TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Bantaeng, a regency in the south of Makassar, is getting more popular in the last few years. It is believed that Bantaeng’s increasing popularity is due to the effort of new regent Nurdin Abdullah, who successful in transforming the face of the formerly-known as poorest region in South Sulawesi.

Bantaeng, located between Bulukumba and Jeneponto which, was known as a barren region without any interesting spots. The region was under the shade of popular tourism destination Bulkumba in its south.

Now, Bantaeng is rising in many aspects including tourism. It has a hot spring pool called Ere Merasa, and mountains and beaches to offer. The Seruni beach which is located on the center of the region appears in modern data-style similar to Losari Beach in Makassar. Along the beach, we can sit back, relax, and enjoy variety of Bantaeng and South Sulawesi distinctive cullinary. Visitors are usually crowding the beach in the afternoon and night time to spend their spare time.

Another beach called Marina is in the process of its transformation into tourist attraction. This beach is located a bit far away from the city center near Bantaeng-Bulukumba border. This place provide water sport facilities for the tourists.

For those who prefer highlands panoramic view, Muntea is currently dressing up to welcome tourists with its strawberry farms, typical fresh-mountain air and green sceenery good for eyes. From some spots, we can also enjoy Bantaeng cityscape from the height.

And there’s still more! Bisappu not far from the city center is offering a sensation of bathing in the cool natural water that falling down from a waterfall. The view in this waterfall is wondrous.

The city itself is quite comfortable for the tourists. It is clean and tidy. We would hardly find piles of trashes along the road or even posters stuck on the trees. The trees are really spoiled without anything dusturbing their growth.

So if you happen to be in South Sulawesi, it is worthy to visit this region that is rising to offer its beauty.

IPUL GASSING | INDONESIANA