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Indonesia
Here is what you need to know: Indonesia Travel Guide
Indonesia was an unforgettable experience for us. We started our journey in Nusa Penida, a secluded island south of Bali. At that time, it was still untouched, with only a few hotels and barely a single road. There, we discovered breathtaking landscapes, far from the tourist crowds, and enjoyed the best snorkeling of our lives, with stunning corals and majestic manta rays. At night, the island had no electricity, adding to its charm.
In the Gili Islands, I (Alex) got my scuba diving license, while Tina enjoyed delicious plant-based meals at Pachamama Café.
Next, we explored Bali and Ubud, which offered a completely different yet equally amazing experience. The island had incredible vibes, tasty food, and great yoga studios.
It’s definitely a place we’ll return to, and we’ve been dreaming of it every day since we left.
About
Indonesia located in Asia is made up of more than 17,000 islands, making it the world’s largest island country.
With a total area of 1,904,569 km², it is the 14th largest country in the world and has a population of 267 million people, making it the 4th most populous country globally.
The capital city is Jakarta.
Indonesia is a vibrant melting pot of cultures, with over 700 regional languages and more than 300 ethnic groups, contributing to its rich cultural diversity.
The colors of Indonesia’s flag are derived from the banner of the 13th-century Majapahit Empire.
However, it is also believed that the red and white symbolism can trace its roots to ancient Austronesian mythology, representing the duality of Mother Earth (red) and Father Sky (white).
Snorkeling in the islands of Indonesia is absolutely breathtaking. The corals are not only untouched but also incredibly beautiful, and there’s always the chance to encounter Manta Rays and the majestic Mola Mola.
We discovered this paradise in Nusa Penida, where we experienced some of the most amazing underwater views. However, due to the strong currents in the area, the ocean can sometimes become a bit murky, which can affect visibility. Despite this, the underwater world remains a mesmerizing sight.
Komodo Island is the natural habitat of the impressive Komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, which can grow up to 3 meters long.
The Komodo National Park encompasses the entire region, home to over 4,000 Komodo dragons. The park’s landscape is dominated by rusty-red volcanic hills, savannahs, and forests, while its surrounding waters boast vibrant seagrass beds, mangrove shrublands, and coral reefs. It’s also an exceptional spot for diving, offering diverse marine life alongside the island’s fascinating wildlife.
Indonesia is one of the best destinations for divers. Not only are the waters surrounding Indonesia’s islands rich with marine life and underwater wonders, but it is also one of the most affordable places in Southeast Asia to obtain a scuba diving license, whether through PADI or SSI. With its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems, Indonesia offers an unforgettable diving experience at an accessible price.
What to expect?
Language: The official language is Indonesian, but over 700 living languages are spoken across the country, making Indonesia the 2nd most linguistically diverse nation on Earth, accounting for 10% of the world’s languages.
Food: Indonesian food is a delightful mix for all tastes. Whether you’re a meat lover, fish enthusiast, or following a plant-based diet, there’s something for everyone. Bali is especially renowned for its organic cuisine, offering fresh and healthy options.
Transportation: Major cities are well connected by plane. For inter-island travel, boats and ferries are the best options, and once you’re on the island, renting a scooter is one of the easiest and most popular ways to get around.
Money: The currency in Indonesia is the Rupiah (IDR). Exchange rates fluctuate, but during our visit, 1€ was worth 15,870 Rupiah. Large restaurants and hotels typically accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and more remote islands often only accept cash. ATMs are common in major cities.
Plugs: Indonesia uses type C (Euro) and type F plugs, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
Safety: Indonesia is generally a safe destination. As always, exercise common sense: keep an eye on your belongings, avoid displaying money or valuables, and you’ll have a wonderful, hassle-free time.
Indonesia Travel guide
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