Indo tempts Aussies beyond Bali

SYDNEY’S Shangri-La Hotel has played host to the inaugural Taste of Indonesia Food Festival this week where trade gathered yesterday to experience a culinary array of Indonesian dishes.

Guests were updated by Indonesia’s Ambassador to Australia, Kristiarto Legowo, on the importance of the Aussie traveller to Indonesia’s economy.

“Indonesia is the most frequently visited country by Australians after New Zealand.

“But being complacent is not an option, we need to work harder.

“We intend to strengthen the important partnerships we have with all tourism stakeholders both in Indonesia and Australia.”

While Bali remains a firm favourite among Australian travellers, the Ambassador highlighted a goal to grow tourism beyond this destination.

“The Indonesian govt is focusing on building more airports, ports, tollways and critical infrastructure to grow tourism.

“We are confident in promoting more destinations beyond Bali with the Ministry for Tourism promoting at least 10 more destinations referred to as the ‘10 new Balis’ and to succeed we need to work hand in hand with our partners here in Australia.”

He said Scandinavian visitors currently outspent Australian visitors but were only a fraction of the volume, and that his goal was to increase both visitation and spend from this market.

Pictured from left are Yayan Mulyana, Consul General Republic of Indonesia; Miriam Tulevski, country manager Visit Indonesia Tourism Office; Kristiarto Legowo, Republic of Indonesia Ambassador to Australia; Caecilia Legowo and Irene Mulyana.