region’s economy. INFEST is a three-year program which is managed by Indecon in collaboration with several village communities in East Nusa Tenggara. Implementation of this project is supported by a program of Non-State Actors and Local Authorities in Development (NSA-LA) from the European Union. INFEST is a collaboration between Indecon and its partners, Benih Matahari Foundation and Tourism Indonesian Workers Association (ASPPI). The project will be implemented in five rural areas (Wae Sano, Liang ndara, Tado, Wae Rebo, Bena) and cities in Flores (Labuan Bajo and Bajawa).

Project activities for 2013-2015 include increasing the capacity of ecotourism guiding service at local level; Developing a quality ecotourism products; developing joint marketing strategies and pricing systems; developing institutions and administrative systems supporting tourism in target villages; developing village tourism plan which aims to support implementation of CSR programs and national programs of economic development for poverty alleviation. Meanwhile, Andreas Roettger, First Secretary / Head of Economic Cooperation and Regional / Local Governance in the European Union Delegation in Jakarta views the initiative as important program to support the programs of the Government. “INFEST project aims to reach out to and empower people in remote corners of the Indonesian archipelago,” he said. The activities, said Andreas, will encourage local participation including community groups, local governments and other stakeholders to ensure sustainable ecotourism in Flores and will bring more benefits to community welfare and regional economic development in general. Andreas added that INFEST project is one of the European Union-backed initiatives in East Nusa Tenggara with the goal of empowering and strengthening the capacity of local communities such as micro-enterprise group for young women, weaving artisans / home industries and local ecotourism service providers. “The EU is also contributing 4.9 million Euros in the PNPM Support Facility (PSF), a multi-donor agency to support the implementation of the Government’s flagship program in the field of community development, PNPM Mandiri,” he explained. (*)

Lion Air Incident Expected to Not Reduce Tourist Arrivals

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ndonesian Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Bali hope that Lion Air accident some time ago at Bali’s Ngurah Rai airport does affect the number of tourist visits to Bali. Executive Director of PHRI Bali, Ida Bagus Purwa Sidemen in Denpasar, said that the he expects the accident will bring no negative impact on Bali tourism such as reducing the number of tourist arrivals. “The effect of the accident cannot be felt in the near future, so it is difficult to predict

whether or not it affects number of tourist arrival to Bali. The impact will be seen for more than a week after the accident, “he said. He said further that the handling of the accident, which did not do not cause loss of life was pretty good. The condition can give tourists an idea that if something happens to them, they will surely get maximum handling from related parties. “However, it cannot be confirmed that the accident will definitely bring certain impact

on Bali Tourism because the same thing could happen anywhere. If foreign tourists cancel a plan to travel to Bali because of the accident and reroute their trip to another country, it still cannot be guaranteed that accident will not occur, “he said. Additionally, I encourage tourist either domestic or foreign to be more wisely considered the incident, because the condition does not necessarily make the island is not safe to visit. (*)

Global Tourism Sector Earned US $ 6.6 Trillion GDP

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Development for Sustainable Trade (INFEST) held by Indonesian Ecotourism Network (Indecon) and representatives from the European Union. Director General of Tourism Destination Development Kemenparekraf, Firmansyah Rahim welcomed the initiative. The initiative is in line with the focus of the work of Kemenparekraf to develop tourism, which is pro-poor, pro-job, pro-growth and pro-environment. “Flores is one of the areas that become a flagship tourism destination in Indonesia,” said Firmansyah Rahim during the kick off meeting of INFEST held in Jakarta recently. INFEST project is expected to support various national programs of Kemenparekraf, namely the Destination Management Organization program (2011-2014) and the National Program for Community Empowerment (PNPM) Tourism (2010-2014) “Particularly in improving the quality of destinations, institutional and village level planning, management of tourism in rural areas and regional as well as capacity and human resources development,” said Firmansyah. Firman also added that the government through the Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Transportation is ready to build the infrastructure to support the economy and tourism in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), particularly the island of Flores. “Infrastructure is the responsibility of Ministry of Public Works and the Ministry of Transportation. However, Kemeparekraf will continue to work closely with the ministry to develop NTT region, “he explained.

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inistry of Tourism and Creative M Economy (Kemenparekraf) supports the Innovation project of Flores Ecotourism

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ali Governor Made Mangku Pastika is not hesitated to realize the construction of the monorail project because it has received permission from the Hindu religious leaders. “Thanks to the ‘Sulinggih’ (Hindu religious leader), who already provide the philosophical foundation of the plan. There are certainly many who disagree and try to cancel the project, but because there has been a philosophical basis, I do not worry anymore to implement this, “he said. Pastika explained that the construction of the monorail was planned two years ago, but can not be done until now because there are constraints on the financing side. “Economically from a study conducted by PT Kereta Api Indonesia, it is said that monorail isn’t feasible considering the budget needed, which reached Rp12 trillion. Earlier this year, there is a railway company from China which expressed interest to build a monorail, but there’s no further follow-up of the meeting, “he said. The presence of monorail will be able to open up areas on the island to become a new center for tourists. In addition, it can also reduce the burden of road traffic and congestion. Monorail is like a dragon that binds the island of Bali in order to be stable. Stability will be realized if there is a balance of all aspects. “I’m sure if there monorail, unequal economy access to the Balinese can be minimized. Monorail that will be built around Bali makes access to less economically developed areas to open and grow. Thus, prosperity will not only be enjoyed by the people living in the southern region of the island of Bali, “he said. (*)

David Scowsill

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ravel and tourism sector contributed significant growth throughout 2012. Data from the World Travel and Tourism Council mentioned that during 2012, the sector’s contribution to gross domestic product reached US$ 6.6 trillion. Chief Executive Officer of the World Travel and Tourism Council, David Scowsill in the press release said that the amount reached approximately US$ 760 billion in terms of investments and US$ 1.2 billion in term of export. Travel and tourism sector also plays an important role in opening up employment opportunities. There are approximately 250 million workers in this industry, accounted for about 9% of all business sectors. “Although the world economy is still faced with a number of issues, tourism industry can still grow quite well. Economic conditions are still recovering from the crisis did not reduce the number of people travel abroad, “he said. He also said that the tourism sector is one of the largest contributors to the economic growth of a country. It i predicted that global tourism sector will grow by 3-4% this year. It is driven by the growth in the number of tourists in the developing countries by 6%. (*)

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Indonesia Launches Culinary Promotion in Madrid, Spain

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hree international airlines are exploring a direct route to Lombok International Airport in Praya, Central Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). Head of Transport, Communication and Information Technology Department in NTB Ridwan Syah said in Mataram that one of the airlines has already had several visits to NTB to explore the possibility of opening new international flight routes, namely Cathay Pacific that wants to open direct flights of Hong Kong-Lombok International Airport (BIL). So far, tourists from Hong Kong go to Lombok via Bali. “Representative from Cathay Pacific have come and Department of Transport, Communication and Information Technology of NTB have facilitated and encouraged PT Angkasa Pura to give time slot permission. In addition, the Jet Star also wants to open direct flight of Australia-BIL. Tiger Airways is exploring the possibility of opening direct flights of Singapore and BIL, “he said. Therefore, in addition to direct flights conducted by Silk Air, there will be another international flight by Tiger Airways. “The high interest of the airline to open a flight route is a positive impact of BIL operation. A long runway and airport facilities allow the airport to serve direct international flight, “he said. (*)

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Three International Airlines to Explore Routes to Lombok

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ndonesia is launching a culinary campaign in Spain to support increased exports and the number of tourist arrivals. Indonesia participated in the exhibition of food products and beverages the 27th Salon de Gourmets in Madrid recently. Counselor of Indonesia Embassy in Madrid Theodorus Satria Nugroho said food and beverage products exhibition which was opened by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Environment of Spain, Arias Canete is the largest

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abang port was again visited by a cruise ship with around 500 passengers, recently. Although it was only a brief stop, MV Amadea cruise ship was on the island at 11.00 pm and returned at 06:00 pm. Investment and Business Development Director BPKS Sabang, Agus Salim said the ship ewas carrying 497 tourists and 303 crew. The tourists enjoyed the beauty of Sabang. The ship has a weight of 29 thousand GT departed from Langkawi Island in Malaysia and directly docked at the Port of BPKS Sabang in Kota Bawah Barat, Sabang. They were welcomed by local arts performance and cultural exhibitions. “BPKS has set up in advanced the security system for destination port called ISPS code and security, both inside and outside the port during the reception of MV. Amedea. They cooperated with the Port Security Committee (PSC) and it is an international standard that ensures everything about the arrival of the ship and international guests. Bazaar and money changer are also available in line 2 of BPKS Port, “he said. While Head of BPKS, Fauzi Husin added that the tourists were taken around the island to favorite tourist destinations such as Kasih Beach, Gapang Iboih, Sumur Tiga and other interesting places. Jarle Flateboe, captain MS Amedea admitted to be quite happy when greeted by the friendly people of Sabang with traditional dance and typical music of Aceh. “It was great, this is the first time we were greeted so warmly,” said Flateboe. Fauzi admitted that the arrival of this ship have a positive impact and multi-effects to the people of Sabang. For example, when tourists want snorkeling, they rent equipment and can increase the income of local residents. All the tourists got off the ship and spent U.S. $ 100 per person for knick-knacks traditional goods, transportation rental and equipment for swimming at some point destination in Sabang. Throughout 2013, the island of Sabang has been visited by 3 cruises, namely: on March 12 by the Silver Wishper and on March 22 by Seabourne Pride. (*)

and cook appliaces, “he said. He said that the Indonesian businessmen who participated in this exhibition expressed that the Spanish market has not been known well for Indonesia. Therefore, they really appreciated the initiative of Indonesia Embassy in Madrid to participate in the exhibition. “Taking part in the exhibition is the first step where there are transactions that are not so great on a variety of Indonesian food products,” he said. (*)

Parkroyal Pecatu Bali Resort to Invest Rp 800 billion

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Cruise Ship Begins to Visit Sabang

exhibition in Europe. It was followed by 1,056 participants from 73 countries and attended by around 76 thousand visitors with a total transaction of around 194 million Euros. “Indonesian booth, which was initiated by Trade Attache of Spain and Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC) Barcelona followed by six private companies like Coffindo for coffee products, PT Indofood for Indomie, Mayora for Incoffod, PT Orang Tua for bottled water and Maesindo for clothing

CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group Patrick Imbardelli (left), Director General of Tourism Destination Development Firmansyah Rahim (center) and President of The Jewel of Bali, Abdul Kadir Alatas.

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ali is still a powerful magnet for investors to invest in hospitality business considering the increasing number of tourist arrival to the island. PT Pecatu Adi Graha in cooperation with the Park Royal Hotel & Resort, a five star hotel operator in the international network, is going to build Parkroyal Pecatu Bali Resort / The Jewel of Bali. The Jewel of Bali is planned to be built in the area of South Bali, Pecatu, on an area of 3ha. Regarding the value of the investment, the two companies poured funds amounting to Rp 800 billion with the majority stake in Pecatu Adi Graha as much as 55 percent. Approximately 40% of foreign tourists coming to Indonesia are expected to remain centered in Bali. So, there are still many investors who highlight Bali for tourism sector investment. “Of the more than 7 million foreign tourists to Indonesia, as many as 2.79 million people or about 40% of foreign tourists come to Bali,” said Commissioner of PT Pecatu Adi Graha, Hendra Gunawan, during

the signing of MoU between PT Pecatu Adi Graha and Pacific Hotel Group in Sari Pan Pacific Hotel, Jakarta recently. According to Hendra Gunawan, even for a five-star hotel, the occupancy rate reaches about 72%. Thus, he added, he also believes that the project will be worked together with Pacific Hotels Group will also achieve the same level of occupancy. ParkRoyal Pecatu Bali Resort has a number of facilities including 18 holes Championship Golf Course. In addition, he said, the Jewel of Bali has direct access to the New Kuta beach and Balangan beach that are visited by many surfers. The Jewel of Bali offers 9 tower hotels and 35 units of exclusive villas with minimalist tropical style. One tower is prepared for 550 units of rooms. The interesting thing is that the rooms could be purchased for personal property at a price of US$ 10 million at this time. “Tower title is a new thing, a model for building with other investors,” said President Director of The Jewel of Bali, Abdul Kadir

Alatas. Abdul explained, investors who are interested in investing their funds can get their money back in 6 – 7 years. If you want to resell, Abdul said that profits can be increased by 80 to 100 percent. “If it is a single unit hotel, the profit can be up 80-100 percent given the rise in property prices and the building has become a hotel in 7 years,” said Abdul. PT Pecatu Adi Graha is also planning to develop a hotel business in Lombok areas in 2014. Pecatu also plans to cooperate with foreign parties. “The possibility is with foreign investor. Currently, we’re doing a study survey on upscale class hotel,” said Abdul. On the same occasion, Director General of Tourism Destination Development Firmansyah Rahim expects foreign investors to develop their business not only in Bali. Firmansyah explained that there are many equally beautiful locations as Bali that can be place for making investment. “Not only in Bali, there are still many areas that could be developed. If they want to invest in any areas in Indonesia, we will help them,” said Firmanyah Rahim. The Government is currently focusing on several places to promote tourism and investment sectors. Some main tourist destination in Indonesia include Lombok (West Nusa Tenggara), East Nusa Tenggara, Papua, and Wakatobi. The Government is also targeting foreign direct investment (FDI) for the tourism sector as much as US$ 800 million for the year 2013. The target number has increased from the actual FDI realization, particularly in the field of hotel and restaurant in 2012 reached U$ 729.7 million. Firman said the biggest contribution of FDI is from hotels and resorts. Additionally, Firmansyah is optimistic that the target can be achieved because the government will make a range of events that could invite foreign investors to come to Indonesia. “Tourism investment could reach US$ 800 million. There are lots of events that can accelerate the growth of the investment,” said Firmansyah. (*)

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Indonesian: the 6th Largest Coffee Supplier in the USA

Padang is ready to play host for TIME Pasar Wisata

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ndonesia was again participating in the 25th Annual Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA). It is the largest Coffee Exhibition in the United States, held on 12 to 14 April 2013 in Boston, USA. Attaché of Trade for Washington DC, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, in the press release said that as for participants were coming from different countries in the world. SCAA alone has 3,000 members, which include the growers, exporters, buyers such as from roasters and importers, as well as entrepreneurs in the field of packaging, manufacturing, retail, and coffee presentation equipment companies. “In the exhibition, Indonesia featured local specialty coffee, like Gayo coffee, Lintong,

and Bengkulu Arabica originating from Sumatra. Then there are also Toraja coffee of Sulawesi, Kintamani coffee from Bali, Wamena coffee of Papua, Bejawa coffee from Flores, and Java coffee, “she said. Numerous types of Indonesian coffee were presented by six major coffee companies from Indonesia. The six companies are PT Asia Mina Sejahtera, PT Coffindo, Serba Usaha Kondon Cooperatives, CV Harapan Bersama, PT Gunung Lintong, and PT Sabani International. In addition, four government-owned plantations, PT Nusantara XII PERSERO Plantation, Plantation Bureau of West Sumatra, North Sumatra and Papua also participated in the exhibition. “Those coffee growers were put in the

Indonesian pavilion themed Trade with Remarkable Indonesia. Based on the statistical data of 2012, Indonesia is ranked as the sixth largest source of U.S. coffee imports with 6.11% market share. The first position is Brazil with a value of US$ 1.34 billion and a market share of 20.64%, “she said. She added that although Indonesia is ranked as the sixth largest exporter of coffee to the U.S., export trends over the last three years continues to show improvement. Indonesia’s coffee exports in 2012 reached U.S. $ 399.54 million. This value increased significantly by 22.7% compared to the previous year shall be equal to U.S. $ 325.57 million. (*)

Cheers !! from HARRIS HOTEL & CONVENTIONS MALANG

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ARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang holds HARRIS warming party with theme “Java’s Flower Power” to mark the official opening of the hotel. Enliven East Java, escpecially Malang city with a series of dynamic activities before the HARRIS warming party such as : HARRIS Flash mob, orange give away on HARRIS Day, Hair for Help during Malang Car Free Day and HARRIS move in strategic locations in Malang and Surabaya, it has demonstrated that HARRIS Hotels has marked its entry in East Java. HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang has a very strategic location, nestled in the middle of Riverside residential located only 10 minutes from Araya Golf Course, 15 minutes from the City Center, 20 minutes from Abdul Rahman Saleh Airport and 30 minutes from the famous tourism destination, Batu. One of the biggest hotel in Malang, HARRIS Hotel – Malang will have a total of 229 rooms, impressive ballroom which can accomodate to 1500 people, 3 swimming pools, kids club, wedding chapel and

fitness center with sauna. With Simple - Unique – Friendly motto, HARRIS Hotel Malang will be more than just a hotel, it is a lifestyle perfectly fitted to the new Asian midscale trend. It is clearly shown in the casual style of the General Manager and all HARRIS players (the employees) without neglecting the quality of service, consistency of the concept and innovations. The HARRIS Fans (the guests) will have unique experience through HARRIS Malang typical ‘cheerful’ greetings, HARRIS Move (dance) and other signature touch of this hotel with hint of art-deco interior design from the Dutch Colonial era. Available rooms will be completed with HARRIS “Dreamazing Bed”, 32 “LCD TV, Smart TV for the Suite Room, Mini Bar, Safe Deposit Box, 60 international TV channels, air conditioning with individual controls and bathroom with shower. To pamper the tongue of the pleasure seeker, HARRIS Malang has several Food and Beverages outlets with a beautiful pool view. For the international and local

food lover will be served at HARRIS Café located at the first floor with 3 signature dishes : Prawns with Chili and Tomatoe Sauce, Chicken in Green Curry Sauce, Marinated Grilled Chicken with Pineapple Sauce. Other option, HARRIS Malang in coorporation with Ah Yat Abalone, the famous Chinese Restaurant in Singapore and Hongkong will serve the best Chinese food in Malang also at HARRIS Café. For meetings or weddings, HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang will be the perfect place as it will be the only Ballroom in Malang with a capacity to accommodate up to 1,500 people. Equipped with sound system of the latest technology, LCD & WiFi, the 3 meeting rooms will accommodate meetings of 20 to 50 people. To support the green awareness, all of the function rooms in HARRIS Hotel Malang will not use plastic. HARRIS Hotel & Conventions Malang will be a good choice for leisure or business with its strategic location and complete facilities for individual as well as families.

he Tourism Indonesia Mart & Expo (TIME) or ‘Pasar Wisata Indonesia’ will this year take place in Padang, the capital city of West Sumatra after being held for two years in Bandar Lampung. This premier tourism event is scheduled to be held on 18 – 21 October 2013 at Grand Inna Muara Hotel & Convention Centre. Entering its 19th year of conduct, TIME is organized to promote Indonesia as a tourist destination in the international market and at the same time raise the country’s image as a global travel destination. Meity Robot, Chairwoman of the Steering Committee of TIME 2013 said that in its 18-year history, TIME has previously been held in Java and Eastern Indonesia (Makassar and Lombok). Lampung is the first venue for TIME in Sumatra. “We are happy to announce that TIME this year will take place in Padang,” said Meity. “The shifting of TIME to West Sumatra is aimed at promoting West Sumatra to the international market and speeding up the development and improvement of infrastructure, tourism facilities and tourism attractions in the region, so that at the end the destination could establish itself as a global travel destination. It will attract more tourist arrivals to the island and speed up the improvement of infrastructure and encourage more investors to the region to develop new hotels as well as tourism attractions,” Meity went on. Padang was affected three years ago by a strong earthquake. The hosting of TIME Pasar Wisata will also help to show how the destination has now recovered and how it is now able to embrace tourism again. Various destinations in Sumatra are equipped with a good variety of quality hotels as well as cultural, natural and man-made attractions. “Hosting TIME would allow international buyers to take a closer look at the products on offer and aid local tourism stakeholders in selling their products overseas,” she added. There are six (regional) gateways in Sumatra, namely Banda Aceh, Medan, Pekanbaru, Padang, Palembang and Batam. “While direct regional services are still limited to Malaysia and Singapore, destinations in Sumatra can use these regional hubs to attract travellers from beyond these countries,” Meity concluded. As every year, top industry policy-makers, sellers and buyers of Indonesian tourism products and services will be participating. TIME accommodates the interests of local industry players seeking to introduce their tourism products and services to the international markets. The event will feature the best of Indonesia’s tourist attractions, including exciting destinations and special interests as well as top tourist facilities in the country. The annual mart is run on a yearly rotating basis to promote as much provinces to the world as possible in the future. TIME 2013 is organized by the Indonesian Tourism Council together with the Provincial Government of West Sumatra and is fully supported by the Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy of Indonesia and the entire tourism components in Indonesia. TIME 2013 is also supported by Garuda Indonesia as Official Airlines, other supporting airlines, Association of the Indonesian Tours & Travel Agencies (ASITA) Padang, Indonesia Hotel and Restaurant Association (PHRI) Padang, Indonesian Conference and Convention Association (INCCA), and Pacto Convex as the event organizer. Last year, TIME in Bandar Lampung attracted 83 buyers from 28 countries dominated by India, Singapore, China, The Netherlands, Australia, Malaysia, and the United Arab Emirates, with 74 Indonesian sellers occupying 60 booths. The percentage of sellers based on industry covered Hotel, Resort & Spa (75%), NTO (10%), Tour Operator/Travel Agent (7%), Adventure/Activity Holiday (3%), Airline (1.5%), and Others (Hotel Management, etc. (8.5%)). (*)

Harris Hotels Website Provides ‘Free Doctor’ Online Chat

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n accordance with the motto of healthy lifestyles from HARRIS Hotels, HARRIS hotels now offer online chat services ‘Free Doctor. ‘It is a free-of-charge online chat with doctors. This service can be easily accessed simply by visiting the site: www.harrishotels.com and just click on the button provided. Through the service, visitors can inquire about various health issues or topics conveniently from home or while traveling. This service provides advice about health or to recognize the early symptoms of a medical condition, but this service does not provide a diagnosis or prescribing. Therefore it is recommended that users of the service to continue the consultation directly to the doctor. “Free Doctor Service is available on weekdays from 8 am to 10 pm, while on weekends from 6 pm until 10 pm. This is one of the consistent efforts of HARRIS Hotels to promote a healthy lifestyle to our guests, “said Antoine Villette, Corporate Director of Sales and Marketing TAUZIA Hotel Management. Currently HARRIS Hotels consist of 12 operating hotels in Jakarta, Bali, Batam, Sentul, Bandung and Malang with 26 hotels to be opened until the end of 2015 throughout Indonesia. (*)

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Tauzia Bali Sales Office Organizes Media Visit

Best Western Held Concurrent Blood Donation in All Best Western Indonesia

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EST WESTERN INDONESIA held a blood donation concurrently in all BEST WESTERN throughout Indonesia. In Bali, the blood donation was held on Friday, May 3, 2013 at Ginger Spa BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta, which is located on Jalan Kubu Anyar No. 118, Kuta, Bali. A number of employees of 4 BEST WESTERN properties that exist in Bali BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta, BEST WESTERN Kuta Villa, BEST WESTERN Kuta Beach and also BEST WESTERN Premier Sunset Road participated in a regular blood donation event held twice every year. This time, a total of 50 pockets of blood collected during the blood donation. Hotel employees, hotel guests and the media partners and travel agents participated in the event. “This blood donation event is a regular event held every 6 months. It is expected that through blood donation, BEST WESTERN could help others, and this event is a part of the CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) of the company.” Said Pramitha, Marcom BEST WESTERN Resort Kuta. ***

DECLARATION FOR MANGROVE CARE FORUM

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AUZIA Bali Sales Office organizes visit to 20 media in Bali participated by all TAUZIA properties in Bali includes HARRIS Hotel Tuban, HARRIS Resort Kuta Beach, HARRIS Hotel and Residences Riverview, HARRIS Hotel and Residences Sunset Road, POP! Hotel Teuku Umar Denpasar, POP! Hotel Kuta Beach and soon to open EDEN Hotel Kuta and HARRIS Hotel Bukit Jimbaran. Bali Media Visit is a regular program holds twice

a year continuing the close relationship of TAUZIA properties and media in Bali. “This media visit is to underline TAUZIA’s growing network in Bali and in the same time introducing our upcoming hotels which are Eden Hotel Kuta Bali to open April 15th 2013 follows by HARRIS Hotel Bukit Jimbaran in May 23rd 2013,” said Hengky TAMBAYONG, General Manager TAUZIA Bali Sales Office, “We, as a network, are always keen to have an occasion like this

(group media visit) as we could also update each other and be together.” TAUZIA properties in Bali represents by 5 HARRIS Hotels, 2 POP! Hotels and 1 hotel Managed by TAUZIA (Eden Hotel Kuta Bali) in operations and 19 more hotels under development. A total of 27 hotels will operate in Bali by end of 2015 under Worldhotels, Preference, HARRIS Hotels, Managed by TAUZIA, YELLO! Hotels and POP! Hotels brands. ***

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Dharma Santhi at The Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas

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atra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas held an annual event of Dharma Santhi, which took place in Denpasar Ball Room Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas. It was attended by staff, management and colleagues in the neighboring area of Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas. The event is a continuation of the celebration of Nyepi Day New Year Çaka 1935. The audiences were very enthusiastic and listened carefully to lectures delivered by Prof. Dr. I Wayan Jendra, SU, with the theme “Through Dharma Santhi We Realize Brotherhood for Togetherness in Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas”

Mangrove Care Forum is a non-government organization formed by the initiative of five traditional villages located in the area around Mangrove forests, namely: Kedonganan traditional village, Benoa, Tanjung Benoa, Jimbaran and Tuban, which is supported by Arta Graha Peduli Foundation. This forum was declared on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 in Mangrove area Telaga Waja Temple, Tanjung Benoa. Mangrove Care Forum is declared to raise public awareness about the importance of mangrove forests for us and as a form of hygiene and environmental health campaigns. This declaration is the first step in the conservation efforts of mangrove forest in Bali. Declaration of Mangrove Care Forum was attended by Mr. I Gusti Ngurah Wiranata as Head of the Bali Provincial Forestry Office in this case represented the Governor of Bali, as well as inaugurating the management of Mangrove Care Forum. Not less than 1000 participants from the various elements of society ranging from school students, the tourism industry, rural communities, military / police and various social institutions attended the declaration. Through his speech IGN Wiranata explained the importance of maintaining biodiversity particularly mangroves considering that mangrove has been a habitat for living things around them and provide positive benefits but rather its presence is increasingly critical. Other activities held included cleanup activity around Telaga Waja Temple and planting mangrove seedling. The event was also enlivened by the traditional entertainment and interesting door prize draw for participants. ***

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(Shown in the picture Tjok Istri Lahriani - EAM Patra Bali Resort & Villas and Prof. DR. I Wayan Jendra, SU - Dharma Santhi Preacher, and Organizing Committee of Dharma Santhi Patra Bali Resort & Villas.)

Introducing Alaya Ubud:

A Smart Boutique Resort With A Defined Sense Of Belonging

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laya Ubud is now open and ready to welcome travellers looking to experience the village of Ubud and all of its attributes. This smart boutique hotel reflects Bali’s artistic nuance and at the same time meets international needs. The property features 60 tastefully-appointed rooms and a main swimming pool on a long stretch of land that gradually descends down to a small flowing river. At the front of Alaya Ubud is the stylish Petani Restaurant catering to the culinary pleasures of in-house guests. There is also a branch of the award winning DaLa Spa, which incorporates 6 opulent treatment rooms and a multi-functional pavilion for yoga, cooking classes and other activities. Located in downtown Ubud, the hotel shares the same rice terrace views as the renowned Bebek Bengil Restaurant and is within easy walking distance to the Monkey Forrest. It is a vibrant area filled with specialty shops, art galleries and cafes along with lifestyle activities for health conscious guests. Alaya Ubud was designed exclusively

by Grounds Kent Architects, an esteemed company responsible for iconic resorts such as Four Seasons Jimbaran and St. Regis Bali. The hotel is a modern interpretation of Bali’s local building culture. It combines indigenous materials such as bamboo and innovative examples of island-inspired artistry. Landscaping is by Made Wijaya, Bali’s very own authority on tropical gardens. DaLa Spa and Petani Restaurant at Alaya Ubud have been expertly styled by Moroccan-born interior decorator Zohra Boukhari. She is known for her use of rich textiles, vintage-inspired furnishings and mood-enhancing lighting. Her signature touches are evident throughout and it is the meticulous attention to detail that gives both facilities a unique aesthetic edge. Alaya Ubud offers 2 elegant accommodation categories with refreshing views over the neighbouring rice terrace. Both room types have been styled with the same meticulous attention detail that is full of visual appeal without compromising personal comfort or convenience.

The Deluxe Room provides a restful environment to unwind after a busy day spent exploring the sights of Ubud. It is a cosy base featuring clean-line furnishings, a modern ensuite bathroom and a decorative wall that showcases Bali’s creative legacy. A private terrace or balcony blends seamlessly into the outdoors providing extra space to sit and relax. The Alaya Room is the resort’s signature accommodation category that ensures total comfort and holiday peace of mind. It features a smart decor with an original work of local artistry extending along one entire wall and out onto the terrace. A luxurious bathroom with a customised stone bathtub promises spa-styled bathing indulgence. Alaya Ubud is part of the de daun Group that has several tourism-based enterprises under its corporate banner. As a result, the hotel offers a signature brand of personalised service and genuine hospitality. It is a place with a defined sense of belonging that is truly unique to the island of Bali. ***

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Opening Of PRIMEBIZ KUTA

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business guests there is a large meeting room suitable for seminars and small corporate conferences. This versatile room can be divided into three smaller rooms ideal for regular meetings. Additionally, the Bizness Centre offers full business facilities and equipment to support guests’ needs, with complimentary WiFi also available in the public areas. The hotel’s services include a laundry service, transportation service and a tour desk. A free scheduled shuttle service transports guests throughout the day to the main Kuta shopping area together with its wide choice of restaurants, entertainment areas and night life. Kopi Bali House has a tantalising menu and an all-day dining concept, while also offering the complete experience and taste of Kopi Bali, a Balinese coffee business that dates back to

1935 and remains as authentic as its origins yet parallels its competitors in taste, variety and trendy presentation. The stylish decor combined with the aroma of freshly roasted beans makes Kopi Bali House a very pleasant place to enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with a cup of the best coffee. The menu draws from the success of the renowned Kopi Bali House sister restaurant, presenting International and Asian specialties, while the desserts and pastries also provide the perfect accompaniment to the perfect cup. The coffee menu features a great choice of espresso, latte, cappuccino and mocha, decaffeinated and iced. The bar invites guests to enjoy beers, wines, cocktails, spirits and non-alcoholic refreshments. In-room dining is also available. PrimeBiz is already developing a strong brand

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1O1 Smart Living Program Fun And Lively Blood Donation

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HE 1O1 Bali Legian have recently held a blood donation 1O1 Smart Living – Gives Blood, Save Lives campaign in collaboration with the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI BALI) and Bali Hotels Association, also supported by national and local media such as The Jakarta Post, Bali Daily and Bali Travel Newspaper as a part of their continuing

efforts to help the local community. Over 198 participants has registered and donate their time and blood to save lives on last Wednesday 17 April 2013 during its first blood donation drive held at THE 1O1 Bali Legian ground floor in the Legian Meeting Room. Many were employees of the hotel, as

well as neighboring hotels, local community, Bali Tourism Media Association (BTMA) and other hospitality Industry was followed this event. Beside of that many the hotel inhouse guests were enthusiastic to support & participate, by donating 350 ml of blood per person. The blood drive event organized by THE 1O1 Bali Legian ongoing with fun and lively. There are gifts for donors and also quizzes throughout the event. As a complement to the donors whose blood was not legible so they can attend a free screening of bones sponsored by Anlene milk, cholesterol and blood sugar by Yayasan Peduli Kanker Indonesia (YPKI) as well as favorite day inspections are the levels of stress and live a healthy life patterns by Synergy which are very sought after by almost all participants. THE 1O1 Bali Legian main aim for this blood donation drive is to collect blood to help those in need as there are many people in this community that needs specific types of blood and they need it at any moment. So if you never get the chance to donate blood, do it! You may never realize that the blood you gave would one day save a life. A drop of blood can save thousands of lives. ***

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iscovery Kartika Plaza Hotel has been selected as one of the 100 best and most popular hotels worldwide in the ITS-program. ITS has the largest package of hotel tour operators that are united under the REWE group. REWE Group is one of the leading trading and travel and tourism companies in Europe The ITS Red Star award is distinguished by the satisfaction of the guests from the selected hotels. This award was presented in Ellington Hotel Berlin during prestige gala dinner event

with live music performances in March 2013. The hotels who are awarded with the Red Star Award are chosen by the good quality of their accommodation and the service that the hotel has to offers. As the one and only representation from Bali and Indonesia, Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel humbly received the “ITS Red Star Award Certificate” by committed to its quality standard and always friendly service towards their customers. ***

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Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel Snatched ITS Red Star Award 2011/ 2012

character and is slated to be the discerning choice of young travellers and professionals. “This is a very exciting addition to the Prime Plaza Group,” said Hotel Manager, Mr. Taufik Hidayat. “With the new demand for three-star properties, PrimeBiz Kuta is opening at the right time in the right place, and I believe it will appeal to visitors who are looking for a comfortable yet affordable hotel with just a little bit extra to offer. I am delighted to be opening Bali’s first PrimeBiz, and I am very much looking forward to welcoming guests.” To celebrate its opening, PrimeBiz Kuta is offering special opening rates and packages to its guests, starting from Rp500,000 nett for its ‘Interface’ category rooms. This offer applies to early bookings via the website: www.kuta.primebizhotels.com . ***

BHA’s Scholars Sing Program’s Praises

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n 1 May 2013, Prime Plaza Hotels and Resorts introduces its latest brand, and welcomes its eighth property to the Prime Plaza group, with the opening of PrimeBiz Kuta. Wrapped in minimalist architecture with restful interiors, this new, modern hotel is designed to cater for domestic and international business and leisure travellers, conventions and groups, by providing an international standard of hospitality, comfortable accommodation and quality facilities at affordable prices. PrimeBiz Kuta is ideally positioned in a prime location on Jl Raya Kuta, just four kilometres from Ngurah Rai International Airport, and within walking distance of the local restaurants and souvenir shops of Tuban, South Kuta. Upholding the renowned hospitality of the Prime Plaza brand, the hotel offers 143 guestrooms within two categories spanning four floors. Each room is furnished with either a queen -size bed or twin beds and a built-in desk and seating, complemented by colourful accessories, artwork, and mood lighting to create the perfect ambience for a good night’s sleep. Each is equipped with individually-controlled airconditioning, a 32” LED satellite-channel TV, complimentary WiFi internet access, fridge, safe deposit box, tea and coffee making facilities and a hair dryer. The stylish ensuite bathrooms are fitted with wide washbasins, wall mirrors, and glass-fronted walk-in rainshowers, while a number of the rooms have interconnecting doors making them suitable for families of four. Supporting facilities and services at PrimeBiz Kuta include an outlet of the famous Kopi Bali House restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool known as the Sky Pool complete with an adjoining exercise room, and a massage and spa facility with a range of treatments dedicated to relaxation. For

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nnouncing that its scholarship program is again open to young Balinese, Bali Hotels Association (BHA) has underlined its commitment to developing and empowering the local community. The scholarships are the result of a partnership between Bali Hotels Association (BHA) and the Inspirasia Foundation (formerly the Annika Linden Foundation) and have been in place since 2002. Thus far, the program has seen 91 students in total receive full scholarships and partial scholarships, 35 of whom have already graduated and who are now employed at various BHA member hotels. BHA Chairmain Alessandro Migliore pointed out that the association sees the scholarship program as part of its duty as one of the most-important industries on the island. “It’s vital to our industry to improve the community in which we live so that the Balinese people themselves benefit from the wealth that travel and tourism bring,” he said. “Our support comes in two forms: the hotels choose the candidates in the initial stages,” he added. “Thereafter, students that are eligible for full scholarships receive financial support provided by the Inspirasia Foundation, while students that are eligible for partial scholarships get funds from the foundation and other sources including hotel sponsors.” Recipients of the scholarships are keen to sing the praises of the program. “’Extraordinary’ is the word I would use to explain the impact that the BHA scholarship has had on my life,” said Pipit Widayanti. Pipit graduated this year with sponsorship from Club Med, and is now working for the St Regis Bali and The Laguna a Luxury Collection. Meanwhile, Luh Ari Padmayani, completed the program in 2010 after receiving sponsorship from the Four Seasons Resort. She is now working at a senior level —Assistant HR Manager at Alila Villas Uluwatu. She said: “This scholarship program meant a lot to me and my family and it taught me that that nothing is impossible as long as you wish for it and work hard to achieve it.” Seven scholars graduated on April 20 this year, including Pipit, along with Dewa Ayu Putu Erdisoviantini (supported by the Bali Hyatt); Ni Wayan Restika Paramita (supported by Amandari); Ni Putu Sri Antari Pratiwi (also supported by Amandari); (supported by Novotel Benoa); I Putu Subiantara Saputra, (supported by The Legian); I Kadek Alga Aditya, FB Service Management (supported by Grand Hyatt Bali).***

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New Chef and New Creation of Menu

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Chef Kadek Oten Sujana

avehotel Seminyak Bali, with its Fun atmosphere, Fresh Attitude and Friendly services is happy to announce Chef Kadek Oten Sujana as the new Head Chef. He has worked at luxurious hotel around Bali such as Mulia Hotel Nusa Dua bali, Conrad Resort & Spa Bali, Bvlgari Hotel & Resort Bali. At favehotel Seminyak he will take care of Lime Restaurant at Seminyak. Notifying his experience and skills to the team while embodying the fun atmosphere of new creation menu such as this set menu Seafood Chowder for Soup, Pan Sire Chicken Breast and Pan Sire Red Snapper for main course, Balinese Sweety for dessert.

Seafood Chowder

Balinese Sweety

You can enjoy the true taste of this menu only at Lime Restaurant and Bar in favehotel Seminyak – Bali, and don’t forget to grab the special room rate as well for IDR 288.000++ for minimum stay 3 nights. Lime Restaurant & Bar at Favehotel Seminyak – Bali Jl. Abimanyu (Dhayana Pura) No. 9A Seminyak,Bali,Indonesia T : +62-361 – 739 000 E : [email protected] W : Seminyak.favehotels.com

Pan Sire Red Snapper

Pan Sire Chicken Breast

PIPELINE W

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aterbom Bali is proud and excited to announce the launching of our latest water slide attraction, The Pipeline. Opened on March 15, The Pipeline whisks riders along a twisting and banking tube that is sure to make even the most adventurous hearts race. The Pipeline is perched some 20 meters high, directly above the notoriously extreme Climax, giving riders a breathtaking, panoramic view of the Kuta skyline and of Waterbom’s lush tropical gardens. Riders race through the winding and weaving 150 meter tube in approximately 10-13 seconds, experiencing some 3.5 gravitational forces. Designed and installed by the leading waterslide manufacturer in the world, Canada’s Whitewater West, The Pipeline is the perfect fix for thrill seekers both young and old. The bigger, better, and faster Pipeline is Waterbom Bali’s twenty first water slide attraction and is the first of three exciting new slides set to open in 2013 at Waterbom Bali. ***

Lexington Hotels Enter Indonesia With New Kuta Hotel As ITS Pilot Project

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exington by Vantage announced it’s taking over of New Kuta Hotel management which will be a Lexington Legacy Hotel. New Kuta Hotel is a vast property located in Pecatu Bali, the bustling tourism destination of Indonesia. Lexington by Vantage will manage New Kuta Hotel with the rebranding event held in May 2013. The opening of this hotel fuels Lexington by Vantage remarkable growth trajectory in Asia Pacific. Vantage Hospitality Group is the 8th largest hotel company worldwide, currently operating over

1,000 properties in the region. “There’s no question the New Kuta Hotel is a perfect fit for Lexington Legacy. They have excellent reputation and many return guests, yet they felt the need for a national brand backing them. With our SRD and distribution platforms, we can take them to a whole new level, yet allow them to maintain their independence... Our revenue-management, marketing, and large distribution with negotiated rates to OTAs are a major game-changer for these hotels. They now have the potential for much greater revenue and

occupancy than ever before,” said Bill Hanley, group President of Lexington by Vantage. Lexington Legacy is one of the pioneer hotel brands to enter largely untapped markets, paving the way for the introduction of other Lexington brands. Lexington Legacy Hotels has broken ground for Lexington’s entry into other important Asian countries including China, Thailand and Malaysia. The distinct and compelling brands continue to appeal to developers and owners, fueling its expansion across the Asia Pacific region. ***

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CIPAGANTI LEGIAN HOTEL

The Most Smart and Trendy Concept Hotel in Legian

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ipaganti Legian Hotel, the first hotel owned by Cipaganti Group, one of the Indonesia’s largest shuttle service and car rental companies.

It is a three stars hotel scheduled to open in June 2013. Cipa-

ganti Legian Hotel is designed as a smart, trendy and affordable hotel. Located on Jalan Bunut Sari, Legian, Kuta - Bali. Cipaganti Legian Hotel is situated strategically, only walking distance from the famous Kuta and Legian Beach, easy and fast access to top tourist attractions such as Seminyak, Legian Street, Kuta Square, Waterbom and other nearest tourist attraction. Cipaganti Legian Hotel covering 1400m2 and having 121 rooms including 112 Superior Rooms, 4 Family Rooms and 5 Suites. It is facilitated with 24 hour receptionist, 24 hour security, 24 hour room service, Coffee Shop, Pool Bar, Lobby Lounge, Concierge, Laundry service, Swimming Pool, Spa and Parking Area. Moreover, to fulfill the needs of meeting and event venue in Bali¸ Cipaganti Legian Hotel provides a modern meeting room that can cater your business needs with capacity of 60 persons in theater style. Lastly, we pride ourselves in our complete service for your stay, fulfilling mostly all your needs from travel, family holiday to business demands.

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Deep and Extreme 2013 Targeted 18,000 Visitors

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nnual exhibition Deep and Extreme 2013 for marine and special interests tourism such as diving, water sports and adventure, which lasted from 4 to 7 April at the Jakarta Convention Center was targeted to attract 18,000 visitors. It was delivered by Darmawan Sutanto, President Director of PT Exhibiton Network Indonesia as the organizer of the exhibition in Jakarta recently. “This year we are targeting an increase in the number of visitors as many as 18,000 people from 16,000 people in 2012,” said Darmawan. Dharmawan added that the exhibition involving 130 participants took the theme of “Students Love Adventure” with the hope of introducing special interest tourism such as adventure and more to the younger generation. “In 2012 our theme was Family GO Adventure

to encourage families to go adventuring together and try outdoor sports. This year the theme is Students Love Adventure, so our young people will know more about this type of attraction, “added Dharmawan. Meanwhile, Firmansyah Rahim, Director General of Tourism Destination Development Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) said, special interest tourism has tremendous potential in Indonesia to continue growing. “Indonesia has the potential for the development of special interest tourism, especially now that we are one of the world favorite tourist destinations. For diving activities, we have 700 diving spots that recognized globally such as Bali and

other regions in Eastern Indonesia, “said Firman.

Eastern Indonesia to Prepare Special Interest Tourism Some areas in eastern Indonesia are considered to have enormous potential for the natural development of special interest tourism such as diving and adventure. For marine tourism, especially diving, we got a panoramic underwater of Gili Terawangan that has become a favorite for divers. Adventure or extreme tourism, track path and Mount Rinjani’s panorama is absolutely stunning. In 2013, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy target the number of foreign tourists

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Lovely Evening on Batanghari River

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perfect place for relaxing after traveling around the city of Jambi is in the riverbank of Batanghari River that crosses the city. This relaxing place known as Tanggo Rajo, often also referred to as “Ancol Jambi”. “Ancol Jambi” is a relaxing place to sit on the riverbank of Batanghari River, which is the longest river on the island of Sumatra. There are plenty of chairs and tables provided there so that visitors can sit back while enjoying roasted corn and sugar

cane ice and waiting for the sunset. The area, which is located in front of the official residence of the Governor of Jambi has its own story. According to the locals, once during the ancient Malay precisely during the reign of Raden Culip, at the riverbank of Batanghari River there was a two-story building called Tanggo Rajo. Tanggo Rajo was used by the king and queen and her ladies to mingle upstairs while watching the harbor and

Batanghari River where boats passed by one after another. Purportedly, the Tanggo Rajo building was made of bulian wood and chained. King’s chair in Tanggo Rajo was designed to rotate in the direction of the wind so that the king could see in any direction. Now, Tanggo Rajo has become tourist attraction crowded by visitors especially in the afternoon. Visitors can also ride a boat to get around Batanghari River while enjoying the panorama along the river.

visiting Indonesia to rise by 4-5 percent, or about 9 million people. The target is believed to be achieved given the natural potential of Indonesia for special interest tourism. In order to support the government’s target, regions in eastern Indonesia claimed to have prepared a number of destinations that are believed to attract foreign tourists. As one of the favorite growing tourist destinations in Indonesia after Bali and Yogyakarta, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) Lombok in particular has a lot of tourism potential for marine tourism and special interest. Head of Tourism Product Development Division for NTB Culture and Tourism Bureau Alfiah said that the success of Visit Lombok Sumbawa 2012, which managed to reach the target of more than 1 million tourist visits was an important point in the development of tourism in NTB. Alfiah added, for the development of new tourist destinations of special interest, NTB Culture and Tourism Bureau is eyeing southern area of Lombok Island such as Gili Nanggu as well as other areas on the island of Lombok. As for the island of Sumbawa, the development is carried out in Keramat Island, Bedil, and Moyo that have been long known. “In addition, for 2015 we focus on the Mount Tambora on Sumbawa Island. The event entitled “Tambora Menyapa Dunia” (Tambora Greet the World) will be held to commemorate the bicentennial of the outbreak of the mountain. Hopefully, the event can evoke the memory of the eruption in 1815 that made Europe, United States, and Canada had the year without summer, “added Alfiah. Similar thing was conveyed by Girda Safitri, Marketing Manager Flores Destination Management Organization (DMO), the agency which markets tourism destination in Flores. According to Girda, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara is currently focused on three areas namely nature, people and culture, as well as diving and adventure. “For diving activities there are many divers who visit Komodo National Park. There are 37 diving spots that currently on the top five positions in the world. As for the adventure, topography of Mount Egon on Sika is considered very challenging area for climbers, “said Girda. Girda added that for 2013 Flores will focus on tourism development “Beyond Komodo” or explore the other attractions in Flores in addition to Komodo. “So far, Komodo National Park has always been a major tourist destination, thus this year we focus on efforts to explore new destinations in Flores,” added Girda. (*)

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Mentawai Hosted International Surfing Competition

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Press conference international surfing competition in Jakarta.

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his April, Mentawai Islands, West Sumatra will host an international surfing competition for 43 world professional surfers who will try to conquer Mentawai’s waves. They competed in the Mentawai International Pro Surf Competition 2013, the international surfing competition held by the Asian Surf Championship (ASC), sponsored by Rip Curl and supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. It was held on 21 to 29 April 2013 in the southern part of the island of Sipora precisely at Lances Right, Katiet, Mentawai, West Sumatra. “This event is a manifestation of the existence of the Mentawai Islands, as a world tourist destination,” said Director General of Tourism Marketing, Esthy Reko Astuty during a press conference Mentawai International Pro Surf Competition 2013 in Sapta Pesona Building recently. Esthy explained that this event brought together world class

surfer and surfers from Asian countries. They competed to be the best in this championship. The event would be a strategic tourism promotion for Mentawai. “At the Ministry itself there are 7 special interest tourism, one of which is sports tourism, and surfing is one of them,” said Esthy There were about 43 surfers who took part in this event. They included 16 surfers from Asia, 4 Ripcurl Raider teams, and 3 invited world surfers. There would also be 20 local surfers from Mentawai. On the same occasion, the Governor of West Sumatra, Irwan Prayitno said Mentawai Islands have many best surfing spots in the whole sea area. There is not less than 70 surfing points throughout Mentawai Islands with diverse characteristics. “In Indonesia, Mentawai is probably the best surfing spot. It’s like Hawaii,” said Irwan.

The opening took place in spot Lanches Right, Katiet. This is one of the areas with the best surfing spots in the world. Head of Culture, Tourism, Youth and Sport Bureau of Mentawai, Desti Seminora explained that surfing has become a major tourist destination to Mentawai. As many as 84 percent of tourists who visit Mentawai are surfers. Meanwhile, the other 11 percent of tourists visiting the island are adventurous travelers and culture, and the other five percent come for research purposes. “Tourists who come to Mentawai is increasing from year to year. For example, in 2011 the number of visits reached 4,010 people, and in 2012 reached 4,790 tourists, “added Desti. Tourists who come to the Mentawai Islands, the majority are foreign tourists. According to data from Desti, during 2012, of the 4,790 tourists who come as tourists 4560 were foreigners, and the other 230 are domestic travelers. (*)

Ox carts and Noah Band at Jailolo Bay Festival 2013

photo by Tri Wibowo

Jailolo Bay Festival 2013

West Halmahera Tourism Office hold “Jalilolo Bay Festival 2013”, an annual festival that aims to promote the potential of tourism, natural resources, culture and business in the region of Jailolo, West Halmahera, on 16-18 May 2013. Jailolo Bay Festival 2013 is the fifth festival since it was first held in 2009 and every year has always managed to attract the attention of not only local tourists but also foreign tourists. Director General of Tourism Marketing, Esthy Reko Astuty said that West Halmahera as one of the areas in the province of North Mauluku with its underwater richness offer great beauty of

coral color and diversity of fish that live in it. But more than that, it also puts its marine life conservation as a top priority to be maintained and a tourist attraction. Regent of West Halmahera, Namto H. Roba, added, “In this fifth year we continuously try to improve the quality of Jailolo Bay Festival. This certainly attracts both domestic and foreign tourists that have not been considered to visit West Halmahera. They will be interested to see the festival that is rich in cultural diversity, the hospitality of the people and of course the natural beauty of Jailolo Bay. “

As one of the annual agenda of local governments under the umbrella of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, the success of “Jailolo Bay Festival 2013” is also a concern of various parties, not only the government but also the public and private sectors. This event is also supported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, better known KADIN, as media for Indonesian entrepreneurs who actively developing the nation’s economy through a program called Tourism Trade Investment (TTI). The involvement of KADIN in this festival is confirmed by Adi Sulisto, Chairman of the Standing Committee on Tourism Chamber of Commerce, “As part of the Indonesian nation that is proud of the beauty and richness of nature and the Indonesian tourism, KADIN will certainly support the efforts made by the government to promote tourism that brings impact on the Indonesian economy.

For those who like nature tourism, Jailolo Bay Festival 2013 offers a variety of exciting events such as spice parades, spice expo, spice trip, fishing competition, swimming competition, rowing competitions, fun diving where you will be invited to plant coral, sea ritual called Sigofi Ngolo, also cultural party on the beach to enjoy a traditional feast with local communities and grill as much as 10 tones of fish. For those who like cultural tourism, there will be performances of traditional dance, traditional food, typical Jailolo ceremonies, as well as the oxcart parade. As the peak of the event, drama musical performances and dance that take place on a stage above the sea will also be presented with the title of “Sasadu on the Sea”, a work written by Eko Supriyanto, Oleg Sanchabakhtiar and Dimas Leimena. In addition to the involvement of artists and humanists, Jailolo Bay Festival 2013 will also be enlivened by NOAH, as one of the top band Indonesia supporting Indonesian tourism. The annual festival with the theme of “The Treasure of the Golden Spice Islands” is targeted to break two MURI’s records, which are the First Festival’s Stage on the Sea and sending 5,000 postcards with the deign of tourist attraction in West Halmahera Regency distributed to all parts of the country, president, ministries, cultural and tourism community, diving community, and representative offices throughout the countries in Jakarta. (*)

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West Java Promotes Tourism in Banten

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Rita added, this activity also aim to campaign the branding of “Wonderful Indonesia” and “Know your country love your country”. “The target of domestic tourist arrival set by the government is 250 million tourists in 2013, while the target of foreign tourist arrival is as many as 9 million tourists,” added Rita. In 2012 the Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy has managed to achieve the total of 245 million domestic tourists, while foreign tourists coming to Indonesia as many as 8 million tourists. (*)

photo by Tri Wibowo

est Java has great tourism potential both beautiful natural scenery and culture. The province also has adequate access and accommodation. Therefore, not surprisingly, in recent years West Java experienced significant increase in term of tourist visit. To further enhance the tourist visits to West Java, the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf) held the event titled “Direct Promotion West Java” on 12-13 April 2013 in Tangcity Mall, Tangerang, Banten. This activity aims to attract domestic tourists, especially the people of Banten to have vacation in West Java. This event was attended, among others, by Garuda Indonesia, the Department of Culture and Tourism of Banten, Banten Association of Hotel and Restaurant, and 10 tourism practitioners including Hotels and Travel Agents from Bandung. Rita Sofia, Head of Sub Region II (Java and Lampung), Directorate of Domestic Promotion Ministry of Culture and Creative Economy said that Banten is a potential market for West Java tourism. In addition to the short distance between the two provinces, the economy level of Banten community is quite high for having a trip to West Java. “Banten has BSD, which is the middle and upper region, and this is a potential market. We try to take them on holiday in the country that ha tourist attraction as beautiful as those abroad, “said Rita. West Java Direct Promotion in Tangcity Mall is to facilitate tourism entrepreneurs in selling holiday package holidays welcoming school holiday that will fall on June-July 2013. “It’s good for the children to be taken to holiday in the country rather than abroad, in addition to further introduce Indonesian potentials, it can also foster the love for their own country,” said Rita. Travel packages offered covers the areas throughout Indonesia. In addition to West Java, the travel agencies also sell tour packages to popular tourist destinations such as Bali, Lombok and Yogyakarta. Visitors can directly conduct transactions during the exhibition and of course with great discount prices.

Sri Soedewi Orchid Garden– It is highly recommended to visit this garden for those who like gardening and flower, especially orchids. You might know that taking care of orchids is not easy for it requires extra patience, money and careful treatment. Thus, it is normal that the price of orchid is quite high. Sri Soedewi Orchid Garden is located on Jl. Jendral Ahmad Yani, Telanaipura District, Jambi. The garden is accessible via private vehicle or public transports. For those who want to go there by private vehicle, no need to worry, because it is quite easy to find the location. It is not too far from the city center, around 4km from the center of Jambi. Sri Soedewi Orchid Garden was once closed to public for about twenty years. It is now open for public. The garden looks amazing with wide range of orchids and

some of them are rare types. There are approximately 53 species of orchid in which some of them are originally from Jambi. They include the species of arundina, acriopsis, and bolbophyllum, which are wild orchids commonly found in the forest. As for ground orchid species includes emma story, James storie, vanda macan, berta baraga, dendrobium, ocidium, cattleya, mocara, and Phalaenipsis

Orchid Garden Collection The Orchid Garden Orchid was first built on a proposal of the late Prof. Dr. Soedewi Sofwan, therefore the garden that has a total area of approximately 25 056 square meters is named Sri Soedewi orchid garden. The garden does not merely serve as

orchid conservation, but also functions as a playground and plantation learning center. It was officially opened by former first lady of Indonesia, Mrs. Tien Soeharto in 1984. Here you can learn how to plant Orchid in good and right way. Visitors will also get orchid seeds that are ready to plant. It would be interesting to have a holiday and at the same time learn how to plant orchid.

Beef Marrow Soup: Unique Culinary from Indonesia

photo by Tri Wibowo

photo by Tri Wibowo

Various Types of Orchid at Sri Soedewi Garden, Jambi

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ndonesia consists of thousands of islands, a wide variety of ethnic and rich in art and culture, as well as the typical culinary dishes from each region. One of the unique and distinctive cuisines from Indonesia is beef marrow soup (sop sumsum sapi). Soup, which is known more as the Langsa marrow soup is made from lower leg bone of beef, which still contains soft bones. This soup is originally from the Aceh as indicated by its name ‘Langsa beef marrow soup’. Langsa is located in eastern areas of Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam. The uniqueness of the cuisine is the marrow is served in the beef bone that have been cut and cleaned. This menu comes with a straw to suck the marrow. But it could also be poured into the plate, and then enjoyed it with a spoon. This Cuisine is very popular; both children to the elderly enjoyed this delicious soup. Beef marrow soup is famous for its savory taste and would make your appetite increase. It can also be found in other areas in Indonesia such as Medan, Jakarta and Bogor. (*)

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Marathon Terbesar di Asia Siap Digelar di Jakarta G

dari 40 negara. Jakarta Marathon digelar dalam rangka hari jadi Ibu Kota Jakarta ke-486 sekaligus untuk mempertontonkan keindahan Indonesia dan objek-objek wisata.

Okupansi Hotel Bisa Tembus 70%

photo by Tri Wibowo

ubernur DKI Joko Widodo menyatakan siap mendukung pelaksanaan kegiatan Jakarta Marathon 2013 pada 27 Oktober nanti. Diharapkan marathon ini diikuti oleh peserta dari 40 negara dan menjadi yang terbesar di Asia. “Pemprov DKI mendukung pelaksanaan kegiatan olahraga Jakarta Marathon 2013. Kegiatan seperti ini, akan kita jadikan sebagai event tahunan,” kata Gubernur DKI Jakarta Joko Widodo (Jokowi) di Mall Kasablanka, Jakarta belum lama ini. Menurut Jokowi, kegiatan olahraga maraton internasional tersebut dapat memberikan citra yang baik bagi Indonesia, terutama Jakarta, sebagai destinasi yang aman dikunjungi seluruh masyarakat dunia. “Kegiatan ini juga bisa menjadi daya tarik untuk meningkatkan kunjungan wisatawan mancanegara ke Jakarta. Maka dari itu, kita akan rutin menggelar event-event olah raga atau pentas seni dan budaya,” ujar Jokowi. Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Sapta Nirwandar menuturkan kegiatan olahraga dan budaya merupakan sarana efektif untuk mempromosikan destinasi pariwisata suatu negara atau daerah. Sapta mengungkapkan rute Jakarta Marathon 2013 akan melewati obyek-obyek wisata terkenal di Jakarta, antara lain Monumen Nasional (Monas), Masjid Istiqlal, Gereja Katedral, Kawasan Kota Tua dan Bundaran Hotel Indonesia (HI).

Launching Jakarta Marathon 2013 di Mall Kasablanka, Jakarta.

“Jakarta Marathon bisa menjadi kegiatan yang menyedot pengunjung dalam jumlah besar karena selain olahraga, kegiatan ini juga memadukan unsur pariwisata yang ada di Indonesia, khususnya Jakarta,” ujar Sapta.

Sapta mengklaim penyelenggaraan Jakarta Marathon 2013 bisa bersaing dengan kegiatan marathon di sejumlah negara lain seperti Chicago, dan Paris. Diharapkan marathon ini diikuti oleh peserta

Sumatera Selatan Gelar Promosi Pariwisata di Batam P juga akan ditampilkan beberapa seniman tari yang menarikan beberapa tarian khas Palembang selama dua hari penuh, produk kreatif Sumatera Selatan dan juga berbagai macam lomba digelar. Pemerintah menargetkan 250 juta perjalanan wisatawan nusantara di seluruh Indonesia sepanjang 2013. Ia mengatakan untuk mencapai target kementerian mendorong dengan mengadakan berbagai promosi pameran daerah di daerah lain. “Kegiatan ini merupakan, kegiatan rutin yang bertujuan untuk mempromosikan tentang tempat wisata dan potensi daerah di dalam negeri,” kata dia. Sementara itu, Kepala Dinas Pariwisata dan Kebudayaan (Disparbud) Kota Batam Yusfa Hendri mengatakan Pemerintah Kota Batam menyambut baik kegiatan-kegiatan promosi wisata yang bertujuan untuk mengembangkan pariwisata dalam negeri. “Selain itu, kami mengucapkan terima kasih dan memberikan apresiasi kepada Direktorat Pemasaran Pariwisata Dalam Negeri yang terus memberikan kesempatan kepada Kota Batam sebagai tuan rumah berbagai even baik yang berskala nasional maupun internasional. Hal ini tentu menjadikan kota Batam makin dikenal sebagai kota MICE,” kata Yusfa. Batam memiliki peranan cukup besar dari tahun ke tahun dalam menyumbang angka kunjungan wisman ke Indonesia. Apalagi, faktor geografis Batam yang memungkinkan

kota ini menjadi direct wisman ke kota-kota lainnya di Indonesia. Letak geografis Batam yang berdekatan dengan negara tetangga, seperti Singapura dan Malaysia sangat menguntungkan. Ada sekitar 31 juta wisatawan potensial yang bisa ditarik berkunjung ke Indonesia melalui Batam. Dikatakannya, setiap tahun rata-rata kunjungan wisman ke Batam tak kurang dari 1 juta orang, pada tahun 2012 jumlah kunjungan wisman tercatat 1,219 orang. Di tahun ini, Pemko Batam optimis bisa menaikkan realisasi kunjungan menjadi 1,25 juta melalui berbagai even, baik yang diselenggarakan oleh swasta maupun pemerintah. Kedekatan Batam dengan negera tetangga, lanjutnya, memberikan efek yang positif untuk daerah lainnya dalam meningkatkan jumlah kunjungan wisman. Karena telah didukung dengan trasportasi udara yang semakin mudah dan banyak ke sejumlah daerah di Indonesia dari Batam. (*)

photo by Tri Wibowo

rovinsi Sumatra Selatan mempromosikan kawasan wisata dan kerajinan khas Bumi Sriwijaya di Kota Batam, Provinsi Kepulauan Riau, dalam Pameran “Direct Promotion Palembang 2013″. “Palembang memiliki tujuan wisata yang bagus dan layak dikunjungi,” kata Kasubdit Promosi Wilayah I Direktorat Pemasaran Dalam Negeri Kemenparekraf, Raseno Arya saat membuka Direct Promotion Palembang 2013 di Mega Mall Batam Centre, Batam, Jumat (26/04/2013). Ia mengatakan Batam dipilih menjadi tempat promosi wisata Sumsel karena merupakan pintu masuk wisatawan mancanegara asal Singapura dan Batam. Pameran di Batam ini diharapkan dapat menarik perhatian wisatawan nusantara maupun juga mancanegara agar berkunjung ke Sumatera Selatan. “Dengan begitu, wisatawan yang ke Batam dapat tahu lokasi kunjungan wisata di Palembang dan bisa ke Palembang juga pada kesempatan lain. Disamping itu, Sumatera Selatan mempunyai even berskala Internasional yakni Musi Triboatton yang digelar pada bulan November nanti, kegiatan ini layak jadi tontonan menarik para wisatawan,” jelasnya berpromosi. Pada pameran tersebut juga ditawarkan langsung paket-paket wisata oleh travel agen, hotel, airlines hingga UKM yang ada di Sumatera Selatan. Dalam pameran yang berlangsung tiga hari (26-28 April 2013) ini,

Raseno Arya memberikan hadiah kepada pemenang kuis tentang Sumatera Selatan pada pengunjung.

GBWN 2013 Targetkan 30 Ribu Pengunjung

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ebyar Wisata dan Budaya Nusantara (GBWN) 2013 menargetkan jumlah pengunjung sebanyak 30.000 orang. Acara yang berlangsung pada 23-26 Mei 2013 itu diikuti oleh pengelola tempat wisata, hotel, biro perjalanan, dan dinas pariwisata seluruh Indonesia. “Pada tahun lalu GBWN dikunjungi 20.000 orang, dengan nilai transaksi hingga Rp17 miliar dari kerajinan tangan dan paket wisata. Kami harap pencapaiannya miminal sama dengan 2012,” kata Sukur Sakka, Presiden Direktur PT Wahyu Promo Citra dalam acara Technical Meeting dan Sosialisasi Gebyar Wisata & Budaya Nusantara 2013 di Gedung Sapta Pesona, Jakarta, Senin (29/4/2013). Sukur menjelaskan selain memamerkan potensi pariwisata daerah, juga digelar Indonesia Tourism Table Top sebagai sarana pertemuan penjual dan pembeli paket wisata. Dia menambahkan pada penyelenggaraan sebelumnya jumlah pengunjung umum dan pembeli masing-masing 60% dan 40% dari total keseluruhan. Hal ini karena target utama pameran ini adalah pencitraan dan

pengenalan terhadap pariwisata dan budaya Indonesia. Kesempatan sama, Dirjen Pemasaran Pariwisata Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Esthy Reko Astuti menjelaskan pameran ini bisa dimanfaatkan sebagai ajang pengelola wisata daerah untuk menyosialisasikan potensi yang dimiliki. “Mereka bisa menjual keindahan alam, budaya, serta ekonomi kreatif dalam bentuk berbagai kerajinan tangan. Terlebih penyelenggaraan nanti juga mengundang pelajar dari berbagai sekolah di Jabodetabek, sehingga bisa memberi nilai edukasi,” jelas Esthy. Efek positif lain, pameran ini bisa meningkatkan pergerakan wisatawan nusantara (wisnus). Selain pameran, even ini akan diisi talkshow tentang pariwisata unggulan dan pertunjukan seni budaya, seperti tarian daerah, peragaan busana pengantin, dan busana batik. “Kegiatan Pameran Gebyar Wisata dan Budaya Nusantara bertujuan untuk mendorong pemerintah daerah dan pariwisatanya agar lebih sering melakukan promosi,” tutur

Esthy. Berbeda dengan pameran wisata pada umumnya, GWBN dikhususkan menjual destinasi-destinasi wisata di Indonesia. Hal ini tak lain untuk memperkenalkan potensi wisata di berbagai wilayah Indonesia. “Meski begitu, seringkali pelaku pariwisata khawatir dan akhirnya lebih banyak menjual paket wisata luar negeri,” tambah Esthy. Sukur Sakka menjelaskan, wisatawan domestik tidak kalah banyaknya dengan wisatawan asing. Tahun lalu, wisatawan domestik yang hadir pada GWBN bisa menghasilkan Rp 17 miliar dalam penjualan. Tahun ini, diharapkan hasil penjualannya lebih banyak dari tahun sebelumnya. Sukur menuturkan kendala yang dihadapi saat ini adalah terkait dengan keterbatasan dana promosi. Hal ini membuat sosialisasi ke luar negeri hanya mengandalkan kerja sama dengan kedutaan besar negara terkait. Dia berharap penyelenggaraan mendatang bisa mengundang pembeli dari internasional, sehingga bisa mendongrak nilai transaksi dan memperluas promosi pariwisata Indonesia dalam cakupan daerah. (*)

Jakarta Marathon diprediksi mampu meningkatkan tingkat penghunian kamar hotel hingga di atas 70%. Asumsi ini bisa terealisasi dengan catatan jumlah peserta mencapai 10.000 orang. Ketua Perhimpunan Hotel dan Restoran Indonesia (PHRI) Wiryanti Sukamdani dalam kesempatan sama mengatakan biasanya peserta marathon datang beserta teman atau keluarganya. Jika mereka mengajak satu orang saja, maka total pendatang bisa mencapai 20.000 orang. “Okupansi hotel saat itu akan sangat bagus. Terlebih pada Oktober biasanya dipenuhi dengan kegiatan MICE (meeting, incentive, conference, exhibition). Saya pikir kontribusinya akan merata pada semua tingkatan bintang atau non bintang,” ujarnya. Lomba lari tingkat internasional dengan total hadiah Rp4 miliar ini, lanjutnya, diharapkan bisa mencitrakan Indonesia dan meningkatkan daya tarik Jakarta sebagai salah satu kota tujuan favorit wisata di Asia. Jakarta Marathon 2013 menawarkan lima kategori yang dapat diikuti oleh masyarakat dan para pelari profesional, yakni full marathon, halfmarathon, 10K, 5K dan children sprint. (*)

Kini Telah Hadir TV Khusus Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif

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ementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf) mendukung berdirinya kanal TV Indonesia Channel, sebuah televisi berlangganan dengan jaringan telkomvision yang khusus menayangkan pariwisata dan ekonomi kreatif di Indonesia. “Program-program Indonesia Channel secara kontinyu mempromosikan destinasi pariwisata dan ekonomi kreatif yang berkualitas, menarik, dan informatif mengenai Wonderful Indonesia,” kata Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Wamen Parekraf) Sapta Nirwandar dalam acara launching Indonesia Channel di Gedung Sapta Pesona, Jakarta, Selasa (7/5/2013). Indonesia Indonesia Channel merupakan kerjasama tiga pihak, yakni DNA Production, TelkomVision dan Kemenparekraf. Indonesia Channel merupakan program televisi yang akan menayangkan keragaman, keindahan, dan keluarbiasaan yang bisa dinikmati di Indonesia yang tampil dalam dua bahasa yakni bahasa Indonesia dan bahasa Inggris sehingga bisa diterima masyarakat di tanah air maupun masyarakat internasional. “Kami berharap upaya ini mampu meningkatkan jumlah kunjungan wisatawan mancanegara dan wisatawan nusantara, sekaligus meningkatkan pertumbuhan di bidang ekonomi kreatif,” kata Sapta. Indonesia Channel bertujuan menjadi wahana sosialisasi dan edukasi produk pariwisata dan industri kreatif, meningkatkan kesadaran minat wisatawan mancanegara untuk berkunjung ke Indonesia, sekaligus meningkatkan apresiasi terhadap produk ekonomi kreatif Indonesia. CEO Indonesia Channel Rina Novita pada kesempatan yang sama mengatakan Indonesia Channel akan menjadi satu-satunya televisi yang memulai sebuah “dedicated channel” untuk Indonesia. “Kita ingin membangkitkan rasa bangga masyarakat Indonesia bahwa kita ini tidak kalah dengan negara lain. Dan channel ini ingin memberikan kabar baik kepada masyarakat kita sendiri maupun mancanegara mengenai Indonesia,” kata Rina. Indonesia Channel telah tayang selama 8 jam di TelkomVision sejak 4 April 2013 pada pukul 12.00 sampai pukul 20.00 di 33 provinsi dan 497 kota. Program yang ditayangkan beragam mulai dari budaya, ekstrem kuliner, potensi pariwisata, kerajinan Indonesia, industri kreatif di berbagai bidang, hingga pertunjukan asli Indonesia. Sejumlah judul program yang ditayangkan di Indonesia Channel di antaranya Indonesia Magazine, Indonesia Architect Fashion and Design, serta Indonesia Nature. Direktur Sales & Marketing TelkomVision Gatot B. Haryono mengatakan perlu ada media yang dapat menjembatani kebutuhan setiap daerah dan pelaku industri pariwisata dan ekonomi kreatif untuk mempublikasikan keunggulan wilayah serta produknya sehingga mampu menarik minat wisatawan sekaligus turut menggerakkan roda perekonomian. “Indonesia Channel ini akan menjadi peluang untuk promosi dan pengembangan potensi alam, pariwisata, dan ekonomi kreatif Indonesia,” kata Gatot. (*)

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photo by Tri Wibowo

Lembata Gelar Rally Wisata Bahari

Peluncuran Rally Wisata Bahari Lembata 2013 di Gedung Sapta Pesona, Jakarta.

bisa masuk juga ke kalender nasional,” ungkap Bupati Lembata Eliaser Yentji Sunur saat acara peluncuran Rally Wisata Bahari Lembata 2013 di Gedung Sapta Pesona, Jakarta, Senin (6/5/2013). Kegiatan rally sendiri akan berlangsung selama 5 hari tepatnya pada tanggal 14-18 Agustus 2013. Ini pun dijadikan momentum untuk mem

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atik Air, maskapai baru dengan layanan penuh, ditargetkan dilengkapi jaringan Internet nirkabel atau Wi-Fi dan telepon dalam waktu dekat ini seiring induk usahanya, Lion Air, sudah berinvestasi US$9 juta untuk pemasangan jaringan di dalam pesawat. Direktur Umum Lion Air Edward Sirait mengatakan tak lama pesawat Batik Air bisa mengakses Internet wifi dan telepon. Namun untuk penerbangan perdana pada 3 Mei 2013 masih belum memungkinkan meski pihaknya sudah berinvestasi. “Kita sudah bekerjasama dengan PT Telkom, nanti Telkom yang mengurus perizinan Internet dan telepon di dalam pesawat. Izinnya dari Kementerian Perhubungan dan Kominfo. Izin inilah yang sedang kita tunggu-tunggu,” ujarnya. Dikatakan, untuk pemasangan alat pengakses WiFi dan telepon di dalam pesawat, pihaknya berinvestasi US$9 juta. Soal mekanisme penggunaan jaringan WiFi dan telepon di dalam pesawat, akan dibicarakan lebih lanjut dengan operator. “Soal bayarannya nanti kita bicarakan dengan operator. Bisa juga bentuknya beli pulsa di pesawat. Nanti teknisnya kita bicarakanlah. Yang jelas kita menerapkan harga bijak,” katanya. Sementara Direktur Utama Batik Air Achmad Luthfie mengatakan pihaknya ingin memberikan layanan prima kepada penumpang termasuk menyediakan akses Internet dan telepon di pesawat. “Diharapkan sudah bisa diakses pada tahun ini juga, tergantung proses perizinannya,” ungkapnya Lion Air Group, baru meluncurkan maskapai terbaru anak usahanya, Batik Air pada 25April 2013 seiring kedatangan pesawat pertamanya di Terminal 3 Bandara Soekarno-Hatta. Penerbangan perdana pada 3 Mei untuk rute Jakarta-Manado. (*)

promosikan potensi pariwisata Lembata sebagai salah satu destinasi wisata unggulan di NTT. Pesertanya datang dari wisatawan mancanegara sekaligus wisatawan domestik, juga lembaga Green Off Road dan masyarakat lokal pecinta bahari. Dalam acara rally tersebut, para peserta akan diajak mengunjungi obyek-obyek wisata menarik di antaranya Desa Dikesare untuk meli-

Pameran Koleksi Keramik di GWK P emerintah DKI kembali memperkenalkan keunikan dan kekayaan Indonesia yang selama ini tersimpan di bawah laut lewat pameran ‘Trading in the Lands below the Winds : Intan Shipwreck Cargo’ di Garuda Wisnu Kencana, Bali pada 1 – 5 Mei 2013 lalu. Inilah pameran Koleksi Keramik pertama yang diadakan di Bali dengan menggandeng Fine Arts and Ceramic Museum, Jakarta, demikian dijelaskan Tinia Budiati, Wakadis Pariwisata dan Kebudayaan Pemprov DKI Jakarta. “Kita tahu bahwa Negara kita adalah Negara maritime dan pada jaman dahulu memang menjadi salah satu daerah tujuan perdagangan di dunia ataupun sekadar lewat. Dalam perjalanan itu tidak semua kapal mencapai tujuan yang diharapkan. Ada begitu banyak kapal yang karam dan kemudian menjadi harta karun yang terpendam di dasar laut Indonesia. Nah, pameran kali ini adalah menampilkan sejumlah harta terpendam itu terutama keramik yang berhasil diambil dan diidentifikasi untuk diketahui dan dipelajari lebih jauh, papar Tinia. Barang-barang keramik yang dipamerkan ini meliputi ‘green ware, plates, bowls, jars, bottles, tea pots, white ware, qingbai

ware, tripods, mirrors, batu dan sejumlah barang lainnya yang sebagian besar berasal dari Cina. Pameran kali ini memang ingin memperkenalkan Museum Seni Rupa dan Keramik Indonesia sekaligus berbagai macam peninggalan yang ada di museum ini.

kurang lebih 2000 wisatawan ke GWK setiap harinya maka target memperkenalkan salah satu museum di Jakarta ini dengan berbagai koleksinya bakal tercapai. Peserta yang hadir dalam pameran tersebut sejumlah travel agen, para konsul dan berbagai undangan lainnya. ***

photo by spc

photo by spc

Batik Air Investasi US$9 Juta untuk WiFi dan Telepon di Pesawat

Bali dipilih sebagai tempat penyelenggaraan pameran ini bukanlah tanpa alasan menurut Tinia. Sebagai daerah tujuan wisata International, kita berharap agar wisatawan yang berkunjung ke Bali juga tahu bawa Indonesia juga pernah menjadi pusat perdagangan dibuktikan dengan berbagai macam peninggalan benda-benda bersejarah yang berhasil diambil dari dasar laut. Tinia juga berharap dengan kehadiran

Cooking Class Di Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas

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urut memeriahkan Sail Komodo 2013 bulan Agustus nanti yang akan menyinggahi Lembata, Kapubaten Lembata di Nusa Tenggara Timur menggelar Rally Wisata Bahari Lembata 2013. “Rally ini masuk dalam kalender tahunan pemerintah daerah Lembata. Rally Wisata Bahari Lembata ini untuk mendukung Sail Komodo 2013. Kami berharap rally ini

hat atraksi lomba mancing dan menangkap ikan dengan tangan. Lalu diajak ke Desa Beang melihat acara pacuan kuda. Sementara di Desa Lamalera untuk melihat tradisi menangkap ikan paus dan Desa Jontona untuk melihat 77 rumah adat. Keseruan berlanjut dengan mengunjungi Desa Lusilame untuk menikmati kesejukan pegunungan Lembata. Lalu, di Kota Lewoleba sebagai tempat acara puncak kegiatan rally. Puncak kegiatan di Lewoleba akan diisi dengan berbagai acara seperti penyambutan secara adat Lembata, karnaval budaya, serta jamuan makan malam. Eliaser menyebutkan pariwisata merupakan salah satu sektor inti perekonomian Lembata. Apalagi, Lembata memiliki tradisi menangkap ikan paus di Desa Lamalera yang terkenal di dunia. “Dengan kekayaan alam dan budaya Lembata. Juga branding pariwisata melalui tradisi penangkapan ikan paus di Lamalera. Tradisi yang hanya ada di Lembata,” kata Eliaser. Kesempatan sama, Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Sapta Nirwandar mengatakan potensi wisata di Lembata sangat banyak. Hanya saja sayangnya moda transportasi di daerah NTT masih belum maksimal. “Lembata itu punya keunggulan pariwisata yang unik, maka dari itu, harus dikenal dunia,” kata Sapta Nirwandar. Lebih lanjut Sapta mengungkapkan betapa kayanya atraksi wisata dan destinasi yang ditawarkan NTT. “Ada world heritage, Komodo, sebagai dinosaurus terakhir dunia. Pulau Komodo menjadi jurassic parknya Indonesia,” jelas Sapta. “Kemudian juga ada Danau Tiga Warna. Dulu pernah ada wisatawan Jepang minta pada saya bagaimana caranya danau tiga warna itu dipindahkan ke Jepang,” katanya. Tak cuma alam, ada pula wisata budaya di NTT. “Di Flores Timur ada Misa Agung. Kemudian menyeberang sedikit ke Lembata, ada tradisi berburu paus,” tutur Sapta. Belum lagi keindahan bawah laut NTT. Salah satu yang terkenal adalah Pulau Alor, dengan 90 titik diving. ”Tinggal aksesnya saja menuju NTT. Kita harapkan nantinya akan ada akses yang lebih baik untuk menjelajahi NTT,” tukas Sapta. (*)

Mr. Henry Alexie Bloem – Food & Beverage Director – Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas berpose bersama para peserta cooking class

atra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas sukses menyelenggarakan acara “ Cooking Class “ di Wantilan Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas yang dihadiri 20 peserta, dari Pengurus Daerah Bhayangkari Bali, pada Kamis, 3 April 2013 lalu. Cooking Class tersebut dipandu oleh FB Team Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas dengan mendemontrasikan beberapa variasi

menu antara lain : black forest cake, strawberry milleieule, black & white cookies dan almond jam cookies. Seluruh peserta menyambut positif dan antusias mengikuti acara tersebut. Acara tersebut diakhiri dengan pembagian sertifikat kepada seluruh peserta dan ditutup dengan makan siang bersama di Teratai Coffee Shop Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas.

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80% Masyarakat Indonesia Buka Internet Sebelum Berwisata

photo by spc

Kembangkan Kawasan Prambanan, Digelar Sayembara Desain Arsitektur

photo by Tri Wibowo

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Dirut PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur Prambanan dan Ratu Boko (PT TWCBPRB), Purnomo Siswoprasetjo (tengah) bersama Ketua Umum IAI, Munichy B. Edress (kiri) dan Ketua Panitia Sayembara, Ruben Tangido.

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andi Prambanan merupakan bangunan peninggalan sejarah yang menjadi obyek wisata favorit di Yogyakarta, demi lebih memberikan kenyamanan kepada pengunjung perlu penataan dan pengembangan yang terpadu kawasan tersebut. PT Taman Wisata Candi Borobudur, Prambanan dan Ratu Boko (PT TWCBPRB), akan melakukan pengembangan kawasan dengan melakukan pembangunan di zona III Prambanan. Zona III Prambanan yaitu zona di luar zona inti Candi Prambanan, yang seluas 70 hektar. “Pembangunan yang dilakukan diharapkan bisa memperkuat heritage Prambanan, baik itu kegiatan riset, edukasi maupun kenyamanan wisatawan,” ujar Direktur PT TWCBPRB, Purnomo Siswoprasetjo saat jumpa pers Sayembara Konsep Desain Pengembangan Zona III-V Kawasan Prambanan di Jakarta belum lama ini. Purnomo juga menjelaskan, di Prambanan bukan hanya satu candi saja yang menjadi daya tarik, tetapi masih banyak lagi candi-candi lain di sekitarnya yang belum dikunjungi. “Diharapkan pengunjung yang belum tersebar bisa ke tempat-tempat tersebut,” katanya.

“Kami ingin memaksimalkan wilayah di zona III kawasan Candi Prambanan di lahan seluas 3 hektar. Semoga bisa bermanfaat untuk khalayak ramai,” kata Purnomo. Nantinya, bangunan berupa hotel dan konvensi akan dibangun di Zona III kawasan Candi Prambanan. “Rencananya untuk penginapan, konvensi, museum juga,” ungkapnya. Meski berfungsi sebagai penginapan, menurut Purnomo, belum tentu bangunan tersebut akan menjadi sebuah hotel. “Jadi untuk misi bangunannya nanti, kantor dibuka untuk khalayak ramai, lebih diperluas. Bisa dimanfaatkan untuk heritage bahkan untuk generasi berikutnya,” jelas Purnomo. Untuk desain bangunan, pihak PT TWCBPRB bekerja sama dengan Ikatan Arsitek Indonesia (IAI) menggelar sayembara. “Ini pertama kali dilakukan. Dengan adanya sayembara diharapkan akan muncul konsep briliant atau bahkan model yang hebat,” ujar Ketua Umum IAI, Munichy B Edress. Kesempatan sama, Badan SayembaraIAI Nasional, Ruben Tangido menjelaskan pembangunan yang dimaksud, adalah pengalihfungsian Kantor Pusat PT TWCBPRB agar menjadi lebih mempunyai peran yang lebih penting. “Jadinya kita bukan memban-

gun di lahan kosong tapi kantor wisata yang dialihfungsikan. Nantinya pengembangan kantor ini akan jadi ikon di Prambanan,” papar Ruben. Candi Prambanan adalah situs sejarah yang sudah diakui UNESCO. Untuk itu, dalam sayembara ini sejumlah syarat diberikan kepada peserta agar cagar budaya tidak rusak. “Kita tetap mempertimbangkan cagar budaya. Jadi minta kepada peserta untuk menggunakan struktur non foot print,” jelas Ruben. Tak hanya itu, tinggi bangunan juga dibatasi tidak melebihi tinggi Candi Prambanan. Bangunan hanya dibatasi memiliki 2 lantai dengan tinggi maksimal 14 meter. “Luas lahan yang disediakan memang 3 hektar, tapi yang boleh dipakai untuk bangunan maksimal 60%,” ungkap Ruben. Sayembara sudah dibuka sejak sebulan lalu dan berakhir pada 22 Mei 2013 nanti. Peserta bisa mendaftar langsung di website resmi IAI (www.iai.or.id). Ruben berharap, sayembara bangunan ini bisa dijadikan ikon sejarah dalam jangka panjang. Lomba ini berhadiah total Rp200 juta. Pemenang pertama akan menggondol Rp125 juta, kedua Rp45 juta dan ketiga Rp30 juta. (*)

photo by spc

Pengajuan Rute Penerbangan Hanya Butuh Rp1 Juta

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irektur Angkutan Udara Direktorat Jenderal Perhubungan Udara Kementerian Perhubungan, Djoko Murjatmodjo menyatakan pengajuan rute baru penerbangan hanya membutuhkan biaya sebesar Rp1 juta. “Untuk disetor ke kas negara. Namun,

pengajuan rute tersebut tidak serta-merta disetujui Kementerian Perhubungan. Jika rute yang diajukan sudah padat dengan penerbangan yang ada, maka pemerintah tidak akan memberikan izin.”Kecuali kalau rute baru, belum ada siapa-siapa, kami berikan,” ujarnya.

Dikatakan, ada dua faktor yang berpengaruh pada pemberian izin rute. Pertama, rotasi pesawat. Kedua, jumlah pilot yang mencukupi. Meski biaya yang diperlukan untuk pengajuan rute relatif murah, maskapai lebih tertarik untuk mengambil alih rute-rute yang sudah ada. “Seperti Mandala Air yang mengoperasikan rute-rute Batavia Air sebagai contoh. Karena sudah bersedia menerbangkan eks penumpang Batavia Air dengan gratis, Kementerian Perhubungan akan memberikan rute-rute maskapai penerbangan yang diputus pailit pada akhir Januari silam itu secara gratis,” katanya. Ditambahkannya, akhir April nanti kami berikan rutenya Batavia Air ke Mandala, termasuk slotnya. Meski demikian, Kementerian Perhubungan tetap akan melakukan evaluasi terhadap kegiatan Mandala Air menerbangkan eks penumpang Batavia Air. Hasil evaluasi akan menentukan kelayakan Mandala Air mengoperasikan rute-rute Batavia Air. “Yang dievaluasi itu, Mandala sudah mengangkut berapa banyak penumpang eks Batavia, pesawat dan pilotnya cukup atau tidak,” ungkapnya. (*)

ebanyak 80% orang yang hendak berwisata ternyata gemar melakukan riset di Internet sebelum memutuskan untuk berwisata ke suatu tempat. Industry Head Google Indonesia Henky Prihatna mengatakan Google mencatat ada sekitar 2,5 juta search queries setiap bulan di Indonesia. Pihak Google juga mencatat ada sekitar 2 juta search queries berhubungan dengan travel. Sebanyak 27% pencarian itu dilakukan melalui perangkat mobile. “Pencarian mengenai maskapai penerbangan paling tinggi. Adapun untuk tujuan wisata domestik, Bandung, Bali, Surabaya, Bogor, Yogyakarta dan Malang adalah kota yang paling banyak dicari di Google. Sementara beberapa kota tujuan di luar negeri yang paling banyak dicari orang Indonesia adalah Singapura, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Macau, Paris dan Dubai,” ujarnya. Dikatakan, pertumbuhan pengguna Internet di Indonesia cukup pesat. Saat ini ada sekitar 63 juta dan diperkirakan tumbuh jadi 83 juta hingga tahun depan. Pada 2015 jumlahnya bisa mencapai 100 juta. “Beberapa hal tersebut merupakan temuan menarik yang dapat ditindaklanjuti oleh pebisnis travel yang menyediakan layanan online. Mereka harus terlibat dengan menyediakan berbagai kebutuhan wisatawan,” ungkapnya. (*)

Pekerja Pariwisata di Bali Desak Revisi Tarif Sertifikasi

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erikat pekerja pariwisata Bali mendesak pemerintah merevisi tarif serta menyiapkan seluruh infrastruktur sertifikasi profesi di bidang perhotelan dengan menyesuaikan kegiatan dan subpekerjaan. Putu Satyawira, Ketua Federasi Serikat Pekerja Pariwisata Bali, mengatakan selama ini tarif sertifikasi dipatok sama untuk seluruh profesi di bidang perhotelan sebesar Rp 350.000. Penerapan tarif itu ditujukan mulai waiters hingga jabatan struktural seperti manajer. “Tarif itu perlu direvisi mengingat kebutuhan dan beban saat ujian sertifikasi profesi. Tarif Rp 350.000 untuk sertifikasi itu untuk satu unit sertifikat. Padahal untuk jabatan waiter saja, harus mempunyai 12 unit sertifikat untuk bekerja di hotel. Adapun untuk jabatan struktural, seperti manajer, sertifikat bisa mencapai 60 unit,” ujarnya. Dikatakan, saat ini, penerapan tarif itu cenderung membebani pekerja yang bukan berada di manajerial. Seperti halnya waiters, tarif harus mampu ditekan mengingat peralatan untuk ujian bisa untuk bergantian. Namun untuk menguji chef atau di bidang cook, biaya Rp 350.000 memang relevan. “Desakan ini, paparnya, sudah diusulkan kepada Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif sejak 2012 lalu. Namun, hingga saat ini usulan masih belum ditanggapi secara serius. Untuk itu, serikat pekerja pariwisata Bali mengusulkan kepada pemerintah Bali untuk mendorong upaya ini agar pekerja pariwisata di Indonesia, secara khusus Bali, siap bersaing saat ASEAN Economic Community pada 2015 mendatang,” katanya. Ditambahkannya, konsepnya, lanjut Putu, jika belum bisa menekan tarif sertifikasi pemerintah bisa menganggarkan biaya sertifikasi untuk pekerja Bali. Biaya bisa diambilkan dari setoran pajak hotel dan restoran tempat mereka bekerja. Ada dua alasan mendasar mengapa Serikat Pekerja Pariwisata minta pemerintah menanggung biaya sertifikasi, yaitu pekerja pariwisata merupakan ujung tombak dalam menjaga kepariwisataan serta pelayanan yang diberikan, oleh pekerja pariwisata, mempengaruhi besarnya penerimaan pajak hotel dan restoran. “Untuk menghadapi era perdagangan bebas ASEAN 2015, pekerja pariwisata harus memiliki sertifikat kompetensi di bidangnya. Jika tidak, maka pekerja pariwisata dari Bali akan terdesak oleh para pekerja dari bangsabangsa di Asia Tenggara yang memiliki hal sertifikat kompetensi.Pada hitungan angka, lebih dari 8.000 pekerja pariwisata di Bali belum mempunyai mengantongi sertifikasi kerja. Pekerja itu diperkirakan lebih banyak bekerja di bidang pelayanan hotel dan restoran,” ungkapnya. (*/ant)

Vol. VII No. 11, 2012

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Championship. Mentawai Surfing. - Indonesia Tourism News. Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise Vol. VIII No

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