Indonesia targets a 25 percent increase in the number of foreign tourists this year, as part of the Visit Indonesia Year 2008 goals.
Last year, more foreign tourists visited Indonesia than in any other year in the past decade. But at 5.5 million arrivals, the number was below the Tourism Ministry’s target of six million.
This year, tourism officials are confident the country can attract seven million visitors from overseas.
“Security in Indonesia has improved,” Director General of Culture and Tourism Thamrin Bachri said. “Since we’ve issued visas on arrival, more tourists from countries like India, China and the Netherlands come here.”
But a number of lingering issues could stand in the way.
The European Union still bans its citizens from flying Indonesian domestic carriers. It keeps European tourists from practically most Indonesian cities except in Bali, which is reachable by foreign air carriers.
Access to many hidden paradise in Indonesia is still minimal. Many destinations with high tourism values are still difficult and unaffordable to reach. Natural disasters can also deter tourists.
“We also have a limited budget to promote the campaign, far less than our competitors,” Bachri said.
Visit Indonesia Year TV ads and banners are now out, although some think they came out a bit late. Tourism officials hope Indonesia’s natural beauty will speak for itself and invite the visitors.
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