Indonesia - The Emerald of the Equator

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We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us

The world’s fourth most populated country with approximately 250 million people is a huge archipelago of 17,508 islands that runs along the equator for 5,000km. Lying across a region of immense volcanic activity, Indonesia has some 400 volcanoes, with at least 70 that are still active. The country shares land borders with Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, East Timor and Papua New Guinea, and maritime borders with Singapore, the Philippines and Australia. It is a land of so many cultures, ethnic groups,customs, fauna and flora that it is like 100 separate countries united under one flag. The main islands are Java, Sumatra, Bali,Lombok, Kalimantan (Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes), Papua, Flores, Timor and Seram. The capital city of Jakarta lies in the lowlands of West Java –the most populated island in the archipelago. The tropical paradise of Bali is arguably the jewel in Indonesia’s crown. This is home to the only large-scale Hindu society in South East Asia and the island has attracted tourists, artists, and adventurers for generations. The island of Lombok lies close by and its untouched charm often earns the description: “Like Bali 20 years ago”. Other popular tourism destinations include the island of Komodo, famous for the Komodo dragon, the largest species of lizard on the planet, and Borobudur, the site of the world’s largest Buddhist monument which is located ona remote hilltop in central Java. Adventure-seekers often head for Kalimantan’s remote jungle interior to visit the world’s foremost orang-utanresearch and conservation centers, or explore Sumatra, with its teeming wildlife and abundance of tribal groups.

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Bali
Bali, Indonesia

Also known as the Island of the Gods, Bali is a colorful land covered in hills and mountains with rugged coastlines and sandy beaches leading to vibrant emerald green rice terraces. The island literally caters to every kind of traveler; with a wealth of sporting activities including world class surfing; laid back coastal villages; culture rich inland villages with traditional markets and a volcanic landscape home to fascinating flora and fauna.

Baliem Valley
Indonesia

A place of legendary tales and enigmas. Home to the Dani people who, until discovered by an expedition in 1938, were still using tools made from stone and wood. They have since become accustomed to more modern ways but still live a very primordial life that is sustainable within their environment. It is this naturally astounding environment that many travelers make the journey into Papua to see. The surging Baliem River has carved a valley framed by mountains clad in virgin rainforest creating a breathtaking landscape.

Lake Toba
Indonesia

Also known as Danau Toba, Lake Toba is the largest volcanic lake in the world and even contains an island – Samosir Island – within its waters. Covering an area greater in size than Singapore, the lake was formed by a volcanic eruption over 70,000 years ago and offers today – one of the most stunning settings to sit back and relax. The azure blue water appears ocean-like, expanding as far as the eye can see. Early risers can take a boat out on the water to watch the sunrise and discover an ancient Batak village close by to its shores.

Tana Toraja
Indonesia

Approximately 250km north of Makassar, the land of the Bugis ends and a steep series of mountains marks the beginning of Tana Toraja’s highlands. The land here is marked by sweeping valleys and hills, spread across the central highlands and widely known as a place to witness elaborate funeral ceremonies and festivals that last up to a week, when ritual dances and buffalo fights form part of the celebration. Traditional Tongkonan houses can also be seen and explored here.

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Location

Indonesia,officially the Republic of Indonesia is a country in Southeast Asia, between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is the world's largest island country, with more than seventeen thousand islands.

Transportation

Cars can be hired for self-drive or with a driver. Destination Asia supplies modern vehicles with trained drivers to take the strain and make travel across the archipelago seamless. Motorbike hire is available at many beach resorts and increasingly inother towns. It is illegal to ride without a helmet and many machines are poorly maintained so be sure to check brakes and lights before proceeding. Taxis are metered in the major cities and all registered taxis, minibuses and rental cars have yellow number plates.

Languages Spoken

The inhabitants of the Indonesian archipelago constitute a rich array of hundreds of distinct cultures, each with their own individual language or dialect. However, virtually all Indonesians are united by the common national language; BahasaIndonesia which is written in Roman script. English is widely spoken in the major tourism destinations. There are about 583 languages and dialects spoken in the Indonesia. They normally belong to the different ethnic groups of the population.

Currency

The unit of currency in Indonesia is the rupiah (abbreviated to Rp). When taking US dollars in cash, make sure the bills are new and crisp as banks in Indonesia can be selective about which bills they accept. It is worth making sure that you have a stock of smaller notes and coins as it can be hard to break larger bills and get change when paying for small items, using taxis etc.

Visas

Visitors are required to have a visa to enter Indonesia, obtained either beforehand or on arrival, but please take note also of the visa free –short visit possibility (below).

Electricity

Voltage in Indonesia is 220 volts, so a transformer will be needed to operate 100-volt appliances. Electrical appliances will require an adapter that can change the shape of the plug prongs, so be sure to bring a universal plug adaptor. Rural areas may only be serviced with 110 volts.

Vaccinations

Generally no vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if traveling from an area where the disease is present. However visitors should be inoculated against typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A and B, tetanus and polio. Malaria and Dengue Fever are present and it is advisable to take precautions especially if traveling off the established tourist trail. If you plan totake anti-malarial tablets, you usually need to start the course of tablets one week before arrival.

Emergency Calls

Police dial 110;

Emergency Medical Services dial 118;

Fire service dial 113;

Search and Rescue team 115.

When to visit
Best time to visit the destination

The dry season in Indonesia spans from May to September and this is the most popular time to visit Indonesia. Wet season is between October & April, with rainfall occurring in short, heavy bursts. There are some regional exceptions and north Sulawesi experiences some rain in June & July. Temperatures remain fairly constant year round with averages of 28°C throughout the region.

What to do?
Don’t miss to challenge your world

Ijen trekking

East Java is rugged and raw, home to steaming volcanoes, plateaus and wild national parks.
The opportunities for adventure are endless and photographers will delight in the never-ending panoramic views. The Ijen Crater sits within a region of volcanic activity, the scenery is incredibly diverse as travelers proceed past rural villages and plantations while traveling through tropical rainforests.

Raja Ampat sailing

An unforgettable experience with sun drenched mornings and cool tropical evenings spent exploring one of the world’s most famous island groups.1500 small islands, crags and shoals comprise Raja Ampat that are best known for their amazing diversity of marine life, with one of the richest coral reef ecosystems in the world. The area is ideal for sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, bird watching and of course diving. We drop anchor in secluded bays, enjoy beach barbecues on castaway islands and observe nature in all its glory.

Tribes of the east Papua & Dani

Situated on the western side of the island of New Guinea, the Baliem Valley is located in the central highlands of Papua and although remote and difficult to get to, it is one of the more accessible of Papua’s tribal destinations. Experience and encounter the unique culture of this region as we reveal ancient traditions and place guests in the heart of warrior villages such as the Aikima and Dani tribes. We live alongside tribespeople who share the beauty of their natural surroundings on a truly spectacular adventure.

You ask, we answer
FAQs about Indonesia

Internet connection in Indonesia?

Major hotels throughout the country offer both Wi-Fi access and business centreswith timed computer use. Also most of the better restaurants offer free Wi-Fi services and you can buy pre-paid international phone cards to make international calls or use the mobile internet with a data package.

Tipping for good service is not expected but is always appreciated. Tipping the guide and driver on your transfers and tours should depend on how satisfied you are with the excursion. Hotel porters should be tipped for carrying bags to the room. In other cases, it is totally up to the individual when and how much to tip.

Serious or violent crimes against foreigners in Indonesia are rare but travelers should remain vigilant for petty theft, especially in larger cities and when travelling by bus or train. As a global rule, never leave belongings unattended and always maintain a firm grip on cameras and shoulder bags. In some tourist sites you may encounter insistent souvenir sellers. A polite “No, thank you” usually will suffice. Leave your expensive valuables at home and always use hotel safety deposits boxes or in-room safes for valuables.

It is not advisable to drink tap water but bottled mineral water is safe and available everywhere. All hotels provide a complimentary bottle of local mineral water, per person, in the room. Ice is generally okay in good standard hotels and restaurants but it is best to avoid them at street stalls or in upcountry areas. Some minor stomach problems are always possible when travelling in Indonesia so bring a supply of your usual anti-diarrhoeamedicine. Bottled water should also be used for cleaning teeth and cooking.

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