Indonesians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making visitors feel at home even in unfamiliar surroundings.
This, coupled with the country's natural beauty and cultural richness, creates a memorable experience for tourists that keeps them coming back for more.
Indonesia's tourism industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with the number of international tourist arrivals increasing steadily.
According to the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Indonesia welcomed around 16.1 million foreign tourists in 2019, generating over 20 billion USD in foreign exchange earnings.
To further boost the tourism industry, the Indonesian government has implemented several initiatives, including the "10 New Balis" program, which aims to develop ten destinations across the country that can match Bali's popularity.
The government has also relaxed visa regulations and invested in infrastructure development, such as the construction of new airports and highways, to improve accessibility to tourist destinations.
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However, the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the tourism industry worldwide, including Indonesia. In 2020, the number of international tourist arrivals to Indonesia dropped to around 4 million, a significant decrease from the previous year.
The Indonesian government has since implemented health protocols and safety measures to ensure the safety of tourists, such as requiring negative COVID-19 test results before entry and enforcing social distancing guidelines.
Therefore, Indonesia's popularity as a tourist destination is due to its unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, affordability, and warm hospitality.
While the tourism industry has faced challenges in recent years, the government's efforts to improve infrastructure and promote new destinations, along with health and safety protocols, are expected to drive the industry's recovery in the post-pandemic era.***