“The People’s Choice Best of Asia -- The Best of Spa” was selected by CNN viewers in an online contest. This announcement was the culmination of The Ministry’s eight-week marketing campaign on CNN International, featuring short film presentations on Indonesia’s eight top spas, as selected by an independent committee. Morgan called the “spas in Indonesia” project a bold and imaginative step by the tourism ministry.

Indonesia’s spas are a reflection of how, through tourism, we are preserving our heritage,” said Minister Ardika, noting that many of the recipes, therapies and treatments used in Indonesian spas today, and indeed around the world, come from traditions and ingredients from across the archipelago. Such traditions might have been lost if not for the demand created by tourism. Indeed, with more than 400 spas on Bali alone, the island has become a world-acclaimed spa destination.

Wilson attributed the success of spas in Bali to the inherent graciousness of the Balinese people.

“We must thank our owner for the vision to create such a spa,” said Wilson, of the world’s most extensive Thalasso spa and largest Aquatonic Pool, which opened in December 2002. “And our spa team, supported by the ladies and gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Bali, brought that vision to life.”

Indonesian spas already are most sought as a destination, said Minister Ardika. International recognition, such as this award, “bring to the world again the value of harmony through brotherhood and tourism,” he added.

Members: ASTA, PATA, JATA, ASITA

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