From Spice Routes to Coastal Golf: Huge Potential for Indonesia's Senior Tourism

Amid global demographic shifts, travel is no longer just about distance or destinations conquered. For many senior travelers, tourism serves as a space for health maintenance, reminiscing about the past, and enjoying life at a slower pace. 

Indonesia, with its cultural richness and landscapes, is seen as having significant potential to develop Senior Tourism or Geronto Tourism.

The Indonesian Tourism Scholars Association (ICPI) urges the government to view this segment as part of the future of national tourism. According to ICPI, tourism should be inclusive and accessible to all age groups.

"Tourism is for everyone, not just the healthy. It should include the Elderly, fitness seekers, children—areas where we currently fall short," said Chairman Azril Azhari on Tuesday.

Azril believes Indonesia's senior Tourism Potential is immense, particularly when linked to historical heritage and local culture. 

Destinations offering immersive experiences are deemed more relevant for elderly tourists.

The most promising markets are the Netherlands and Japan. Seniors from these countries are known for their strong interest in quality retirement, utilizing savings accumulated before retiring.

With the right tourism concept, this segment is believed to extend the duration of Tourist Visits. 

Longer stays could boost spending and ultimately strengthen Indonesia's tourism revenue.

Based on ICPI research, Japanese senior tourists show strong interest in creative activities like handicrafts and painting. 

Indonesia's diverse natural landscapes—from mountains to coastlines—provide an ideal backdrop for such experiences.

Others are interested in golfing amid ocean or mountain scenery. 

However, Azril notes that accommodation readiness and supporting infrastructure remain areas needing improvement.

Meanwhile, for Dutch senior tourists, the spice route narrative holds powerful appeal. 

The historical trail of the archipelago's spice trade connecting to Europe can be transformed into an educational and health-promoting tourism experience.

"They travel seeking wellness. Not just joy and happiness, but also health benefits," he stated.

The interest of Dutch Tourists often intersects with a search for identity and family history. 

Many wish to trace ancestral roots, visit old towns, or locate family graves of relatives who once lived in Indonesia.

This Historical Tourism offers emotional depth rarely found elsewhere, according to Azril.

"They deeply desire to experience their ancestors' lives—understanding how they lived. This profound connection is unique to Indonesia," he explained.

As this niche tourism develops, ICPI emphasizes the importance of easily accessible healthcare services for elderly tourists. 

This approach ensures not only comfort but also safety during travel.

"For seniors, tourism should deliver experiences where they enjoy hobbies while health is monitored by gerontologists," he added.

Azril criticizes Indonesia's current narrow view of Health Tourism, which focuses only on medical treatment, recovery, and fitness. Globally, trends are shifting toward personalized tourism catering to individual needs.

"Fitness Tourism isn't just spas—it includes healthy cuisine like herbal foods. Misclassifying this as Health Tourism when it's actually medical tourism is misguided," he clarified.

With the right approach, senior tourism isn't merely a niche market—it's an opportunity to create more humane tourism: slow-paced journeys rich in meaning that enhance travelers' quality of life. (ANTARA)