Indonesia
Overview
Indonesia is a huge, diverse country that is acknowledged to be the largest archipelago in the world with 0ver 13,000 islands spread over three time zones. Indonesia is located between Singapore to the west and Australia to the south. The equator runs through Indonesia, which provides a tropical climate and air temperatures from a low of 20° C in winter to over 30°C in summer.
The official currency is the Indonesian rupiah. US dollars are useful at the airport for paying entry & exit visa & tax. Outside of hotels, banks and the moneychanger shops, you will find that rupiah are indispensable. Credit cards do work in hotels and some restaurants and shops but don't take it for granted. You may find there is a 3% surcharge if you elect to pay by credit card.
The non-diving traveller will find that in some locations there are trips and activities. However, do not take this for granted- best do a little research in advance of committing to your chosen destination.
Nearly a quarter of the world's coral reefs are found in Indonesia which is home to an amazing variety of marine life. Like most tropical locations, the reefs form the majority of the dive sites. In addition to reef dives there are wall dives, wrecks and a chance to experience 'muck diving'.
A lot of the reefs have not been seriously affected by global warming which means that you will see pristine corals in much better condition than in other parts of the world. The colours are intense and make for some dramatic photography.
On the subject of photography, the region is famed for its macro marine life, which provides the aspiring and professional photographer alike, with photographs to treasure.
Indonesia is a relatively under-developed country in terms of tourism. This can be of benefit to the diver who would like to dive in idyllic locations that are at the time of writing, mostly unspoilt. Few of the dive sites fall victim to 'diver soup'. If you are expecting to see certain marine species it is worth confirming the best months for regular sightings, as most of the larger pelagic life is in fact, just passing through.
It is possible to dive from a shore-based dive centre using day boats. You will also find that some dive centres also operate Liveaboards.
There is plenty to do on land in Indonesia. Many dive locations are near national parks. You can visit the parks and trek through rain forests in Sumatra, climb volcanoes in Sulawesi or go white-water rafting in Bali or Java. A trip to the Kalimantan Jungle will provide the visitor with the opportunity to visit indigenous tribes who still live the traditional way. There is little or no developed night life apart from the resorts of Bali.
For those who just want to relax, there are some idyllic Islands to the east of Bali that would make a perfect retreat. Most of the other land-based locations provide hotel/ beach environments for a non-diver to take a relaxing break, but confirm in advance with the location that expectations will be met.
Much of Indonesia is still very traditional and authentic which make visiting many parts of Indonesia the ideal destination for the more discerning and adventurous traveller. The exception to this rule is parts of Java and Bali where the influence of western culture is more noticeable.
From time to time, Indonesia finds itself in the news for all the wrong reasons. Indonesia is a melting pot of different religions and cultures. Java has one of the world's largest Muslim populations, Bali is predominantly Hindu. Buddhism and Christianity are also found throughout the islands. The Foreign office issues information, which discourage travel to certain parts of this very large country. This information is updated on a regular basis.
Worldwise
It is worth remembering that most dive centre business is set up in parts of Indonesia thought to be safe for overseas visitors. But like most countries divers tend to visit, there are no promises made for visitor's safety. Please consult the Foreign Office web site for current advice on travel to Indonesia. www.fco.gov.uk
Independent travellers may find they cannot get travel insurance if they are not arranging the trip via a tour operator and the Foreign Office advises against non-essential travel to the region/destination.
Vaccinations
Requirements vary between the islands and the seasons- best check with your GP several weeks before departure. For further advice go to www.vaccine-administration.org.uk and www.who.int
Power
220 volts/ 50 hz, but take your international travel adaptor set.
Further Information
www.indonesia-tourism.com
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Bali by Darren Dwyer
Northern Sulawesi by Tim Digger
Northern Sulawesi by Steve and Jeanette Parry
From Bali to West Timor by by SCDC
Diving Center Werner Lau Bali
Alor, West Timor & Komodo regions page
Bali region page
Derawan Island region page
Lombok region page
Raja Ampat region page
Sulawesi region page
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