NOVOTEL LOMBOK’ BACK TO NORMAL’ – EXCEPT FOR THE PRICES!

Travel industry staff invited to stay for just US$20 per night B&B

One of Accor most idyllic resorts in Asia – Novotel Lombok – has announced a special offer for travel industry staff to highlight the Indonesian island’s “return to normal” after a brief period of civil instability.

Until 30 May 2000, industry staff can stay at this beachside resort for just US$20 per night, including breakfast for two.

The special package follows an announcement earlier this month by the Chief of Tourism for Nusa Tengara Barat, Mr Jodi Soesilo, that Lombok had fully recovered and was again ready to receive tourists. All government offices were open, transportation had returned to normal schedules, business activities had resumed and resorts were welcoming tourists.

The Novotel Lombok is located in the south of the island, well away from Mataram and Senggigi Beach, were the disturbances had taken place. The Novotel was not affected at all during the unrest, though guests were evacuated to neighbouring Bali as a precaution.

General Manager of the hotel, Fabrice Garrigues, said that Lombok’s reputation had been hurt be the few days of social unrest, though investigation had revealed that the problems had largely been caused by external influences and had not gained the support from the Majority of the local residents of Lombok.

“There was great disappointement and embarrassement expressed by all the local groups in our region,” said Mr. Garrigues. “They have worked so hard to built up tourism, and while tourists were never targeted by the campaign, they understand it will take some time to rebuilt the island’s reputation.

“There is more security evident in Lombok’s major towns, but otherwise it is a case of “back to normal”. The only thing that has changed dramatically is our prices. We need to show the industry first hand that Lombok is a safe and wonderful place for couples and families to stay”

Novotel Lombok is set on the beachfront, with extensive resort facilities. The hotel is designed in traditional Sasak style with low rise accommodation set amongst tropical gardens. The hotel has four swimming pools, watersports, two restaurants and a range of sightseeing of cultural activities.

Bookings are strictly subject to availability and should be made direct to the hotel on Tel: (62-370) 653 333 Fax: (62-370) 653 555 or hotel@novotel-lombok.com