INDONESIA, the world's largest archipelago, is full of amazingly beautiful islands with every island having its own exotic magic, which is why many Saudi families are selecting this Asian destination for their summer vacation. “In 2007, the number of tourist arrivals in Indonesia was 5.5 million, the most in 10 years,” according to Yaqout Abdullah Mansour, the Consul General of Indonesia in Jeddah. “We expect this number to reach eight million. That means 80,000 Arab tourists, with most of them being Saudis.” Indonesian travel agencies, hotels and airlines are attempting to attract Saudi families this summer by making special offers and promoting the country's many tourist attractions. "We aim to provide information about Indonesian tourism. Every year we hold many exhibitions and conferences to tell Saudis more about our country," said Rudiana, the sales and marketing director of Wita Tours and Travel Service. “Most Saudis only know about Jakarta and have little information about other Indonesian islands.” “We know the Middle East, and especially Saudi Arabia, is one of the fastest growing markets for tourism to Indonesia, which is one of the world's largest Muslim countries,” Rudiana added. “Many Indonesian tourists and pilgrims come to the Kingdom for Haj and Umrah, and also many Saudis come to Indonesia, but they still have a lot to learn about the country.” "We have more than 17,000 fascinating islands, yet many Saudis have no idea about the well-known island of Bali, for example," said Rudiana. “The natural beauty of Indonesia is a contrast to the arid climate of the Kingdom. When Saudis come to Indonesia they can enjoy unspoiled tropical beaches, marvelous underwater scenery, exotic rainforests and majestic green mountains." Riyo Adi Wisaksono, General Manager of Le Grandeur Hotel in Jakarta, said, “The Middle East market is very important to us with more tourists arriving all the time especially from July to September. This summer we are introducing our hotel to the Middle East and cooperating with travel agencies that specialize in the Middle East market, such as, Wita Tours, Marin Tours, and Kaha Tours.” "Our hotel, surrounded by 4,000 shops, offers modern living with uncompromisingly excellent service," added Wisaksono. "Le Grandure represents the ideal spot for the tightly scheduled business traveler, the tourist on a leisure journey, or the family on holiday." “We focus on the Gulf, because there are strong relations between the Kingdom and our country,” said Wisaksono. According to Rastim, general manager of the Jayakarta Hotel in Jakarta, "The Jayakarta has several branches throughout Indonesia, such as, the Suite Hotel and Spa in Bandung, known as “The City of Flowers.” Bandung, the capital of West Java, is a city rich in history and known for its leading universities, fashionable dining places, and many shopping centers." The Jayakarta Hotel also has branches in Yogyakarta, Bali, Lombok, Cisarua, and Anyer. “The Jayakarta Hotel is strategically located in downtown Jakarta on the main thoroughfare to one of the city's premier commercial and shopping districts,” Rustim said. “It offers well-appointed rooms and suites and international standard business facilities and services providing tourists with all the necessities and comforts required for a successful visit to Jakarta, whether for business or pleasure.” “We are promoting Indonesia and providing special offers on transportation, hotels, accommodation, and tours," said Herna P. Danungrat, chairperson of the Asita Jakarta Association of Indonesian Tours and Travel Agencies. Danungrat added, “Prices depend on the services provided. For example, if someone wants to spend ten days touring the most famous sites in Java, it might cost him around SR3,000, but this includes hotel, transportation, food, and all tours. The Office of Culture and Tourism of South Sumatra Province is also promoting tourism in Indonesia. "We chose Jeddah to promote tourism, because we know that many Arabs love Indonesia, and around 30 percent of the Indonesian people are of Arab origin which means there is a strong bond between us," said Aufa Syahriza, Head of the Promotion and Marketing Office for Culture and Tourism in South Sumatra. Smer Al-Ansary, a Saudi pharmacist, is planning to visit Indonesia this summer. "I am looking for the latest information about Indonesia which I have already visited four times. I want to visit again this summer with my family," Al-Ansary said. "The greatest expense is the air tickets, but the other services are very reasonable. For example, last year I only spent around SR4,000 for a three week trip.” __
