Tangkuban Perahu neglected

Tangkuban Perahu neglected

From Republika

Some guests of ours from Holland wanted to see the crater of Tangkuban Perahu very much. It seems to be a wellknown place there, listed on a priority list of "must-see" tourist sites. However, we were terribly disappointed when we got there. The place was not signposted, so we had to hire a guide.

We wanted to find our own way, but were told that the place was hard to find and that we might get lost. There were several roads branching out, all without any road signs.

I remember when we were on a similar sightseeing trip in Rotorua, New Zealand, the panorama of the crater area was unbroken. We were not worried about getting lost since there were enough road signs to guide us. How nice it would be if it could have been the same at Tangkuban Perahu.

But since there were no signs, the few tourists who got there had a very rough time. We had to pay another Rp.5,000 -- without getting a ticket -- to climb down to the crater. The guide wanted Rp.20,000 but settled for Rp.10,000 after haggling. We were followed by two young souvenir sellers who supported our ladyfriend down the slope. Once down, we had to buy their wares. They got abusive when they noticed our reluctance to buy their stuff, and then angry.

AS an Indonesian, I was proud at first of their "helpful nature" and their ability to communicate in our guests' language. After their performance, our guests left with a bad taste in their mouth.

The same goes for the guide we used, he was paid Rp.10,000 as agreed and a tip of Rp.1,000, but we got sour looks.

I have their pictures, should the respective authority be interested. I hope that the West Java tourist sector will do something about the situation. Please look after nature's beauty properly.

FITRIA HANDIARTO

Tangerang, West Java