8 Things You Should Know Before Travelling To Indonesia
Begin an enthralling adventure in Indonesia, a land filled with a myriad of landscapes, lively cultures, and a seamless fusion of traditional charm and modern dynamism. From lush green landscapes to bustling urban streets, Indonesia guarantees an enchanting experience for every traveller.
- Cultural Diversity: Indonesia is an incredibly diverse country, with various ethnic groups, languages, and cultures. The most widely spoken language is Bahasa Indonesia, but English is also spoken in tourist areas. It's crucial to respect local customs and traditions, which may vary from one region to another.
- Appropriate Attire: When exploring religious sites or rural locales, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees to show respect. Remember to take off your shoes when entering someone's home.
- Greetings and Politeness: Indonesians embrace warmth and friendliness, valuing politeness. Greet with a smile, slight bows, and expressions like "Selamat pagi" (Good morning), "Terima kasih" (Thank you), and "Permisi" (Excuse me) when appropriate.
- Currency and Bargaining: The IDR serves as Indonesia's official currency, with credit cards widely accepted in tourist hubs. It's wise to carry cash, particularly in remote locales. Embrace bargaining in markets with friendly negotiations for better deals.
- Transportation: Domestic flights are common for travelling between islands, while taxis, ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab, and local transportation like becak (cycle rickshaws) and bemo (small vans) are used within cities. Traffic can be congested, so plan accordingly.
- Dengue Fever: The dengue risk in Indonesia is high. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves, and stay in places with screens or air conditioning to prevent infection.
- Electricity: Power in Indonesia operates at 230V with a frequency of 50Hz, utilising a two-pin round socket. This plug type is the same as that used in Spain and South Korea. Travellers from the US or UK may consider bringing a universal adapter.
- Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your specific nationality. Indonesia offers visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for many countries, but the duration may vary.
Remember that Indonesia is vast and diverse, so experiences can vary widely depending on the region you visit. Check for any travel advisories and stay updated on local news to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.