"Sustainable tourism is what we will do," the ministry's deputy for tourism products and event organizer, Rizki Handayani, stated at the international conference on 'Heritage of Toba: Natural and Cultural Diversity' here on Wednesday.
One of the measures that will be encouraged to achieve sustainable tourism is revamping or improving human resources so that the increase in community capacity can occur, Handayani explained.
In addition, she said, the ministry has made several thematic tourist paths so the tourism products have a clear segment.
Usually, tourists who come to Lake Toba only want to stay for about one to two days, she observed.
Through thematic tourist trails such as the gastronomic culture trail, which will combine food and recreation, tourists will be able to stay longer in the destination for three to four days, Handayani said.
Related news: Tourism Ministry holds international conference at Lake Toba
The gastronomic culture trial will feature additional activities such as cooking classes and stays in villages around tourist sites, she highlighted.
"Kids need experiences when visiting (a destination), so the thematic event (for them) has to do with culture and nature adventure," she pointed out.
Hence, she said she also expected travel agents to prioritize thematic experience value when promoting Lake Toba for tourists.
"The selling (promotion) is changed. The 3 days-2 nights Toba-Samosir package is outdated," Handayani added.
The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy held an international conference on 'Heritage of Toba: Natural and Cultural Diversity' in Lake Toba on Wednesday as part of efforts for promoting the five Super-Priority Tourism Destinations (DPSPs).
The five DPSPs set by the Indonesian government are Lake Toba in North Sumatra, Borobudur in Central Java, Mandalika in West Nusa Tenggara, Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara, and Likupang in North Sulawesi.
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Translator: M Alatas, Kenzu T
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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