INDONESIA has been urged to do more to promote Bali as a holiday destination following last weekend’s bomb attacks in tourist resorts.
The bombs, which killed 19 people, happened just as operators were reporting bookings were almost back to levels before similar attacks on the island three years ago.
Somak Holidays head of product Rob Haynes said the Indonesian government must support the destination following the latest terrorist attacks. He had already raised the importance of promoting Bali with the country’s tourism ministers during a visit last week.
“Things like this make it even more important to do something positive to promote the destination over here,” Haynes said.
He added Egypt was a good example as it has maintained a busy tourism trade despite being a frequent terrorist target.
However, he believes the impact of the bombings will be less than was felt three years ago as people are becoming used to terrorist atrocities.
Somak has yet to notice a dip in enquiries for Bali following the bombs.
An Indonesian embassy spokeswoman claimed around £1 million – as much as can be spared – is spent on promoting the country in Britain.
She added: “Even though tourism is something we depend on, it is not a priority.”
Food programmes and the rising fuel costs are key concerns instead. It is hoped airlines and operators will push the country, she added.
One British tourist is believed to have been among those killed after three bombs exploded in Kuta and Jimbaran Beach. The October 2002 attacks killed 202 people.
Meanwhile, some operators have been criticised for being relatively inflexible on rebooking after the Foreign and Commonwealth Office decided not to advise against travel.
Stratford-upon-Avon-based Tana Travel owner Neil Basnett said: “I’d have expected operators to be more flexible over the next two weeks by allowing customers to switch to alternative destinations.”