Ilonas experience

Ilona Enjalbert, from France, has just recently done a 2 month internship with us at A Liquid Future. In her time she visited many parts of Indonesia including Krui, Nias, Bali and the Mentawai Islands. She spent her time studying the impacts of surf tourism on these remote local communities in Indonesia, particularly on how surf tourism affects the environment.
Here is what Ilona had to say from her time in the Mentawai Islands:

“The Mentawai Islands in Indonesian are a group of four main islands and several smaller ones, located about 150 km off the west coast of Sumatra.

Tourism is very present here and this place is very popular with surfers. The Mentawai Islands are known worldwide as one of the best surf spots in the world.

Most of the tourists stay on either live-aboard surf charter boats or in resorts, so it is rare to see tourists within the city.

For those who don't surf there are many other activities to do such as snorkelling. The seabed and coral are beautiful, and for the most part, still in good health.

The young locals we met were very happy to welcome tourists and they were keen to work in the tourism sector, whether it is working on the boats (guide, captain, ...) or in the hotels (surf teacher, waiters, ...). Some of the locals have a dream to open their own business’ in their home in Mentawai, and some have already done so. James, 22 years old and previous student of ALF, has already opened his café while working in a resort.

With ALF's programs, we encourage and give the opportunity to those who want to work in tourism. By learning English, surfing, snorkelling and how to use a camera and computer, they are prepared to be hired or to open their own business. We also emphasize sustainable tourism and how to preserve their environment which is a paradise on earth. We educate them on coral preservation and waste management.”