Many Buses Are Turned Back In Gunungkidul, PHRI Jogja Asks For Trial Opening Of Beach Destinations

YOGYAKARTA - The Association of Indonesian Hotels and Restaurants (PHRI) of the Special Region of Yogyakarta proposed a trial of opening a limited beach tourist destination.

"We propose that at least one beach tourism destination be opened," said Chairperson of PHRI DIY, Deddy Pranawa Eryana, quoted by Antara, Monday, October 11.

Deddy said the beach is one of the destinations that has a significant contribution to the length of stay or the length of tourist visits in DIY.

With longer visits, according to him, occupancy or occupancy rates usually increase, both for star and non-star hotels.

"Most of them are for tourists, especially the lower middle class, who are in great demand by the beach. After visiting the beach, usually many stay," said Deddy.

If the trial opening of beach tourism is later allowed, Deddy hopes to prioritize those located in Gunung Kidul such as Baron Beach and Indrayanti. The consideration is that many members of the DIY PHRI, including restaurant managers in the district, have failed to accept tourist visits.

"There are many PHRI members in Gunungkidul who are in the portal crying because their guests have been turned away," he said.

By continuing to apply strict health protocols, he believes beach tourism activities will be safe. If the internet signal is still constrained to access the PeduliLindung application, according to him, visitors can temporarily be asked to submit a vaccine card.

Until now, there are seven tourist destinations in DIY that have obtained a limited operational trial permit by the central government, namely Gembira Loka Zoo in Yogyakarta City; Breksi Cliff Park, Ratu Boko Temple, and Marapi Park Tourism Park in Sleman Regency; and Pinus Pengger, A Thousand Stones, and Pinussari Mangunan Forest in Bantul Regency.

The trial opening of the seven tourist destinations, Deddy acknowledged, became the starting point for the revival of tourism in DIY.

However, Deddy said that he had not contributed significantly to hotel occupancy because most tourists visiting DIY only did a 'one day tour'.

"Business groups that are busy on weekends are mostly 'one day tours' without staying overnight, even though some are staying at hotels," said Deddy.

Deddy said that during PPKM level 3, the occupancy of three, four, and five star hotels reached 80 percent on weekends and 40 percent on weekdays. Meanwhile, two-star hotels and below average 40 percent on weekends and 15-20 percent on weekdays.

The occupancy, he said, was still largely driven by reservations for various exhibitions, seminars, or conventions (MICE) by a number of government agencies operating in DIY. "Until now we are still being helped by MICE," said Deddy.