TRAVEL AND CREATIVE ECONOMY: SYNERGY BETWEEN TOURISM AND LOCAL INNOVATION IN UMBUL BESUKI
Umbul Besuki, which is a natural bath, has grown rapidly since it was opened to the public in 2020. Umbul Besuki has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ponggok Village, Klaten. With preserved natural beauty and various facilities available, this location is not only a recreational destination but also a center of local innovation as well as formal and non-formal events that support creative businesses. Local communities have the opportunity to contribute to regional economic growth through the synergy between tourism and creative industries in Umbul Besuki.
Various creative products such as arts and culinary specialties are introduced to enrich the tourist experience, through collaboration between tourism managers and local communities. In addition, art and cultural activities conducted at the site add to Umbul Besuki’s appeal as a unique tourist destination. Umbul Besuki has a close relationship with the village community, especially in terms of the tourism economy and business. Local communities are involved in various aspects of tourism management, ranging from the provision of accommodation, culinary, to handicrafts.
This involvement not only provides direct economic benefits, but also improves the skills and creativity of the community in managing businesses. In addition, Umbul Besuki is also managed by a Village-Owned Enterprise (BUMDes), which aims to ensure that profits from tourism are used for the development and welfare of the village community. However, there are several obstacles that stand in the way of Umbul Besuki’s development if it is to continue to help future generations economically and socially. This essay will examine successful management techniques, obstacles encountered, and Umbul Besuki’s prospects for growth as a top-tier and competitive travel destination in the future.
It is anticipated that this essay will give readers and other locations greater insight into the dynamics that exist in Umbul Besuki and the growth of community-based tourism. A sustainable management strategy and active involvement of the local community are needed to achieve this. This essay was created with the aim of understanding the impact and influence of Umbul Besuki on tourism in Klaten and the local communities around the umbul.
One of Klaten’s water attractions, Umbul Besuki, has a major impact on the surrounding community in terms of economic, social and cultural aspects. Besides being a tourist attraction, the existence of Umbul Besuki brings challenges and opportunities for the local community. Village communities around Umbul Besuki see new economic opportunities after the umbul is promoted as a tourist attraction. Lodging, culinary, tourist equipment rental, and souvenir sales are some of the businesses that can be utilized by the community.
The growing number of people working in tourist attractions officially or unofficially shows this economic growth. Ecotourism in Umbul Besuki helps maintain local culture and the environment. By maintaining its natural sustainability, Umbul Besuki can remain an attractive tourist attraction. In addition, the managers of the umbul come from the surrounding community. As a result, he has a broader and better insight into the economic development and progress of Umbul Besuki.
Umbul Besuki might draw inspiration from Umbul Ponggok, a previously well-known tourist site, to grow its creative economy and tourism potential in a sustainable way. However, Umbul Besuki must also come up with a novel and distinctive plan in order to set itself apart from Umbul Ponggok and draw tourists. Naturally, creating Umbul Besuki presents a number of challenges. Assuring equitable distribution of economic advantages across the community, protecting the environment, and competing with other tourist attractions are all important considerations.
There are several managers in Umbul Besuki who directly handle tourism sites. Field and pool managers try to monitor the condition of the field or Umbul Besuki, while pool managers try to monitor the pool at Umbul Besuki. In addition, administration and finance are responsible for the umbul’s finances, as well as organizing interns and visitors to events held at the umbul.
There are four swimming pools in Umbul Besuki, one of which is the main pool with a depth of 1.4m to 2m. The depth of the pool is subject to change as water comes in and out periodically from the existing water source. There are stalls around the pools managed by local residents who work with the management of the umbul. In addition, local residents take supplies of ingredients to be processed into ready-to-eat food.
It can be concluded that Umbul Besuki has helped the economic growth and tourism business of Ponggok Village, Klaten. In addition to being a place for water recreation, Umbul Besuki has generated a vibrant economic ecosystem that has helped the local community to thrive through various business and employment opportunities. By working together with tourism and creative innovation, economic growth has increased, reducing dependence on traditional agriculture, and encouraging the growth of local creative industries.
Umbul Besuki’s role towards the surrounding residents is crucial as it gives them the opportunity to actively participate in the tourism business, from accommodation, culinary, handicrafts, and other supporting services. Although at the beginning of development, Umbul Besuki received unfavorable criticism from the local community regarding the tourism program within the village area. Proceeds from tourism are returned to village development, improving public health, and strengthening local infrastructure through the BUMDes or Village-Owned Enterprise program.
The success of Umbul Besuki as a model for community-based tourist development demonstrates the importance of ongoing innovation, sustainable management, and strong local community involvement. By preserving environmental sustainability, fostering local culture, and consistently adapting to market demands, Umbul Besuki can guarantee social and economic advantages for coming generations. However, there are still issues, such striking a balance between environmental preservation and economic growth. Therefore, it is necessary for the government, BUMDes, local communities, and other pertinent parties to work together sustainably in order to guarantee that Umbul Besuki remains a source of pride and prosperity for Ponggok Village. With careful management and a strong dedication, Umbul Besuki can serve as an example of sustainable and inclusive community-based tourism development.
By: Naira Rohma Ning Wulan
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