Agoda recently unveiled its “New Horizons” list, showcasing lesser-known tourist destinations in Indonesia. Gede Gunawan, Senior Country Director Indonesia at Agoda, highlighted an uptick in searches for destinations that are often off the beaten path.
The New Horizons by Agoda list features hidden gems that remain undiscovered by many local and international tourists. The primary objective behind releasing the New Horizons list is to diversify travel experiences, encouraging tourists to explore beyond popular destinations.
“We aim to uncover hidden gems in Indonesia, offering inspiration to travellers seeking new and less-explored destinations,” he added. Curious to know what Agoda’s New Horizons list for 2024 includes?
Explore Agoda’s 2024 ‘New Horizons’ List of Exciting Destinations in Indonesia
The destinations listed below have experienced notable surges in searches on the Agoda application compared to previous years. On average, each location is expected to witness an increase of over 30% in 2023. Here is the roster of cities currently featured in “New Horizons”:
Anyer
Anyer, located in Serang, Banten, is a tourist destination that has witnessed a surge in top searches, reaching 52% compared to the previous year. Renowned for its beaches and beautiful highland areas, Anyer has become a favourite hidden gem among many travellers.
Balikpapan
Balikpapan surprisingly secured the second spot on the list of sought-after hidden gem tourist destinations, with a remarkable 47% increase in tourist searches from 2022. Nestled in East Kalimantan, Balikpapan boasts a captivating coastal landscape that shouldn’t be overlooked. Visitors can explore the enchanting Kemala Beach, Melawai Beach, Monpera Beach, and Banua Patra Beach, all contributing to the city’s allure.
Bandar Lampung
Bandar Lampung clinches a spot on the New Horizons Agoda 2024 list of hidden gems, witnessing a remarkable 43% surge in searches. The city’s appeal lies in its diverse theme parks located in the heart of the urban landscape.
For a unique experience, visitors can explore Way Kambas, a national park spanning 1,300 square meters and serving as a natural habitat for various endemic Indonesian animals. Lampung is further distinguished by its pristine white sand beaches, adding to the charm of this less-explored destination.
Palembang
Palembang has seen a remarkable 41% uptick in searches since 2022, emerging as a culinary haven on Palembang Island. The city offers a plethora of unique attractions, including Siguntang Hill, Kembang Iwak Family Park, and the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin II Museum. With its diverse offerings, Palembang beckons travellers looking for a perfect blend of culinary delights and cultural exploration.
Bekasi
Unexpectedly, Bekasi has secured a spot on Agoda’s New Horizons 2024 list, showcasing its appeal as a modern tourist destination. With a diverse range of offerings, including shopping centres and factory outlets, Bekasi has become a preferred choice for many.
Its accessibility and comprehensive shopping options contributed to a significant 40% surge in searches compared to the previous year. Discover the unexpected charm of Bekasi, where modern amenities meet vibrant attractions.