By Mewati Sitaram
As part of its ongoing efforts to attract Indian tourists, the Ministry of Tourism of Indonesia organized a comprehensive Familiarization Trip (Fam Trip) from June 10 to 15, 2025, featuring Bali and Jakarta as key destinations. This strategic initiative aimed to strengthen ties between Indonesian tourism stakeholders and the Indian travel trade market by offering firsthand experiences of the country’s rich cultural, natural, and urban attractions.
A major highlight of the trip was the participation of Indian travel agents in the prestigious Bali & Beyond Travel Fair (BBTF), held from June 11 to 13 at the Bali International Convention Center, Nusa Dua. The BBTF served as a high-level B2B platform where the Indian delegates engaged as trade buyers, meeting with local tourism operators, hoteliers, and service providers. The interactions were designed to foster long-term partnerships and promote Indonesia as a preferred travel destination for Indian tourists, particularly in niche segments such as weddings, honeymoons, family vacations, and luxury experiences.
The Indian delegation included representatives from prominent travel companies such as Wovoyage Travel Pvt. Ltd., Pickyourtrail, R K Vacations, Outbound Marketing Pvt. Ltd., and Globeverse Vacations. These agents were given a deep dive into Bali’s tourism offerings, with tailored experiences that emphasized not only its scenic landscapes but also its appeal to high-value Indian travelers.
In addition to attending the BBTF, the participants explored Bali’s thematic tourism attractions. These included visits to the ancient Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), swing rides and coffee tastings at Alas Hanum, and high tea at the picturesque Omma Dayclub with panoramic views of the Tegenungan Waterfall. They also enjoyed a traditional Kecak Dance performance in Uluwatu, participated in puppet painting workshops, and learned perfume-making with Avana Creatives—experiences designed to showcase Bali’s depth in cultural, experiential, and lifestyle tourism.
Following the Bali leg, the second half of the trip shifted to Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, where the focus was on exploring the country’s evolving urban tourism. Supported by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Tourism and Creative Economy Office, the visit highlighted Jakarta’s cosmopolitan character, infrastructure, and lifestyle experiences.
One of the standout moments in Jakarta was a culinary exploration of Jalan Sabang, a vibrant street known for its wide array of Indonesian dishes representing various regions of the archipelago. From street food stalls to traditional sit-down restaurants, the Indian participants were introduced to authentic Indonesian flavors, further deepening their appreciation of the country’s culinary diversity.
The Jakarta itinerary also included exposure to cultural and creative attractions such as Pencak Silat demonstrations, visits to art centers, and insight into the city’s Hindu heritage with a stop at the Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, Jakarta’s first Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan.
By the end of the fam trip, participants gained valuable knowledge and a renewed perspective on Indonesia’s tourism readiness and offerings. The initiative successfully positioned Bali and Jakarta not just as destinations of beauty, but as well-rounded experiences fit for Indian travelers seeking culture, luxury, and vibrant city life
Editor in Chief : Mewati SItaram
