RRI.CO.ID, Berlin - Indonesia has reached a new pinnacle in global tourism, securing the prestigious Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best 2026 from Tripadvisor. The award was presented to Minister of Tourism, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, during the opening of the Indonesian Pavilion at ITB (Internationale Tourismus-Börse) Berlin 2026, the world’s largest and oldest travel trade fair, on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

This accolade is particularly significant as it is determined by the authentic reviews and ratings of millions of global travelers over a 12-month period. Out of millions of listings worldwide, less than one percent achieve this "Best of the Best" distinction.

The 2026 awards once again highlighted Bali as a premier destination, chosen by users for its unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural depth, and world-class service standards. Justien Reid, Senior Director of Media, Hotel, and Growth at Tripadvisor, personally delivered the award, noting Indonesia's increasingly competitive edge in the international tourism market.

“This award is very meaningful to us because it reflects the authentic voices of travelers, their memories, their stories, and the sincere experiences they bring home,” said Minister Widiyanti at the Berlin ExpoCenter City, as quoted by the ministry's official website on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Coinciding with the award, Indonesia launched its latest global marketing campaign, #GoBeyondOrdinary. This initiative is a core part of the Ministry’s "Quality Tourism" program, shifting the focus from mere sightseeing to high-value, immersive experiences that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability.

The Indonesian Pavilion at ITB Berlin marks a significant milestone as the largest in five years, featuring a strong representation of 91 industry players from 11 different provinces. The exhibition strategically showcases five specialized tourism pillars designed to appeal to diverse global interests. Marine tourism highlights the country’s vast archipelago and world-class diving hubs, while Gastronomy brings the rich, authentic flavors of traditional Indonesian cuisine to the forefront.

Additionally, the Wellness pillar promotes traditional healing and spa experiences, Wastra Nusantara celebrates the nation's diverse textile heritage, such as Batik and Tenun, and the Muslim-Friendly Tourism initiative strengthens Indonesia’s position as a premier destination for the global halal travel market.

The Ministry of Tourism views ITB Berlin as a critical strategic platform to capture the high-value European and Middle Eastern markets. For this event alone, the government has set ambitious targets, aiming for potential transactions ranging from 498,000 to 541,000 pax.

This volume of business is projected to generate a significant foreign exchange potential estimated between IDR 12.9 trillion (USD 764.6 million) and IDR 14.3 trillion. Throughout the exhibition, the primary focus remains on promoting both Priority Tourism Destinations (DPP) and Regenerative Tourism Destinations (DPR), ensuring that growth is both high-quality and sustainable.

By integrating data-driven promotion with authentic cultural diplomacy, including activities at the Rumah Budaya Indonesia (RBI) in Berlin, Indonesia aims to ensure that its tourism growth contributes directly to the national economy while preserving its cultural identity. ***