DESPITE Indonesia’s tourism industry being seriously damaged by sporadic rioting and bloody political demonstrations in several cities, its tourist board is going ahead with plans to exhibit at World Travel Market.
Two-thirds of the Indonesia pavilion will be dedicated to exhibitors from Bali, which is the country’s main holiday destination and which has not been affected by the country’s political problems.
Several of the island’s hotels and ground operators will be exhibiting in part of the Indonesia pavilion which has been designated the Bali Village.
Flag carrier Garuda Indonesia will also be in the pavilion. Last year, the airline joined the Pacific Asia Travel Association on its stand, while the Bali exhibitors took two separate booths.
Garuda UK sales manager John Moxey said:”We have all come together under one roof for WTM ’99.
“Last year there was a lack of co-ordination because the Indonesia Tourist Office in London had just closed down, but this year Indonesia will have a strong, unified presence at WTM.”
He said the airline will promote its new one-stop service from London to Bali and its new Premium Economy class.
Garuda’s new Bali flights begin operating via Bangkok only, missing out the stop in Frankfurt, from November 29. Its new Premium Economy service offers business-class seats with an upgraded economy meal service.
n The Indonesia Tourism Board plans to host an invitation-only drinks reception for agents onits stand. Details had stillto be confirmed asTravel Weekly wentto press.