VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

Tourism destinations in Indonesia have again received international awards. This time Raja Ampat in West Papua won an award from Lonely Planet.

Raja Ampat was chosen as one of six global destinations from around the world. Which is recommended as a destination that must be visited (must visit location) 2023 as an 'unwind destination'.

Or in other words, a destination that is famous for its underwater beauty was chosen as a destination for relaxation. Also running away from busyness, releasing fatigue, and looking for calm and peace.

There are five other destinations that received awards in the same category. Namely Halkidiki Greece, Jamaica, Dominica, Malta, and Jordan.

The Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy (Menparekraf) Sandiaga Uno said this award brought hope for the revival of Indonesia's tourism destinations. At the same time, it proves that the global tourism trend has changed from the old 3S.

"Sand, sun, and sea are of course the new 3S. Namely Spirituality, Serenity and Sustainability," he said in a statement received, Friday (18/11/2022).

"Raja Ampat is an example of a complete new 3S destination. And for information, Arborek, a tourism village that has been successfully developed in this area is a successful pilot project for a tourism village," he said.

Meanwhile, Deputy for Marketing at the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, Ni Made Ayu Marthini, added that Raja Ampat was chosen because of its coral reefs and diving spots. Its less crowded atmosphere can be an alternative to Indonesia's new island for foreign tourists.

"We hope that this award will help increase the awareness of the international community about Raja Ampat and Indonesia. At the same time spurring all Indonesian tourism actors to improve the management of 3S destination management," he said.

This award from Lonely Planet adds to the series of awards that Wonderful Indonesia has received throughout 2022. Previously, Bali was ranked first in the 10 happiest holiday destinations in the world according to Club Med, a France-based Travel and Tourism Operator.

Lonely Planet is a global tourism media provider of trusted information. For travelers around the world, namely Lonely Planet's Best in Travel Destinations for 2023. (RRI)