Time Zone: UTC +7-9 hours

Flying Time:13 hours

Capital: Jakarta

Currency

Indonesian Rupiahs is the official currency. Major credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants. Some hotels and restaurants accept payment from tourists only in foreign exchange. Cash withdrawals on credit cards from dispensing machines are available in bigger cities but should not be relied entirely on for funds, though this facility is improving constantly. Travellers Cheques can usually be exchanged in larger towns. If you are visiting remote places for a longer time, it is advisable to obtain Indonesian Post Office Traveller’s cheques which can easily be changed for Rupiahs in any post office in the country.

The best currency to carry is US Dollars or Euros. Sterling Pound is not readily accepted by most moneychangers.

Healthcare and food

Indonesia’s climate is hot and humid year round, so be sure to drink plenty of fluid to prevent heatstroke and dehydration. Avoid drinking tap water and taking ice in drinks. Stick to bottled water (or boiled/UV treated water available at the hotel) and ensure that the seal is opened by you/in your presence. Aerated waters (bottled soft drinks) are fine. Regional beers are widely available, although you may find them quite different to their European counterparts. Other liquors are also available, though some are not ‘legal’. If in doubt, we recommend that you stick to the more expensive imported brands. Wine, if available, is also quite costly. Check the price before ordering. 

The cuisine in Indonesia has Indian, Chinese, European and Middle Eastern influence. Rice is usually served with all meals, the dishes tend to be spicy and contain a high proportion of fish and chicken. You will find Western alternative available at most restaurants and hotels. We do recommend that you eat moderately for the first few days. This allows your system to get used to the changes. We recommend you carry with you a small supply of basic health care medication such as travel sickness tablets, anti-diarrhoea tablets, antacids for indigestion, insect repellent, sun creams and selected antibiotics after discussion with your doctor. Although most of these items are available in Indonesia, the security provided by brands one is used to, is reassuring.

We strongly recommend that all travellers be properly insured for the holiday. While taking insurance, please check that it includes repatriation costs.

Clothing and Climate

Indonesia has a hot and humid climate throughout the year with November to February being the monsoon season.

In general, during the day it is best to wear light, comfortable cottons with a pair of good ventilated walking shoes. Sunglasses, a hat, t-shirts, shorts that are not too revealing, long trousers, some light-weight, long-sleeved tops and a light jacket that is wind and rain-resistant will get you through most trips. At some of the monuments, it is advisable to avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts. You may also be asked to remove your socks and shoes. Slip-on shoes or sandals are useful for visits to mosques or people’s houses. Most hotels, including the more exclusive ones, do not insist on formal wear in restaurants and smart casuals are acceptable.

Early morning temperatures at higher altitudes like Mt Bromo can be chilly, a warm fleece is useful.