Empowering Female Solo Travelers in Indonesia: A Step Towards Inclusive Tourism
Bandung, March 14, 2024 – The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy/Tourism and Creative Economy Agency (Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf) recently organized a webinar titled “Women Solo Traveler” aimed at providing information to policymakers, the tourism industry, and the general public about the motivations, experiences, and unique challenges faced by female travelers when embarking on solo journeys.
The Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy/Chief Secretary of the Tourism and Creative Economy Agency (Sesmenparekraf/Sestama Baparekraf) Ni Wayan Giri Adnyani expressed appreciation for the webinar, hoping it would encourage the creation of inclusive and sustainable tourism practices.
“Through discussions and idea exchanges between speakers and participants, I believe we can find innovative solutions to the challenges faced by the tourism industry and continue to strengthen the role of women in this sector,” said Giri Adnyani.
Poltekpar Discussions
The webinar, held to commemorate International Women’s Day on March 8 and the 62nd Anniversary of NHI Bandung Tourism Polytechnic on March 11, 2024, featured speakers from various Polytechnic Colleges under the auspices of Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf.
Representing Poltekpar Makassar, Anda Praseto Ery discussed motivation through intrinsic and extrinsic approaches. Understanding motivation needs to be accompanied by efforts from tourism destination stakeholders in marketing destinations effectively.
Accessibility and Facilities
Poltekpar Medan, represented by Nova Bernadetta Sitorus, highlighted accessibility, facilities, and attractions identified as key factors influencing travelers’ choices.
“Diversity in transportation, safety, and natural attractions emerge as crucial factors in attracting solo female travelers. Meanwhile, ease of location finding and adequate road infrastructure also play a role in determining their destination preferences,” said Nova.
Building Confidence
Poltekpar Palembang, presented by Muhammad Yahyaddin, discussed motivating Women Solo Travelers to build confidence, step out of their comfort zones, experience freedom and flexibility. Also, proving that women can inspire other women by being brave and independent.
Representing Poltekpar Bali, Putu Diah Sastri Pitanatri, delved into sustainability and inclusivity exploration in the context of solo female travel in Bali and Labuan Bajo. The study found that self-actualization motivation ranged from 35-79 percent, while social and cultural interaction motivations were between 29-35 percent.
Security Concerns
“Security is a concern, although not the primary one at 10.45 percent. The majority, at 82.84 percent, seeks allocentric experiences focusing on adventure, culture, and destination exploration,” said Putu.
Lastly, representing Poltekpar Lombok, Achlan Fahlevi discussed motivations for women solo travel dominated by a desire for entertainment or a brief holiday away from routine.
“In terms of external motivation, solo travel is determined by factors such as transportation and security, which are still concerns for solo travel,” he stated.
Conclusively, representing Poltekpar NHI Bandung, Iqlima Ramadhani, discussed motivations for Women Solo Travelers seeking comfort, personal development, personal pleasure, and increased self-confidence.
In attendance at the event were Andar Danova, Head of the Human Resources Development Center for Parekraf, Kemenparekraf/Baparekraf, and various representatives from the academic community of Poltekpar Bandung.
This insightful webinar shed light on the unique challenges and motivations of female solo travelers, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for women to explore and experience the world independently. Let’s continue to support and empower women travelers on their journeys towards self-discovery and adventure!
