For returning visitors and new explorers alike, Indonesia offers a world of wonders to enjoy. Now, with 2022 drawing to a close and a New Year on the horizon, Indonesian officials are preparing for a new dawn in the nation’s tourism sector, centred around five so-called ‘super priority’ destinations.
Covering a range of tourism hotspots around the archipelago, the five super priority destinations will add new attractions and a diverse array of activities for travellers in Indonesia. These hotspots are Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Borobudur in Central Java, Mandalika in Lombok, Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara and Likupang in North Sulawesi.
Speaking at the recent World Travel and Tourism Council’s annual global summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia’s Tourism Minister, Sandiaga Uno, underlined how the new approach offers something different to what’s gone before.
“We’re not only focusing on sun, sea and sand – the three S that we’ve been so famous for,” said Mr Uno. “We are adding serenity, sustainability and spirituality,” he added. The Minister was referring to the broad popularity of Bali – Indonesia’s most famous tourist destination, where beaches and sunshine are a major draw for the international market.
From mountains and monuments to natural wonders, cultural attractions and sports, the five priority destinations that form the ministry’s focus for 2023 provide a range of attractions. “(We have) five super priority destinations that are ready to receive foreign tourists, each with its own specific experiences and memories,” said Mr Uno in his statement.
These destinations each provide a snapshot of Indonesia’s diverse attractions. Lake Toba is the world’s largest crater lake, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the backdrop for fascinating cultural heritage; Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist monument and the nation’s number one tourist attraction; Mandalika is a new development project in Lombok offering a range of modern attractions, including international motorsport events; Labuan Bajo is the gateway to Komodo National Park; and Likupang in Sulawesi is home to some excellent beaches, perfect for island-hopping adventures.
These big five destinations have all been the subject of major developments in the past few years, to the point where each is now ready to welcome international travellers for high-quality holidays. Now, with Indonesian tourism fully up and running after the end of pandemic-era restrictions, Uno and his ministry are ready and raring to go with new destinations. In addition to the current five, the Minister also confirmed Indonesia is already working on five more: Belitung, Tanjung Lesung, Morotai, Wakatobi and Raja Ampat.
Want to know more? For a deeper look at the amazing attractions on offer in Morotai, Lake Toba and Bali, check out Panorama Destination’s in-depth Travel With Us blog, featuring stories and photography from around Indonesia. You can also discover the natural wonders of Wakatobi, or explore the Borobudur monument, in previous editions of our online magazine, called What’s Up.
