The countdown to one of the world’s most anticipated motorcycle races, the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia, also known as the 2024 Mandalika MotoGP, is in full swing. Scheduled to take place from September 27 to 29 at the Mandalika Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), the event has sparked overwhelming enthusiasm among fans, both local and international. This has led to a surge in demand for accommodations, leaving most of the five-star hotels around the circuit fully booked well in advance.
“Two five-star hotels located in Mandalika were quickly filled up, mostly by international crews and spectators,” said Jamaluddin, the head of NTB’s Tourism Office, during an online briefing on the program The Weekly Brief with Sandi Uno on Monday, September 9, 2024.
With the event fast approaching, fans who have not yet secured accommodation are now being advised to look further afield. Areas like Mataram and Senggigi, a bit farther from the circuit, are being recommended as alternatives for visitors in need of rooms.
Jamaluddin reassured travelers that options are still available outside of Mandalika. “There are still other star-rated hotels scattered across Mataram City and Senggigi,” he added.
However, with the high demand, it is not just room availability that’s becoming an issue—prices are also on the rise. The closer you get to the circuit, the higher the rates. Jamal acknowledged this challenge, noting that staying further from the track could be a more budget-friendly option.
“If you’re looking for cheaper accommodations, we recommend staying in Mataram City. The prices there are significantly lower than in the areas closer to the Mandalika Circuit,” he advised.
Even though there are alternatives, the popularity of the Pertamina Grand Prix of Indonesia has caused hotel occupancy rates in Mandalika to soar. According to Jamaluddin, the hotel occupancy rate in Mandalika has already reached 90% ahead of the event.
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While Mandalika remains the preferred location for many fans, other regions like Mataram, North Lombok, and Gili islands are also benefiting from the event’s popularity. Jamal noted that the hotel occupancy in Mataram has risen to about 45 to 60 percent. Meanwhile, accommodations in North Lombok and the Gili islands are more geared toward foreign tourists arriving from Bali.
The 2024 MotoGP at Mandalika is expected to attract thousands of visitors, both racing enthusiasts and international tourists. For locals, the event offers an exciting opportunity to showcase NTB’s beauty and culture to a global audience.
With every passing day, the momentum builds, and it is clear that Mandalika is ready to host one of the most thrilling events of the year. Whether you’ve secured a room in Mandalika or are considering staying in nearby Mataram or Senggigi, it’s evident that this year’s MotoGP is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience. With international racing stars set to hit the track, Mandalika is about to become the center of attention on the global motorsport stage.
For fans planning their trip, securing accommodations quickly and staying informed about local options is crucial.
