One of the world's richest nations in terms of culture, activity, wildlife, and pure adventure is Indonesia. It's huge too, with an estimated 13,466 islands. But most tourists are unaware of Indonesia's other islands (outside of Bali, Lombok, and the Gili Islands). For instance, Sumatra is practically a separate world (it's 80 times larger than Bali!). And yet, people continue to ask: " Is Indonesia worth to Visit?"
Of course! One of the most excitingly diverse nations in the world, this chain of islands, many of which are culturally distinct, runs from west to east across a distance of more than 5000km (3110 miles). Here are 15 things you should know to assist you prepare your trip to Indonesia, from being ready before you leave to crucial etiquette and safety information.
Select the ideal season.
Although the rainy season, which typically lasts from November to March, is something most tourists to Bali try to avoid, there is really never a terrible time to travel to Indonesia. Rains are often brief and quick, and they can create an unforgettable spectacular sound and light show even during the height of the monsoon. Several brilliant sunny days will frequently follow quite brief storms. Due to the fact that it is also low season, there are advantages such as fewer visitors (and lower pricing). However, the biggest drawback occurs after the first rains of the year, when plastic trash—one of Indonesia's worst problems—washes down rivers and onto beaches.
The dry season typically lasts from September to March in West Papua and the Maluku Islands, which are located at the other ends of the archipelago. The enormous Sumatra (1000 km/620 mi long) and Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) are both large enough to have distinct weather patterns. Generally speaking, the best time to visit these regions to avoid the heavy rains is from March to October. This is crucial in jungle environments where some portions could become impassable during the rainy season.
Learn some key phrases in the language.
One estimate states that Indonesia is home to one in ten of the world's languages. English is only spoken in tourist areas and many islands have hundreds of different languages. Thankfully for the traveler, everyone speaks Bahasa Indonesia (literally, "Indonesian language," with the exception of the smallest pre-schoolers and a few elderly in rural places). It's a fairly simple language to learn, and Indonesians from all walks of life will appreciate any attempt made to speak their own language, no matter how small. (Since Bahasa Indonesia and Malay are closely related, your efforts to learn the language can also benefit you when visiting Malaysia, Sarawak, and Sabah.)
Pack clothes for the tropics.
Indonesia is a tropical country, so wherever you travel, you'll probably want shorts, t-shirts, or beachwear most of the time. However, the highlands may get quite chilly, so if you want to go hiking or climb a volcano, you should wear some warmer garments. Be aware that air conditioning in hotels and retail malls is frequently set to stifling temperatures, allowing fashionistas to dress in the kind of stylish couture you might associate with a European fall. Transportation (planes, trains, and buses) are also frequently shockingly chilly.
Although you will frequently see this in Bali's party districts, it is quite disrespectful to go around in public while not wearing a shirt, especially when entering a store or restaurant. Male Indonesians frequently wear no shirt when at home, but they would never consider doing so when on someone else's property. On Bali, it is common to be expected that women cover their shoulders and wear sarongs when visiting temples. At the majority of the nation, wearing shorts is frequently prohibited in religious structures and ceremonies. Although dress restrictions are generally lax in Muslim Indonesia, you are more likely to feel at ease (and come across as courteous) in areas that predominantly muslim
Respecting the religious views of your hosts is part of Indonesian etiquette.
The Muslim nation with the largest population is Indonesia. While this is accurate (87% of the 275 million people in the nation are Muslims), it is also false because Indonesia's Islamic laws are fairly liberal overall, with the exception of Aceh (northern Sumatra), where Sharia law is still in effect. Muslims in Indonesia are among the friendliest people you will ever encounter. A significant portion of the Maluku Islands, for instance, are largely Christian, whereas Bali itself is virtually totally Hindu. An extensive range of animistic beliefs coexist with these "formal" faiths, often becoming nearly separate from them. Any efforts you make to comprehend and respect the beliefs will make your journey richer.
Never ask the names of elderly folks.
Speaking an elderly person's name is strictly forbidden in many traditional societies, including rural Bali. There is a widespread notion that saying a person's name can alert the gods that they have "ignore" them. The gods are said to hold a list of persons who are "due to be called." Old males are typically referred to as Bapak (mister) or Kakek, while old ladies are generally referred to as Nenek (grandmother) (grandfather). In general, Pak (mister) or Ibu should always be used to address an elderly person with respect (mother).
Know the regulations for LGBTQI+ travelers.
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Aceh, where pre-marital sex is often seen as a felony. This is also true, albeit to a lesser extent, in Palembang, Sumatra. The majority of the rest of the country will be accepting of discreet same-sex couples.
Generally conservative Indonesians view public displays of affection, regardless of sexual orientation, as unacceptable. While some regions of Indonesia, particularly Maluku, have historically accepted waria (believed to be men born with women's souls), the situation for Indonesians in same-sex partnerships is becoming more difficult as a result of rising anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric from politicians. Few western-style tourist hotels have a problem with same-sex couples sharing rooms, but an increasing number of same-sex couples prefer the privacy of renting through websites like Airbnb, especially for travel to more remote locations.
Avoid consuming tap water.
In Indonesia, not even natives drink the tap water; they either buy bottled water or boil it beforehand. Use bottled water to make ice and to brush your teeth whenever possible, just to be safe. There is a problem with plastic waste in Indonesia, so if you plan to stay in a place for longer than a few days (or are traveling with a group), think about purchasing a large 19-liter bottle (referred to locally as a galon), which you can then exchange for refills, rather than using dozens of 1-liter bottles during your stay.
Have you had a unique experience in Indonesia?
Tell us in the comments section.
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