Celebrating Eid: Fewer people in Indonesia making homecoming trips amid rising travel costs

Summary

As the Eid holiday approaches, millions of Indonesians are returning to their hometowns, but a significant drop in travel numbers is expected this year due to rising costs and economic measures. While transportation, especially train services, sees an increase in demand with discounts and additional trips, many travelers, like Faisa and his family, face challenges securing tickets. Analysts suggest that budget cuts are affecting the economy, and while train travel is becoming more popular, the overall number of holiday travelers will be far lower than in previous years.

Takeaways

• 😀 Millions of Indonesians are returning to their hometowns for the upcoming Eid holiday.
• 😀 A survey predicts nearly 147 million people will travel, making up 52% of Indonesia's population.
• 😀 The number of travelers this year is significantly lower than last year, with 100 million fewer people traveling.
• 😀 Travel costs have increased, with ticket prices for some transport options rising from $39 to $50.
• 😀 Feisal, a young traveler, struggled to get a ticket, highlighting the challenges faced by some holiday-goers.
• 😀 Bus operators are facing financial difficulties due to lower travel numbers and increased costs.
• 😀 Analysts suggest Indonesia's budget measures are impacting the economy, with a call for increased spending.
• 😀 Train travel is gaining popularity, with prices starting at $6, as more people opt for this mode of transportation.
• 😀 State-owned railways have added 362 additional trips to accommodate the surge in homecoming travelers.
• 😀 Infrastructure improvements have been made to ensure smoother travel experiences during the holiday season.
• 😀 Businesses are offering promotions, discounts, and even free trips to attract customers during the busy period.

Q & A

Why are fewer Indonesians traveling back to their hometowns for the Eid holiday this year?

A survey predicts that only 147 million people will travel back to their hometowns this year, nearly 100 million fewer than the 242 million who traveled last year. The reduction is mainly due to economic challenges, with rising travel costs and budget efficiency measures impacting the economy.

What is the price difference in travel tickets this year compared to last year?

Travel ticket prices have increased. For example, Feisal's family paid around $39 per person one way last year, but this year, the price is approximately $50.

How are bus operators affected by the decrease in travelers?

Bus operators are feeling the impact of fewer travelers due to the drop in the number of people making the journey this year. The reduction in passengers has led to a significant loss in revenue.

What role do analysts suggest the government should play in improving the situation?

Analysts believe that the Indonesian government should focus on boosting spending to stimulate the economy, especially in the transportation sector, which is experiencing financial difficulties due to the reduction in travelers.

How are people adjusting their travel plans in response to rising ticket prices?

Many people are opting to travel by train instead of buses or other forms of transportation. The train service is considered more affordable and efficient for many, especially with the introduction of additional train trips and seats.

How has the government adjusted transportation services for the high number of travelers?

The government has increased the number of train trips, adding 362 extra trips and over 182,000 additional seats in Jakarta alone to accommodate the surge of homecoming travelers during the Eid period.

Why are more people choosing to travel by train this year?

Train travel is becoming more popular due to its affordability and the increased number of available seats. With ticket prices starting at $6, many travelers find it a more convenient and cost-effective option compared to other modes of transport.

What are some of the benefits that businesses have offered to travelers this year?

Businesses have introduced discounts, promotions, and even free trips to support travelers during the busy holiday period, making travel more affordable for a larger number of people.

How long will the train journey take for Feisal’s friends traveling to Central Java?

Feisal’s friends will be traveling by train for the first time, and the journey to Central Java will take approximately 5 to 6 hours.

What preparations have been made to ensure smooth travel for homecoming travelers?

Infrastructure improvements have been made to accommodate the high number of travelers, ensuring smoother travel experiences during the Eid holiday period. These preparations include additional train services and better coordination in transport operations.