Ministry Of Tourism & Creative Economy Visits U.S. To Build Awareness And Encourage Travel To The Country

NEW YORK,2 Nov 2011 -- Indonesia is proving to be the hot new destination for U.S. tourists. The Ministry of Tourism & Creative Economy for the Republic of Indonesia reports that during the first six months of 2011, U.S. visitors to the country increased 7.4 percent from 85,385 to 91,569 over the same period last year.

The Ministry is intent on further strengthening the position of Indonesia as a preferred holiday destination for international tourists and increasing the number of visitor numbers coming from the U.S. by 10 percent by the end of 2011. To achieve its goal, the Ministry is participating in a series of events and sponsorships in the U.S., including the upcoming ING New York City Marathon on November 6, 2011.

The Ministry has appointed IMG to strategize and execute the sponsorship and marketing of Indonesia tourism at the 'ING New York City Marathon.' In New York, Indonesia will be represented in a variety of consumer-driven events, including the "International Taste of Travel" and "Parade of Nations." The Ministry believes the 'ING New York City Marathon' is an ideal platform to promote tourism in Indonesia to both U.S. and international tourists by showcasing Indonesia's vast offerings.

"Indonesia offers everything, from award-winning golf courses and spas to marvelous cultural attractions and natural wonders. We see the sponsorship of these international events surrounding the 'ING New York City Marathon' as a unique opportunity to promote our islands and introduce travelers to all we have to offer," said Sapta Nirwandar, Vice-Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy.

In addition to engaging in sponsorship opportunities, the Ministry is exploring new ways within the cruise industry to attract more travelers. As the country is conveniently located in close proximity to Southeast Asia's largest cruise hub, Singapore, the Ministry will be campaigning for new cruise routes in the next few years that explore islands beyond Bali.

Buoyed by the solid growth in travelers from the U.S. market, the Ministry announced that it will open a Visit Indonesia Tourism Office (VITO) in New York City in 2012. The role of the VITO is to promote Indonesia as a leisure and business destination. The U.S. office will join the family of 12 other VITOs located around the world in countries that are key tourism markets for Indonesia.