Indonesia, a Southeast Asian nation made up of thousands of gorgeous volcanic islands, is home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many different languages. It is also known for its attractive beaches, volcanoes and jungles sheltering elephants, tigers and Komodo dragons. On the island of Java lies Indonesia’s vibrant, sprawling capital, Jakarta, and the city of Yogyakarta, known for gamelan music and traditional puppetry.
Tourism in Indonesia is the most advanced and developed, as it has various tourism sites, including natural, historical, and cultural attractions. Indonesia is home to a vast array of indigenous animals too, with extremely inexpensive local food and reasonably-priced accommodation, it’s no wonder Indonesia is a popular destination with so many travelers.
Here are 5 top tips to getting the best from the trip to Indonesia.
- Accommodation and transportation: Hostels usually cost around 135,000 IDR per night for a shared room and 335,000 IDR for a double private. Prices will be up to half the price outside of the major cities. Most hotels begin at 405,000 IDR per night for a double room. On the other hand transportation or traveling between islands, ferries cost around 6,500 IDR (and up) for a ticket from East Java to West Bali, and the rates go up from there for other routes. An eight-hour journey on a bus costs around 67,000 IDR. Overnight bus will start at around 128,000 IDR.
- Food: Local food is extremely cheap, starting at 6,700 IDR for street food and 13,500 IDR for a full local meal. On average, you’ll spend 26,800-40,500 IDR for a solid meal. Western food is more expensive but is still affordable at around 121,000 IDR for a meal and drink.
- Relax in Bali and Jakarta: Bali is probably the most famous of Indonesia’s islands and for good reason. Although often crowded with travelers, there is no escaping the fact that this place is beautiful. Try some surfing at Bingin Beach or visit the Pura Besakih, the Mother Temple, which is a truly stunning building. Bali is more expensive than the rest of Indonesia. Make sure you see some traditional Balinese dancing in Ubud. Indonesia’s capital is a large, bustling city with a population of over 10 million.
- Have a spa day: When you are in a place like this, it only seems right to treat your body to some probably much needed, deep pampering treatments. Getting a massage is basically a given, but why not do it on a beach. Body wraps, facials, manicures, and pedicures are also a nice bonus.
- Most important, money saving tips: Eat on the street, pick up tasty local fare for around 6,700 IDR cents! Street side snacks, soups, and noodles will keep your wallet fat! Markets are your best bet for finding seriously cheap food. Bargain hard, nothing is ever at face value in Indonesia. Bargain with sellers as most of the time, the price they’ve quoted will not be the price you’ll pay if you bargain.
- Stylingyou
- Bali.com
- wikipedia
- travel blog