Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise Vol. VIII No. 1, Exoticism of. Matayangu Waterfall. Central Sumba

Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise

Exoticism of Matayangu Waterfall

Central Sumba

Vol. VIII No. 1, 2013

The Radiant Hotel & Spa Bali

www.theradianthotel.com

The Radiant www.thesriwedari.com

Villa’s & Function Hall

www.radiantvillas.com

Managed By I The Radiant Hotel Management

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Vol. VIII No. 1, 2013 www.ultimoparadiso.com Dewantoro Umbu Joka Tonny Wijadjanto [email protected]

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Igo Kleden [email protected]

Matayangu Waterfall – Central Sumba

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f you’re a true adventurer and want to enjoy tourist destination with new atmosphere, we’d like to invite you enjoying the beauty of Matayangu Waterfall located in the village of Waimany, Katikutana District, West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The waterfall is pristine and rarely explored by visitors. The people live surrounding the waterfall carefully maintain the nature so that it provides charming nature panorama. The water falls from the height looks like sparkling white pearl. The singing of birds and the sound of leaves blowing by the wind will absolutely make you feel comfortable and relaxed. Along the way to the waterfall you will be presented with the view of steep cliff. Matayangu is situated inside Manupeu National Park. If fortunate enough, you can see wide variety of beautiful butterflies. There are 57 species of butterflies in this park including seven endemics of Sumba Island, namely Papilio Neumoegenii, Ideopsis Oberthurii, Delias Fasciata, Junonia Adulatrix,Athyma Karita, Sumalia Chilo, and Elimnia Amoena. In addition to the waterfall, in this park visitors can also walk around the park, which covers the area of 88,000 hectares. You might be able to see the entire beauty of the national park and the waterfall in only one day. The best time suggested to visit the national park is in March – June or October – December. In those months, the waterfall has the maximal debit of water. To reach the park, you can choose the route commonly used by tourists. The trip is begun by plane from Kupang to Waingapu, which takes around one hour. After that, the trip is continued by land transport from Waingapu to Waikabubak for about two hours. Another alternative route is from Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali to airport in Waingapu or Tambolaka in Southwest Sumba. Once you arrived there, you can find land transport to Matayangu Waterfall. Hospitality and warmness of the local people and the natural beauty are things that cannot be resisted. What are you waiting for? Plan your holiday in 2013 to visit Sumba Island.

REPORTER Tri Wibowo [email protected] ADVERTISING & Ben Sisko MARKETING DIRECTOR [email protected] MARKETING GRAPHIc DESIGNER

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]

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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focus

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my indonesia

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bali

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lembata

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bali

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island explorer

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nusantara

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]

photo by igo

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.

Kataga Dance

photo by tourism office of central sumba

BOARD of DIRECTOR

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photo by igo

Vol. VIII No. 1, 2013 Vol. VIII No. 1, 2013

About Sumba Island a seemingly barren land. Unbelievable, the most well known cultural event in Indonesia, the Pasola is still performed today in West Sumba by hundreds of spear throwing combatants charging at their opponents through an open field, a truly unbelievable spectacle. According to tradition, the Pasola must be proceeded by the catching of the Nyale (sea worms) which occurs in February in Kodi & Lamboya and March in Wanukaka. The exact time is 6 days before the full moon. Take the time and make the effort to get to one of these actions packed events, it will be the highlight of your trip. Ikat weavings in Sumba play a vital role for the women of Sumba. They are exchanged at important ceremonies to show one’s social status and the most exquisite cloth are placed at the gravesite for use in the after-world. The west and east regions of Sumba are different in design and color. The eastern ikats bear motifs of bold, bright designs of people, animals and animistic totems while those of the west are more abstract. Taking up to two years to produce, a full sized Sumba cloth is highly prized both within the community and as mementos for visitors. After you have soaked in all the culture, seen the Pasola action and purchased your Ikats, why not relax in one of the two rustic beach side bungalow resorts in Sumba. They are located right on the beach and offer surfing, game fishing, snorkeling and bird-watching. The beaches

photo by igo

The island of cultures, rituals, huge megalithic graves, pasola and beautiful ikats This is an island located south east from Bali and only need a short hop to get to Sumba. Known as Sandalwood island for centuries and most visitors said this island is clothed by mystery, this is the island where in total, more hours in sunshine than any other place in Indonesia. Here is village life, complete with time enduring burial ritual, strict social structures completed with unique architectural style can be seen at Sumbanese houses and even funeral are survived through the ages. If you want to see very traditional culture which unaffected by western influences, then trip to Sumba will become an answer. You can see Traditional houses, life style, wedding ceremony, burial ritual, farming real minimum tillage, Rice paddy fields, best cotton fields, etc. The Island itself appears as a barren and inhospitable place on first appearance, but it is blessed with rocky highlands giving breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline where near deserted white sandy beaches stretch on to the horizon. The warmth and hospitality of Sumba can be found in the people of Sumba with their incredibly rich culture, their unique architecture and their primitive but orderly way of life. Take a journey back in time and marvel at a people who can produce exquisite ikat weavings, monumental monolithic burial sites and spectacular houses from such

are near deserted so it is easy to feel like Robinson Crusoe as you wander down the near endless stretches of pure white sand - then you understand why we say that Sumba is the destination of contrasts or with the other word Sumba is the island clothed by Mystery.

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Indonesia to Participate in Prestigious Art Exhibition in Venice, Italy

Sapta Nirwandar

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Government Supports “Convention Bureau” Establishment

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he Government through the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy expressed readiness to support the formation of a “convention bureau” in each province that will support the development of Meeting Incentives Conference and Exhibition (MICE) sector in every region in Indonesia. Esthy Reko Astuti, Director General of Tourism Marketing Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy said to be ready to support and sincerely hope the big role of private party here. The establishment of “convention bureau” should be supported to coordinate the implementation of events in the area as well as to attract more events in these areas. “Convention bureau can also function in terms of coaching to develop the MICE sector in each region,” said Esthy in Jakarta, Thursday (27/12) night. So far the “convention bureau” is only available in several major cities in Indonesia such as Jakarta and Bali. According to her, it was time to every province in Indonesia to have a “convention bureau” that can coordinate events in the area. The ministry sees Indonesia’s significant potential to become a MICE tourist destination. Esthy also explained that MICE tourism is effective to boost the number of tourists as well as improving the quality of tourist because generally they will stay longer with a greater spending value. This year Indonesia will host the APEC Summit and a number of international events such as Miss World, which has the potential to bring in tourists in large numbers and raised the promotion of Indonesia. Esthy considered that it will have a profound effect on the contribution of foreign tourists to reach the target of 9 million foreign tourists in 2013. The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy has made the MICE tourism as one of the seven special interest tourism that will become the focus of development. (*)

Art exhibitions Venice Biennale, Italy

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une to November 2013, the works of contemporary art from Indonesia will be displayed at the Venice Biennale, Italy. In addition to promoting the quality of creative industries, the exhibition is also a way of introducing Indonesia to foreign tourists. Venice Biennale is the oldest and most prestigious contemporary art exhibition in the world. The exhibition is held once in two years, this exhibition will be held in Venice, Italy. “This is most influential and the most visited exhibition of contemporary arts in the world,” said Restu Imansari, Independent Producer of Bumi Purnati during a press conference at Sapta Pesona Building, Jakarta recently. This is the third time Indonesia participated in the world’s largest art exhibition and is supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. Previously, Indonesia has participated in the Venice Biennale in 2003 and 2005. Sapta Nirwandar, Deputy Minister of Culture and Tourism, said the international event held for the 55th time in Venice, Italy is important for the promotion of Indonesia. The art exhibition will be attended by 100 countries and lasted for 6 months. This event will be covered by 5,000 journalists. “This event is great for imaging of Indonesia and will definitely have an impact on tour-

ism in Indonesia. It also lasts for six months from June to November 2013. We expect the visitors to be interested in seeing artworks from Indonesia, especially those who love the arts, “said Sapta. Indonesia’s participation in the Venice Biennale, according to Sapta, is a long-term investment. It is planned that five contemporary artists from Indonesia will participate in this exhibition. They are Albert Yonathan Setyawan, Eko Nugroho, Entang Wiharso, Sri Astari, and Titarubi. The five artists will feature art ranging from paintings to sculptures. These artists will take the theme of “Sakti” that takes the concept of the cultural heritage values of Indonesia. Indonesian curator, Rifky Effendi, in the same occasion said the concept of Sakti means the way of Indonesia to show the world about the importance of diversity. Later, the Indonesian Pavilion will be located in the Arsenale which is one of the major venues of the event. Indonesia is going to occupy the largest pavilion, which is as large as 500 m2. “In the previous year, we didn’t get the location in Arsenale, this year we finally get it and we’re proud of it. This is the first time Southeast Asian country to rend a venue as big as this one, “said Restu. Sapta said the government continues to

encourage the works of Indonesian artists worldwide, for Indonesia’s participation in the event ‘55th International artists Art Exhibition of the Venice Biennale ‘will be supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy by allocating a budget as much as Rp 2.5 billion. “The presence of Indonesian pavilion and the artists has marked that Indonesian art is ready to be a player on the world stage,” he said. Financial support, said Sapta, is not considered as expenditure, but an investment because it is almost certainly will have an impact on Indonesia as well as benefits such as news, imaging value and promotional value of the activity. Restu Imansari added that the positioning of Indonesia as the subject of world art practice can be seen when Bumi Purnati Artistic Council decided the concept of Sakti as the theme for Indonesian pavilion. The concept of Sakti is the values derived from the cultural heritage of Indonesia, and it is in line with the concept of the exhibition II Palazzo Encyclopedico / The Encyclopedic Palace announced by Venice Biennale Curator Massimiliano Gioni on October 25, 2012. The concept of Sakti is also an offer from Indonesia to the world about the importance of diversity. (*)

It’s Areas Outside Bali’s Turn to Promote Tourism in the U.S.

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inistry of Tourism and Creative Economy is currently focusing on the areas outside Bali to promote tourism abroad, including to the United States (U.S.) Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Elka Pangestu in Pasadena, California, USA said that the government really want to raise other areas to talk much about Indonesia, not only Bali. There is no doubt that Bali is already well-known worldwide, even in the US. “Especially after last year’s flower tournament in Pasadena where Indonesia featuring Bali’s cultural and natural resources. We want the world to know the wealth of natural and cultural richness and creativity of other areas from Indonesia, “said Mari. She said, therefore, that, in the flower tournament that is directly watched by one million people and 450 million television viewers in the world, the government is showing cultural potentials of other areas in Indonesia, which is Central Java. Batik and wayang are displayed because they have become cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO. “In addition, Indonesia completed its performance in the flower tournament with 11 dancers dressed in contemporary Solo Batik Carnival, thus attracting the audience in Pasadena. Even during the two-day appearance post-parade floats, many people still asked to take pictures with the dancers, in addition to taking the pictures of the puppets with their cameras, “she said.

While the Head of Promotional Sub-directorate for the US and the Pacific Region Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Vincent Jemadu, said the ministry’s policy today is to develop the promotion of tourism beyond Bali. “There are many areas to be promoted in our country. We started with the puppets and

photo by spc

eputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Wamen Parekraf), Nirwandar said, only a few, even no investors or entrepreneurs who dare to build a hotel overlooking the river or the concept of “river view” in Indonesia. “In some cities in Indonesia there aren’t entrepreneurs who dared to build a hotel overlooking the river yet, including in Palembang, a city that has great rivers,” said deputy minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sapta Nirwandar. Sapta is aware of the condition of rivers in Indonesia that are mostly are not maintained well and many of them even turn out to be landfills and dirt. That fact, he said, it is one factor that makes investors reluctant to build a hotel using the concept of “river view” in Indonesia. “I’ve been to South Kalimantan via land transportation, I insisted to go through the river. And what I found was a view that commonly related to the ‘back of the house’ business, “he said. In fact, according to him, the river in any country in the world is the center of civilization. He pointed out, in England, the River Thames, presents a typical view of the country’s centers of civilization such as London Bridge and the old buildings that are well maintained. “River Seine in France presents beautiful view as well as Rein River in Germany that is already navigable up to Budapest, “he said. Indonesia also has many rivers with huge potential to be developed as a tourist attraction. He realized that it needs a lot of hard work to develop the rivers in Indonesia as an attractive tourist destination but it is not impossible and should be started as soon as possible. Sapta pointed out that there is a village in China where one of the world leaders Lee Kwan Yew was born, which has a river, which has black water. “Because there is a strong determination of the government and the people, the river was revitalized and now the water had started to become brown and a jogging track is built on the edge,” he said. According to him, the most important thing for Indonesia is currently building a willingness to begin to make the river as an important tourism asset, which then able to increase the welfare of the surrounding community. (*)

photo by spc

photo by spc

Only Few Investors to Build Hotel Overlooking the River

Tournament of Roses in Pasadena, USA

gamelan as a key message to the world, particularly in the U.S., that we have many other cultures outside Bali. At the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena beginning in January 2013, Indonesia received the “President’s Trophy” as the use of non-commercial floats that used the most effective flowers in its appearance, “he said. (* / Ant)

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rovincial government of Central Java has set up at least 150 tourism events ready to be held this year to succeed the program of Visit Central Java Year 2013. Head of Regional Tourism Promotion Board (BPPD) Central Java Andhi Irawan said the presence of tourism event is very important to attract tourists to visit Central Java. “Relying solely on the existence of tourist attraction is not maximal to attract the number of tourist visit as targeted for the program Visit Central Java Year 2013, which is as many as 25 million domestic tourists and 500 thousand foreign tourists,” he said.

He further said that there are about 150 events ready to be held in Central Java consisting of different categories, ranging from cultural, sports, arts, culinary, and shopping. With the presence of various events tourists will have more choices during the holidays. They will not just visit tourist attractions, but there are also activities that can be done here. “The effect is in addition to increasing their length of stay in the province, the amount of money circulating in the community will also be increasing, the multiplier effects can be felt by the community,” he said. Meanwhile, Head of Marketing Division

Aston to Bring Quest Hotel to Solo many other recreational facilities such as swimming pools equipped with pool bar, spa and fitness center are also available. Solo, which is now known as Surakarta, is one of Java’s historic areas, located 60 km to the northeast of Yogyakarta so that it has some same popular tourist spots, such as Borobudur. Surakarta is also known for its Javanese palace (Keraton Jawa) with its very fine art and high value Javanese culture, including Batik that has been known worldwide. Norbert Vas, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Aston International said Solo is the right market for Quest Hotel as it offers something different and provide a pleasant experience for middle-class hotel market. “One of our Quest Hotel in Central Java is

Quest Hotel Semarang and today it is one of the popular hotel with room occupancy rate reached more than 90%, therefore we are sure that the Quest Hotel Solo will be received very well too later, “said Norbert. (*)

photo by tri wibowo

Esthy Reko Astuti

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irector General Tourism Marketing Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Esthy Reko Astuti, said the

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inistry of Tourism and Creative Economy confers Visit Indonesia Year Award 2012 to a number of stakeholders in tourism and creative economy in Indonesia. “We need the support of all parties to achieve the target of 9 million foreign tourists in 2013,” said Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sapta Nirwandar in the event of Visit Indonesia Year 2012 at the Grand Sahid Jaya Hotel, Jakarta last year. On that occasion, the ministry gave an award of Tourism Visit Year Award 2012 to the PT Panorama Tour and Travel (Travel Agents), Shangri La Hotel (Hospitality), and PT Garuda Indonesia (Airlines). Similar awards are also granted to the perpetrators of the creative economy Kasim Ghazali, Dwiki Darmawan and the Sawahlunto city government, and the lifetime achievement award given to Joop Ave, former Minister of Tourism, Post and Telecommunications. “This award is dedicated to the tourism and creative economy players in Indonesia, which have contributed greatly to the tourism and creative economy of Indonesia,” he said. He considered these people have contributed significantly to the achievement of the target of 8 million foreign tourists to Indonesia and 245 million domestic tourists who travel in the country in 2012. He said he is optimistic target of 8 million tourists and 245 million domestic tourists travel throughout Indonesia during 2012. He considered the national tourism to be very promising. Indonesia is projected to reach 20 million foreign tourist visits in 2024 with foreign exchange earnings reached US$ 20 billion. “To get there we need to go through stages by setting up significant growth target and one of them by setting up the target of 9 million foreign tourist visits in 2013,” he said. In 2013, Sapta considered the need to improve service, product differentiation, to the development of destinations and products featured in each destination Beyond Bali. Sapta invite all parties to jointly develop and promote tourism destinations in Indonesia. (*)

Mount Rinjani and Lake Toba are Registered as Geopark

9 Million Tourist Arrivals: A Realistic Target target of Indonesia to get nine million foreign tourists during 2013 is very realistic. “I am very optimistic that we can reach this target,” said Eshty Reko Astuti in Jakarta recently. According to her the target setting has taken into account various factors including the global economic slowdown that is predicted to still occur in 2013. The target setting also considers domestic economic growth as well as the potential increase in per capita income and purchasing power of people, especially in the Asia Pacific region. “Especially next year, Indonesia will host a variety of world-class events including a series of APEC meetings,” she said. Esthy is sure that the contribution of the MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conference, and Exhibition) will be greater when Indonesia hosts a variety of world-class events. Moreover, the target of nine million foreign tourists will also be a stepping stone for Indonesia to achieve the new target of 10 million tourists visiting in 2014. Next year, the ministry is targeting to attract more tourists from the main target markets including Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, China, Japan, and South Korea. “There are 16 countries that become our target market next year, in those countries

Sapta Nirwandar (left), Joop Ave and Adhi Tirtawisata

photo by tri wibowo

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ston International continues developing its 3- star brand Quest Hotel by laying the first stone of the new Quest Hotel Solo recently in cooperation with PT. Kaloka Land Hotel & Resort. Quest Hotel Solo is an affordable 3 star hotel that has been designed to meet the increasing number of domestic tourist visit as well as younger travelers who are more concerned with style and technology. The hotel will be equipped with 180 spacious rooms, sophisticated conference center with several meeting rooms and one of the largest ballrooms in the Solo area. Additionally, the new Quest Hotel will also be equipped with an eclectic lobby lounge that will be a very interesting meeting place in Solo, indoor and outdoor restaurants and

photo by tri wibowo

Bureau of Culture and Tourism Central Java Province Trenggono said that the number of events that have been collected and registered in bureau is about 150 events. This figure does not show all the potential activities in Central Java. The anniversary of regencies or cities in the province has not been included yet. “A number of events that have been prepared include Sekaten in Solo, Vesak at Borobudur, Solo Batik Carnival, Semarang Night Carnival, Soropadan Agro Expo in Temanggung, International Batik Week in Pekalongan, Borobudur International Festival, Dragon Boat Festival in Cilacap, and many more . In addition, various activities related to Meeting Incentive Convention and Exhibition (MICE) of a number of ministries are also encouraged to be held in Central Java, “he said. He added that we are also working to make Indonesia Film Festival 2013 to be held in Central Java, and currently has received a green light from the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. BPPD is optimistic that with hundreds of events will be held, Visit Central Java Year 2013 that is targeted to attract as many as 25 million domestic tourists and and 500 thousand foreign tourists, will achieved well. “Visit Central Java Year 2013 is a celebration with all the citizens of the province, as the momentum of cultural renaissance and tourism in Central Java. Therefore, it is expected that all community members, district / city stakeholders and anyone involved succeeding this program,” he explained. According to Trenggono, one thing that can be started now is increasing the tourism awareness and being a good host for the tourists so that they are willing to come back to Central Java in the following years. (*)

we will perform a variety of priority events that can bring tourists from those countries to Indonesia,” she said. The target is to attract 1.75 million tourists from Singapore, 1.4 million from Malaysia, 1.220 million tourists from Australia, one million Chinese tourists, 505 thousand from Japan and 360 thousand tourists from South Korea. other countries that are also targeted as target market are the Philippines, Taiwan, the United States, Britain, France, India, Netherlands, Middle East, Germany, and Russia. To be able to reach the target, the ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is aware of the need for synchronization attempt from stakeholders of tourism industry in the country. “Foreign tourist target is also directed at specific demographic segments with respect to aspects or motive as well as today’s specific interests,” she said. Target of foreign tourists visit in the last three years has increased significantly in 2011, where the target set was 7 million tourists and successfully achieved, in 2012, it was set up to eight million tourists, and in 2013 established nine million tourists, and is planned to reach 10 million tourists in 2014. (*)

photo by spc

photo by spc

150 Events Held In Visit Central Java Year 2013

Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy to Confer Visit Indonesia Year Award 2012

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n November 2012, the tourist area of Lake Batur Caldera officially becomes a geopark. To attract more tourists coming to Indonesia, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will propose Mount Sewu, Mount Rinjani and Lake Toba as geopark in 2013. Special interest tourism, especially nature tourism is growing. Many tourists come to see the natural beauty of Indonesia. To further introduce the beauty of nature, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy is planning to add geopark. This is certainly good news. “This year we’ve managed to make Batur as a Geopark, and next year we’re planning to add three more,” said Director General of Tourism Destination Development, Firmansyah Rahim. The three natural attractions that will be prepared as a geopark is mount Sewu in Pacitan, East Java, Mount Rinjani in Lombok and Lake Toba in North Sumatra. “For next year, we are already in the preparation phase, hopefully Mount Sewu, Rinjani and Toba will be approved by UNESCO,” said Director of Development Special Interest Tourism, Conventions, Incentives and Events, Achyaruddin on the same occasion. Previously, Batur Caldera Geopark was officially inaugurated on 17 November 2012 in Bangli, Bali. Geopark is one of the sustainable development concepts on tourism basis. “This is one of the eco-tourism developments,” said Achyaruddin. Through the geopark, it is expected that more and more tourists come. By doing so, it is expected that there is an increase in the local economy through the use of this tourism. (*)

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2013, Special Interest Tourism Continues Developed One of them is by developing tourist village with a target of 963 villages in 2013. “We also hope to build a network among the villages in order to inspire each other so that rural tourism is growing,” he added. In the sector of tourism destination development, after Mount Batur entered into a UNESCO heritage, in the future there will be some other areas that are registered to the UNESCO. “Later we will propose some tourist destinations to UNESCO, in hopes that the area can be a heritage city,” said Achyaruddin.

“To be able to be a strong destination, Riau needs a tourism icon. God gave Bono, that’s what we will develop, “said Achyaruddin. Bono’s wave in Riau is a wave that occurred in Kampar River. Its height can reach 6 meters and many surfers come to try the uniqueness of the waves. “Bono in Kampar River is the best because it is more beautiful than those in Brazil and China,” explained Achyaruddin. The surfers, continued Achyar, can surf up to 1.5-2 hours. You also should try to conquer the waves. “We make a master plan. We want to make Bono an agent for people to come to Riau, “added Achyar. Therefore some ways have been done by Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy to support the plan such as making a movie about Bono, and designing some of the activities that can be

Achyaruddin

mbon city will certainly be a point of transit for Sail Komodo 2013 event which will be held on September 2013. Ambon has been chosen as a transit point because of the readiness of the region to welcome tourists as well as due to the presence of Ambon in the sail history in Indonesia. Achyaruddin, Director of Tourism Development of special interest, Conventions, Incentives and the event said that the selection of Ambon as one of the stopover destinations of Sail Komodo 2013 is due to the preparation of the local government as well as destinations in Ambon that are ready to welcome tourists. After completing the main route Darwin - Kupang, the participants are given the option to stop in several areas in Indonesia, including Ambon. “The presence of Ambon is the history of the presence of sail in Indonesia, we need to know the history of Sail Indonesia began with the route of Darwin - Ambon Yacth Race, which was first held in 2004,” said Achyaruddin. Achyaruddin continued that we must appreciate the historical owners of sail in Indonesia and Ambon is part of the history, if there are those who said that Ambon was crossed out from stopover point of Sail Komodo 2013, it is not true. The opening of Sail Komodo is planned to be held in Jakarta in May and continued in Kupang in July 2013 to coincide with the arrival of Sail Komodo participants from various countries around the world. Head of Local Culture and Tourism Bureau Abraham Klakik separately explained that the participants of Sail Komodo who arrived in Kupang will be divided into two routes through all the districts in the province. “The participants will meet in Labuan Bajo in September and conduct the closing ceremony as well as releasing the participants who will move on to other areas in Indonesia,” said Abraham Klakik. According to Abraham, Sail Komodo aims to introduce prospective tourists, both foreign and domestic, to strengthen the promotion of Sail Komodo through the stopover point, and to make NTT as the entrance for sailboat and cruise ships from Asia Pacific and Australia. Moreover, to motivate people to make the tourism sector as a source of income and are expected to be a permanent event and make NTT as a leading tourist destination. (*)

Firmansyah Rahim (left), Achyaruddin and Henky Hermantoro at year-end press conference

Tiger Airways and Mandala to Launch Tigerconnect

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iger Airways partner airline Mandala Airlines launches freeway service for a transit, which is called Tigerconnect. This service is collaboration with Changi Airport Group (CAG). According to the Managing Director of Tiger Airways Singapore, Ho Yuen Sang, with Tigerconnect, From 1 February 2013, Tiger Airways and partner airline’ passengers do not need a travel visa to enter Singapore, immigration clearance, and retrieve and check in their luggage for transfers to onward flights at Singapore Changi Airport. “Passengers no longer need to do the second baggage check-in for the next flight. They just need to collect their onward travel boarding passes at the transfer desk in the Singapore Changi Airport transit area on arrival and proceed to board the second leg of their flight. Passengers can use the time to get around the airport without having to carry luggage, “said Ho Yuen Sang in the Tigerconnect launch press conference at Le Meridien, Jakarta, Wednesday (09/01/2013). While Mandala Airlines Commercial Director, Brata Rafly said Tigerconnect program is launched to all countries with Tiger Airways’

network, which includes Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, and Australia. “Tiger Airways is a low cost carrier (LCC) in Singapore. The airline that was founded in 2004 currently operates 30 Airbus A320, “he said. Paul Rombeek, President Director of Mandala Airlines, added that Tigerconnect will add convenience for Indonesian tourists, most of whom make a transit at Singapore’s Changi Airport before flying to their intended destinations such as Australia, China and India. “We see a lot of potential in the tourist group and will continue to look for ways to provide better flight experience for our passengers,” said Paul. Tigerconnect is available across the Tiger Airways network which consists of more than 50 destinations; including partner airlines, Mandala Airlines and SEAir, as well as the joint-Itineraries are offered through Scoot. An airport transfer service will also be included in all tigerconnect service that transit at Changi Airport Singapore. Passengers in transit for more than eight hours can choose to leave the airport and spend their time in Singapore with friends and family or spending time at Changi Airport.

In launching tigerconnect, Tiger Airways offers discounted tickets with up to 50% on certain routes. Period of flying for promotional rates vary depending on the route. Rates do not include taxes and other fees. Booking period for this promotion is effective on 10 January to 16 January 2013. Mandala Airlines is back in operation in April 2012. The company’s main shareholder is the Saratoga Group and Tiger Airways. The airline started its services with the inaugural flight from Jakarta to Medan on 5 April 2012. (*)

photo by tri wibowo

photo by tri wibowo

waves as high as 6 meters, come in the period from August to December. “In January to July, the wave is only 2 meter-high,” said Achyaruddin. (*)

Bono to become Riau’s tourism icon

Ambon to become transit point of Sail Komodo 2013

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done in Kampar River. “There are some activities that can be done such as river kayaking, river boating, rafting, and many more,” said Achyar. For surfers who want to conquer the Bono

photo by tri wibowo

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n late 2012, the Directorate General of Tourism Destination Development explained the tourism development plan in 2013. In the presentation mentioned some plans to develop a National Tourism Strategic Areas (KSPN) that are located in 16 locations throughout Indonesia. In 2013, the biggest plan that will be carried out in 16 areas is designing KSPN so that it can be integrated and synergistic with the spatial plan. Not only that, special interest tourism will be increasingly developed. Seven types of special interest tourism consist of cultural and historical tourism, nature tourism and ecotourism, recreational sports tourism, cruise tourism, culinary tourism and shopping, health and fitness, as well as MICE tourism. One sector of special interest tourism that will continue be developed is shopping tourism that is now increasingly popular and culinary tourism, which are marked by the passing of 30 kinds of culinary Indonesia as culinary icon. “We will also foster Indonesian economic development in Bali-Nusa Tenggara. We will encourage private investment into this area. Access, public infrastructure and tourism will continue to be developed, “said Firmansyah Rahim, Director General of Tourism Destination Development in the” Year-End Meeting Directorate General of Tourism Destination Development in Jakarta recently. In addition, creating a tourism business standard is also considered to be important along with the growth of tourism world in Indonesia.

Year-end Festive Program to Boost Achievement of 8 Million Tourists

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ear-end Festive program as an effort to optimize the marketing of tourism in the last three months (October, November, and December) of 2012 led to greater tourist arrivals to Indonesia. Cumulatively from January to November 2012, foreign tourist arrival to Indonesia reached 7,277,496 people or grew 5.09% compared to the same period last year amounted to 6,925,192 foreign tourists. This achievement is increasingly convinced that the target of 8 million foreign tourists in 2012 will be achieved. Year-end Festive program focusing on six countries namely Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, China, Japan, and Korea began to show the effect that can be seen from the rising number of foreign tourists in October 2012 amounted to 688 341 tourists or grew 4.93% compared to October 2011 amounted to 656 006 tourists . The increase of foreign tourists visit was happened again in November 2012, which amounted to 693 867 tourists or grew 5.94% compared to November 2011 amounted to 654 948 tourists. Increased foreign tourists visit significantly was predicted to occur in December 2012, which coincided with the end of year holiday season or high season that have impact on the achievement of targets 8 million tourists. Deputy Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sapta Nirwandar at the awarding of the Indonesia Visit Year 2012 in Jakarta last week asserted that if the target of 8 mil-

lion foreign tourists is exceeded, it would be a new record in the Indonesian tourism. The 8 million foreign tourists visit will contribute revenue from tourism sector as much as U.S. $ 9 billion. The old record in 2011 with 7.6 million foreign tourist visits contributed foreign exchange earnings as much as U.S. $ 8.5 billion. “Regarding the number of foreign tourists visit during the year 2012 will be formally presented by the Head of the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS) next month,” said Secretary General Ministry of Tourism and Culture Ukus Kuswara in a press release on Thursday (03/01/2013) on statistics on foreign tourists visit in November 2012. BPS Data and Media Centre Ministry of Tourism and Culture mentioned that foreign tourists visit by nationality in November 2012 compared to November 2011, which experienced the highest growth is China by 23%, Malaysia (22.17%), Japan (18.87%), Hong Kong (14.05% ) and the UK (12.30%), while the cumulative foreign tourists from January to November 2012 compared to the same period in 2011, which experienced the highest growth of 30.05% is Egypt, China (25.81%), Thailand (11.66 %), UAE (10.55%) and the Philippines (10.30%). Meanwhile, the growth of foreign tourists in the three main entrances in November 2012 compared to November 2011, i.e.: Ngurah Rai rose 7.96%, Soekarno-Hatta rose 8.12%, and 1.47% increase in Batam. Cumulatively, the growth of foreign tourists in the three main

entrances in January to November 2012 compared to January to November 2011, i.e.: Ngurah Rai rose 3.83%, Soekarno-Hatta rose 6.00%, and Batam increased 4.93%.

Room Occupancy Rate (TPK) Hotels Secretary General Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy Ukus Kuswara added, increasing the visits of foreign tourists and high movement of domestic tourist the year 2012 was targeted to 245 million, up 6 million compared to the year 2011 amounted to 239 million, bringing positive impact on the tourism industry, especially with the growing hospitality Room Occupancy Rate (TPK) of the hotels. BPS Data and Media Centre reveal that the average TPK of star-hotels in the 20 provinces in Indonesia in November 2012 amounted to 55.28% or an increase of 2.31 points compared to November of 2011 at 52.97%. By province, the highest TPK’s increase occurred in Central Sulawesi by 12.46 points, 9.25 points in Jambi, and Lampung by 8.59 points. Cumulatively, the average TPK of star-hotel in 20 provinces from January to November 2012 amounted to 52.82% or an increase of 0.25 points over the same period of 2011 at 52.57%. By province, the highest increase in TPK occurred in West Kalimantan by 9.10 points, 6.71 points in Central Java, and Lampung 4.54 points. (*)

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US$ 9.07 Billion of Revenue Contributed by Tourism Sector

photo by tri wibowo

Mari Pangestu said, according to the National Tourism Satellite balance in 2011, direct contribution of the tourism sector to the national GDP reached 4% or Rp296, 97 trillion. In terms of employment reached 8.53 million or 7.72% of national employment. In terms of the hotel and restaurant investment, both FDI and domestic investment in 2012 significantly increased until the third quarter of this year, and the realization of FDI for hotels and restaurants have reached U.S. $ 729.7 million or increase over last year for U.S. $ 242.2 million. As for the realization of domestic investment reached U.S. $ 86.1 million, an increase compared to last year worth U.S. $ 39.4 million. In principle, the achievement of 2012 is not only seen from the increase in the number of tourists that are expected to achieve the target of 8 million, but also from the quality of tourists, as well as in terms of providing jobs to investment in the tourism sector.

Exceeding 8.3 Million Tourists Mari Elka Pangestu (right) and Sapta Nirwandar

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he tourism sector is estimated to contribute revenue of US$ 9.07 billion in 2012, or up by 6.03% compared to last year and this increase is due to increases in the average number of foreign tourists spending per visit. Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Mari Elka Pangestu said this year’s foreign tourists spending reached US$ 1,133.81 per person per visit, or up by 1.39% compared to 2011 of US$ 1,118.26. “However, Ministry of Tourism and Cretaive Economy noted that for length of stay of foreign tourists this year has decreased 1.79% from 7.84 days to 7.7 days per visit. We assume this happen because there is an increase in visits from regional tourists than from Europe due to the economic slowdown there, “said Mari Pangestu in a press conference at End of Year 2012 in Sapta Pesona Building, Jakarta, Wednesday (19/12). However, Mari emphasized that the growth of foreign tourists to October 2012 increased 5% compared to last year, which means a higher-

than-expected growth in global tourism predicted to raise 3-4% in 2012. As for domestic tourist in 2012 were estimated to conduct 245 million trips, up 3.81% compared to 2011 as many as 236 million trips. “The increase of domestic tourist visit brings positive impact on domestic tourist spending that this year the number is estimated to reach Rp 171.5 trillion, up 9.3% compared to 2011 amounting to Rp156, 89 trillion,” she said. She also added that increase in domestic tourist spending is due to increased number of trips and an increase in average spending, which reached Rp700 thousand, up 5.63% compared to 2011 amounting to Rp 662.68 thousand per trip / person. It also reflects the rising middle class in Indonesia. “I’m very pleased with the increased domestic tourist spending this year because it is expected to bring a positive impact on the regional economy, as most domestic tourists spend their expenses when traveling to these areas,” she said.

The target of tourist arrival in 2012 is as many as 8 million people. As of October 2012, the number of foreign tourist arrival has reached 6,583,629. We have to be confident that the remaining 2 months is enough to reach the target and even exceed it. “The pessimistic target is 8.3 million tourists and 9 million tourists for the optimistic target,” said Mari Pangestu According to Mari, the number of visits in November and December cannot be calculated yet. “But, if tourist arrival is static just like last year, a target of 8 million could be achieved,” said Mari. Next year, Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy will further develop special interest tourism. There are many plans to develop special interest tourism, such as cooperation with relevant parties representatives of the special interest tourism itself. In 2013, special interest tourisms that will attract tourists are health tourism, golf, cycling and diving. “We have signed MoU with the Ministry of Health for health tourism,” said Mari. For cycling, sport tourism event such as Tour de Singkarak has been held. Not only Singkarak, other areas such as Bintan and Ijen also held a similar event.

Focusing on 5 Priority Travel Destination in 2013

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and history, nature and ecotourism; recreational sports such as diving, surfing, sailing, trekking, hiking and golf; cruises; culinary and shopping, health and fitness, and Meetings / Conventions (MICE). “As of November 2012, tourism in Indonesia experienced a 5.09% growth over the same period in 2011. Tourists from Europe, particularly from Britain and the Netherlands are the main target for the Indonesian market,” Said Esthy Astuty Reko. Indonesia is rich in natural resources and cultural heritage which are the main source of the development of tourism and the creative economy. Dutch tourist visits increased from year to year. In 2010, Indonesia received 158, 957 Dutch tourists, and it increased to 157,693 in 2011, or an increase of 2.88%. Meanwhile, the target for the Dutch market for 2013 is 175, 000 tourists. One of the government’s efforts in Indonesia to attract the European market is to be the official Partner Country of ITB Berlin 2013.

photo by spc

ndonesia has started on an ambitious initiative where government concentrates on 16 key markets, 16 destinations and tourism products, and seven segments of special interest from now until 2014. Of these, five have been allocated to the prioritized development in 2013, the BromoTengger-Semeru, Komodo, Wakatobi, Toraja, and Sanur. “Indonesia is very fortunate to have Bali; we believe that this tourist destination has already had a strong appeal. We want to develop and promote products and other destinations in Indonesia other than Bali,” said Esthy Astuty Reko, Director General of Tourism Marketing Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy while attending Media Workshop in the middle of Indonesia’s participation in the event Vakantiebeurs 2013 in Utrecht, Netherlands. Vakantiebeurs is the largest tourism promotion exhibition in the Netherlands which runs from 8 to 13 January 2013. Indonesia’s participation was in form of a booth coordinated by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy and is supported also by the participation of Garuda Indonesia. Year 2013 is the sixth year of Indonesia’s participation in this event. Developed destinations will be promoted more seriously in the various tourism promotion exhibition and sales missions, while the government will also prepare an invitation to visit Indonesia for tourism and media consultants. The ministry will strengthen its marketing efforts through various media and social media. In order to maximize the movement of tourists from one destination to another destination, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism has committed to develop 16 national strategic tourism locations (new destinations other than Bali) until 2014 and promoted seven special interest tourisms. Strategic places and special interest tourism are very important in improving the quantity and quality of foreign tourists coming to Indonesia. Seven segments of special interest have previously been identified consist of culture

“In 2013, Indonesia is the Official Partner Country for ITB Berlin. As the first ASEAN country to host the world-renowned travel market, this is a great chance that we will use to its full potential to increase the number of tourists from European countries”, Esthy explained. Esthy also encourage tourists from the Netherlands to not only go to major and famous tourist destinations such as Bali, but also to explore other areas in Indonesia. “Other areas such as Sumatra, Java, Lombok, Flores, Kalimantan, Sulawesi or Papua offer a different experience and atmosphere that is as good as or even better than Bali. However, the problem of connectivity and accessibility remains a major challenge,” she explained. “Finally, we hope that foreign tourists not only come to Indonesia looking for natural beauty, but also for the creative economy. In terms of creativity, there are many things that we can offer such as music, crafts, culinary, and fashion that inspiring global trends,” said Esthy. (*)

Vakantiebeurs tourism exhibition 2013 in Utrecht, Netherlands.

Now, it will be easier for tourists who like diving to find information about diving with the presence of a directory of Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. “Later, there will be a web directory explaining about diving spots in Indonesia. Now, it is still under construction, “said Mari.

Bali has the highest hotel occupancy On the same occasion, Yanti Sukamdani, Chairman of the Indonesian Tourism Promotion Board (ARDI) said Bali was still ranked first the highest hotel occupancy rates in Indonesia. “The prominent development occurs in areas of Bali,” said Yanti Sukamdani. In average, according to Yanti, the hotel occupancy rate in Bali reached 90 percent. As for the development of the average hotel occupancy in Indonesia in 2012 was 69 percent. Jakarta as a metropolitan city only had an average occupancy rate by 30 percent. However, the high jump will occur just before the New Year. At the turn of the year, hotel occupancy in Jakarta could reach 100 percent. Yanti added that there will be many new hotels in holiday destinations. Medan, Makassar, Bangka Belitung, Riau, and Lombok will have more hotels by 2013. The latest trends showed that now there are many young tourists who have more budgets so that they could stay at the hotel. This could help the development of hotels in Indonesia in the future.

2013 is full of MICE Agenda “Year 2013 will be a year of MICE,” said Mari Pangestu. There will be a series of MICE events in Indonesia. One of them is that APEC event that will be supported by a series of other events that come and go for a full year. According to Mari, this event will be held in 10 different places. “Thus the development of tourism and MICE in Indonesia could be even in many places,” she said. In addition to APEC, Indonesia also hosted several major international events, such as the World Toilet Organization Summit and World Robotic Summit. “We will also be hosting the annual Miss World,” said Mari. (*)

Astindo Fair to Promote Indonesia Tourism Potential

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he largest travel exhibition in Indonesia, Astindo Fair is an event where the visitors can buy holiday packages, airline tickets and special package with promotional rates to various chosen destinations. In addition, through Astindo Fair, the organizer wants to introduce the potential of national tourism. “Through Astindo Fair, we would like to introduce the potential of national tourism such as Raja Ampat, Lombok and other tourist attractions in Indonesia, “said Elly Hutabarat, Chairwoman of the Association of Indonesian Air Ticket Sales Agent (ASTINDO) in a press conference at the Red Top Hotel, Jakarta, Wednesday (01/09/2013). Furthermore Elly said currently most visited tourist destination through Astindo Fair is Bali. “For that reason we expect that there will be representatives of the tourist destinations in Indonesia participated in Astindo Fair 2013,” said Elly. Astindo Fair will take place on 22-24 March 2013 in the Assembly Hall, Jakarta Convention Center (JCC). Astindo Fair will present the entire world and Indonesian tourist destinations, including popular tourist destinations, tourism objects, culinary tourism, cultural products, marine tourism, eco-tourism, agro-tourism, hotels, tour packages, and travel. Astindo Fair this year will be attended by 144 exhibitors, more than doubled last year, which were only 77 exhibitors. The admission for visitors is Rp 15,000. Elly added that ASTINDO will be featuring some local governments to display their tourist destinations and one of them is the local government of Lombok. Since Lombok International Airport operates, more tourists come to Lombok. Seeing this, the tourism players such as travel agent began making exciting travel packages for the tourists. “Currently, it’s only Lombok that has already confirmed to participate in this exhibition. BPPD Lombok (Regional Tourism Promotion Board) will occupy a booth, and will hold a showcase and introduce Lombok’s destinations, “said ASTINDO International Coordinator, Pauline Suharno. Pauline added that in the booth BPPD Lombok can introduce all destinations. Not just a destination, but also a demonstration of cultural performances of weaving can also be seen by visitors. “We can say that Lombok has moved to Jakarta temporarily,” Pauline said, smiling. Lombok addition, the exhibition will invite a lot BPPD Tourism each region in Indonesia. (*)

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“BALI TIMELINE’ New Year’s Eve Climax Party at HARRIS Hotel & Residences Riverview Kuta - Bali

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xperiencing Bali from 50’s until the 2012 -2013 count down in a night. It does not need time machine, simply explore it in “Bali Timeline” New Year’s Eve Climax Party at HARRIS Hotel & Residences Riverview Kuta – Bali, 8 PM onward on December 31st 2012. Stepped back to Bali in the 50ties in a true ambience of Balinese ancient village activities where the guests could grab a glass of “tuak”, a traditional wine made from *ental fruit (*kind of coconut) served in bamboo glass in the traditional coconut leaf and bamboo warung. Guests could pose in front of mini paddy field, watched the cock fighting scene and entertained by “Megenjekan” (Balinese acapela), Rindik and Suling (bamboo instrument) that performed by HARRIS Players (a specific call for HARRIS staff). The journey continued to Pasar Kumbasari in 80-ies – which had been a very important part in Balinese society’s life in that

time. Various traditional mixed with international fusion delicacies, antique motorized vehicle and market activities were presented to the guests in sophisticated ambience. As dances are the soul of Balinese life, the famous “Pendet” (welcome dance) and Cendrawasih (beautiful bird with colorful hair) dance performed on the floor and as the other entertaining dance called “Joged Bumbung” took them to step on the dance floor with the beautiful dancers in a complex melody of live gamelan instrument. Later on, the door of modernization was opened at the main pool’s floating stage. The epic story of Ramayana (the legend of Rama & Shinta’s love) performed, followed by exciting VD live band that made the guests once again dancing. Door prizes always become a good fun in a party, the lucky ones won stay experience at HARRIS Hotels in some cities in Indonesia,

photo by spc

Bali Targeting 3.1 Million Foreign Tourists in 2013

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he provincial government of Bali is targeting foreign tourist arrival to Bali in 2013 as many as 3.1 million people. The target is based on the prediction that tourist arrival during 2013 has increased 9% compared to the same period in 2012. In 2012, tourist visit to Bali reached 2.88 tourists. Head of Bali Tourism Bureau Ida bagus Kade Subhiksu said in his explanation recently that the number of tourist arrival to Bali during 2012 was recorded 28% dominated by tourists from Australia and 11% was dominated by tourists from China. According to Subhiksu, besides successfully achieved the target, Bali was also

nominated as the best tourist destination in the world. “In Hongkong we earned the title of ‘The Best Destination’ from Travel Club, one of prominent magazine in Hong Kong. They have their own criteria why Bali is considered to fulfill the criteria. Actually, we’re not invited. We’re represented by Indonesian ambassador in Hong Kong,” said Subhiksu. Ida Bagus Kade Subhiksu is optimistic that the target of 3.1 million foreign tourists can be achieved. Especially considering that this year, there are a lot of international events held in Bali, including the APEC Summit.

Dine vouchers and unique HARRIS merchandise. As the end of 2012 was near, the climax count down shouted together with jimbe, fire dance, phyro, confetti splash and the band rose up the moment when the wishes balloon flied up to the sky as the 2013 arrived. The exciting night went to its peak as HARRIS Move (special dance of HARRIS Hotels) performed by all HARRIS Players as the last performance. “We proudly raise up the “Bali Timeline” concept as we would like to bring the guest to get closer to Balinese culture and soul in terms of ambience, food and entertainment as much as we can, since we believe that culture is one of the main reason why Bali become a special destination and we do care about Balinese culture perpetuity.” Mrs. Marija TJIE, General Manager of HARRIS Hotel & Residences Riverview Kuta – Bali said. She and all HARRIS Players also wish a very happy and successful 2013 for all.

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Lemb ata


- Regent of Le mbata

photo by igo

Eliazer Yentji Sunur

photo by igo

Explore Lembata and Find the Charming Nature

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s tourist destination, Lembata Island or Lembata Regency is not as popular as other areas in East Nusa Tenggara sich as Komodo or Kelimutu. Lembata is new regency. It used to be part of East Flores Regency. Lembata Island actually has more than just ‘virgin’ nature. Thus, Lembata Regent Eliazer Yentji Sunur is planning to develop tourism sector and make it main sector in the regency known for its whale-catching ritual. Lembata island regency is located in the group of Solor Island in the eastern tip of Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara Province. It can be said that Lembata is an almost untouchable. For five days, 18 – 22 January, a number of marine tourism enterpreneurs from Bali and journalists from Detik Travel and L’Ultimo Paradiso Magz & Online visited the island. There were not too many tourists seen there, or might be it is not the ‘season’ yet for Lembata is usually crowded by tourists in certain period every year considering the special ritual or traditional held in the island such the the whale-catching. Although there isn’t any special ritual, the survey team enjoyed doing the survey and at the same time enjoying the beauty of Lembata’s nature. The local people are busy with their daily activities such as farm-

ing, going to the sea or working in the government institutions. They consists of two big ethnics namely Lamaholot and Kedang. Each of them has their own custom and tradition, including language. However, there is one similarity between the two ethnics, which is their hospitality. Warm welcome and smile can easily be found in every corner of the village. Every time visitors passing by, they will wave their hands and say “Selamat”, which means “good bye.” Don’t expect to travel on smooth road considering that there are only few ‘nice’ roads in the regency that covers the area of 1.2 million km2. From the capital of Lembata, Lewoleba, tourists can access any destinations in the region. Visiting Lembata is just perfect for those who seek for beautiful nature and adventurous activities. In the southern coast, there are two villages: Pasir Putih and Lamalera. Just like its name (pasir putih means white sand), the village has a stretch of 11km white sandy beach named Mingar and Bean Beach. Lamalera village is known for its whale-catching tradition. This tradition is held annually every 2 May – 31 August. However, tourists can still learn about the life of the local people through learning

how to weave and seeing the historical remains keep well in the houses of the villagers. Going to the north, there are two districts: Ile Ape and East Ile Ape. The main tourist attraction there is traditional village of Lewohala in Jontona village. Every July 1 – 7, the villagers hold Peanut Party in a village consisting 77 traditional houses. The party aims to thank for the great peanut harvest and pray for the success of next year’s harvest. Every traditional house has historical remain in a form of ancient ceramic or sacred items such as buffalo’s horn and elephant’s tusk. On the beach in Lewohala traditional village, tourists can find the skeleton of giant blue whale. The local people said that the blue whale was deserted on the island in 2005. In the east of Lembata there are at least two pristine villages, namely Lewolein and Bean. Lewolein becomes the stopover point for cruise from Flores and Alor, while Bean has stretch of beautiful beach. “Bean Beach is like Kuta beach in 1960’s,” said one of the group members, Yos Amerta who is also the chairperson of Association of Marine Tourism Entrepreneurs based in Bali.

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It takes two hours to travel from one district to another in Lembata Island due to the difficult road access. However, for those who is looking for adventure, this can be a challenging sensation. Be careful! You need to remember the route so that you won’t get lost in the forest. One good thing to do is to hire a local tour guide. In addition to natural and cultural potentials, Lembata Island is also rich in culinary potentials. Almost every village has different menu. Grilled fish and special condiment are always available. In the village of Beang, there is beso, a kind of porridge – the mixture of corn, green beans, coconut milk and salt. It tastes absolutely delicious. On the way to Lamalera village, don’t forget to stop by Boto village. Here, tourists can enjoy the local coffee and traditional snack, which is a mixture of cassava, sugar and grated coconut. Banana chips and bean cookies are among those

photo by igo

photo by igo


that you should not be missed. It is quite easy to reach Lembata Island. Flight by Susi Air is available from El Tari Airport in Kupang twice a day to Wunopito Airport in Lewoleba. You can also depart from Maumere in Flores, pass Larantuka in East Flores and then by speedboat to Lembata for about 2.5 hours. If you are already in Alor or Wakatobi, you can just use Ferry to cross to Lembata. “Soon, TransNusa will serve the flight to Lembata. We have agreed to provide flight for this route,” said Lembata regent Eliazer Yentji Sunur during welcoming the survey team in his house on Friday (18/1/2013). For accommodation, there are several hotels that can be chosen such as Palm Indah Hotel and Puri Mutiara Hotel in Lewoleba. In Lamalera, there are a number of homestays such as Felmina Homestay, Ben Homestay and Maria Homestay. In other villages, the local people are ready to provide accommodation to visitors. The price offered is quite affordable started from Rp 50, 000 for home stay up to Rp 850, 000 for suite in Palm Indah Hotel. Find the real Indonesia in Lembata Island.

for advertisement please call 0361 727010 email : [email protected]

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From HARRIS Hotel Tuban Bali for HARRIS Fans in 2013

SHERRY ROSE, New DOS Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas

photo by spc

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Award-Winning Balinese Chef Appointed at Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua

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photo by spc

orn and raised in North Bali and praised internationally, a chef who has prepared meals on land, sea and air and won one of the world’s most prestigious culinary honors, Wayan Wicaya has been named Executive Chef at the Courtyard by Marriott Bali Nusa Dua. He comes to the up-market tourism enclave with more than two decades in Bali’s finest kitchens and aboard America’s premier family cruise line as well as one of Indonesia’s finest in-flight catering services, before winning the Global Chefs Challenge, a competition between chefs from 88 countries, sponsored by the World Association of Chefs. “Chef Wayan is quite literally a ‘winner,’” said Courtyard by Marriott General Manager, Jeffrey Tyler. “Here’s a fellow who not only brings Balinese grace to the role but also real international cooking accolades. We are absolutely fortunate to have a chef of this calibre heading our kitchens.” Before accepting the role, Chef Wayan worked with fellow chef, Andrew Skinner at Bvlgari Bali, a 59-villa resort located in the Bukit Penin-

sula. Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts is developed in partnership with jeweler and luxury goods designer Bvlgari Spa and currently features two properties located in Milan and Bali with demanding food and service standards. “To win the Global Chef Challenge is amazing and a confirmation of how far Indonesia has come in developing local chefs to international standards,” said Darren Lauder, the Vice-President of Bali Culinary Professionals, at the time of the chef’s victory in January 2010. Six months later he was named “Chef of the Year” by The Yak, Bali’s acclaimed, trend-setting magazine showcasing the colorful personalities behind Bali’s design, fashion and culinary industries. “Here’s a guy who deserves every morsel of recognition,” said Editor Nigel Simmonds. A master of multiple cuisines, Chef Wayan rode a wave of popularity taking on the position as Sous Chef at Ku De Ta, lauded as the island’s most successful independent restaurants located beachside in the fashionable district of Seminyak and Chef de Partie at the luxury boutique The Balé resort.

Suma Spa, Spa with Luxurious Services

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urposed built to offer each guest the ultimate Zen healing experience and currently the first of its kind in the area, Suma Spa launched their luxurious services in the middle of December, 2012. Suma is a 650 square meters wellness spa located on the top floor of the Fontana hotel in Kuta, Bali. Suma Spa has a strong concept that drives its customers into the Zen, the art of emptiness. Suma Spa wants its customers to feel that silence is golden, that the silence of Bali will create an alpha state that allows energy transfer in the treatment process. What makes Suma stand out is it promises that it can bring Bali Zen, even in the middle of crowded and dusty Kuta. Services offered are various body and mind treatments including massage, body scrub, and hair treatment. Suma Spa has private elevator that takes guests to the spa in the 4th floor. Suma Spa comprises of 10 exclusive and unique treatment rooms that can serve up to 15 guests at a time, completed with indoor shower, bath tub and shampoo chair and also separate manicurepedicure facility at salon area. Suma Spa aims to bring their customers into a better person. They will be guided through comprehensive consultation before and after their treatment so that they will see the result as they are instantly a better figure after the treatment. They will feel recharged. Suma Spa uses products which are exclusively created from anti-oxidant rich of mangosteen rind and beneficial pure essential oil in luscious blends, as well as materializes the health benefits of virgin coconut oil for hair care, skin care, with its properties as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, antibac-

terial, soothing and helps in relieve stress in body natural immune system. Suma Spa also offers Pevonia Botanica facial, a full line of skin care treatment utilizes product containing only the finest botanical ingredients containing the most and effective, natural source ingredient incorporated within technologically advance formulas and treatments delivering remarkable, highly visible results. Retail products have been designed to complement the treatment offering and encourage guests to take the spa experience home with them. Zen Bali Experience is the key to any conversation at be it spoken or unspoken. Suma Spa staffs undergo rigorous, nurturing, and continuous training and assess-

photo by spc

photo by spc

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AUZIA Hotel Management announces the appointment of Sebastien MENESGUEN to the position of General Manager of its upcoming 278 rooms EDEN Hotel Kuta - Bali. Sebastien will be responsible for daily operations of the hotel in the renowned area of Kuta - Bali. He has previously worked as General Manager of HARRIS Hotel and Residences Riverview Kuta – Bali since the opening of the hotel in 2008 and prior to joining TAUZIA Hotel Management he served in ACCOR as General Manager in hotels including Arcadia Boutique Hotel – Jakarta, Ibis Portsmouth – England and as Pre-Opening team of Ibis London Excel - England. A French national and an equestrian in jumping category, Sebastien who has 12 years of experience in hospitality industry used to compete in official competitions. Moved to the Island of Gods since 2008 he is thrilled about working with a new concept of TAUZIA Hotel Management who has successfully launched a number of hotel brands.

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e are pleased to welcoming Ms. Sherry Rose, 34 years old is appointed as Director of Sales Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas as per 2nd January 2013. In her roles as Director of Sales, she will be responsible for the strategy of Sales & Marketing of Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas, Bali. Before joining Patra Jasa Bali Resort & Villas, she was the MICE and Wholesaler Sales Manager at Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua Bali, Prior to Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua Bali, she was Sales & Marketing Manager of The 101 Legian From 2009. In the beginning of her career, Sherry had always been in the hospitality industry. A native born of North Sumatra, Sherry began her career at Moevenpick Sanna, Yemen, Middle East in 2005. Sherry earned her diploma of Travel and Tourism Management at University of North Sumatra in 1996.

n 2013, HARRIS Hotel Tuban Bali is going to launch a number of packages and promos, which are going to be special and different. In its tenth year, HARRIS Tuban Bali intends to look younger and different. The step is taken as a form of appreciation to HARRIS Fans that have trusted HARRIS Tuban Bali during 2012. The new package that has just recently launched is 3D2N Adventure. The package is offered at the rate of Rp2, 300, 000. With this price HARRIS Fans can stay in HARRIS Tuban Bali for 3 days and 2 nights and enjoy one of these following activities: riding ATV in Batukaru (Tabanan), playing watersport in Tanjung Benoa or surfing on Kuta Beach. Another new package is called Lucky 13. Many people considere 13 as bad or unlucky number, but for HARRIS Fans, every month on the 13th, they will get 13% discount in all outlets (room rate, dining at HARRIS Cafe, Laundry service, Minibar, H’Spa and Happy Feet Reflexology). In addition to the packages above, HARRIS Hotel Tuban also offers special promo on food and beverages in 2013. Chef Suggestion menu sets at the price of Rp90, 000 presents special menus by Chef Mangku Artana. The menu is different from day to day. FREE Soup promotion is availabe on Monday and Wednesday, Happy Hours provides 15% discount everyday from 16:00 to 19:00. One unique promotion is Pay As You Wish Ice Cream or enjoying ice cream and pay as you like. Also in 2013, room reservation done through www.HARRISHotels.com atau directly contact the reservation at HARRIS Hotel Tuban will get some additional values such as free daily afternoon tea, free HARRIS Merchandise and Rp 50, 000 cash back voucher in HARRIS Cafe. For further information please contact www.tauzia.com Contact : Harris Hotel Tuban Bali Siti NURHIDAYATI Executive Secretary / Public Relations Phone: 0361 – 9365255 Fax : 0361 – 9366258 [email protected]

Tauzia Announces The General Manager of Eden Hotel Kuta - Bali

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ment. Consistent Delivery and Caring Service are the focal points as our staffs who undertake intensive practical, theoretical and on continual growing process towards mindfulness. All the dedicated and experienced team at Suma Spa is waiting to care for you soon! For reservations and enquiries, please contact the Spa at Tel: +62 361 894 7003. Email: [email protected] Jl Dewi Sri No. 68 Kuta – Bali Tel: +62 361 894 7003 For further information on Suma Spa, please visit www.sumaspa.com.

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Rice Tumpeng Elected M

and creativity. Creative industries have a positive impact on economic contribution, preserve and develop the cultural heritage, soft diplomacy and nation branding. As one of the 15 sub-sectors of creative economy, food can support these four impacts. Of the 15 sub-sectors of creative economy that will be developed by the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, culinary contributes the largest revenue to the creative industries in Indonesia, or about 32.2% of the total contribution of creative industries to GDP in 2011, or a value of about Rp169. 62 trillion. “Acceleration of the completeness of this representation would happen if in every area as well-both at the initiative of the local government, and civil society-initiated in cooperation with the central government set a culinary icon in the region,” said Firmansyah Rahim Director-General of Tourism Destination Development for the Ministry of Tourism Creative Economy. In realizing this strategy, each related parties cannot walk alone. Synergy and active participation are required from various groups such as institutions / agencies /, associations, entrepreneurs, practitioners and academics to jointly develop and promote the culinary potential of Indonesia. (*)

photo by spc

photo by spc

inistry of Tourism and Creative Economy has recently launched 30 traditional Indonesian culinary icons that consist of typical Indonesian food and beverages ranging from appetizers, main menu, desserts to snack. Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Mari Pangestu said that the selection of 30 traditional Indonesian culinary icons is the first step to develop and focus the development of Indonesian cuisine. “This step needs to be supported by all parties in order to move forward with Indonesian culinary, known, recognized, and able to compete at the international level,” said Mari Pangestu Later the 30 icons (attached) will be completed with standardized recipes, accompanied by videographic explanation about the making process for the purpose of replication as well as documentation. Determination of 30 traditional Indonesian culinary icons is not associated with patents, brands or copyrights. The launching was attended by the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Industry, academia, as well as a number of figures and commentators of Indonesian culinary, including Bondan Winarno, Azril Azhari, and Linda Adimidjaja. The 30 culinary icons were chosen after going through a long process and involved stakeholders. The process begins by registering a wealth of traditional culinary that inherited from one generation to another until it reaches its existence in the present and through several stages of selection criteria, which are: easy to obtain raw materials both at home and abroad, recognized by the public nationally (popular), and there are professional actors. Nasi Tumpeng (Rice Cone) is chosen as the icon of Indonesian traditional culinary to build and develop the culinary Indonesia with a number of considerations, including has a strong Indonesian philosophical base and present eating culture of Indonesia, has an attractive visualization in terms of both appearance and taste, easy to make overseas and can be used as mandatory menu of Indonesian restaurants abroad. Nasi tumpeng is also considered to have the advantage of being easy to construct stories (hype) on rice cone, and a variety of side dishes easily combined with other culinary icons. Mari Pangestu emphasized that the creative economy is a process of adding value to an existing product on the basis of ideas

photo by spc

So Traditional Indonesian Culinary Icon

Tenganan Village to Strongly Hold Tradition

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photo by spc

photo by spc

photo by spc

enganan Village is one of villages in Bali which is still preserving their identity as indigenous village that is not eroded by the effects of the so-called modern era. The village has successfully survived from the attack of “civilization reform” and rapid information technology that play a role in influencing the pattern of human life significantly. Location of Tenganan village is rather remote, which is in the west of Karangasem regency, about 65 kilometers from the city of Denpasar. Tenganan village has an annual ritual that attracts the attention of tourists. Every year, the village held a pandan war. Pandan war will be held on 23-24 June 2013. In carrying out their daily ritual, people in the village of Tenganan clung to the village customary rules that have been written since the 11th century-and then updated again in 1842 because the original burnt out. Until now, the people of Tenganan

still keep their tradition. When other tourist areas in Bali have been sparkling in the presence of various symbolism of modernity such as hotels, restaurants, shops, cafes, or a night club, the village of Tenganan stays with three bale and a row of traditional houses that still looks very well maintained. In order to purify their offspring, the villagers of Tenganan choose to marry with other members of the community in the village. Entering the village, you have to go through a fairly narrow gate that can fit to one person only. Before entering, like other travelers, you have to contribute voluntarily to the officers in semi-permanent wooden buildings. You also have to sign the guest book. There is no admission to enter the village. Upon entering the village, you will see some buffaloes that roam on the village roads. Buffalo is intentionally not grounded, because the buffalo is a very sacred animal in this village. Tenganan village is famous for its double ikat woven fabric, Tenganan Pegringsingan. The process of making this fabric is very long starting from the spinning of cotton into yarn, yarn coloring that made from natural materials such as walnut oil, indigo leaves and other. Threads that have been tied are given colors and dried, then woven into fabric with a unique motif. The art shop near the entrance offers Geringsing fabric at the price ranging from Rp 800, 000 to Rp 2 million. It is quite expensive compared to manufactured fabrics commonly found in textile shops. It is because a piece of Geringsing fabric is made exclusively and takes quite a long time to finish considering the coloring process, which uses natural materials that require special treatment. (*)

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Tirta Gangga Festival 2012 to Boost Karangasem Tourism

Unfortunately Karangasem is not very well known among the domestic tourists. Therefore, as revealed by Faried, the festival is expected to introduce Karangasem as a tourist destination, particularly for domestic tourists. “This festival could be the starting point for the promotion of east Bali tourism. If this event becomes an annual agenda, it should involve the local community. So the festival is really owned by the community and the central government will support it, “Faried said. Hundreds of visitors crowded Tirta Ganga to watch the performances of genjek, mass cenceng, and the Balinese traditional comedy called Candil. The festival was also celebrated by the dance studio whose members are children and adolescents around Tirtagangga. Another art performed was Cakepung, which is a unique art from Karangasem in a form of rhyming poem. (*)

photo by spc

Tirta Ganga Festival 2012 was officially opened by the Karangasem Regent I Wayan Geredeg and Director of Domestic Promotion, M. Faried at Tirta Ganga, Karangasem, Bali. The one-day festival aims to promote tourism in Tirta Ganga and Karangasem as a whole. “With this festival, we are trying to balance the concentration of the south. In a matter of years the concentration of tourists is around seven million per year in Bali, “said Director of Domestic Promotion Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, M. Faried in his speech. Bali has become number one tourist destination in Indonesia. Some tourist destinations like Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua and Ubud become a very popular tourist area. Based on data from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the number of foreign tourists to Bali reached about 3.8 million tourists in 2011. Meanwhile, the number of domestic tourists to Bali in 2011 reached 3.7 million trips. So the total tourists visiting Bali in 2011 reached more than seven million people. However, tourist visit to Bali Bali is still concentrated in the south of the island or in Badung regency. Karangasem regency in the east of Bali has several tourist attractions that have been known worldwide such as Tenganan village, Candidasa, Tulamben, Amed, Besakih Temple, Gunung Agung, Soekasada Garden, and Tirta Ganga. Those places are suitable for travelers who seek tranquility. Travel to Karangasem can be reached by land transportation via the bypass Ida Bagus Mantra for two hours from Ngurah Rai Airport.

photo by spc

photo by spc

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arangasem regency in Bali is rich in tourism potentials such as nature, culture and history. This regency is located in the east of the island of Bali and is currently being involved in promoting tourism in the area; one of them is through the event titled Tirta Ganga Festival 2012 which was held on Sunday (23/12/2012). Various dances and arts were performed and displayed exactly at the edge of the pool in Tirta Ganga which was once a royal bath garden of Karangasem Palace. There were also different booths displayed a variety of creative industries. In the festival, which is supported by the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, visitors could watch the angklung parade that uses the bamboo instruments like lanang wadon drums, lanang wadon gong, kempul, and other musical instruments. Another interesting shows performed in the festival were Joged bumbung, children baleganjur parade and the parade of pesantrian iringan geguntungan.

photo by spc

photo by spc

photo by spc

The beautiful Bali’s Endek and Songket Fabric

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ali woven fabric that was originally used only for daily and ceremonial purposes only, now has many functions. Like the batik cloth, Bali’s woven fabric is also made into a dress or a shirt to wear at various events, including applied in a variety of interior design. Bali’s weaving artisans are working hard so that their work can increasingly recognized, not only in Indonesia, but also in the eyes of the world. One day, some female weavers seemed eager to work behind the loom in a workshop in the village of Sidemen, Sidemen district, Karangasem regency, Bali. This location is approximately 52 km or two hour drive from Denpasar.

Every day they weave, make Bali’s songket and ikat (endek). For them, weaving is not only the activity inherited from one generation to another. It has become the lifeblood for their survival. The people of Sidemen are familiar with the traditional activities of weaving since the days of their ancestors. Some of them even have a weaving business, assisted by a number of weavers. Around the end of 90s until early 2000s, the demand of songket reached its highest level. Almost 60% of the population in the area of Sidemen district and its surrounding became the craftsmen of woven cloth for the wages got was fairly high for home-based work.

The style and motifs of Balinese songket continue to innovate year after year along with the rapid market demand and the growth of human resources. In addition to local market needs, Balinese songket has gained its popularity in foreign countries and become export commodity. Market demand for Balinese songket had declined after the bombing tragedy that brought a major effect on the economy of Bali. Market demand for Balinese songket was up again in early 2010, which was marked by the increasing number of songket craftsmen. If you are in Bali and would like to see firsthand the making of Balinese songket, you can directly visit Sidemen. (*)

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The Exotic Tarung Village in

photo by spc

West Sumba

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still implemented by the local people. This is one aspect that has attracted many tourists to visit West Sumba. Most of the people who have converted to Christianity or Islam, especially the young people, play the role as the audience of the traditional ceremonies, not as the doer. This was said by the Head of Promotion of Culture and Tourism Anisa Omar. Besides Tarung Village, West Sumba has other traditional villages, which are mostly located in the capital city, Waikabubak. The tradition of Marapu can still be found in the wedding and funeral ceremonies, some arts and handicrafts such as the woven fabric. In Tarung village, visitors can see the process of making woven fabric and they also can buy directly from the villagers. In the beginning, only a few people could weave, because the younger generation began to lose interest in learning how to weave Sumbanese woven fabric with its original motive that consists just black or white. The thread used was also made of cotton that must go through a long process before it becomes a thread.

Over the past ten years, West Sumba began bustling by foreign tourists who are often interested in buying woven fabrics. Thus, more young people put more interest in learning to weave. Nowadays, Sumba woven fabric uses yarn in bright colors and different motifs. These motifs commonly used are a menhir stone, traditional house, and jewelry for the wedding. Woven fabrics are usually made into scarves, fabric sheets, tablecloths, and sarongs. The process of making depends on the fabric woven. It takes three days for a shawl weaving. While the fabric, it takes up to two weeks. The price is relatively affordable, ranging from Rp 25,000 to hundreds of thousands of rupiahs, according to the size of cloth. Visitors can also request a cloth with the name woven on the fabric. Woven fabric with the size of a shawl is given a price of Rp 60,000. It took three days to complete. If you are interested in it, you can order it at one of the weavers in the Tarung village and ask them to take it to the hotel where you stay. There are more foreign tourists than domestic tourists visiting Tarung village. Foreign tourists usually come from France, the U.S. and Belgium. Souvenir vendors offer not only woven fabric, but also wooden or stone statues, bracelets and other accessories. Entering Tarung village, our feet will step on the walkway covered with stones. While in some corners we can see menhir stones, which serve as grave stones. The village is surrounded by a stone fence and the entrance is also made of stone. Large stones had been sprinkled with the blood of animals as offerings and symbol of guardian spirit. In the center of the village, there is a sacred stone altar. The houses are standing around this altar. Traditional house of Sumba is full of philosophy. It reflects three parts, namely the tower house, the main building, and the bottom of the house. The tower house is a symbol for the spirit. The main building is a symbol of a place of worship and residence. Then the bottom part is where the owner of the house keeps their pets and also considered as the place of the evil spirits. In the front part of the house we can find buffalo horns arranged in line to decorate the wall. Buffalo horns became a symbol of the implementation of a funeral. It also shows the number of buffaloes that have been sacrificed for other ceremonies. The roof of Sumbanese traditional

house is made of reed that should be replaced every five years. Bamboo as the frame house itself can last up to 30 years. If you get the chance to visit Tarung village, ask permission to the owner of the house to see the contents inside the house. There is a kitchen right in the middle of the house, where the local people cook using firewood. Simply put, the houses in Kampung Tarung are divided into three parts. The first part is under the house that serves as a cage for pets such as dogs, pigs, chickens and ducks. The second part is the main building, where the owner of the house live. And the last part is the ceiling of the house that serves as a storeroom for food supplies such as rice and corn. It has become one of local wisdoms in Kampung Tarung. Smoke from the burning wood make reeds to dry and durable. There is no mattress for sleeping. The terrace in front of the house serves as a place for doing various activities. There are 38 traditional houses in Tarung village and one house can be occupied up to three families. (*)

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est Sumba Province in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia offers amazing cultural potentials and natural beauty. Not only popular for its beautiful beaches, West Sumba is also known for its traditional village that still strongly holds their customs and tradition, namely Kampung Tarung. Situated on a hill overgrown with old trees, the village offers relaxing, cool and green atmosphere. Tarung village is the center of traditional villages throughout Waikabubak as well as the largest traditional village in West Sumba. The village is located in Waikabubak, the capital district of West Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara. Kampung Tarung a traditional village in the midst of the modern development of the city. It becomes a symbol of strength to survive from the attack of modernization. Land of the ancestral spirits is appropriate name for West Sumba. The local people have traditional belief inherited from their ancestors, which is called Marapu. As time goes by, local people began to alter their beliefs to Christianity or Islam and renounce the traditional belief of Marapu. However, there are many traditions related to Marapu that are

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Indonesia Tak Akan Proteksi Profesi Bidang Pariwisata

Wisata Olahraga Tumbuhkan Ekonomi Kreatif

Irwan Prayitno

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Teknologi Informasi Ikut Majukan Sektor Pariwisata

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ertumbuhan telekomunikasi dan kemajuan teknologi informasi (TI) dalam beberapa waktu terakhir secara bersamaan menciptakan dorongan yang kuat bagi masyarakat untuk berwisata sehingga sektor pariwisata nasional terdongkrak dalam kurun waktu 2012. “Telekomunikasi dan TI menggerakan perekonomian nasional sekaligus merangsang masyarakat untuk semakin gemar melakukan perjalanan,” kata Direktur Promosi Pariwisata Dalam Negeri Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf), M. Faried di Jakarta, Minggu (30/12/2012). Menurut dia, sektor telekomunikasi dan TI telah menampilkan budaya dan berbagai pemandangan alam Indonesia yang merangsang keinginan masyarakat untuk mengalami sendiri apa yang ditawarkan tersebut. Hal itu, kata Faried, menjadi salah satu faktor utama yang mendorong majunya pariwisata nusantara selama kurun waktu 2012. “Selain itu jumlah penduduk Indonesia yang mencapai 240 juta jiwa dan meningkatnya penduduk di perkotaan juga menjadi faktor pendukung lain,” katanya. Apalagi hal tersebut juga diiringi naiknya pendapatan perkapita penduduk sebagai akibat langsung pembangunan ekonomi sekaligus munculnya 6,5 juta masyarakat kelas menengah baru. “Ini dibarengi dengan semakin banyaknya wanita bekerja yang juga meningkatkan mobilitas penduduk Indonesia,” katanya. Pada 2012 angka sementara BPS menunjukkan terjadi 245 juta perjalanan wisatawan nusantara (wisnus) dengan total pengeluaran mencapai Rp171,50 triliun. Jumlah itu meningkat signifikan dibandingkan 2011 yang tercatat ada 237 juta perjalanan wisnus dengan total belanja mereka Rp156,89 triliun. Menurut Faried, faktor lain yang mendorong semakin tingginya tingkat mobilitas wisnus adalah mulai terbangunnya konektivitas yang diikuti penambahan kapasitas kursi, antar-pulau dan antar-kota yang dijembatani angkutan udara sehingga pergerakan wisnus kian meluas. “Perkembangan politik nasional yang semakin mendambakan perdamaian, kemudian mengarah pada kerja sama dan suasana persahabatan yang lebih akrab disertai kondisi ekonomi yang terus membaik, memberikan sumbangan terhadap kemajuan pergerakan wisnus,” pungkasnya. (*)

ment) bidang pariwisata sejak 2009, upaya peningkatan kualitas dinilainya harus dipelihara, agar tenaga kerja pariwisata Indonesia tetap unggul di kawasan ASEAN. (*)

Prof. I Gde Pitana

Ramon Y Tungka 100 Hari Keliling Indonesia

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ubernur Sumatera Barat Irwan Prayitno mengatakan wisata olahraga atau “sport tourism” berdampak pada tumbuhnya sektor ekonomi kreatif masyarakat di wilayah yang dipimpinnya. “Contohnya dalam ‘event’ Tour de Singkarak, bisa menumbuhkan ekonomi kreatif dengan peningkatan secara kualitas dan kualitas ‘franchise’ restoran dari lokal maupun internasional,” kata Irwan Prayitno dalam seminar nasional bertajuk “Regulasi dan Peluang Sport Tourism untuk Mengoptimalkan Potensi Wisata Daerah” di Jakarta belum lama ini. Selain itu, kata Irwan, jumlah dan kualitas toko cinderamata juga bertambah akibat berkembangnya “sport tourism” di Sumbar. Menurut dia, unit usaha ekonomi kreatif di wilayah tersebut juga tumbuh berkembang dengan baik. Irwan mengatakan, jumlah wisatawan lokal yang berkunjung ke wilayah itu tiap tahunnya terus meningkat, misalnya pada 2010 sebanyak 4.575.601 orang dan di 2011 menjadi 5.106.321 orang. Sedangkan untuk wisatawan mancanegara juga mengalami peningkatan, dari 133.404 orang pada 2010 menjadi 185.781 orang pada 2011. “Peningkatan jumlah wisatawan juga diikuti dengan peningkatan jumlah hotel dan kamar di Sumatera Barat. Di tahun 2011 sebanyak 230 hotel dengan 4.012 kamar dan meningkat menjadi 237 hotel dengan 5.225 kamar di 2012,” ujarnya. Dia mengatakan, wisata olahraga juga berkontribusi pada perbaikan infrastruktur jalan yang langsung dinikmati masyarakat dalam memperlancar arus barang dan jasa. Dia mengatakan, panjang jalan di Sumbar pada 2010 sepanjang 551 kilometer dan bertambah menjadi 739 kilometer di 2011. “Di tahun 2012 menjadi 854 kilometer. Selain itu meningkatnya kepedulian masyarakat terhadap pentingnya pariwisata,” katanya. Menurut dia, kedepan Pemerintah Provinsi Sumbar akan terus meningkatkan kualitas wisata olahraga di wilayah itu, termasuk kegiatan Tour de Singkarak dengan menambah rute, durasi lomba. Selain itu menurut dia, pelaku usaha akan diberikan pembiayaan dari pemerintah daerah dan pusat. Dia mengatakan, ada beberapa kegiatan wisata olahraga terdapat di Sumatera Barat selain Tour de Singkarak, seperti Pacu Jawi, Pacu Itik, Buru Babi, dan International Boat Dragon. (*)

aga kerja yang memiliki skill atau minimal semi-skill, bukan sekadar pekerja domestik yang tidak terlatih. Pada 2011 jumlah tenaga kerja pariwisata yang tersertifikasi mencapai 15.515 orang dari 9 bidang pariwisata yang melibatkan 9 lembaga sertifikasi. Sementara pada 2010, sertifikasi diberikan kepada 5.000 orang dari 7 bidang pariwisata melalui 6 lembaga sertifikasi. Pitana menilai, sekalipun jumlah tenaga kerja yang disertifikasi masih terbatas, akan tetapi “daya jual” tenaga kerja pariwisata Indonesia di tataran regional ASEAN dan juga internasional tergolong bagus, khususnya di bidang hotel dan restoran, dan spa. “Banyak tenaga kerja asal Indonesia yang berhasil menjadi pimpinan usaha hotel dan spa di mancanegara, dan ini merupakan keunggulan kompetitif yang perlu dilanjutkan dan dipertahankan kualitasnya,” katanya. Pitana melanjutkan, apalagi dengan berlakunya MRA (Mutual Recognition Arrange-

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amon Y Tungka mencoba mengelilingi Indonesia selama 100 hari yang setiap perjalanannya direkam oleh Kompas TV untuk tayangan “100 Hari Keliling Indonesia”. Tayangan

dokumenter ini diklaim oleh stasiun televisi tersebut sebagai tayangan yang menyuguhkan perspektif baru untuk mengenal Indonesia lebih dekat. “Ini anugerah buat saya. Kepercayaan yang sangat besar. Saya nggak mikir gaji, berapa lama, kerjaan yang bakal di-pending atau di-cancel. Ketika saya tahu proyek ini sejak tahun lalu, saya langsung bilang `ayo!`,” papar Ramon di Senayan City, Jakarta beberapa waktu lalu. Tayangan Kompas TV yang dipandu Ramon ini akan memulai perjalanan dari Jakarta menuju Sumatera, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, Papua, Ambon, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Bali, dan berakhir di Pulau Jawa. ”Kita akan berangkat Minggu (13/1),” kata Ramon. Secara gamblang Ramon menuturkan persiapannya jelang perjalanan panjangnya ini, dimulai dari persiapan fisik, menyelam, hingga berlatih penggunaan sejumlah peralatan untuk bertahan selama 100 hari tersebut. “Ini kayak orang mau naik haji, perjalanan spiritual. Indonesia ini sakral juga, karena `ngeri` juga masuk ke tempattempat yang agak magis,” ujarnya. Kompas TV menyebutkan, ekspedisi panjang ini bakal menjadi tayangan yang penuh petualangan, tantangan, sekaligus

perjuangan sarat makna, untuk menemukan wajah negeri yang sebenarnya. Uniknya, selama perjalanan, Ramon tidak akan menggunakan moda transportasi pesawat komersial, melainkan berbagai macam transportasi publik darat dan laut untuk dapat menyelesaikan misinya mengelilingi Indonesia. Mereka diberi target untuk mengelilingi Indonesia selama 100 hari. “Apakah ia sanggup mengelilingi dalam 100 hari? Nanti kita lihat apa mereka sanggup. Walau dari perhitungan kasar itu susah, tapi kita targetkan 100 hari,” tutur Manajer Science & Knowledge Kompas TV, Wahyu Mulyono. Ia menuturkan pihaknya sengaja memilih jalur darat dan laut selama penjelajahan Indonesia agar nuansa petualangannya lebih terasa. Tim “100 Hari Keliling Indonesia”, lanjutnya, berusaha untuk melihat beragam masalah yang ditemukan saat berada di masing-masing daerah. Salah satunya misalnya mengenai akses antar pulau. “Ini lintas antar kepulauan di Indonesia. Dari pulau ke satu pulau juga susah, ini yang kita ingin angkat. Tapi, apa sanggup keliling 100 hari? Kita lihat jawabannya nanti setelah ekspedisi,” ungkapnya. (*)

KOI: Indonesia Untung Jadi Tuan Rumah

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etua Umum Komite Olimpiade Indonesia (KOI) menyingkap penawaran (bidding) sebagai tuan rumah dalam berbagai kompetisi olahraga antarnegara, akan membuat Negara penyelenggara menjadi pusat perhatian dunia sekaligus berpeluang terjadinya pertumbuhan ekonomi dan pengembangan pariwisata nasional. Contoh paling nyata adalah saat perhatian dunia tertuju pada perhelatan Piala Dunia 2010 di Afrika Selatan. Melalui turnamen sepak bola tertinggi dunia tersebut membuat Afrika Selatan berkesempatan meraih keuntungan ekonomi, pariwisata dan pencitraan diri yang positif kepada masyarakat dunia. “Kami sering melakukan ‘bidding’ tuan rumah dalam sejumlah ajang olahraga internasional. Seperti yang terbaru adalah penawaran Indonesia menjadi penyelenggara Asian Games 2019 meski gagal,” kata Rita Subowo di Jakarta. Pihaknya selalu berupaya mengajukan diri menjadi tuan rumah acara olahraga antarnegara agar bisa menggairahkan olahraga dan pariwisata nasional.

Dalam beberapa perhelatan, biasanya tuan rumah akan banyak diuntungkan dengan pencapaian prestasi atletnya. Belum lagi perhelatan tersebut mampu mempromosikan dan meningkatkan pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia. Namun dia mengingatkan perlu keseriusan dari pemerintah dalam mempersiapkan diri sebagai tuan rumah. Karena menurut Rita, selama ini aspek promosi pariwisata kurang gencar dan terintegrasi dalam menyertai penyelenggaraan olahraga. “Sayang sekali saat Indonesia menggelar ajang olahraga antarbangsa tapi promosi pariwisata kurang gencar dilakukan beberapa bulan sebelum kompetisi,” kata mantan Ketua Umum KONI itu. Akibat yang ditimbulkan adalah promosi wisata dan pertumbuhan ekonomi menjadi tidak maksimal berbeda jika promosi terpadu dan intensif kepada peserta dan pendukung dari dalam serta luar negeri. Rita yang juga Ketua Gugus Tugas urusan penyelesaian dualism sepak bola meyakini peserta dan pendukung suatu negara tidak hanya akan datang menuju pertand-

ingan tapi kemungkinan besar mereka akan tinggal di penginapan dan mengunjungi tempat wisata. Maka dia mengatakan sangat kecewa terhadap kegagalan Indonesia dalam menawarkan diri menjadi tuan rumah Asian Games 2019. “Sebenarnya kami kecewa dengan kegagalan Indonesia menjadi tuan rumah Asian Games 2019. Menurut kami, secara keseluruhan Surabaya sudah memiliki segalanya dibandingkan Hanoi, Vietnam yang akhirnya terpilih menjadi tuan rumah,” kata dia. (*)

photo by spc

photo by spc

K

ementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf) menyatakan pemerintah Indonesia tidak akan memproteksi pekerjaan ataupun profesi di bidang pariwisata menjelang era pasar bebas kawasan ASEAN. “Proteksi tidak dibenarkan lagi, yang akan kita lakukan adalah peningkatan standar kompetensi,” kata Kepala Badan Pengembangan Sumber Daya Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Kemenparekraf, I Gde Pitana, di Jakarta belum lama ini. Ia mengatakan, di era ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) pada 2015 akan terjadi pergerakan barang, jasa, hingga sumber daya manusia tanpa mengenal batas negara. Fakta itu, kata dia, tidak mungkin bisa terelakkan dan mau tidak mau Indonesia harus bisa mengambil peluang dan kesempatan di dalamnya. “Jadi proteksi tidak akan dimungkinkan lagi dalam hal ini. Oleh karena itu kita harus memperkuat SDM lokal kita,” katanya. Menurut dia, penguatan SDM dilakukan melalui peningkatan kompetensi mereka dalam menjalankan profesi sebagai tenaga kerja di bidang pariwisata. “Salah satu flagship kami adalah penguatan dan peningkatan tenaga terdidik dan terlatih di bidang pariwisata,” katanya. Pihaknya menginginkan tenaga kerja yang dikirimkan ke luar negeri adalah ten-

18


Branding Wonderful Indonesia Dongkrak Pariwisata Indonesia

Hal itu akan dilakukan melalui event promosi destinasi pariwisata secara langsung, penyelenggaraan event berskala nasional bahkan internasional, dan pendukungan

terhadap event lokal terpilih. Ia juga berpendapat, agar promosi pariwisata yang dilaksanakan pemerintah daerah lebih efektif maka perlu didorong dan diupayakan dengan tidak mendasarkan batasbatas geografis (ego kedaerahan) sehingga menjadi promosi terpadu antar-Kabupaten/Kota atau klaster) dengan pelibatan usaha pariwisata. “Dinas Pariwisata Provinsi perlu menginisiasi tersedianya Layanan Informasi Destinasi Pariwisata di bandara khususnya yang telah berstatus internasional merupakan keharusan yang didukung untuk penyiapan materi informasi destinasi pariwisata,” katanya. Menurut dia, pengemasan Informasi Destinasi Pariwisata yang dilakukan daerah harus menyajikan 3A yakni jenis wisata yang ditawarkan (atraksi), aksesibilitas (kemudahan), dan akomodasi. Ia mengatakan, wilayah Indonesia yang luas harus dikembangkan dan dimantapkan citranya di setiap destinasi pariwisata andalan yang sesuai dengan potensi pariwisata dan kekhasannya. “Pelaksanaan event promosi destinasi pariwisata secara langsung oleh pemerintah diupayakan untuk memfasilitasi pertemuan bisnis,” katanya. Selain itu, pemanfaatan teknologi informasi semakin didorong karena jumlah penggunanya yang semakin banyak dalam beberapa waktu ke depan. “Ke depan pemanfaatan teknologi informasi untuk pariwisata harus dioptimalkan,” katanya. (*)

Jumlah Perjalanan dan Pengeluaran Wisatawan Nusantara Tahun

Perjalanan (juta orang)

2007

Jumlah Pengeluaran +/-%

222,4

(triliun Rp) -

+/-%

108,96

-

2008

225,0

1,2

123,17

13,04

2009

229,7

2,1

137,84

11,91

2010

234,4

2,0

150,49

9,18

2011

237,0

1,1

156,89

4,25

2012*)

245,0

3,4

171,50

9,31

2013**)

254,0

3,67

177,80

3,67

*) angka sementara, **) target

Event Tahun 2013 Direktorat Promosi Dalam Negeri Kemenparekraf Promosi Destinasi Pariwisata melalui Event Musik:

Promosi Fasilitasi Penjualan:

1. Festival music bamboo nusantara (Jakarta)

1. Direct Promotion di Medan, Bandung, Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, Batam dan Makassar

2. ASEAN Jazz ke 6 (Batam)

2. Pesona borneo ke 2 (Banjarmasin)

3. Jazz on the Beach ke 3 (Bangka)

3. Kemilau Sumatera ke 8 (Bengkulu)

4. Borobudur Jazz ke 3 (TWC Borobudur)

4. Kemilau Sulawesi ke 8 (Manado)

5. Festival Musik Keroncong (Pekalongan)

5. Toraja Expo (Jakarta)

6. Ambon Jazz ke 5 (Ambon)

6. Mutumanikam Nusantara Indonesia (Jakarta) 7. Pasar Wisata Indonesia (TIME) ke 19 (Padang)

Promosi Destinasi Pariwisata melalui Event Budaya: 1. Lombok Sumbawa Pearl Festival ke 4 (Lombok, NTB)

Event Pariwisata dan Olahraga:

2. Festival Tirtagangga ke 2 (Amlapura – Karangasem, Bali)

1. Tour de Singkarak ke 5 (Sumatera barat)

3. Miss coffee Indonesia ke 2 (Jakarta)

2. Musi Triboatton ke 2 (Sungai Musi, Sumatera Selatan)

4. Pesta kesenian Rakyat Mataraman ke 4 (Pacitan, Jawa Timur)

3. Dukungan Tour de Bintan ke 5 (Bintan, Kep. Riau)

5. Festival Legu Gam ke 14 (Ternate, Maluku Utara)

4. Lomba Sumpit International ke 3 (Kalimantan Timur)

6. Festival Danau Sentani ke 8 (Sentani, Papua) 7. Festival Danau Batur ke 3 (Kintamani, Bali)

Event Lainnya:

8. Festival Wisata Perbatasan “TimorEsia” (Atambua, NTT)

1. Apresiasi Wonderful Indonesia (Jakarta)

9. Festival Raja Ampat ke 4 (Raja Ampat – Papua Barat)

2. Pemilihan Putri Pariwisata 2013 (Jakarta)

10. Komodo Karnaval ke 2 (Labuhan Bajo, NTT)

3. Bazzar International (Bali)

11. Festival Kelimutu ke 2 (Flores, NTT)

4. The Real Wonder on the world ke 3 (Jakarta)

12. Toraja Festival ke 1 (Toraja, Sulawesi Selatan) 13. Festival Lembah Baliem ke 24 (Wamena, Papua)

W

akil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Sapta Nirwandar mengatakan potensi wisata alam atau sport tourism yang dikembangkan di Indonesia memiliki dampak positif pada sektor sosial-ekonomi masyarakat. “Sport tourism juga untuk mengembangkan olah raga dan menggabungkan potensi wisata serta olah raga,” kata Wakil Menteri Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif Sapta Nirwandar dalam Seminar Nasional bertajuk “Regulasi dan Peluang Sport Tourism untuk Mengoptimalkan Potensi Wisata Daerah” di Wisma Antara, Jakarta belum lama ini. Dia mengatakan Indonesia memiliki potensi wisata olah raga berbasiskan alam untuk dikembangkan lebih baik sehingga berdampak positif bagi bangsa Indonesia. Sapta mencontohkan potensi alam itu ada pada olahraga menyelam, berselancar dan sepeda. “Misalnya menyelam di Raja Ampat, Papua yang sudah menjadi unggulan di dunia,” katanya. Selain sektor alam yang bisa dikembangkan, menurut dia sisi budaya dan transportasi juga memiliki daya tarik sehingga potensial untuk dikembangkan. Dia mencontohkan sport tourism yang dikembangkan Amerika Serikat mampu menghasilkan pendapatan senilai 118,3 miliar dolar AS. Selain itu menurut dia, Afrika Selatan ketika menyelenggarakan Piala Dunia dapat meningkatkan jumlah wisatawan sebesar lima-10 persen. “Sport tourism juga bisa dilakukan di dalam ruangan, tidak hanya di luar ruangan,” ujarnya. Namun dia menekankan, sport tourism tidak hanya di laut, gunung dan di darat saja, tetapi ada juga di udara, yaitu seperti olahraga paralayang. (*)

Potensi Pengembangan Wisata Syariah di Indonesia Sangat Besar

photo by spc

B

randing dan tema pariwisata Wonderful Indonesia terbukti mampu meningkatkan pertumbuhan pasar pariwisata baik untuk wisatawan nusantara (wisnus) maupun wisatawan mancanegara (wisman). “Branding dan tema ini ternyata mampu meningkatkan pertumbuhan pasar wisata kita, namun sayangnya belum diimbangi beberapa factor pendukung lain,” kata Direktur Promosi Pariwisata Dalam Negeri Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf), M. Faried, di Jakarta belum lama ini. Menurut dia, pertumbuhan pasar itu belum direspon dan diimbangi dengan pengembangan dan penataan produk pariwisata. Selain itu daya tarik wisata juga belum dikembangkan termasuk di dalamnya aspek kebersihan, ketertiban, dan keamanan. “Ini akan berakibat pada penurunan daya saing destinasi baik dalam lingkup dan skala wilayah regional, nasional, bahkan internasional,” katanya. Oleh karena itu, mulai 2013 pihaknya akan terus melakukan dan memfasilitasi promosi destinasi pariwisata guna mendorong pergerakkan perjalanan wisnus di luar Jawa dan Bali dengan tetap menjaga momentum pertumbuhan di wilayah Jawa dan Bali. “Slogan Kenali Negerimu, Cintai Negerimu masih dijadikan tema sentral dalam menciptakan kecenderungan berwisata dan gaya hidup berwisata penduduk Indonesia,” katanya.

Sport Tourism Kembangkan Sosial-Ekonomi Masyarakat

D

irjen Pemasaran Pariwisata Kementerian Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf), Esthy Reko Astuti, menyatakan sangat rugi jika Indonesia mengabaikan segmen pasar Muslim untuk sektor pariwisata yang kini sangat potensial untuk digarap, pengembangan wisata syariah di Indonesia cukup besar. “Ini ‘demand’-nya tinggi apalagi kita adalah salah satu negara dengan populasi Muslim yang terbesar di dunia sehingga layak menjadi tujuan wisata Muslim,” kata Esthy Reko Astuti di Jakarta belum lama ini. Ia mengatakan, selain sebagai negara mayoritas Islam, potensi Indonesia juga besar untuk wisata Muslim dari sisi banyaknya destinasi khas yang bisa ditawarkan. Esthy sendiri menyayangkan jika Indonesia tidak sedari sekarang menggarap bidang itu secara khusus dan terfokus. “Thailand saja sudah berani mengklaim dirinya sebagai ‘muslim kitchen’ terbesar di dunia. Jadi kita tidak boleh ragu lagi untuk menggarap ini,” katanya. Pihaknya menyadari adanya minat yang sangat tinggi untuk muslim traveller di seluruh dunia, oleh karena itu pihaknya mengembangkan Wisata Syariah di tanah air. “Jika selama ini perbankan syariah yang sudah lebih dulu berkembang, maka sekarang kita akan sosialisasikan wisata syariah,” katanya. Kemenparekraf berinisiatif mendorong potensi pengembangan Wisata Syariah di Indonesia sekaligus memfasilitasi beberapa destinasi wisata yang sudah mulai menawarkan produk dan pelayanan wisata dengan nilai-nilai syariah yang diminati oleh wisatawan muslim. Pihaknya mencatat saat ini populasi muslim dunia mencapai 1,8 miliar atau 28 persen total populasi dunia. Dari sisi pariwisata, wisatawan muslim sudah berkontribusi sekitar sekitar 126 miliar dolar AS pada 2011. Di Indonesia sendiri sampai saat ini sudah ada sembilan destinasi wisata yang berpotensi untuk dipromosikan sebagai destinasi Wisata Syariah yaitu Sumatera Barat, Riau, Lampung, Banten, Jakarta, Jawa Barat, Jawa Timur, Makasar, dan Lombok. Pariwisata Syariah dapat didefinisikan sebagai berbagai macam kegiatan wisata yang didukung oleh berbagai fasilitas serta layanan yang disediakan masyarakat, pengusaha, pemerintah, dan pemerintah daerah yang memenuhi ketentuan syariah. “Meski begitu Pariwisata Syariah memiliki karakteristik produk dan jasa yang universal, keberadaannya dapat dimanfaatkan oleh semua. Wisatawan non-Muslim juga boleh menikmati wisata syariah, di situ justru akan lebih aman dan nyaman,” katanya. Menurut dia, wisatawan justru akan dilayani oleh pelaku usaha pariwisata yang selalu menyesuaikan atau mengaplikasikan nilai-nilai etika syariah pada produk dan jasa usahanya. “Pelaku usaha juga dapat tetap memperluas pasar tanpa meninggalkan pelanggan yang sudah dimilikinya melalui wisata syariah,” pungkas Esthy. (*)

Vol. VII No. 11, 2012

Bali baliku Luxury Villas offers a casual life style alternative that is free from obvious city pressures. With a golden sand beach front right on the door step, there is a constant reminder of some of the precious qualities that one is often to busy to appreciate. Jimbaran Bay is renewed for it’s “catch of the day” seafood dining and vibrant sunsets over the distant horizon. The bay instils a sense of tranquillity that somehow manages to rebalance the body, mind and spirit.

Jalan Bukit Permai No. 5A, Jimbaran - Bali - Indonesia 80362 p : +62 361 701 848 f : +62 361 701 847 e: [email protected] w. www.balibalikuvilla.com

19

Modern Home Comfort that embrance the Balinese way of life

Your ultimate lifestyle retreat in paradise Vol. VIII No. 1, Exoticism of. Matayangu Waterfall. Central Sumba

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