Indonesia has announced a series of measures aimed at reviving its tourist industry, which has been badly hit by the recent riots and political instability.

The tourism ministry says that, on one day this month, visitors to Indonesia will be given free hotel accommodation, restaurant meals and transport to tourist spots; during August, tourists will be offered reduced prices across a wide range of services.

The government says it will also giveholidaymakers up-to-date information about demonstrations and how to avoid them.

Some hotels in Indonesia's most popular tourist resort, Bali, have reported room occupancy rates of less than forty per cent, compared with the usual ninety -- although Bali escaped the rioting seen in other parts of the country.