Indonesia
Overview
Indonesia, made up of over 17,000 islands (many of which remain unnamed and uninhabited), is the worlds largest archipelago and a place of true adventure and extreme diversity. Combing the sounds and smells typical of South East Asia, ancient cultures and traditions, dramatic landscapes of volcanoes and rainforests and idyllic tropical islands, the country is an enthusiastic travelers dream boasting a little of everything to keep the taste buds soaring.
A long time colonized by the Dutch, Indonesia, who gained independence as recently as 1949, was historically home to ancient kingdoms and civilizations that prospered and faded at various locations across the archipelago. Consequently, there is no one true Indonesian culture, but numerous that have blossomed out of the larger central islands, which add to the vast cultural diversity.
Stretching for almost 5000km across the equator the islands can be split into distinctive tourist spots and some less traveled regions. In the heart of the group lies Java, home to the bustling capital Jakarta and cities of Yogyakarta, Solo and Malang, all casually blending modern cosmopolitan life with time honored traditions. Head north to Sumatra, a wild and rugged island and check out the coastal cities of Medan and Padang. Moving east, past Java, the islands of Bali and Lombok are both a surfer’s and partygoer’s paradise. Then north of here, Sulawesi is home to a vast amount of societies and some of the world’s most spectacular diving reefs.
Sat either side of the equator, Indonesia benefits from a relatively stable climate throughout the year with only two real seasons; wet and dry. May to September is the dry season and understandably the time when the islands receive the most visitors. From October to April the rain, of varying degrees, begins to fall, although this shouldn’t deter anyone wanting to visit at this time. Travel is still possible throughout most regions and the holiday meccas of Bali and Lombok are largely unaffected.
Although in possession of vast transport links, traveling around Indonesia can sometimes be a challenge and those landing on these shores should do so with tolerance levels high. That said, with some fortune, many journeys can be pleasurable, especially when moving between islands. Ferry services are available for island-hopping from Sumatra all the way to Timor. Visitors to Java and Sumatra can take advantage of the train network, which is one of the cheapest and most comfortable means of getting around in these regions. Dominating the transport system are thousands of buses carting people to all corners of the archipelago. Buses come in all shapes, sizes and standards and frequently operate on a “leave when full” basis, so be prepared for some hanging around.
With so much diversity, from the changing landscapes to the vast array of cultures, a lifetime can be spent alone discovering the delights of Indonesia. Whether island-hopping, budget backpacking or escaping to a paradise island; this is a place to trigger all the senses and leave them wanting more.
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Indonesia
Destination Reviews
Things to do in
Indonesia
Banda Islands - One of the Spice Islands in the western region of the archipelago, home to ancient British, Dutch and Portuguese relics and awe-inspiring coral reefs and diving sites.
Borobudur - Soak up the magical atmosphere at the largest Buddhist temple on the planet, an 8th century masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage Site, bounded by lush green rice paddies and soaring palms.
BunakenNational Park - With mesmerising coral reef gardens and a myriad of ocean life, this is one of the world’s finest dive sites off the northern tip of Sulawesi.
Cimanggu Hot Springs - Visit the mountain regions north of Bandung and relax in the clean hot water springs and swimming pools.
Danau Toba - Marvel at the world’s largest volcanic lake, measuring an incredible 100km long, 30km wide and c500m at its deepest spot.
Kraton Complex - A city within a city in the heart of Yogyakarta, home to the Sultan’s palace, markets and schools and regular Javanese song, dance and wayang performances.
Kuta - Surf clean rolling waves, laze on the beach, shop til you drop, watch the sun go down and then party until the sun comes up at Bali’s package tour and entertainment capital.
Lombok - Chilled out island paradise a short hop from Bali, boasting fine surf breaks at traditional coastal villages bounded by dramatic volcano landscapes and unspoilt countryside.
MountBromo - Gaze in awe at the moonlike landscape of this active volcano, one of Indonesia’s most naturally beautiful sights. Trek to the summit, passing traditional mountain communities.
Sunda Kelapa - Jakarta’s old port, with its plethora of brightly coloured ships, is a hive of activity presenting the chance to watch the seafarers arriving with their catch and a glimpse of more traditional times.
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Indonesia
Activity Reviews
Hotels in
Indonesia
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Indonesia
Hotel Reviews
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Indonesia
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