Dear Travel Partners,
We are pleased to provide you with the following News and Hotel-Updates for Indonesia...
Indonesia expands visa waiver scheme
Indonesia will significantly expand the number of countries on its visa waiver list, in a bid to boost tourism numbers. The country's government said the programme would be rolled out to 40 countries, up from the current 15. These countries include: China, Japan, South Korea, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Mexico, Russia, England, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Poland, Hungary, Czech Republic, Qatar, United Arab Emirates (UEA), Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and South Africa.
Indonesian Tourism Minister, Arief Yahya, said the expansion of the scheme is expected to contribute to a 15% increase in international visitor arrivals. Indonesia expects to receive 10 million overseas visitors this year.
Taman Nusa - Indonesian Cultural Park, Bali - "See Indonesia in one afternoon!"
Taman Nusa is a cultural park that aims to offer comprehensive information on the cultures of Indonesia's various ethnic groups in an attractive and interactive way, while enjoying the natural beauty of Bali. Situated on 15 hectares of land, visitors are invited to explore and experience Indonesia's journey throughout the ages, beginning with: Prehistoric Era, Bonze Age, Kingdom Age, Cultural Village, Early Indonesia, Indonesian Independence, Present Day Indonesia and Future of Indonesia.
There are more than 60 traditional buildings in Taman Nusa's Cultural Village, each displaying their own unique architecture and design. Exotic natural surroundings, beautiful restaurants and excellent MICE facilities available.
Bali - Culture, Nature & Beaches
Roundtrip - 9 Days/8 Nights
Arrive on your first day in Bali at Jimbaran and transfer to your hotel for your overnight accommodation. The next day, enjoy a relaxing morning at your leisure before heading to Tanah Lot Temple in the afternoon. This is probably the most charismatic temple on the island, perched atop a rock dug by the strength of the tides; the sunsets here are magnificent. Next, stop off at Pura Uluwatu, one of Indonesia's most famous temples, situated on a steep cliff 70 metres above the roaring Indian Ocean waves. To end the day, join in with a Kecak dance, a form of Balinese dance, music and drama that originated in the 1930's and is primarily performed by local men. A ciricle of 150 or more performers wearing checked cloth around their waists percussively chant "cak" and throw their arms up, this depicts a battle from the Ramayana where the monkey-like Vanara helped Prince Rama fight the evil King Ravana - hence why it is often referred to as the "Monkey Chant." However, Kecak has root in sanghyang, a trance-inducing exorcism dance.
The next day, depart for Batubulan to attend a performance of Barong and Kris dance. Then head to Celuk to experience the local artistic crafts and silvery. Later, head to the Mas Village, identified by its excellent wood carving, before enjoying the rest of the afternoon at your leisure to visit the centre of Ubud village, the Palace, the museum and the market. The next day head to Sebatu, passing wonderful stepped rice fields and terraces along the way, as well as coffee and organge plantations before arriving at Kintamani mountain village, 1,400 metres over sea leavel. Here you will enjoy an amazing view over the still active Batur Volcano (1,717 metres) and Lake Batur.

Spend a few days free in Ubud to relax and explore at your leisure before heading on a guided tour to Bedugul, located in the jungle area of the island. Visit botanical gardens, lakes, waterfalls, temples and rural local villages. Spent the next few days enjoying the beauty of Lovina, Candidasa and Kertagosa, including panoramic views of Bali's highest volcano, Mount Agung.
It is possible to extend this trip with time on Bali's beautiful beaches, in the picturesque Gili islands or with more hiking tours.
If you have any questions or require more detailed information on the articles above, please contact your Sales Manager in charge.
Sincerely,
Your Focus Asia Team
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