Indonesia - general information and what you need to know as a tourist

Indonesia is the largest island nation in the world! It consists of more than 17,000 islands located between Australia and Asia. One of the main cities of Indonesia is Jakarta, which is also the capital of the country. In this large metropolis you can see modern skyscrapers, picturesque parks, museums and restaurants offering a rich variety of local cuisine. It is also worth visiting the most famous and popular islands of the archipelago for a relaxing vacation, such as Bali, Sumatra, Sulawesi, Java and Lombok. Each island has its own unique attractions.

Indonesia is famous for its nature, including exotic Indian or Pacific Ocean beaches, volcanoes, jungles and national parks. You should definitely visit places such as Borobudur, floating villages on lakes Toba and Pontorongo, and many other amazing places worthy of any tourist's attention. Before traveling, pay attention to the weather conditions in the country to choose the most suitable time for your trip.

Thanks to the development of tourism in Indonesia, today it is easy to find air tickets at attractive prices, as well as various accommodation options, from inexpensive hostels to luxury hotels.

Traveling to Indonesia promises to be unforgettable and exciting, full of new discoveries and impressions. This is a country where the modern world is combined with ancient traditions, where every tourist can find something interesting and unique. Therefore, do not miss the opportunity to visit this amazing corner of the planet.

Indonesia is located in the islands of the Malay Archipelago and the western part of the island of New Guinea and is washed by two of the world's oceans (the Pacific Ocean and the Indian Ocean). It is the largest archipelago in the world, which includes more than 17,000 islands, of which 6,000 are inhabited. The largest of them are Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan (Borneo Island), Sulawesi and Papua. The country is bordered on the north by Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand and Palau; on the south by Australia and East Timor, and on the east by Papua New Guinea.

The diversity of nature makes Indonesia one of the most amazing places on earth. Coral reefs, rainforests, swamps, mountains and beaches are still preserved here in pristine condition. Indonesia is located in one of the most seismically active zones on Earth and is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. There are about 150 active volcanoes in the country, among which the most famous are Merapi, Bromo, Salak, Semeru, Krakatoa, Tambora and many others.

The capital of Indonesia, Jakarta, is located on the island of Java, one of the largest islands in the country. The political system of Indonesia is a unitary republic of presidential type. The president of the country is the head of state. Indonesia is also a member of the United Nations, ASEAN and other international organizations.

The population of Indonesia is one of the largest in the world, exceeding 270 million people. The ethnic composition of the population is diverse, with over 760 nationalities, including Javanese, Malays, Chinese, Sundanese, Madurians and other nationalities. The majority of the population is Muslim, but there are also Christians, Buddhists, Confucians and other religious groups.

The peculiarities of the country's history and cultural heritage (Hindu temples, Buddhist shrines and Muslim mosques) make the country a unique place to explore and travel.

Indonesia's history is a rich and complex jumble of events that has led to the formation of a fascinating multi-ethnic and cultural country. Its history spans millennia and reflects many cultural, political and social changes.

Indonesia's history begins long before the arrival of Europeans. In ancient times, various civilizations such as the Majapahit, Sriwijaya and others existed on the territory of modern Indonesia. These civilizations left behind numerous architectural monuments, their influence is felt to this day.

In the 16th century, the territory of Indonesia became an object of interest for European colonizers. The first to arrive were the Portuguese, then the Dutch, the British and the Spanish. Colonial times left a deep trace in the history of the country: colonizers made significant changes in the culture, economy and politics of Indonesia.

In the 20th century, the Indonesian independence movement began. Under the leadership of Sukarno and Hatta, the country's independence from the Netherlands was declared in 1945. This period was not an easy one for Indonesia as the country had to overcome many political and social problems.

Up until the late 90s, Indonesia remained under Suharto's rule. But the severe economic crisis that broke out in 1997-98 in the countries of Southeast Asia significantly hit Indonesia: for the first time in many years there was a huge number of unemployed people, and the standard of living fell sharply. Opposition movements and parties actively exploited this situation, which led to Suharto's forced resignation.

For ten years the country was shaken by political scandals, which were accompanied by frequent changes of national leaders. It was not until 2009 that signs of stability gradually began to emerge and the economic situation began to improve.

Indonesia today is the largest Muslim, modern, developing nation in the world, where ancient customs and modern technology coexist.

Currently, the rupiah (IDR) remains the official currency of Indonesia, and is used universally throughout the country as a medium of exchange. Although the Indonesian rupiah is formally divided into 100 sen, the sen itself went out of circulation back in the early 1960s due to the extremely low value of the Indonesian currency, which persisted throughout virtually the entire history of the rupiah.

Indonesian currency is represented by paper bills in denominations of IDR 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000, as well as coins in denominations of IDR 100, 200, 500 and 1,000. Although there are smaller coins, it is almost impossible to meet them in real life.

On the obverse of all Indonesian banknotes are portraits of political leaders, historical figures and sultans who played an important role in the history of the country. And the reverse depicts the country's national achievements and traditions, such as national costumes, weaving tools, fishermen, topeng dancer and more.

US dollars are quite widely accepted as foreign currencies, especially in tourist areas. Visa and MasterCard credit cards are also often accepted at major hotels, restaurants and stores, but it is preferable to carry cash for small expenses.

You can exchange foreign currency for local currency at the airport, banks, hotels, and specialized exchange offices. However, the most favorable exchange rate is usually offered at banks, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance or after arrival in the city. Banks are open from 8:00 to 15:00 Monday through Thursday, and from 8:00 to 11:30 on Friday. The weekend is Saturday and Sunday.

Beware of street exchangers, as many of them can cheat tourists. It is recommended to go only to official exchange offices or banks to avoid possible problems with currency exchange. Don't forget to keep your currency exchange receipts as you will need them on departure to exchange your remaining rupees for the currency you need.

There are many ATMs located in resorts and major cities, but cash withdrawals are subject to high fees and the maximum amount you can withdraw is between 1,000,000 and 1,500,000 Indonesian Rupiah.

All in all, knowing some of the intricacies of handling money in Indonesia will make your journey through this amazing country easier.

Indonesia is an amazing country that is perfect for traveling all year round. However, in order to choose the best time to travel, you should consider the climatic features.

The country is located in the tropics, which provides it with a constant warm climate condition throughout the year. However, there are certain seasons that may be more preferable for traveling to Indonesia.

Throughout the year, the climate remains stable, with temperatures ranging from +26° to +32°. The sea water temperature also remains high, never dropping below +26°. Humidity is quite high, ranging from 75 to 100%, but it is easily tolerable.

The main seasons in Indonesia are the dry season and the wet season. Indonesia's climate is influenced by the monsoon, which determines the arrival of either wet or dry air masses on the islands. However, in many parts of the country, the changing seasons are difficult to notice due to the constant high temperature and humidity.

The dry season runs from May to October, when there is less rainfall and temperatures are pleasant for vacationing. This is the best time to visit islands, hike in national parks, and go on beach vacations. September and October are also good months to visit Bali in Indonesia, as the island is not so crowded with tourists.

The wet season in Indonesia runs from November to April and includes more rainfall. The wettest months are January and February. Despite this, many tourists prefer to visit the country during this period, as prices for hotels and excursions are lower and the islands become greener and more picturesque. Surfers can visit the region at any time of the year, but many prefer the rainy season.

The most important thing to remember is that there are a large number of islands in Indonesia and the climate can vary. Some islands may be affected by the monsoon season, while others may have a dry season. Therefore, it is important to consider the climatic characteristics of each particular island when planning a trip to Indonesia.

For traveling to Indonesia, it is better to choose the dry, sunny season that lasts from May to September to October.

In general, Indonesia is an amazing country with a diverse climate, so you can always find the right time for a vacation depending on your preferences.

Traveling to Indonesia offers a unique experience, whether you are enjoying the beaches of Bali, exploring the culture of Java or visiting the Moluccas Islands. Regardless of your vacation destination, the right choice of clothing can make your trip comfortable and stylish.

When you are preparing for your trip to Indonesia, consider the humidity and temperature. The humid climate requires lightweight clothing. The best choice is light-colored cotton clothing that absorbs moisture well and doesn't get hot in the sun. On the beaches, more open clothes are allowed - swimsuit, beach dress. However, it is worth remembering that it is illegal to sunbathe topless or completely nude. It is only allowed to be shirtless or in a swimsuit on the beach. If you are going to swim in remote areas, pay attention to the locals. If they are bathing in their clothes, you better do the same and you will not offend the feelings of Indonesians.

A sundress, bermudas and a t-shirt are great for cultural excursions. Wearing short shorts, tight or overly revealing clothing is not considered appropriate in most public places. It is not advisable for men to wear tank tops. If you are planning a hike to one of Indonesia's many volcanoes, be sure to bring a fleece sweatshirt and windbreaker.

If you plan to visit local mosques or temples, you should have clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. A light blouse, long pants or skirt will do, or you can wear a traditional garment (sarong).

When it comes to footwear, it's handy to have a pair of sandals, slippers and comfortable sportswear on hand for hiking or other active pursuits. On Indonesia's beaches, you should be sure to wear swim slippers before entering the water. The coastal area can be dangerous due to sharp coral that can injure your feet.

Don't forget sun protection. A hat, sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen are a must.

It is important to remember that respecting local customs is an important part of traveling. When visiting Indonesia, tourists are advised to dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention.

Indonesia has one of the oldest and most diverse cultures in Southeast Asia. The country has over 700 languages and dialects and is home to more than 300 indigenous peoples, each with their own unique traditions and customs. The mixture of different beliefs, including the practice of pagan rituals in some tribes, gives Indonesian culture a special charm. The country's culture has also been influenced by other peoples, including the Chinese and Malays, who colonized the land and introduced Buddhism and Hinduism.

People from different regions of the country lead very different lifestyles. For example, in Hindu-dominated Bali, the caste system still exists, although it is a simplified version of the Indian one. There are 4 castes: peasants, traders, warriors and Brahmans.

It is common in the local culture to eat with the right hand, while the left hand is considered unacceptable for this purpose due to hygiene concerns. It is also not customary to pass money or other objects with the left hand or to use it for shaking hands. At the end of a meal, one should leave a small amount of food on the plate and not finish the drinks in the glass, which symbolizes satiety and the end of the meal.

Theater and dance play a significant role in Indonesian society. Traditional dances can be seen at all festivals and celebrations, of which one of the most exciting performances is the Kechak dance. This dance is a performance by a group of men representing the army of the monkey king Hanuman, an ally of Rama.

The beliefs of the Indonesians are deeply connected to farming and harvesting. Cats and owls play a special role, depicting them in the form of statuettes made of wood. Farmers consider them as helpers in controlling pests and preserving the harvest.

Wood carving is a traditional folk art in Indonesia. Using soft, porous wood, folk artisans create amulets, amulets, amulets and religious objects, preserving ancient carving techniques and passing on their skills from generation to generation.

There is no single national dress in Indonesia, so clothing styles vary depending on the region and the preferences of the inhabitants. Some people wear sarongs, others wear European pants and shirts, and in wild tribes they do without hipbands.

Unlike other Islamic countries, Indonesia does not practice polygamy, and only people of one religion can marry.

Indonesians demonstrate softness and non-conflict in communication, always hospitable and ready to help. To communicate respectfully with locals, it is important to avoid discussing religious and political topics. Expressing respect through politeness and knowing basic phrases in Indonesian is a good way to build relationships.

Overall, it is important to remember that Indonesian culture is a heritage that should be valued, respected and cherished as it forms the basis of the local community and its interactions.

Indonesia has its own peculiarities in road traffic that need to be taken into account to ensure safety. The country has left-hand traffic, which may be unfamiliar to those who are used to right-hand traffic. At one time, the Dutch, who colonized Indonesia, preferred to drive on the left side of the road and adopted this practice throughout the archipelago. This tradition has been maintained ever since. Drivers should be prepared and be cautious of other road users.

In Indonesia, traffic rules are not always enforced and therefore transportation accidents are common. In addition, there may be wild animals on the roads, which creates additional dangers for drivers. Therefore, it is necessary to be extremely careful behind the wheel and take all precautions. In such conditions, it is recommended to rent a car with a driver, which will help to avoid unforeseen situations.

The rules of transportation of children are also important in Indonesia. Children must be in special restraints in the car depending on their age and weight. This provides extra protection in the event of an accident.

In major cities and on expressways in Indonesia, the roads are usually in good condition to ensure comfortable travel. However, the situation changes on country and local roads, where you can sometimes encounter poor pavement quality. The country also often has one-way roads at certain times of the day and two-way roads at other times, and they often lack road signs or information boards. There are not many road signs in Indonesia, and sometimes they can be contradictory. The speed limit on most highways is 70 km/h.

It is important to remember to follow traffic rules to avoid fines and accidents. Observing the speed limit, overtaking rules, and using seat belts all help to ensure safety on Indonesia's roads.

Indonesia's diverse and rich cultural history is reflected in its wide range of public transportation options. In the country's cities, you can use city buses called “bis”, shuttle buses called “bemo”, motorcycle cabs called “ojek”, angkotas, bajajas, bicycle rickshaws called “bechak” and other modes of transportation. In cities of large islands there is an opportunity to use a special bus for foreigners.

In remote areas, motorcycle and bicycle rickshaws are used, as it can be difficult to catch a regular cab, If you plan to use these services, it is recommended to agree on the cost of the trip in advance.

Indonesia, which is made up of many islands, has an extensive water transportation system including ferries, boats and launches. This mode of transportation is operated by both state-owned companies and private carriers. Travelers can use vessels to reach even Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. The cost of traveling by water can vary depending on the type of vessel and route, but in general, ticket prices remain very affordable.

Indonesia has a well-developed rail transportation system, especially on the islands of Sumatra and Java. Passenger trains offer varying levels of comfort, but generally the cars are equipped similarly to electric trains and do not have sleeper berths. On weekdays, tickets can be purchased just before departure, but on holidays and weekends it is better to purchase tickets in advance.

In Indonesia, cabs are one of the most popular modes of transportation. One trip is quite inexpensive. It is recommended to use local currency to pay for cab fares, as you may be charged more when converted to dollars. It is also important to make sure that the cab meter is on, as turning it off is sometimes used to increase the fare. However, if there is no working taximeter, it is better to discuss the price in advance. Cabs can be booked both at airports and at hotels.

In Indonesia you can rent a car or a motorcycle. The traffic here is left-handed, and to rent a car you need an international driver's license. A car is rented to people who are at least 21 years old and have at least one year of driving experience.

In general, local modes of transportation in Indonesia are a unique mix of modern and traditional means of transportation, reflecting the centuries-old history of this fascinating country.

The numerous islands in Indonesia have played a significant role in the diversity of languages. The majority of the population uses different languages and over 700 dialects. Indonesians use the official language, Bahasa Indonesia, to communicate with each other. This is a means of mutual understanding, allowing the inhabitants of the country, speaking different dialects, to find a common language.

Indonesian language is used in official state institutions, education and mass media. The language has a literature and a written language based on the Latin alphabet.

There are also a variety of cultural and ethnic groups in the country, each with its own unique language and communication traditions. Local ethnic languages are used in family and household life, as well as for intra-ethnic communication. Consequently, many Indonesians are multilingual, which contributes to multilingualism and cultural enrichment.

In Indonesia, many people speak English, German and French, and these are often found in tourist areas. In more remote areas, the number of people who speak these languages is much lower.

Tourists will find it useful to master basic phrases in Indonesian such as hello, thank you, how much it costs and other everyday expressions. Having a small vocabulary of words and phrases will help when dealing with locals and purchasing goods from local merchants, as showing respect for the local culture and using the local language is often appreciated and can help you get a discount.

Politeness and respect for the other person are also important aspects of communication and reflect the traditional values that underpin Indonesian communication.

Indonesia is a country with a growing telecommunication industry where mobile and internet play a vital role. Today, various cell phone operators are available in Indonesia. SIM cards can be purchased from almost any store or street kiosk. The most popular operators are Telkomsel, Indosat and XL. They provide access to cellular service and mobile internet. Internet speeds in Indonesia vary depending on the area - in large cities they are usually high, while in remote areas they may be slightly slower. Domestic calls are conveniently made from telephone vending machines. To pay for the call you can use special cards, which are available for purchase in many stores

It is possible to connect to the Wi-Fi network in hotels, restaurants, cafes and airports in Indonesia. But not all hotels, even in well-known tourist destinations, have wireless internet. If network access is important to you for work, it is worth considering this when choosing a hotel. If you need the Internet only for communication, you can buy a SIM card with mobile Internet, thereby not depending on the availability of Wi-Fi in hotels. However, you should not expect high speed Wi-Fi everywhere, as the infrastructure in different parts of the country may differ. In most cases, access is free of charge, but for a permanent stay online, it is recommended to connect a SIM card.

Thus, every resident or visitor to the country can choose the right connectivity option that suits his or her needs.

In recent years, the medical industry in Indonesia has been actively developing, with new programs being introduced to improve the local health care system. The country has a network of public and private medical institutions. Hospitals and clinics in Indonesia are most often located in large cities on the islands of Bali, Java and Lombok and offer a wide range of medical services. In case of need, a doctor can be summoned to provide medical assistance at each hotel. However, in remote areas, access to medical care may be limited.

Doctors in Indonesia are usually highly educated in medical universities and are at a high professional level. But, in some cases, some Indonesian medical facilities may face a shortage of qualified personnel due to limited access to education and resources.

Treatment in Indonesia is available to various segments of the population, both locals and foreigners. Tourists can go to private clinics or government facilities for medical care. In addition, there are international medical clinics in major Indonesian cities that provide high quality services. For example, there is a network of private hospitals and clinics on the island of Bali that are the preferred option for foreigners - BIMC hospitals located in Kuta, Nusa Dua and Ubud. Foreign tourists are increasingly choosing Indonesia for quality medical care and necessary check-ups. Popular destinations include Jakarta, Surabaya, Solo, Sidoarjo, Yogyakarta, Malang and Posurua.

Overall, the level of healthcare in Indonesia has been improving over time, but there are still nuances related to accessibility and quality of care. Developing health infrastructure and improving the skills of health workers will help to further improve Indonesia's health care system.

Health insurance for travel to Indonesia is not a prerequisite for entry into the country. It was previously mandatory for foreign visitors due to the pandemic, but as of September 2022, this requirement has been removed. However, it is recommended for all travelers who intend to visit Indonesia, especially if they plan to have an active vacation.

Travel insurance is an essential part of any trip, and a trip to Indonesia is no exception. It provides financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances such as medical emergencies, lost luggage, delayed flights and other situations. Medical expenses in case of illness or injury can be very high, especially if hospital treatment or medical evacuation from remote areas of Indonesia is required. Travel insurance can help you avoid financial loss in case of accident or illness while traveling.

Before choosing travel insurance for Indonesia, make sure that it includes coverage for medical expenses including emergency medical treatment, evacuation, dental treatment and also covers you against loss of luggage, canceled or delayed trips. It is recommended to include coverage for medical emergencies, medical evacuation and injuries resulting from active or extreme sports. Pay attention to the terms and conditions of coverage, the amount of the claim and the insurance company's emergency contact information. It is also important to make sure that your insurance covers you for the duration of your stay in Indonesia.

Don't skimp on insurance, as your safety and comfort are more important than all the risks. Remember that safety always comes first, especially when it comes to outdoor activities in Indonesia. So, with the right travel insurance, you can travel Indonesia with confidence and peace of mind.

Indonesia celebrates many public holidays that reflect the country's cultural diversity and historical heritage. One of the most popular holidays is Indonesia's Independence Day, which is celebrated on August 17. On this day in 1945, the country's independence was declared. Parades, concerts and various cultural events are held in many towns and villages.

Another major holiday is Hari Raya, which is celebrated at the end of the month of Ramadan and is a celebration of joy, gratitude and coming together. On this day, people wear new clothes, cook traditional dishes and share the festive mood with family and friends.

Indonesia also celebrates Victory Day, Heroes' Day, Labor Day, Heritage Day and many other public and religious holidays. They all have their own characteristics and traditions that reflect the history and values of the Indonesian people.

Public holidays in Indonesia are not only a day of rest, but also an occasion to socialize, celebrate and respect the country's cultural heritage. Tourists visiting Indonesia during the holidays have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Indonesian traditions and interesting holiday rituals.

Indonesia has only three official holidays with fixed dates:

January 1 - New Year's Day

August 17 - Independence Day

December 25 - Christmas

Other holidays in the country are related to religious traditions, their dates are determined by lunar calendars: Muslim - according to the Hijra, and Hindu-Buddhist - according to the Shaka calendar.

Indonesia is a country where each region is characterized by its unique cuisine and culinary traditions. The island of Java is dominated by dishes that may appeal to foreign tourists, as they are most similar to European dishes. Vegetables, legumes, beef and chicken form the basis of the diet here. West Sumatra is famous for its spicy national cuisine and unusual dishes. A great variety of cuisines can be found in Bali. Here you can try dishes of almost any cuisine in the world, from Italian to Chinese. Thus, each tourist will find exactly what will please his taste.

The cuisine of Indonesia, like many Asian countries, is known for its variety of dishes, where the main components are rice, vegetables and seafood, and the consumption of meat is noticeably less. The flavor preferences of Indonesian cuisine greatly reflect the influence of Chinese, Indian, Dutch and Arabic culinary traditions that have influenced the country at different times in its history.

Here is a list of the most popular dishes to try in Indonesia:

• Tumpeng, the national dish of Indonesia, is a dense mound of boiled rice around which meat, fish, vegetables, shrimp and other seafood are arranged.
• Nasi Goreng is a traditional Indonesian dish of fried rice with meat, vegetables, egg and spices. It goes perfectly with soy sauce and hot peppers.
• Saté is a kebab of chicken meat marinated in spices and grilled over charcoal. It is usually served with peanut sauce and a slice of rye bread.
• Gado-gado is a salad of vegetables with a spicy peanut sauce. It is often topped with hard boiled egg, potatoes, tofu and pretzel.
• Rendang is a traditional Indonesian meat dish of beef marinated in spices and thoroughly braised to a stew. It has a rich flavor and aroma.
• Bakpau is a yeast dough pie filled with meat, vegetables or sweet filling. It is often served as an appetizer or snack.
• Gula Jawa is a traditional Indonesian dessert made from palm sugar and can be found in various forms, from caramel to soft candies.
• Kopi Luwak is one of the rarest and most expensive types of coffee, made from beans passed through the digestive system of the civet. Its delicate flavor and aroma have won it many fans around the world.

Indonesia is famous not only for its diverse dishes, but also for its amazing sweets that delight visitors and locals.

The most popular desserts in Indonesia are:

• kek lapec is a soft and flavorful rice pudding made with coconut milk and palm sugar.
• klawe is a pastry pastry filled with sugar, coconut shavings and various fruits.
• Baklava is a sweet treat made of thin puff pastry filled with nuts or fruits.
• papadi - sweet pies with various fillings such as pumpkin, bananas or cheese.
• Mochi - soft rice pudding with fruit filling.

The favorite beverages appreciated in the islands of Indonesia are tea and coffee. Black tea is drunk here in different ways: hot, cold or even iced, with the addition of sweets, lemon or just with sugar. An unusual tea exotic is te-talua - strongly brewed black tea with egg yolk.

The second most popular drink is coffee. It is strongly brewed and drunk very sweet, often without additives or with milk. The undisputed legend of Indonesia is luwak, the most expensive coffee in the world.

In addition, fresh juices, coconut milk, milk with rice and palm sugar, crushed ice with sugar syrup and beans are widely available in the country. Beer, both locally produced and imported, is also popular. Strong alcohol is drunk less often due to national traditions and Islamic laws.

Don't miss the opportunity to try these and other delicious dishes to fully immerse yourself in the world of Indonesian cuisine!

Indonesia is a country with diverse, colorful infrastructure and attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. Indonesia's architecture is particularly attractive, including unique buildings and structures. One of the country's iconic architectural symbols is the Borobudur Temple, a majestic structure in Central Java that is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the world. Other famous attractions include Prambanan Temple, Bromo Volcano, Tanah Lot Complex and many other amazing places.

Apart from architectural masterpieces, Indonesia is also famous for its entertainment complexes such as oceanfront hotels and resorts that offer luxurious facilities for rest and relaxation. You can also find modern shopping centers, restaurants and cafes, as well as various sports and entertainment venues in the country.

From endless beaches and volcanic islands to ancient temples and rich fauna, Indonesia has everything to satisfy every taste and interest. Indonesia's most popular attraction is the island of Bali, where you can enjoy clean beaches and an abundance of vegetation. The temples on Lake Bratan, Tubangan Waterfall and the secluded beaches of Nusa Dua are also worth a visit.

For the adventurous and active, Lombok Island is ideal for surfing, diving, climbing the Rinjani Volcano and visiting cultural attractions. Cultural tourists should visit the capital Jakarta with its museums, Borobudur Temple and Prambanan Temple.

Indonesia is also famous for its natural riches - Komodo National Park with Komodo dragons, Rinca Island with a pink beach and many other natural wonders. The country also hosts various festivals, exhibitions and cultural events that immerse tourists in the atmosphere of local life and traditions.

Indonesia attracts many people who want to enjoy its unique attractions and amazing atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the world of Indonesia and create your own unforgettable experience!

Traveling is an amazing opportunity to experience new cultures and traditions, enjoy the beauty and diversity of the world. In order to make your vacation in Indonesia as pleasant as possible, it is important to follow some recommendations.

Trip Planning. Start planning in advance so that you have time to find convenient flights, accommodation and excursions. Take into account the peculiarities of meteorological conditions and seasonality in the country.

Respect the local culture. Before your trip, learn the basic rules of behavior and customs of Indonesia to avoid embarrassment. Remember that respect for local culture is the key to good relations with locals.

Safety. Be sure to purchase travel insurance that will cover medical expenses, lost luggage and other unforeseen situations. Take precautions and don't leave valuables unattended.

Explore the local cuisine. Trying a variety of local cuisine is one way to immerse yourself in the country and discover new flavors.

Explore the natural diversity. From wild jungles to white-sand beaches, Indonesia is amazing in its natural diversity. Explore different regions and enjoy the unique natural beauty.

Using these recommendations, families and solo travelers can enjoy their vacation in Indonesia.

When planning a trip to Indonesia, it is important to choose the right place to stay to make your vacation as comfortable as possible. There are a huge number of different accommodation options in the country, from simple guesthouses and hostels to luxury hotels and oceanfront villas. When choosing accommodation in Indonesia, tourists can take into account their preferences and interests to make their vacation as comfortable and unforgettable as possible. Booking accommodation in Indonesia can be done in advance through popular services.

For active tourists who prefer a dynamic and busy vacation, you should pay attention to the following accommodation options:

• Hotels and resorts on the coast: In Indonesia there are many hotels and resorts located on the ocean or sea shore, where tourists can engage in water sports such as surfing, diving or sailing.
• Hotels and villas at the foot of volcanoes: For outdoor enthusiasts and hikers, there are accommodation options located around volcanic mountains, such as Bali or Lombok.
• Eco-hotels and bungalows in national parks: For those who want to get closer to the wildlife of Indonesia, eco-hotels and bungalows located in national parks, where you can engage in trekking, safaris and other types of ecotourism.

A quiet vacation in Indonesia can be enjoyed by tourists who prefer privacy and relaxation. For such guests, the following accommodation options are suitable:

• Spa hotels and villas: Indonesia has many hotels and resorts offering spa treatments, yoga, meditation and other types of relaxation for guests seeking harmony and inner peace.
• Secluded Beach Villas: For those seeking tranquility and privacy, villas and boutique hotels on secluded beaches offer quiet and beautiful sea views.
• Guesthouses and hotels in green corners: In the vicinity of national parks and jungles you can find cozy guesthouses and hotels where guests can enjoy nature, peace and quiet.

It is important to consider the proximity of the hotel to attractions and beaches so that you don't have to spend a lot of time on transportation.

Regardless of budget and preferences, there is always a suitable accommodation option in Indonesia to make your stay in this amazing country as comfortable and cozy as possible.

Traveling to Indonesia not only provides an opportunity to enjoy its beauty and culture, but also offers unique shopping opportunities. The country is known for its diverse product offerings that delight tourists of all tastes and preferences.

One of the must-visit destinations are the local markets. Ubud Market on the island of Bali offers a variety of souvenirs, textiles, jewelry and local produce. Also worth a visit is the Legian Market in Bali, where you can buy cheap goods, as well as try on national clothing - sarongs and batiks.

The island of Java is famous for markets in Jakarta, where tourists can visit Tanah Abang and Partinggo. These places offer everything from clothes and shoes to electronics and souvenirs.

For those who prefer shopping in malls, Indonesia offers a wide range of choices. In Bali, you can visit Beachwalk and Discovery Shopping Mall, while in Jakarta you can visit Plaza Indonesia, Grand Indonesia Shopping Town, and Taman Anggrek Mall.

Indonesia has large supermarkets like Carrefour in Kuta, smaller chain stores like Nirmala or Pepito. The Pepito chain store is particularly notable for its wide range of products from Europe. There are also quite “mini” stores in Indonesia, where you can buy a quick snack, drinks or basic groceries.

The opening hours of stores on the Indonesian coast usually start at 9:00. In resorts, outlets may be open until late in the evening, but small stores often close at 18:00. In markets, however, opening hours may vary depending on the day of the week. In areas where Islam is practiced, stores are not open on Friday. Also note that haggling is common in most stores and markets, so feel free to offer your own price. The initial price can be reduced by a factor of 2 or 3. Successful haggling can be followed by buying unique goods at bargain prices.

Souvenirs from Indonesia:

• Cobra and python leather goods;
• Handicrafts, silver and ceramic, wood and stone products;
• Wooden masks and paintings by local craftsmen;
• Popular green ceramic box with gold frogs;
• Handmade items: jewelry, leather, wicker and textiles;
• Painted porcelain;
• Batik textiles such as sarongs and shawls;
• Pearl and coral jewelry;
• Fragrance oils and perfumes;
• Stone bracelets and lava necklaces;
• Coffee, chocolate, Javanese jasmine tea and jasmine-based honey;
• Exotic fruits, spices and condiments.

Children from Indonesia can bring colorful souvenirs such as carved masks or postcards of local scenery. You can also give them a traditional toy, such as a hand puppet or wooden puzzles. And don't forget sweet treats such as local fruits or candies.

Shopping in Indonesia is not only an opportunity to buy quality goods, but also a great way to immerse yourself in the local markets and culture. Embark on an exciting shopping adventure through this amazing country!