Indonesia Travel
Though the devastation of the 2004 tsunami and recent threats of terrorism have deterred some visitors, Indonesia remains a bastion of beauty: the wildlife of Australia and Asia come together on these island chains, making for some of the world’s most distinctive species. Indonesian culture combines aspects of Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and animism to form a people steeped in unique traditions. Learn about this country of volcanoes, tropical rainforests, Komodo dragons and spices, and plan a trip using the Web.
Expand All Guide SectionsIndonesia Travel Basics
Indonesia is the longest archipelago in the world, and its islands could stretch from Oregon to Bermuda. To get a grasp of the travel opportunities available throughout this sprawling country, begin with an introduction courtesy of the Web resources below.
Dulcinea's Insight
- There are five “main” islands: Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan (Borneo), Sulawesi (Celebes), and Irian Jaya (western part of Papua New Guinea), and about 400 volcanoes, nearly 100 of which are active, according to the U.S. Library of Congress geography section on Indonesia.
- Indonesia is known for its otherworldly wildlife and stunning natural features. To learn more about the evolution of the nation’s climate and landscape, and the emergence of many unique and strange species on Indonesian islands, visit “Wild Indonesia,” an interactive PBS site.
- Indonesia used to be called the East Indies. The West Indies are associated with the Caribbean.
Dulcinea's Picks
For official tourism resources …
The Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism
Web site hosts extensive information for tourists. The nation’s beaches, mountains, landscapes and activities like diving and parks are provided in a well-organized menu, putting essential travel inspiration at travelers’ fingertips. Practical information regarding hotels, currency and embassies is listed here also.
For cities and attractions …
National Geographic
begins its Indonesia guide with an overview of basic statistics and history, but scroll further down for colorful feature articles. Enticing places and activities are detailed like Bali’s rice paddies and Hindu temples, jungle trekking on the island of Borneo, and Jakarta’s endless skyscrapers. Photos accompany each feature to give travelers a distinct idea of what to expect from Indonesian destinations.
Virtual Tourist
posts travelers’ and locals’ photos and travel diaries for numerous Indonesian regions and popular destinations. Recommended hotels are listed for each location, and Virtual Tourist also selects the “Top 5 Pages” for many destinations (check in the right-hand sidebar of each separate guide), making it easier and faster for you to find insightful travel information.
For print travel guides …
Lonely Planet
travel guides are accessible for free online, providing a complete mix of practical advice and insight into Indonesian destinations. Photos and videos of each “popular place,” including Bali, Java, and Lombok, as well as feature articles, such as this account of a Balinese yoga retreat, are the standout components.
Rough Guides
are great for travelers looking for detailed cultural information and advice applicable to off-the-path and well-traversed destinations. Indonesia’s diverse people and natural features are captured in this guide, including the famed Komodo Islands and tourist-friendlyn Bira Beach. Although the site is mostly text, the rich language paints a vivid picture of the country.
For active vacations and ecotourism …
The New York Times
Travel section reveals that Indonesia is a “golfer’s paradise,” full of exotic, jungle-laced courses designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer, many of which are affordable. The author details the unique scenery and the lively scene on courses in Jakarta and Bali, and lists courses with accompanying Web sites. Be advised that you’ll have to plan your Indonesia golfing vacation on your own, as there are no golf tour operators there, according to the article.
Dive The World Indonesia
offers diving packages as well as helpful information for anyone who wants to travel to Indonesia. Find links for the prime diving locations of Bali, Irian Jaya, Komodo and Sulawesi. Each section contains information on getting there, sites to see, history, entertainment and more. Scroll down the page to find general facts about Indonesia, such as safety, weather and customs.
responsibletravel.com
is a travel company that practices sustainable tourism, which benefits local people and the environment. Browse Indonesian holiday packages, such as orangutan tours in Sumatra, as well as accommodation options including a mountain eco lodge in Bali. In order to book a vacation, you must first submit an inquiry to the site (just follow the on-screen prompts accompanying each property and tour).
Indonesia Travel Requirements
As with a trip to any country, it is important to perform a bit of research into history, culture ... read more »
Getting to Indonesia
Indonesia is on the other side of the world for those in the United States, and flights to the ... read more »
Indonesia Hotels
Indonesia offers accommodation options, to say the least. Stay in a hole in the wall, or in one of ... read more »
Getting Around Indonesia
As a whole, Indonesia is not known for its infrastructure. Major cities like Jakarta have plenty of ... read more »
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