Location

Indonesia is situated between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, between the continents of Asia and Australia. It's total land area is 1,905,443 square kilometres with over 80,000 kilometres of coastline.

Population

Over 200 million people live in Indonesia's 27 provinces. The population is made up of 300 ethnic groups.

Language

The official language is Bahasa Indonesia with numerous regional languages and dialects. English is widely understood particularly in Jakarta, Bali and other major cities.

Religion

Mainly Islam with significant procentage of Christian, Hinduism and Buddhism among the population.

Climate

Tropical Equatorial with temperatures ranging between 21 and 33 degrees Centigrade. Average humidity is 60-90% and the rainfall is heaviest between November and February.

Time Zones

GMT + 7 hours (West) in Sumatra, Java and Western Borneo ; GMT + 8 hours (Central) in Sulawesi, Lesser Sunda Islands, Bali and Eastern Borneo; GMT + 9 hours (East) in Papua and Maluku.

Currency

The Indonesian Rupiah. coins - Rp100, 500, 1,000 and notes 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100.000.

Visas

There are nationals of 11 countries who are entitled to visit Indonesia without a visa. On the other hand, there are nationals of 19 countries who will need an approval from immigrations authorities in Indonesia before entering Indonesia. Information of the set countries and entry requirements can be seen at either the visa free short visit or various visas issued on approval menu under the visa section of this website. All visitors must have passports valid for at least six months and proof of onward passage. Check with your travel agent or the Consular Section of the Indonesian Embassy in London, phone number 020 7499 7661 ext.9669, 9689 or 9663.

Accommodation

As you can imagine there's an enormous variety of accommodation available throughout Indonesia. It varies from magnificent five star resorts to simple rooms , depending on your budget.

Credit Cards

Major credit cards are acceptable in most hotels along with American dollar travellers' cheques.

Security

Keep your valuables in the hotel safe deposit box, or a similar safe place.

Getting around

Getting around is half the fun in Indonesia, with each region offering something a little different.

There are over 30 international airlines flying into Indonesia including the national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia. Flying from island to island is also possible in many instances, and is both fast and comfortable.On the ground you'll find a range of chauffeur-driven limousines, self-drive cars, taxis and hotel courtesy cars.

Many taxis are not metered, so it's wise to negotiate the fare before you climb aboard. Bemos are a unique form of transport and synonymous with Indonesia. They're a mini-van masquerading as a communal bus. You simply hail the driver and negotiate a fare that suits you both.

Motorcycles can also be hired in many places but special care should be exercised at all times. Trains and tourist buses range from basic to luxurious and with careful planning remote and exciting regions can be reached this way.

The bajaj, a covered three wheel scooter, is also a handy way of travelling around some parts of Jakarta. And you'll still find man-powered trishaws at your beck and call throughout Indonesia. Ferries and charter boats ply between islands and when the terrain becomes too rugged, river transport takes over.

Travelling around Indonesia is made all the easier because, everywhere you go, you'll find friendly people only too happy to give you advice and directions on how to get where you want to go!

Drivers' Licence

If you wish to hire a car you must be over 18 years of age, and possess an International Drivers' Licence or licence for ASEAN countries.

Etiquette

Being aware of local customs and taboos is very important when travelling in any foreign land. In Indonesia you will always be ensured of having a pleasant time if you act with decorum and dress appropriately.On greeting someone it is customary for both men and women to shake hands. This should only be done with the right hand because to shake hands, give or receive, or eat with the left hand is considered impolite. Pointing or summoning someone with your index finger is considered impolite and care should be taken not to climb over places of worship or local monuments.

Clothing

Light, airy, casual clothes are the most practical and you'll find natural fibres like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Indonesia's often humid conditions. Indonesians are very clothes conscious and it's particularly important to be properly dressed when visiting government offices such as the immigration offices.

In deference to local customs, scanty clothing is not advisable in public places. Shorts are not permitted in mosques and women should have their head and arms covered. In Bali, waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.