A sight of the Royale Jakarta Golf Club (Photo/China News Service)
(ECNS) -- Sunshine, beach, bikinis might depict a typical Indonesian vacation for many Chinese visitors. But now, the island country is eagerly promoting its golf resource as another attraction for one of its most important markets.
"Indonesia has more to offer except Bali," said Counselor for Social and Cultural Affairs Santo Darmosumarto at a promotional campaign in Beijing on Thursday, adding that many national resources are under explored by Chinese visitors.
The new initiative aims to open up Indonesia's top-class golf resources to Chinese travelers and establish new connections. "We've noticed the rising popularity of golf in China, especially in big cities like Beijing and Shanghai," Darmosumarto said.
"However, the best season for golf only lasts for a few months in China due to weather conditions, while in Indonesia, it can be played all year round," He added. Besides the ideal weather, Darmosumarto also cited cheap expenses, visa-friendly policies and unique scenery as other competitive edges for a golf trip to the country.
Last year, Indonesia recorded some 1.3 million Chinese tourists. The Indonesian Tourism Ministry hopes to up that number to 2 million by this year. China's expanding middle class is boosting their confidence. "So far, most Chinese visitors who have golf experience in Indonesia are businessmen," said Merry Kwan, marketing director for the Golf Wonderful Indonesia mission. Kwan also offered demographic insight into this customer group, which is 30 to 50 years in age with salaries of 10,000 yuan (about $1500) or above, based on the latest surveys. Both Kwan and Darmosumarto hope the pool of customers could be further enlarged.
Kwan said many people still believe that golf is an expansive activity, while it is actually not true. "Just like hotels are classified with different star rates, our golf resorts are also of various classes to cater for different needs," she explained,"In fact, the average cost for a 3- to 5-day golf trip to Indonesia will be only about $400 to $500. This will cover flight tickets and accommodation at a 4-star hotel. "
Indonesia is home to some of the world's best golf courses. Its capital Jakarta has more than 25 world-class and signature courses designed by the biggest names in the industry. Some are built amidst the lush tropical greeneries and with stunning volcanoes as backdrops. The country has also hosted some prestigious golf events like the Indonesia Open in 2010. For trip advice, Kwan said the best golf season in Indonesia is April till November, though the sport can be played throughout the year. Visitors are also suggested to check up with their preferred resorts for availability ahead of planning their trips.
Some Golf resort choices:
Royale Jakarta Golf Club
Location: East Jakarta
Designed by Bob Moore Jr. & JMP Groups. This world-class golf course features dramatic landscapes with "wide open Californian-style" long-range vistas and purple fountain grass.
Holes: 18
Facilities: Spacious locker rooms, sauna, massage, luxurious founders lounge, VIP room, Royal Palace restaurant, pro-shop, function room, board room, 300 meter practice range with 24 lanes and a short game area, and golf carts.
Merapi Golf Yogyakarta
Location: Yogyakarta
Located just 30 minutes from Yogyakarta, in the foothills of Mount Merapi, an active volcano. The golf course has been created by the renowned design team of Thomson, Wolveridge & Perret.
Holes: 18
Facilities: Club House, lobby, restaurant, locker, pro-shop, golf cart, pick-up service.
Rancamaya Golf & Country Club
Location: Bogor
An exciting champion course for beginners and golf professionals alike, the resort is perfect for those who value simplicity and elegance. 450m above sea level, this beautifully landscaped course is the ideal place for a family weekend.
Holes: 18
Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, tennis, fitness, swimming pool, villas providing five-star resort accommodations and services, and golf carts.
Jakarta Golf Club – Rawa Mangun
Location: East Jakarta
Located only 30 minutes from the city center. It's one of the first and oldest golf clubs in Jakarta. The course was built by the British in 1872.
Holes: 18
Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, pro-shop, shower, locker rooms, driving range, caddies, and whirlpool.
Bandar Kemayoran Golf
Location: Central Jakarta
The Kemayoran golf course was designed by Peter Delkeith Scott. This challenging 18-hole course lies in Central Jakarta, only five minutes from the Ancol toll road exit. With its excellent facilities, Padang Golf Kemayoran is a popular destination for avid golfers in Jakarta.
Holes: 18
Facilities: Clubhouse, restaurant, VIP room, pro-shop, shower, ladies' and gents' lockers, sheltered driving range, putting green, and golf carts.
