1. Cultural Etiquette: Learn about Indonesian customs, greetings, and gestures to show respect to locals.
2. Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality and the purpose/duration of your visit.
3. Health Precautions: Research recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Indonesia. Indonesia has some of the strictest anti-drug laws.
4. Weather and Climate: Pack appropriate clothing based on the weather conditions in the region you’re visiting. Most visitors to Bali do their best to avoid the rainy season.
5. Transportation: Familiarize yourself with the transportation options available, such as taxis, ride-sharing apps, and local modes like bajaj or ojek.
6. Food and Drink: Explore Indonesian cuisine, but be cautious of street food hygiene and drinking only bottled or purified water. Tap water in Indonesia is unsafe to consume.
7. Safety Tips: Be aware of common scams, pickpocketing, and safety concerns in crowded areas.
8. Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of cultural sensitivities. If you are visiting temples, you will often be expected to wear a sarong and (for women) to cover your shoulders.
9. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover unexpected incidents or emergencies during your trip.
10. Internet and Communication: Purchase a local SIM card for affordable internet access and stay connected during your travels. The cards available will be Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat.
11. Tipping Culture: Understand when and how much to tip in restaurants, hotels, and for other services.
12. Bargaining: Practice your bargaining skills when shopping at markets or negotiating prices for goods and services. The currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah, abbreviated to IDR.
13. Natural Hazards: Be aware of natural hazards like earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, and familiarize yourself with emergency procedures.
14. Electricity and Plug Adapters: Check the voltage and plug types used in Indonesia to ensure your electronic devices are compatible. Indonesia uses the European two-pin round plugs, Type C and F. The power socket runs at 220 V 50 Hz.
15. Responsible Tourism: Respect the environment and local communities by minimizing your impact and supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.
16. Emergency Contacts: Keep important contact numbers handy, including the local emergency services and your country’s embassy or consulate.