In recent years, Indonesia’s image as a vacationland has been affected by political tensions and terror attacks. But its various islands and wonderful landscape continue to be favorite destination. Before you start your journey in Indonesia, these are information that you may need in hand.

• Best Time To Go

The whole archipelago is tropical, with temperatures at sea level always between 21˚C and 33˚C, although cooler in the mountains. November to April are the wet months (Jan and Feb the wettest) and May through to October are dry. However, in northern Sumatra, this pattern is effectively reversed. The peak tourist season is between mid-June and mid-September and again over the Christmas and New Year season. This is particularly relevant in the major resorts, where prices rocket and rooms can be fully booked for days, and sometimes weeks, on end.

• Visa and Permits

Before planning to come to Indonesia, make sure you understand your legal situation. Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your trip, you may need an entry visa, residence permit and/or work permit. Do prepare your permit months ahead.

• Language and Currency

The official language is Bahasa Indonesia, and the currency is Rupiah. Although Bahasa Indonesia is spoken by 80 million people, it is secondary language on most islands. Another 250 languages are heard in the country, including English.

• Religion

Bali with dominating Hinduism is a metropolitan and liberal island. You are unlikely to face any restrictions in terms of clothes or get any looks if your shoulders and knees are not covered. The exception may be temples and saint places, where you will be also offered something to wear. But other majority of the islands including such large islands as Java and Sumatra are predominantly Muslim. So, it is better to wear more modest and less attractive clothes. No mini-skirts, no low-cut dresses. You will not be pulled by morality police (except in Atjeh), but extreme attention is promised.

Stay Safe,

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