Mandalika “Wonderful Indonesia Trip in Lombok”

The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy/Badan Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf) organized a familiarization trip (famtrip) entitled "Wonderful Indonesia Trip in Lombok" for travel influencers and media from several countries in the Asia Pacific region.

The "Wonderful Indonesia Trip in Lombok" is one of the efforts to increase tourist visits from the Asia Pacific region to the country.

Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy/Head of the Tourism and Creative Economy Agency (Menparekraf/Kabaparekraf) Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno, in his statement on Friday (1/12/2023), explained that this activity is a collaboration between Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf and Scoot Airlines, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, aimed at promoting Indonesian destinations, especially Mandalika, to tourists from countries in the Asia Pacific region.

According to Sandiaga, the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Kemenparekraf continues to collaborate with partners to promote Indonesia, including airlines that have flight routes from target markets to Indonesia. This is expected to stimulate economic recovery, create job opportunities, and open up wide-ranging business opportunities.

In reaching the Asia Pacific market, Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf has participated in the PATA Travel Mart 2023 event organized by the Pacific Asia Travel Association in India in October 2023.

This time, Kemenparekraf had the opportunity to "seize the ball" by bringing in travel influencers and journalists to visit Lombok Island and introduce one of the Super Priority Tourism Destinations, Mandalika.

Ni Made Ayu Marthini, the Deputy of Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy/Badan Pariwisata dan Ekonomi Kreatif (Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf), stated that this famtrip will take place from November 27th to December 3rd, 2023. The participants will include 2 travel influencers from Malaysia (Kerol Izwan and Zarnizar), 1 journalist from Escape media in Australia (John Burfitt), and 1 journalist from Thairath media in Thailand (Nisarut).

"Bali has already become a top of mind destination for tourists from the Asia Pacific region when traveling to Indonesia. Therefore, we want to introduce another equally attractive destination, which is Lombok, particularly the Mandalika area, one of the 5 Super Priority Destinations. Through this famtrip, we aim to convey the message that foreign tourists from the Asia Pacific region can include Lombok in their travel itinerary to Indonesia," said Made.

The initiative to showcase Lombok through this famtrip is part of the ongoing efforts to diversify tourism offerings in Indonesia and promote lesser-known yet captivating destinations. By inviting influential individuals from various countries to experience the beauty and unique experiences that Lombok has to offer, the hope is to attract more international visitors and boost tourism in the region. This strategic approach aligns with the broader goal of expanding Indonesia's tourism sector and showcasing the country's rich cultural and natural heritage to the world.

Made also explained that tourists in the Asia Pacific region can travel to Lombok with Scoot airlines, which has flight routes to Lombok via Singapore. The accessibility provided by Scoot airlines makes it easier for travelers to reach the exotic destination of Lombok, known for its diverse activities and accommodation options ranging from homestays to luxury resorts. This highlights the readiness of Lombok to welcome foreign tourists.

The destinations in Lombok offer exotic places, a variety of activities, and various types of accommodation from homestays to luxury resorts. This indicates that Lombok is indeed very prepared to be visited by foreign tourists. The support from various partners such as A&T Holidays, The Kayana Beach Lombok, and Pullman Lombok Merujani Mandalika Beach Resort further enhances the experience for tourists visiting Lombok.

Ni Made also added that the execution of this famtrip is supported by various partners, namely A&T Holidays, The Kayana Beach Lombok, and Pullman Lombok Merujani Mandalika Beach Resort. The itinerary for the famtrip participants has been well-prepared by A&T Holidays, a travel agent in Lombok catering to inbound and outbound tourists since 1992. This collaboration ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for tourists exploring the beauty of Lombok.

Participants will engage in snorkeling activities in the Gili Islands area, which consists of 3 small islands namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air, known for their enchanting underwater scenery. 

The exciting adventure in nature will continue the next day at the Benang Stokel and Benang Kelambu Waterfalls. These waterfalls, located at the foot of Mount Rinjani, have a legend as the bathing place of Dewi Anjani.

The participants will have the opportunity to explore the beauty of the underwater world while snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters surrounding the Gili Islands, followed by a visit to the majestic waterfalls the next day, adding a touch of adventure and cultural significance to their experience.

Furthermore, participants will be invited to learn about the culture of Lombok by visiting Desa Ende, which is the home of the Sasak Tribe, the indigenous people of Lombok Island. Not only that, participants will also visit Desa Sukarara, a village known for producing traditional woven songket fabrics that have penetrated the international market.

While in Lombok, participants will also experience a memorable stay. They will stay at The Kayana Beach Lombok, which boasts 32 villa units with private pools. This luxurious accommodation offers a view of Kecinan Beach with its white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving activities.

The Kayana also provides direct access to and from the 3 Gili Islands (small islands) that are very popular in Lombok, namely Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air by using a private boat. Participants can also enjoy the breathtaking views of the open sea and stunning sunsets at The Blues Restaurant while indulging in a delightful dinner.

In addition, participants will also be staying at the Pullman Lombok Merujani Mandalika Beach Resort, which boasts 257 extra spacious rooms, suites, and trendy villas designed with a touch of local heritage. This beachfront resort is surrounded by lush green hills and offers spectacular views of the Indian Ocean.

Apart from its luxurious hotel facilities, the location is also close to the iconic Pertamina Mandalika International Street Circuit and is only a 20-minute drive from Lombok International Airport.

Participants, who are travel influencers, are expected to share their experiences and excitement during their trip to Lombok through their social media platforms. The experiences they share with their followers are also expected to inspire potential international tourists from countries in the Asia Pacific region to visit and explore Indonesia, particularly Mandalika, Lombok.