Ways to Travel
Australia Ties Up with Indonesia Promoting New Cultural And Adventure Trips Hosted for Travel Advisors
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Australia and Indonesia’s travel partnership is taking center stage with a bold new initiative that rewards top-performing Australian travel advisors with an exclusive famil experience to Bali and Labuan Bajo. This is not just a tourism initiative between the two countries but it also showcases Indonesia’s diverse culture and breath-taking attractions. Taking place between 27 October – 2 November, the fully hosted itinerary will encompass flights, luxury accommodation spends and island-hopping experiences in addition to a liveaboard experience — giving agents an opportunity not only enrich their destination knowledge but also be able to get under the skin of two of Indonesia’s most iconic regions.
Virgin Australia, in collaboration with Wonderful Indonesia, has unveiled an extraordinary opportunity for Australian travel advisors — a high-stakes, high-reward famil experience that fuses cultural immersion with tropical adventure. This October, five exceptional agents will earn their place on an exclusive, all-expenses-paid journey through Bali and Labuan Bajo — two of Indonesia’s most captivating destinations.
Running from 27 October to 2 November 2025, this rare famil is more than just a getaway — it’s a deep dive into Indonesia’s soul. Designed to enrich, inspire, and elevate the professional expertise of participating travel advisors, the trip will showcase the dynamic blend of ancient tradition, lush island landscapes, and marine biodiversity that make Indonesia a world-class travel destination.
A Reward That Goes Beyond the Ordinary
Virgin Australia and Wonderful Indonesia aren’t just offering a familiarisation tour — they’re setting the stage for a transformative travel experience. The five winning agents will be selected based on performance, and only the most driven and dedicated advisors will earn their spot. To qualify, agents must issue at least one eligible Virgin Australia ticket to or via Denpasar (Bali) between 1 August and 7 September 2025. Those with the highest number of bookings during the campaign period will secure a coveted place on this prestigious famil.
This campaign is about more than just recognition — it’s about rewarding passion, performance, and dedication with something unforgettable.
Two Worlds, One Epic Itinerary
The hosted itinerary is a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and discovery. It begins in Bali, the Island of the Gods, where winners will spend four nights soaking up the island’s spiritual essence, cultural richness, and warm hospitality. Advisors will explore ancient temples, artisanal markets, scenic rice terraces, and the vibrant flavors of Balinese cuisine — all through curated experiences that reveal the island’s deep-rooted identity.
From Bali, the journey continues eastward to Labuan Bajo, the enchanting port town on the island of Flores, known as the gateway to Komodo National Park. Here, the advisors will transition from cultural immersion to natural wonder, boarding a liveaboard vessel for a two-night sailing adventure through some of Indonesia’s most pristine marine environments.
This segment of the trip promises stunning sunsets, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, and the chance to witness the legendary Komodo dragons in their native habitat — a rare and unforgettable encounter.
Fully Hosted, Seamlessly Delivered
All travel logistics are covered. Advisors will fly Virgin Australia in economy class from Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney to Denpasar, then continue onward to Labuan Bajo. The return leg is equally seamless, ensuring advisors can focus on the experience rather than the details.
The journey includes four nights in premium Bali accommodations and two nights aboard a luxury liveaboard vessel, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Flores Sea. Meals, excursions, and guided activities — from village visits to marine exploration — will all be thoughtfully arranged and hosted by the Wonderful Indonesia team, offering agents a VIP-level introduction to the destinations they’ll soon be promoting with new insights and enthusiasm.
How to Enter and Win
Participation is straightforward but competitive. To be in the running, agents must:
- Issue at least one eligible Virgin Australia ticket to or via Denpasar (DPS) during the campaign period (1 August – 7 September 2025).
- Ensure the required promotional code is included in the PNR.
- Follow all booking guidelines through Galileo, Amadeus, or Sabre GDS systems.
The top five agents with the most eligible bookings during the campaign window will earn a seat on the famil. With the deadline set for 7 September 2025, advisors must act fast, book smart, and stay sharp — this opportunity won’t come again.
Strategic Timing for a Stronger Partnership
This initiative comes at a key moment in both countries’ tourism strategies. As Indonesia continues to invest in expanding its global tourism appeal, and Australia aims to re-engage outbound travelers post-pandemic, this collaboration represents a mutual commitment to growth, connection, and cultural exchange.
The campaign also aligns with Visit Indonesia 2025 efforts, which aim to spotlight lesser-known destinations like Labuan Bajo while reinforcing Bali’s iconic status. By bringing travel advisors directly into these destinations, the famil empowers them to return with first-hand knowledge and powerful stories that can drive bookings and inspire confidence among travelers.
Virgin Australia’s Global Vision
The launch of this famil coincides with Virgin Australia’s resurgence on the international stage, most notably with the introduction of its inaugural long-haul route from Sydney to Doha. This new connection — powered through Virgin’s strategic partnership with Qatar Airways — gives Australian travelers access to over 170 global destinations across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
This marks a significant leap in the airline’s post-pandemic transformation, reinforcing its ambitions to become a major player not just in domestic skies, but in global aviation. For travel advisors, the expansion means more options, more flexibility, and a broader canvas on which to build dream itineraries for clients.
An Opportunity That Opens Doors
This famil is more than just a reward — it’s a catalyst for professional growth. Advisors will return with authentic destination insight, fresh content for client engagement, and a competitive edge in promoting high-conversion Indonesian itineraries. In a world where travelers are increasingly seeking meaning, experience, and personalization, this famil provides agents with exactly what they need to lead the conversation.
Australia and Indonesia’s travel collaboration offers a unique reward for top agents through an exclusive famil to Bali and Labuan Bajo, aiming to boost destination expertise and strengthen tourism ties. The experience combines cultural immersion with adventure, showcasing the best of Indonesia to Australia’s leading travel advisors.
For Virgin Australia and Wonderful Indonesia, it’s a strategic way to showcase the power of partnership, destination diversity, and the vital role of travel advisors in shaping the future of tourism.
Entries close 7 September 2025 — and the race is on.
Intrepid Travel celebrated its inaugural Intrepid Day, on July 24, with a series of global events focused on culture, connection, and community. Marking the company’s 24/7 global presence, the event is set to become an annual tradition highlighting purpose-driven travel and long-term community impact. Celebrations spanned 31 country offices, with major events held in Melbourne, Toronto, and London, the company said in a statement. In Australia, Intrepid hosted giveaways and social media activations, distributing more than 1,000 free Urban Adventures tours to travellers. In Nepal, Intrepid DMC marked the occasion with meaningful local initiatives. Staff and community members joined hands to clean the Changunarayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and planted over 200 trees in partnership with a local forest group. The day also featured a cultural celebration with traditional Newari cuisine, folk music, and a sarangi performance by the Gandharva community, raising awareness about their endangered traditions. The day concluded with a guided Urban Adventure tour of Bhaktapur, highlighting hidden historical gems and promoting sustainable tourism. Globally, Intrepid Day raised over AUD $50,000 in 24 hours for The Intrepid Foundation, surpassing its initial goal and contributing to a wider impact of AUD $150,000 to benefit over 50 grassroots partners worldwide. In Nepal, funds were raised for local partner Sagarmatha Next, reinforcing the day’s theme: culture, connection, and community.
Ways to Travel
Unlocking Jammu’s Tourism Potential: A New Era for Culture, Adventure, and Eco-Tourism
Saturday, August 2, 2025
Jammu, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Kashmir, is quickly establishing itself as a multi-dimensional tourism destination, poised to welcome a growing number of both domestic and international visitors. Beyond its historical and religious significance, Jammu is emerging as a hub for cultural, adventure, and eco-tourism, with a treasure trove of natural wonders, diverse wildlife, and rich heritage that attracts tourists from all walks of life. The region’s transformation into a tourist hotspot is backed by a strategic push for sustainable development and a vision to expand its tourism offerings. With a combination of adventure sports, cultural richness, and untapped natural beauty, Jammu is ready to shine on the global tourism map.
Jammu’s Natural Beauty: A Perfect Destination for Adventure Enthusiasts
Jammu’s landscapes are as diverse as they are captivating. For nature lovers, Jammu offers a wide range of experiences, from lush forests to snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes. Patnitop, a charming hill station nestled at an altitude of 6,600 feet, is one such place that stands out. Surrounded by lush pine forests, it is fast becoming a popular spot for paragliding, skiing, and zip-lining. Not far from Patnitop, Nathatop and Sanasar offer even higher altitudes, with panoramic views that make for ideal trekking routes. The region’s varying altitudes and terrain are perfect for adventurers looking for a place that mixes serenity with thrilling outdoor activities.
For trekkers and nature photographers, Bhaderwah offers some of the most picturesque scenery in Jammu, with the enchanting Jai Valley and Seoj Meadows. These spots are untouched gems that beckon nature lovers seeking tranquility and unspoiled landscapes. Lesser-known locations like Girgan Valley in Poonch, famously called the “Valley of Seven Lakes,” boast glacial formations and alpine serenity, creating a natural playground for hikers, campers, and explorers.
Jammu is also home to serene lakes like Surinsar and Mansar, which are ideal for boating, bird-watching, and peaceful retreats. These lakes, along with the Kindli Waterfall in Ramban and Nongala Lake in Rajouri, have immense potential for developing eco-tourism, drawing visitors keen to connect with nature in its purest form.
Heritage and Culture: Jammu’s Rich Legacy
Jammu’s cultural fabric is a beautiful mosaic of history, architecture, and art, making it an essential stop for those interested in the region’s heritage. The Mubarak Mandi Palace, with its grand architecture blending Rajasthani, Mughal, and colonial styles, serves as a reminder of Jammu’s royal past. The Dogra Art Museum, housed in the palace, showcases priceless manuscripts and artworks that highlight the cultural evolution of the region.
Equally captivating are the Bahu Fort and Amar Mahal Museum, which present a royal heritage intertwined with local legends. The fort, overlooking the Tawi River, offers a scenic view, while the museum houses collections of royal artifacts and manuscripts. The Akhnoor Fort, built along the Chenab River, stands as a historical monument offering a peek into Jammu’s medieval grandeur.
The region is also home to sacred sites that speak volumes of Jammu’s spiritual heritage, including Krimchi Temples, which are some of the oldest in the region, and the Buddhist ruins of Ambaran Monastery near Akhnoor, offering a deep insight into the region’s ancient spirituality.
For those eager to explore Jammu’s artistic legacy, the Basohli paintings and Basohli shawls stand as symbols of Jammu’s vibrant artistic culture. The Basohli Fort, situated near these art hubs, serves as a cultural anchor for the region’s local crafts. Additionally, the Jio Pota Ghat, where Maharaja Gulab Singh of Jammu laid the foundation for the J&K state, carries immense historical significance.
Emerging Tourism Projects: Border Tourism and Eco-Tourism
Jammu’s tourism offerings go beyond nature and history, reaching into the realms of border tourism and wildlife conservation. One such project that is gaining momentum is the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Suchetgarh Border post in RS Pura, a patriotic cultural experience that draws visitors keen on experiencing the unique border dynamics between India and Pakistan. With plans to develop infrastructure, including recreational activities, food outlets, and shopping complexes, this area has the potential to transform into a significant tourist destination similar to the Attari border in Amritsar.
For wildlife enthusiasts, Jammu offers rich bio-diversity through protected zones such as the Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary, Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kishtwar National Park, and Jasrota Sanctuary. These parks house species such as leopards, pheasants, and other exotic wildlife, providing the perfect habitat for eco-tourism. The Gharana Wetland near the Indo-Pak border, a Ramsar site, is a haven for migratory birds and an ideal destination for bird-watching enthusiasts.
The opening of Jambu Zoo in Nagrota, the largest zoo in North India, is another significant addition to Jammu’s wildlife tourism offerings, offering visitors the chance to explore the region’s rich animal life in a controlled environment.
Eco-Tourism and Adventure Sports: Jammu’s Path to Sustainable Growth
Jammu’s tourism sector is also taking steps to ensure sustainable growth by focusing on eco-tourism and adventure sports. To enhance Jammu’s appeal as an all-season destination, various initiatives are being proposed, including the development of winter sports infrastructure in places like Bhaderwah, Padri, and Nathatop. These regions, which boast snow-covered peaks during winter, are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, positioning Jammu as a competitor to Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh in winter tourism.
Additionally, adventure tourism events such as mountain biking races, paragliding competitions, and river rafting festivals along the Chenab or Tawi rivers could be organized to attract young adventurers and international tourists. These events would not only highlight Jammu’s scenic beauty but also boost its profile as an adventure tourism hub.
To support eco-tourism, the development of eco-resorts, homestays, and agro-tourism initiatives are being encouraged. Tourists can stay on farms, participate in harvesting activities, and experience local life while learning about Jammu’s agricultural traditions.
Building the Future: Infrastructure and Policy Support
For Jammu to fully realize its tourism potential, a comprehensive and integrated approach is required. First and foremost, infrastructure needs to be upgraded to meet the growing demands of tourists. This includes improving roads, providing multilingual signage, and establishing QR-code-based tourist guides for a seamless visitor experience. Clean public toilets, waste management systems, and dedicated parking zones are crucial in ensuring a pleasant and sustainable experience for tourists.
The government should also prioritize the promotion of Jammu Tourism App, providing virtual tours, ticketing systems, and real-time local language support to make the region accessible to international visitors. Digital promotion through influencers, travel bloggers, and participation in international expos will help rebrand Jammu as an all-season tourism destination. Partnerships with local entrepreneurs and private players can further strengthen the tourism infrastructure by encouraging the establishment of eco-friendly accommodations and promoting local crafts and food.
Additionally, creating incentives for green buildings, solar energy adoption, and eco-regulations will ensure that tourism in Jammu grows sustainably while minimizing its environmental impact.
Conclusion: A Vision for Jammu’s Tourism Future
The future of Jammu as a tourism destination is bright, with a wealth of cultural, natural, and adventure tourism offerings that promise to attract millions of visitors from across the globe. With robust infrastructure, sustainable development practices, and a focus on preserving the region’s unique heritage and natural beauty, Jammu is set to become a leading tourism hub.
By embracing the concept of multi-dimensional tourism, where history, nature, and adventure collide, Jammu has the potential to rise as a global tourism icon. With the right policies, collaborative efforts, and community participation, Jammu’s full tourism potential will soon be unlocked, making it a crown jewel in India’s tourism landscape.
Dr Pardeep Mahotra
Jammu is swiftly evolving beyond its image as a pilgrimage gateway to become a multidimensional tourism destination. Encompassing cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, adventure thrills, and sustainable development opportunities, Jammu is primed to capture a larger share of domestic and international tourist footfall.
The landscape of Jammu is a nature lover’s paradise. The hill station of Patnitop, perched at 6,600 feet, is surrounded by pine forests and is ideal for paragliding, skiing, and zip-lining. Close by are Nathatop, almost 9,000 feet above sea level, and Sanasar, offering expansive views and lush trekking routes. Bhaderwah boasts the enchanting Jai Valley and pristine Seoj Meadow, which enchant trekkers, campers, and nature photographers with their pristine beauty.
Lesser-known natural wonders include the Girgan Valley in Poonch, famously called the “Valley of Seven Lakes,” with glacial formations and alpine serenity. Equally compelling are Surinsar and Mansar Lakes, ideal for boating, bird-watching, and reflective retreats. The Kindli Waterfall in Ramban, Nongala Lake in Rajouri, and the Ranjit Sagar Lake View near Basohli offer immense potential for eco-tourism. The unexplored Gharu Hill Station, Duggan, and Sarthal Valley in the Bani tehsil of Kathua are emerging jewels.
Adding a unique dimension to tourism is the Beating Retreat ceremony at Suchetgarh Border post in RS Pura. This border tourism initiative aims to boost the local economy and showcase the region’s patriotic heritage. Plans to establish shopping complexes, recreational activities, food outlets, and parks will transform it into a major border tourist spot similar to Attari border in Amritsar.
For wildlife and eco-tourism enthusiasts, Jammu is rich in bio-diversity. The Nandini Wildlife Sanctuary along the Jammu-Udhampur highway is home to leopards, pheasants, and more. Other vital zones include Ramnagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kishtwar National Park, and Jasrota Sanctuary. The Gharana Wetland near the Indo-Pak border is a Ramsar site known for migratory birds and is ideal for developing birdwatching trails. The newly opened Jambu Zoo near Nagrota, now North India’s largest, is a landmark addition to wildlife tourism.
Jammu’s cultural essence is vividly expressed through its regal monuments and Dogra heritage. The sprawling Mubarak Mandi Palace, a blend of Rajasthani, Mughal, and colonial architecture, houses the Dogra Art Museum with rare manuscripts and art. The historic Bahu Fort overlooks the Tawi River, while the Amar Mahal Museum presents royal collections and literature. Bhimgarh Fort in Reasi and the grand Akhnoor Fort on the banks of the Chenab built atop the earlier terraces from the Harappan period,add depth to the region’s medieval grandeur.
The Basohli Fort and nearby town, famed for Basohli paintings, highlight Jammu’s vibrant art legacy. The Ranjit Sagar Dam and lake near Basohli offer scenic beauty and adventure options. Krimchi Temples, believed to be some of the oldest in the region, and the Buddhist ruins of Ambaran Monastery near Akhnoor enrich the narrative of ancient spirituality and culture. Jio Pota Ghat carries the legacy of the Rajya-Abhishek of Maharaja Gulab Singh of Jammu laying the foundation of grand J&K state.
Jammu’s heritage villages in Rajouri, Poonch, and Udhampur can be developed to offer immersive experiences in Dogra cuisine, crafts, folk music, and rituals. Annual events like Dogra Heritage Week, Bhaderwah Trout Festival, and Mansar Mela can act as consistent tourist magnets.
For this vision to materialize, a robust and collaborative approach is essential.
The Jammu & Kashmir Government must prioritize roads, multilingual signage, QR-code based tourist guides, clean public toilets, waste disposal systems, parking zones, and Wi-Fi connectivity in emerging tourist spots. The iconic Chenab Bridge, the world’s highest railway bridge, should be promoted as a site for engineering tourism with a dedicated viewing point.
Private players and local entrepreneurs must also contribute by establishing eco-resorts, homestays, and farm-based lodgings. Utility shops and outlets should be extensive with increased time span and inventory, maintain cleanliness, cultural information, and promote Dogra-themed products. Youth and women should be trained in storytelling, guiding, adventure sports, hospitality, and digital marketing to boost employment and engagement.
A Jammu Tourism App is crucial, offering virtual tours, route maps, ticketing, lodging options, and local language support. Digital promotion through influencers, travel bloggers, and international expos can help rebrand Jammu as an all-season destination.
Tourism circuits such as Spiritual Jammu, Heritage Trails, Eco Wilderness Tours, Adventure Jammu, and Weekend Retreats should be developed, packaged, and marketed efficiently. Incentives for green buildings, solar adoption, and eco-regulations will ensure sustainability.
With integrated planning, policy support under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, and community participation, Jammu can transition into a globally acclaimed tourism region. The time is now for Jammu to awaken its full potential and rise as a crown jewel in India’s tourism landscape.
Certain more points which can be focused are:
Cinematic Tourism Potential: Highlight Jammu’s unexplored scenic locales as ideal settings for film shooting. A dedicated film policy and incentives could attract filmmakers, boosting visibility and local economy.
Wellness and Spiritual Retreats: Introduce the idea of yoga centers, Ayurvedic retreats, and spiritual detox programs in serene settings like Mansar, Bhaderwah, etc. to tap into wellness tourism.
Winter Sports Infrastructure: Advocate for development of winter sports infrastructure in Bhaderwah, Padri, and Nathatop, to position Jammu as a winter sports hub in North India alongside Kashmir and Himachal.
Rural &Agro-Tourism: Emphasize agro-tourism experiences where tourists can stay on farms, participate in harvesting, and taste local produce.
Adventure Race/Festival Calendar: Propose annual adventure events like mountain biking races, paragliding competitions, or river rafting festivals on Chenab or Tawi to draw youth and international adventurers.
Handicrafts and Artisan Clusters: Promote clusters showcasing Basholi paintings, Basohli shawls, Calico prints, wood carvings, and copper/brass works, with live demonstrations and artisan bazaars.
Night Tourism: Propose illuminated heritage walks, night safaris (in eco-approved zones), and cultural shows at Mubarak Mandi, Tawi or Bahu Fort to extend tourist activity beyond daytime.
Trans-Himalayan Circuit Integration: strategic alignment of Jammu’s tourism with Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh under a “Trans-Himalayan Circuit” for high-altitude trekking and cross-cultural immersion.
Heritage Homestays Scheme: Advocate for incentives to convert old havelis or traditional Dogra homes into homestays to preserve architecture and provide authentic experiences.
Institutional Collaboration: Suggest partnerships with academic and hospitality institutes (like IHM Jammu, SKUAST, or Jammu University) for research, tourism curriculum, and internship-based field support.
Tourism Helpline and Emergency Network: Recommend setting up a multilingual 24×7 tourism helpline and rapid response system for medical, law-and-order, or weather-related emergencies.
Smart Signage and AR Integration: Recommend use of Augmented Reality (AR) for live storytelling at forts, temples, or eco-trails-providing tourists with immersive historical and mythological narratives.
While it’s not possible to cover all the attractions in one write-up, this article focuses on highlighting the immense potential of the Jammu region and the various ways it can be explored.
(The author is Media Incharge, J&K BJP)
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