Travelling in Indonesia
Key info & facts
Capital: Jakarta
Official Language: Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia)
Population: Approximately 273 million (2023)
Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR, Rp)
Visa Requirements: Most tourists can get a visa on arrival for 30 days; You can apply for an e-visa online so you can skip the mass queues
Main Religion: Predominantly Muslim, with Christian, Hindu, and Buddhist minorities
Time Zone: GMT+7 to GMT+9, depending on the region
Electric Plug Types: Types C and F (220V supply)
Driving: Drive on the left-hand side
Emergency Number: 112
Public Transport: Buses, minibuses, ferries, trains, and motorcycle taxis (Gojek and Grab are popular apps)
Administrative Regions: 38 provinces, including Bali, Java, and Sumatra
Dialling Code: +62
Water: Tap water is not safe; stick to bottled or filtered water
Ultimate Guide on Things to do & Places to Visit in Indonesia
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Indonesia is famous for its stunning beaches, volcanic islands, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife.
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Indonesia is a Southeast Asian country, consisting of over 17,000 islands between the Indian and Pacific Oceans.
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Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, and National Day (1 October) are widely celebrated.
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Independence Day (17 August), Nyepi (Balinese Day of Silence), and Eid al-Fitr are key holidays.
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Breakfast: 6:00–9:00 AM; Lunch: 12:00–2:00 PM; Dinner: 6:00–9:00 PM, with local dishes available all day.
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Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants and taxis
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Saying "Selamat pagi" (Good morning) or "Apa kabar?" (How are you?). A handshake or nod is common.
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Yes, cash is needed for smaller purchases in markets and some restaurants
ATMs and card payments are common in cities.
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Lightweight clothing, comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a raincoat.
I’d definitely recommend taking Vitamin C & Zinc as well as probiotics during your stay.
“Bali Belly” is common and making sure your immune system is strong and healthy is important
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Sunday is a family day; many shops, restaurants, and tourist spots are open, especially in major cities.