travel with dee indonesia

15 things to know before going to Indonesia: culture, etiquette and safety

Dec 7, 2023 • 9 min read

From etiquette to safety, here are 15 things you need to know before you go to Indonesia © ErmakovaElena / Getty Images

If you’re looking for culture, activities, wildlife or sheer adventure, Indonesia  is one of the richest countries in the world. With an estimated 13,466 islands, it's a whopper too. But Indonesia beyond Bali and Lombok (and the Gili Islands ) remains largely unknown to many travelers. To pick just one example, Sumatra (80 times the size of Bali) is almost a world in itself. And yet people ask the question: “Is Indonesia worth visiting?”

Of course! This chain of islands – many culturally unique – stretches west to east across more than 5000km (3110 miles), making it one of the world’s most excitingly diverse countries. From getting ready before you go to important etiquette and safety information, here are 15 things you need to know to help you plan your trip to Indonesia.

1. Pick the best season depending on where you're going

Most visitors to Bali do their best to avoid the rainy season (normally November to March), but there is really no bad time to visit Indonesia. Even at the height of the monsoon, rains are normally short and sharp and can form an unforgettably dramatic sound and light show. You will often have several bright sunny days between relatively brief storms. There are benefits too in reduced crowds (and dropped prices) since this is also low-season… but the greatest disadvantage comes with the first rains of the year that wash plastic trash (one of Indonesia’s greatest problems) down the rivers and onto the beaches.

At other extremes of the archipelago,  West Papua and the Maluku Islands tend to have their dry seasons between September and March. Giant Sumatra (1000km/620 miles long) and Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) are big enough to have weather patterns all of their own. As a general rule, March to October is a good bet for avoiding the heavy rains in these areas. This can be important in jungle regions since some areas might be inaccessible during the rains.

2. Choose the right visa

It is possible for citizens of the UK, USA, Canada and Australia to be granted a Visa on Arrival (VOA) at some international airports, seaports or land crossings. However, it is best to apply for an e-Visa (e-VOA) at least 48 hours before departure instead. This can also be extended for a further 30 days. The initial 30-day tourist visa costs around US$35. Make sure you have at least six months before your passport expires before departure. 

If you're planning to stay longer in Indonesia to work or study, there are different visa options available. For citizens of other countries, check your visa options and  apply online . 

3. Learn a few words and phrases in Indonesian

It’s been said that one in 10 of all the world’s languages are spoken in Indonesia. Many islands have their own unique languages (some have hundreds), and English is spoken only in tourist areas. Fortunately for the traveler, Bahasa Indonesia (literally "Indonesia language") is spoken by everyone, with the exception of the youngest preschool children and some of the elderly in rural areas.

Indonesian is a relatively easy language to learn and people from all walks of life will appreciate even minimal efforts to communicate in their own tongue. (Bahasa Indonesia shares much in common with Malay, so your efforts to learn the language will also serve you on trips to Malaysia , Sarawak  and Sabah ).

4. What to wear: pack for the tropics, but be respectful

Indonesia is tropical, and wherever you go in this country, you’re likely to want shorts, t-shirts or beach clothing much of the time. It can be surprisingly chilly in the highlands, however, and if you plan to do some trekking or volcano climbing, you will appreciate some warmer layers. Also beware that transportation (planes, trains and buses) are often surprisingly cold, and air-con units in shopping malls and hotels are often set to frigid levels, allowing fashionistas to dress in the sort of chic style you might associate with a European fall.

Even in beach areas, it’s considered extremely impolite to walk around shirtless (especially to enter a shop or restaurant), although you will see this often in the party areas of Bali. Male Indonesians will often be shirtless if in the comfort of their own home but would never dream of removing a shirt on someone else’s property.

If you are visiting temples, you will often be expected to wear a sarong and (for women) to cover your shoulders. Religious buildings and ceremonies in most parts of the country will often be off-limits if you’re wearing shorts. In most of Muslim Indonesia, dress codes are relatively relaxed, but you are likely to feel more comfortable (and appear more respectful) in long pants in communities that are predominantly Muslim.

5. Buy a local SIM card and download useful apps

Buy a local SIM card upon arrival at the airport so that you have calling credit and internet data wherever you go. It is inexpensive and easily done – staff will upload and activate the card for you within a couple of minutes. Make a note of your national consulate or embassy contact details in case of emergency.

Prior to traveling, download the transportation apps for Grab and/or Gojek . For  solo travelers , this may be reassuring because drivers/riders are vetted and reviewed, and there is a security alert button to hit if you feel threatened.

6. Etiquette includes respecting your hosts’ religious beliefs 

Indonesia is the world’s most populous Muslim country. While this is true (87% of the country’s 275 million people are Muslim), it is also misleading since – with the exception of Aceh (northern Sumatra ), where Sharia law still prevails – Indonesia’s Islamic restrictions are very relaxed. Indonesian Muslims are also among some of the most hospitable people you will ever meet.

Vast tracts of the country are also predominantly Christian (large sections of the Maluku Islands, for example) and Bali itself is almost entirely Hindu. Intermingled with these "formal" religions – and sometimes almost inseparable from them – are an entire spectrum of animistic beliefs. Your trip will be all the richer for any attempts to understand and appreciate the beliefs of your hosts.

7. Kick off your shoes when entering a building

Most people realize that in Asia, you shouldn’t walk into a house wearing shoes, but it surprises many visitors to Indonesia that this also often extends to homestays and sometimes even to hotel rooms. While it is not strictly necessary, many owners of small souvenir shops also appreciate your politeness in leaving slip-off shoes at the door.

8. Never ask elderly people their names

In many traditional communities (including rural Bali) there’s a strong prohibition on speaking the name of an older person. The gods have a list of people who are "due to be called," and there’s a pervasive belief that speaking a name can remind the gods that someone has been "overlooked." Older women are invariably known simply as Nenek (grandmother), and older men are most commonly known as Bapak (mister) or Kakek (grandfather). In general, an older person should always be referred to respectfully as Pak (mister) or Ibu (mother).

9. Offer a gift to your hosts

If you’re visiting a family home, a small gift (an oleh oleh ) might be appreciated – especially something that is representative of your own country. Locally bought sarongs – often available for just a couple of dollars – are a conveniently lightweight alternative. It’s considered uncouth for an Indonesian to make a big fuss about receiving a gift, so don’t feel offended if it is received with just a brief word of thanks and then carefully put away (still unwrapped) to be inspected later.

10. Staying safe in Indonesia: there's a small risk of pickpocketing

In general, you are more at risk of crime in a European or American city than in Indonesia, and most trips are hassle-free. However, it's worth staying alert in crowded bars and marketplaces as there’s a small risk of pickpocketing or being approached by scam artists here.

The vast majority of Indonesians from all regions (and all cultures and religions) are instilled with an almost inviolable tradition of hospitality towards strangers and travelers. Wherever you travel throughout the world’s greatest island nation – among the fabled Dayak ex-headhunter communities of Kalimantan or among the ex-cannibal communities of the Batak (Sumatra) or Asmat (West Papua) – you’re likely to realize very quickly that you are among friends. Almost uniquely, Lombok has a reputation for organized robberies on quiet roads, but elsewhere, community law is usually enough to ensure that such penjahat (evildoers) are promptly punished.

11. Be prepared for volcanoes and earthquakes

Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes are almost a daily event on the Ring of Fire. The excellent Volcano Discovery site and app provides up-to-the-moment details (and alerts) – and some fascinating background reading – for almost 200 Indonesian volcanoes. When there's heightened activity, be sure to respect official advice concerning exclusion zones.

During a period of particularly regular and intense earthquakes, travel with a small lightweight (particularly sensitive) wind chime – the sort you’d usually string up in a garden. Hang it in the wardrobe (away from the fan) in hotel bedrooms, and it serves as a very effective early-warning system for tremors.

12. Drug laws are extremely strict in Indonesia 

Indonesia has some of the strictest anti-drug laws on the planet. Possession of illegal narcotics can result in up to four years imprisonment, while a conviction for trafficking can often result in a death sentence – carried out by firing squad.

13. Know the laws regarding LGBTQI+ travelers

In Aceh, where pre-marital sex, in general, is considered a crime, same-sex relationships are also criminalized. This is the case to a lesser extent in the Sumatran city of Palembang. Throughout most of the rest of the country, discreet same-sex couples will find themselves welcomed.

Displays of public affection, regardless of sexual orientation, are considered inappropriate by typically conservative Indonesians. Parts of Indonesia – especially Maluku – have traditionally had a very natural acceptance of waria (considered to be men born with women’s souls), but increasing anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric among politicians is making the situation harder for Indonesians in same-sex relationships. Few Western-style tourist hotels have an issue with same-sex couples sharing rooms, but, especially for travel in more off-the-beaten-track areas, increasing numbers of same-sex couples appreciate the anonymity of booking through sites like Airbnb .

14. Get up to date with vaccinations before you go

Travelers to Indonesia should check official sources such as their embassy or consulate for what vaccinations are required for your visit at least eight weeks before travel. Hepatitis A and B vaccines are recommended. Typhoid vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis are also recommended for some areas. If you are coming from a country with a prevalent risk of yellow fever, you may be required to produce a yellow fever certificate upon arrival.

15. Don’t drink the tap water

Even locals don’t drink tap water in Indonesia; they buy bottled water or boil it. To be on the safe side, where possible, use bottled water for ice and for cleaning teeth, too. Indonesia suffers from a problem with plastic garbage: if you are staying in a property for more than a couple of days (or are traveling in a group), consider buying a big 19-liter bottle (known locally as a galon ), which you can then exchange for refills, rather than run through scores of liter bottles throughout your stay.

This article was first published Apr 11, 2022 and updated Dec 7, 2023.

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Day 1, 9 june

Welcome to Waingapu airport! The starting point of our Sumba chapter. Please arrive before 12:00 noon. Straight from the airport you check in to a newly build 4 star hotel at the beach, have lunch and relax after flights. We continue East for sunset (less than 1 h drive) to one of the main gems of the tour so long awaited – Walakiri beach! It is our first sunset here, and we spend at least 2 sessions here depends on the weather. I’ve chosen perfect dates for the trip because we will have low tide and mirror like paddles in which you can get reflections at exact sunset time. You will be able to make your own series of Sumba Dancing trees. Walakiri is perfect for sunset as the sun sets in the ocean behind the trees. Dinner will be served at local hotel restaurant.

Sunrise spot – Puru Kambera savannah or Wairinding Hill. It is a prairie which will make you feel like you are in the midst of Africa’s grasslands. We will try to find Sumba horses roaming in the endless savannah. With first rays of light flaming on golden grass! Head back for breakfast and break to hotel.

Today we head to another Epic waterfall – Tanggedu. It is one of the most interesting photography spots in Sumba, and it is quite often referred as the “Grand Canyon” of East Sumba.

At sunset another chance to photograph Sumba Dancing trees! We plan second attempt to Walakiri beach as it offers amazing compositions, and you still have low tide at sunset that day. You have a chance to review photos from yesterday and do even better or different compositions exploring further corners of the beach with different dwarf mangrove trees.

Dinner and rest.

We depart to Bali on recommended flight altogether to continue our adventure! Just upon our arrival to Bali Denpasar we head to the East of Bali! We organize a transfer for you to our luxury resort in East Bali quiet area, located in quiet tropical paradise, rural and cultural heart of Bali.

Back to hotel after sunset for dinner!

Today’s “sunrise in the office” will be at one of my most favorite landscape spots – rice terraces very close to Mount Agung.  Easily accessible viewpoint surrounded by flowers offering variety of foregrounds. In the afternoon we will visit one of the hidden villages in the east to see real Bali life!

Sunrise will start with a cup of coffee with absolutely spectacular views to Mount Agung – framed by tropical plants! Check out from our hotel and head out to the mountains in the north of Bali. Photograph amazing tall banyan tree on the way and beautiful waterfalls. Visit Ubud – a cultural capital of Bali.

Sunrise will start from a photo session at Tamblingan Lake. It is the lake in the North of Bali, often misty at sunrise. There’s a small temple at the shore often half flooded. With traditional boats in the lake we will get wonderful photographs from this misty morning. In the afternoon we visit Leke-leke Waterfall or one of the hidden waterfalls in the East Bali. You can shoot both amazing landscape and culture or just landscape. Sunset location at Tanah Lot Temple. “Tanah Lot” name stands for earth (Tanah) and sea (Lot), and it has indeed a very spectacular setting on top of an impressive rock overlooking the sea.

Sunrise in Bali and leaving to another island – Java, to  meet a sunset at  BROMO volcano!

The ultimate attraction and the reason why photographers travel from far and wide to Mount Bromo is its spectacular sunrise. From a vantage point the sun rises magnificently and hot majestic Mount Bromo with first rays, while the surrounding mountain ranges create an almost surreal atmosphere. It takes about a little over an hour to drive to this vantage point. No hiking involved – we drive to the most spectacular viewpoint. The sun rises at about 5.30am

After sunrise we have photography session with horsemen at Bromo in the dust! And following this session – relaxed breakfast, packing and departure to Surabaya airport. You are welcome to take any flight today after 2:30 p.m. from Surabaya airport (direct flights to Jakarta, Bali, Singapore etc). Tour finishes at Surabaya international airport at 1 p.m.

Total price (twin shared hotel rooms) : 6900 usd 

Difficulty: easy

Single supplement for rooms: 1000 usd

PPOC Members save $400 

To book a spot please pay deposit via the secure link below:

Serure payment link for Deposit

Tour includes:

• Accommodation double/twin
• all meals and non-alchohol drinks,
• all transportation during the tour
• photography tuition,
• entrance fees and all local taxes.
• All tickets and fees in Bali and Java

Not included in the price:

– Airfare –  Local flights not included – Visas (if applicable) – Single supplement 1000 USD – Tips to the phinisi crew

Cancellation and Refund Policy:

We strongly recommend getting trip cancellation & travel insurance after booking your trip. If you cancel and the workshop is otherwise filled, we will refund you the full amount you have paid towards the tuition, minus a $300 service charge. If the workshop does not fill, refunds will be as follows, based on the full fee of the workshop:

Greater than 90 days from the start date: full refund minus $300 service fee. 75 days or more: 75% refund 60 days or more: 50% refund Less than 60 days: no refund Refunds will be issued by the same method as the original payment.

In the event of another pandemic or global issue that disrupts this tour and requires cancellation, we can refund 100% of your deposit back to your credit card or issue credits for future use.

Should you have any other questions or need clarification, do not hesitate to send me an email.

Thank you so much!

What to bring

Gear: – camera with tripod and remote shutter release – A wide angle lens. For example, Nikkor 14-24 or Canon 17-40. Best lens for use in wide-angle scenes or architecture photography – A middle-zoom lens such as a 24-70 mm – A telephoto zoom lens, such as a 70-200 mm.  Be sure to have additional tripod mount to this lens. – Set of filters for seascape photography: ND 3, 6, 10 stop and CPL filters

Tour leaders

Dee Potter ~ International-award-winning Canadian landscape and travel photographer, Branch Chair of Professional Photographers of Canada and 2024 PPOC Photographer of the Year finalist. Instagram @deepotterphototgraphy

Daniel Kordan

Landscape and travel photographer based in Bali, Indonesia. Partner with Iceland photo tours, instagram @Danielkordan with 2.3 Million followers, Nikon and Gitzo ambassador.

DEE Explores

by Dee Ruiz

Traveling to Bali in a Big Group (Budget + Itinerary Included)

My old Bali post keeps on rising from the dead thanks to Tripzilla and Klook!

After three (3) years, I finally went back to Bali. Hence the need to update my blog (or 5 months after lol, better late than never).

I got friends who keep on asking about Bali. How much should be the budget, where to book the accommodations, what tours to book, what activities to try, etc… So I will try to tackle all these things by sharing with you my latest Bali trip with my #unBALIvably clingy friends.

Most of my companions were first-timers, so we had to do the usual spots.

DAY 1 – N1

• Departure Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3
• Arrival Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport

From Ngurah Rai International Airport we went straight to our villa. We stayed in Villa White Jasmine, a private-owned villa in Ubud area. You can check the listing on Airbnb . The owner of the villa arranged the airport pick-up for us. Most of the villas or accommodations can arrange the transportation for you, you just have to ask.

Expenses ( 1 Php = 273.42 IDR, As of July 24, 2019)

Transportation to Villa Jasmine: 350,000 IDR or 1,280.06 PHP / 4 pax

• 87,500 IDR =  320.00 PHP 

DAY 2 – N2

• Lempuyang Temple
• Lunch in a local restaurant
• Taman Tirtagangga
• Tegalalang Rice Terraces
• Coffee Plantation / Alas Harum
• Dinner at Bebek Bengil Dirty Duck

When we went to Bali, they had somewhat like a prayer festival that happens every 10 years (if I remember it correctly). Temples were suuuuper packed, there was even an instance when the roads were closed because they had a procession. It was an interesting sight.

Lempuyang Temple, formally named as Pura Penataran Agung Lempuyang, is a Balinese Hindu temple or pura located in the slope of Mount Lempuyang in Karangasem, Bali. You can see a glimpse of Mt. Agung if it’s not cloudy. The Lempuyang Temple is part of a complex of pura/temples surrounding Mount Lempuyang and is one of the highly regarded temples in Bali. They also coined it as “ the gateway to heaven “.

This day was one of the hottest days of this entire trip! The first two temples are quite far from Kuta, Seminyak, and/or Ubud. It will take around 1-2 hours to reach the first spot. From Lempuyang, we transferred to Tirta Gangga.

Taman Tirta Gangga is a former royal palace in eastern Bali. It is noted for its water palace owned by Karangasem Royal.

After spending some time in Tirta Gangga, we decided to go back to Ubud and try to catch the sunset in Tegalalang Rice Terraces. We had our coffee and tea fix at Alas Harum Coffee Plantation before we headed to Bebek Bengil for dinner.

• Common Fund 500,000 (Common Fund)
• Satay 5,000
• UniCornetto 10,000
• Fish Food 2,500
• Lunch 35,000 (Nasi Campur 25k, Coke 8k, Ice 2k)
• Groceries 38,000
• Dinner @ Bebek Bengil 204,535 (Nasi Campur Bebek 95k, Balinese Cake Platter/2 21k, Bintang 50k, SC&Tax 38,535)
• Bintang 65,000

Subtotal : 860,035 IDR = 3,145.42 PHP

DAY 3 – N3

• Breakfast at  Kynd Community
• Surf & Chill at  Seminyak Beach
• Late lunch at Warung Bunana (BEST ROTI PLACE!!!)
• Chill at Potato Head Beach Club
• Dinner at Semujaen Restaurant in  Ubud

Surf and chill would be the perfect description for this day.

We started with breakfast at Kynd, had our surf session in Seminyak Beach, ate lunch and went straight to Potato Head Beach Club to chill.

After Seminyak, some of my friends decided to head back to our villa to chill there. My partner and I went to Ubud to have dinner at Semujaen.

• Kynd Community 170,334 (Berry Tropical 79k, Still Water 25k, Iced Mocha 45k, SC+Tax 21,333.33)
• Surf Board Rental + Instructor 200,000
• Warung Bunana 30,500 (Roti Kaya 9k, Roti Susu Keju 12k, Orange Juice 9.5k)
• Simcard 75,000
• Potato Head Beach Club 88,160 (Stark Pale Ale 75k, SC+Tax 13,160)
• Semujaen Restaurant 68,722.50 (Kway Teow 57k, Chocolate Vulcano 42k, Sprite 20k, SC+Tax 18,445)
• Jeff’s Cake 10,000  (Happy birthday!😜)
• Taxi to Villa 25,000

Subtotal : 667,716.50 IDR =  2,442.05 PHP

DAY 4 – N4

• Mt. Batur Trek
• Ubud Water Palace
• Saraswati Temple
• Ubud Palace
• Shop in Ubud Market
• Babi Guling Ibu Oka / Pak Malen
• Chill in the Villa

This day started really early. We had to catch the sunrise at Mt. Batur’s peak. The “hike” started at 2:30 AM.

I already did this the first time I went to Bali and I swore I won’t do it again. BUT THEN, THERE I WAS… (Or so you thought).

After the trek, we decided to rest in our villa. We went out to explore Ubud in the afternoon after getting some sleep.

• Mt. Batur Trek 500,000 (Mt. Batur Trek)
• Water 50,000
• Motorcycle 400,000 (Ooooops! I said I won’t do it again diba😜)
• Guide Tip 33,333.33
• Magnet 30,000
• Bali Bag 570,000
• EcoBag 100,000
• Ice Cream 25,000
• Warung Babi Guling 88,287.50
• Home Service Massage 60,000

Subtotal : 1,856,620.83 IDR = 6,790.26 PHP

• Travel to Nusa Penida
• Broken Beach
• Angel’s Billabong
• Kelingking Beach

This time I made sure that we’d stay in Nusa Penida for a night.

We booked villas at Sundi Bungalow. It was the perfect place to stay in Nusa Penida. Their staff were very accommodating. They arranged our transportation in Nusa Penida. We even had a jamming session in the evening. And they also allowed us to check-out late before we headed back to Bali island the following day.

• Sundi Bungalow 270,000
• Entrance Angel’s Billabong 5,000
• Entrance Kelingking 5,000
• Bintang Small 30,000
• Bintang Small (25k each) 75,000
• Fanta Grape 10,000
• Ice Cream 20,000

Total: 415,000 IDR = 1,517.79 PHP

• Chill in the Villa ( Late check-out )
• Travel from Nusa Penida to Denpasar
• Departure Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport
• Arrival NAIA International Airport Terminal 3

• Common Fund 574,000 IDR =  2,099.30 PHP

SUMMARY OF EXPENSES

• Day 1 87,500
• Day 2 860,035
• Day 3 667,716.50
• Day 4 1,856,620.83
• Day 5 415,000
• Day 6 574,000

Total: 4,460,972.33 IDR = 16,315.20 PHP

Our accommodations cost roughly around 5,000 PHP per person for 5 nights and we already stayed in villas. Regular roundtrip airfare from Manila to Bali would range between 7,000 PHP – 12,000 PHP. If you’re lucky, you can snag promo fares for as low as 2,000 PHP – 3,000 PHP roundtrip.

Transportation costs vary depending on your itinerary. Our “common fund” was intended for transportation costs. We got a private van good for 8 people.

It’s safe to prepare a total of 30,000 PHP for a 6D5N excursion in Bali. Well, if you love shopping then that’s another story. 😜

Need help with your Bali transportation? Send me a message and I can help arrange it for you.

I hope this will help you plan your Bali trip and enjoy the experience as much as we did.

Check out these articles if you plan your next trip to Bali:

How to Plan Your Next Bali Trip

Exploring Nusa Penida Before Sunset

5 Things To Remember Before Climbing Mt. Batur (For First-timers)

6D5N Bali Itinerary + Budget (1st Time in Bali)

Feel free to leave comments or message via e-mail if you have any questions. If you like this article and want to see or know more about my #unBALIvable trip, or other trips and tips, follow me on   Instagram ,  Facebook,  and  Twitter.

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Indonesia Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for 2024

Introduction.

Welcome to  Indonesia , a country of unparalleled diversity and beauty, boasting over 17,000 islands, each with its own unique blend of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. This  Ultimate Indonesia Travel Guide  is your essential companion on a journey through a land where adventure and tranquility coexist. From the vibrant streets of Jakarta to the serene beaches of Bali, and the untouched wilderness of Papua, Indonesia promises a wealth of experiences for every traveler.

With its vast archipelago, Indonesia offers something for everyone; whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture enthusiast, a foodie, or just someone looking for a slice of paradise. Its diverse range of adventures includes trekking up smoldering volcanoes, diving into a vibrant underwater world, exploring ancient temples, and indulging in rich culinary delights.

As you read through our comprehensive guide, we’ll unveil the best times to visit, reveal the must-see destinations from renowned travel experts, provide detailed planning tools, and share essential travel tips from the community. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for more, this guide is packed with valuable insights to enhance your Indonesian adventure. Join us as we explore beyond the well-trodden paths of this enchanting destination and discover the heart and soul of Indonesia.

Visit Indonesia   Indonesia’s Official Tourism Website

Booking Tips

• Book in Advance : Especially during peak tourist seasons, booking your accommodation early can secure better rates and availability.
• Check Reviews : Platforms like  Booking.com  and  Airbnb  offer extensive reviews to help you make informed decisions.
• Consider Location : Proximity to attractions, dining options, and public transport can significantly impact your experience.
• Negotiate Rates : In less touristy areas or during the off-season, negotiating the price of your stay could result in discounts.
• Understand Amenities : Ensure you’re aware of what’s included in the price, such as airport transfers, breakfast, or Wi-Fi access.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, making accommodations a thoughtful part of your travel planning can lead to a more comfortable and memorable visit to Indonesia.

Navigating the Islands: Getting Around Indonesia

Indonesia’s vastness and the spread of its many islands pose unique challenges for getting around, but also present diverse and exciting transport options. From traditional boats to modern ride-sharing services, understanding the modes of transportation can make your travel within the country smooth and enjoyable.

With more than 250 airports across the archipelago, flying is one of the fastest ways to cover large distances in Indonesia. Domestic airlines like Garuda Indonesia, Lion Air, and Citilink service major and minor airports, ensuring that even remote areas are accessible. Booking flights in advance often secures the best fares, but be sure to check airline safety records and consider carbon offsetting for a more sustainable journey.

Connecting the islands by sea is a quintessential Indonesian experience. The state ferry system, operated by Pelni, offers affordable passage between islands on both passenger and cargo ships. For more localized travel, such as hopping between the Gili Islands and Bali, speedboats and charter services are available.

Land Transportation

On the larger islands like Java and Sumatra, buses and trains are prevalent for intercity travel. Trains in Java are comfortable and scenic, especially in executive class, while buses reach more destinations and can be a cheaper alternative.

Ride-Sharing and Local Transport

Ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab have revolutionized urban travel in Indonesia, providing safe and affordable rides on both two and four wheels. Traditional transport options like the three-wheeled ‘bajaj’, horse-drawn ‘andong’, or the ubiquitous ‘ojek’ (motorcycle taxis) offer an authentic local experience.

Driving and Renting

While renting a car or scooter gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, be cautious of traffic conditions and local driving habits. Ensure you have an international driver’s license and are comfortable with the rules of the road, and always wear a helmet when riding a scooter.

Tips for Getting Around Indonesia

• Plan Ahead : For remote destinations or during high seasons, booking transport in advance is crucial.
• Use Local Knowledge : Engage with locals or accommodation hosts to find the best options for regional transport.
• Stay Flexible : Delays are common, so always allow extra time for travel, especially when catching flights.
• Safety First : Choose reputable operators, especially for activities like diving or boat trips.
• Insurance : Confirm that your travel insurance covers transport-related incidents for peace of mind.

Navigating Indonesia’s transportation network can be part of the adventure; embrace it with preparation and an open mind. For reliable transportation bookings and timetables, check platforms like  12go.asia  or  Traveloka .

Health in Indonesia: Staying Healthy and Safe

Maintaining good health while traveling in Indonesia is paramount for a pleasant trip. Given the tropical climate and the various environments you might encounter, being prepared for health-related issues is a wise step. Here are important considerations to keep in mind:

Vaccinations and Preventive Measures

Before traveling to Indonesia, consult with a travel health specialist about recommended vaccinations, which may include shots for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, cholera, rabies, and Japanese encephalitis, depending on your itinerary. Additionally, malaria prophylaxis might be advised for travel to certain areas like Papua or remote parts of Sulawesi and Kalimantan.

Common Health Concerns

Traveler’s Diarrhea : Familiarly dubbed “Bali Belly,” can be avoided by drinking bottled or boiled water, eating food that is cooked and served hot, and frequently washing hands with soap.

Dengue Fever : Transmitted by mosquitoes, dengue is present in Indonesia. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and stay in places with air conditioning or window and door screens.

Sun Protection : The sun can be intense in this equatorial region, so use high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to guard against sunburn and heatstroke.

Medical Facilities

While primary medical care is available throughout Indonesia, the quality and availability of care can vary widely, particularly once you’re outside major cities. International-standard hospitals are found in Jakarta, Bali, and Surabaya, but it’s advisable to know the location of clinics and hospitals in each area you visit.

Health Insurance

Investing in comprehensive travel health insurance is a must, as it ensures that you’re covered for any medical emergencies, evacuations, or unexpected treatment costs. Companies like  World Nomads  and  SafetyWing  offer specialized plans for travelers.

Practical Tips for Staying Healthy

• Always carry a first-aid kit with essential medications.
• Stay hydrated, but ensure the water is safe to consume.
• Be cautious with street food; opt for busy stalls where high turnover indicates freshness.
• Familiarize yourself with local health risks and take necessary precautions.

By prioritizing your health and preparing for potential risks, you can enjoy all the beauty and adventure Indonesia offers without significant health concerns impeding your journey.

Experiencing Indonesian Cuisine: A Culinary Expedition

Indonesian cuisine is as diverse as its islands, a fusion of flavors influenced by a rich history of trade, colonization, and cultural exchange. From fiery sambals to fragrant curries and sweet desserts, the archipelago is a food lover’s paradise.

Must-Try Dishes

Nasi Goreng : This quintessential Indonesian fried rice is often considered the national dish. Typically flavored with kecap manis (sweet soy sauce), garlic, tamarind, and a mix of meat and vegetables, it’s a dish that can be found everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurants.

Related Posts

Bali on a Budget: Ultimate Guide to Affordable Island Bliss

Bali in October: Ultimate Guide to Weather, Activities & Tips

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Bali's new tourism rules: What they mean for your next vacation to Indonesia's tropical island

Planning a trip to bali indonesia's tropical island's new tourist crackdown could change your travel plans.

Indonesia will conduct an audit to reform tourism on the tropical island of Bali to improve tourism quality and preserve local culture and jobs, a senior minister said on Friday.

About 200,000 foreigners currently live in Bali and have created problems such as crime, over-development and competition for employment, Luhut Pandjaitan, senior minister overseeing tourism said on his Instagram page.

"Foreign tourists who bring problem here, such as narcotics, gangs, and other issues, we can deport them from Indonesia, from Bali, and we don't want them to enter Bali anymore," he said, speaking in English in a video clip.

Foreign arrivals in Bali have surged since the island reopened after COVID, and videos of misbehaving tourists often go viral, angering local residents and sparking harsh responses from social media users in Indonesia.

Data from Indonesia's statistics bureau shows that 2.9 million foreign visitors entered the island through Bali airport in the first half of this year, accounting for 65% of Indonesia's total foreign arrivals by air for the period.

Tourism Minister Sandiaga Uno said earlier this month that the government wants to avoid "a situation like Barcelona, where tourists became public enemies," national news agency Antara reported.

Luhut said the government will also tackle trash problems on the island, improve infrastructure and prevent further over-development.

"We don't want to see paddy fields become a villa or become a nude club," he said. "For us, quality is more important than numbers."

Public nudity is illegal in Indonesia and there are no strip clubs in Bali, although there are nightclubs and discos that feature in-house dancers.

The government will soon announce a policy plan for reforming Bali's tourism, Luhut said.

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