Ever since I have been in Indonesia, I am reminded of one province in Southern India called Kerala. The similarities between Indonesia and Kerala are overwhelming, ranging from the climatic conditions (although it is slightly more humid in Kerala) to the food habits – the singkong (tapioca), nangka (jackfruit), long pisang (banana), red rice, coconuts, seafood ... the list is endless.

The only difference is the tagline for tourism. Kerala has been given the tag “God’s own country”.

India itself has projected itself as “Incredible India”. Indonesia, however, seems to have missed the trick, going for “National Awakening”.

Though it conveys the sentiment, its not imaginative enough to attract tourism. Why not “Paradise Island” or “Discover Paradise”?

RAM

Jakarta

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