Why Indonesia?

Because few places offer this much variety in one country.

Indonesia is tropical, wild, deeply spiritual, and full of contrast. You’ll find tranquil temples and chaotic markets, untouched jungles and buzzing beach clubs. It’s the kind of destination that works just as well for a luxury wellness retreat as it does for a rugged island-hopping adventure.

As a travel advisor, I love building trips here because it’s so customizable—you can combine Bali’s serene beauty with Komodo’s rugged wildlife, or tack on a quick getaway to Raja Ampat for some of the world’s best diving.

Top Places to Visit in Indonesia

Bali
Indonesia’s most iconic destination. Bali is a blend of jungle, beach, spirituality, and art. Head to Ubud for yoga, rice terraces, and temples. Down south, Seminyak and Canggu offer stylish stays, beach clubs, and boutique shopping. Want a quieter scene? Try the black sand beaches of Amed or the cliffside views in Uluwatu.

The Gili Islands
Three tiny islands near Lombok, each with a distinct vibe. Gili Trawangan is lively and social, Gili Meno is tranquil and romantic, and Gili Air strikes a perfect balance. Expect white-sand beaches, no cars, and incredible snorkeling—especially with turtles!

Komodo National Park
Home of the legendary Komodo dragon. But that’s not all—you’ll also find pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and some of the best scuba diving on the planet. Most travelers base themselves in Labuan Bajo for boat tours through the park.

Yogyakarta & Borobudur
The cultural soul of Java. Yogyakarta (or “Jogja”) is known for traditional arts, batik, and royal heritage. Nearby, you’ll find Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and Prambanan, a stunning Hindu complex. Sunrise at Borobudur is truly magical.

Mount Bromo & East Java
For dramatic, otherworldly landscapes. Hike up Mount Bromo for sunrise and feel like you’re on another planet. It’s part of a larger volcanic region that’s rugged, raw, and absolutely breathtaking.

Raja Ampat
An untouched marine paradise. Located in West Papua, this remote group of islands is heaven for divers and nature lovers. Think coral gardens, whale sharks, and beaches with zero crowds. It’s not the easiest place to reach—but absolutely worth it.

Sumatra, Sulawesi & Kalimantan
These lesser-known islands are rich in biodiversity and culture. Spot orangutans in the wild, explore traditional villages, or surf remote beaches. Perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual trail.

Indonesian Culture: Warm, Spiritual, and Deeply Rooted

Indonesia is incredibly diverse—home to more than 300 ethnic groups and six major religions. You’ll feel the contrast between Java’s Islamic traditions, Bali’s unique Hinduism, and animist influences in places like Papua. But no matter where you go, the people are welcoming, proud, and eager to share their way of life.

You’ll likely experience:

• Daily offerings and incense in Bali

• Traditional gamelan music and shadow puppet theater

• Friendly locals calling out “Hello, Mister!” with a smile

• Community-driven festivals, rituals, and ceremonies

• A slow pace of life outside the cities

Cultural etiquette is important here, but nothing to stress about—I always prep travelers with a cheat sheet before departure.

What to Eat in Indonesia

Indonesian cuisine is bold, flavorful, and often spicy. Every island has its own specialties, but here are some can’t-miss bites:

Nasi Goreng – Indonesia’s famous fried rice, often topped with a fried egg
Satay – Skewered meat with spicy peanut sauce
Rendang – A slow-cooked beef curry from Sumatra
Gado-Gado – Mixed vegetables with peanut dressing
Ikan Bakar – Grilled fish with sambal (chili sauce), often beachside
Babi Guling – Balinese roasted suckling pig
Martabak – Savory or sweet stuffed pancakes sold at night markets

Drinks to try: fresh coconut water, jamu (a turmeric-based herbal tonic), Bali coffee, and arak (a strong local spirit—handle with care!).

Is Indonesia Safe?

Yes, with a few caveats. Most tourist areas like Bali, the Gilis, and Yogyakarta are very safe and welcoming. Petty theft can happen (as with anywhere), and traffic can be chaotic—especially in cities like Jakarta and Denpasar. I always recommend:

• Avoiding tap water (stick to bottled or filtered)

• Respecting local dress codes, especially at temples

• Using licensed guides for hikes or remote travel

• Having good travel insurance (for medical and delays)

Natural disasters (like earthquakes or volcano eruptions) are possible, but there are alert systems in place—and I help clients monitor conditions closely if needed.

Where to Stay in Indonesia

Luxury:

• Four Seasons Sayan (Ubud): Nestled in the jungle with a floating lotus pond entrance

• AYANA Resort (Jimbaran): Clifftop views, private beach, and the famous Rock Bar

• NIHI Sumba (Sumba Island): Ultra-luxury eco-retreat, remote and romantic

Midrange & Boutique:

• The Udaya (Ubud): Affordable jungle luxury with flower baths and spa

• Le Pirate (Nusa Islands): Chic and fun beach huts

• Artotel (Jakarta & Surabaya): Modern, artsy hotels in urban locations

Unique Stays:

• Eco-bungalows in Gili Air: Solar-powered, barefoot luxury

• Traditional joglo homes (Java): Historic wooden houses with open-air vibes

• Overwater bungalows in Raja Ampat: For the ultimate escape

Travel Advisor Tips for Visiting Indonesia

• Plan for at least 10–14 days. Indonesia is massive, and travel between islands takes time.

• Don’t overpack your itinerary. Give yourself time to relax and enjoy the beach, spa, or a cooking class.

• Island-hop with purpose. Not every island has an airport—some require ferries, flights, or long drives. I help clients streamline routes and logistics.

• Pack light but modest. Flowy pants, sarongs, and loose dresses work well. Bring a scarf to cover shoulders at temples.

• SIM cards are easy to get and cheap. Or rent a pocket Wi-Fi for convenience.

• Bring good insect repellent. Especially if you're heading to jungles or during rainy season.

• Always carry small cash. ATMs aren’t everywhere, and small vendors rarely accept cards.

Why Indonesia?

Indonesia is colorful, chaotic, calm, and captivating. One day you’re hiking to a volcano at sunrise, the next you’re sipping coconut water under a palm tree or meditating in a jungle retreat. The diversity—of landscape, culture, and experience—is like nowhere else.

Planning a trip here can be overwhelming—it’s big, it’s spread out, and logistics can be tricky. But that’s where I come in. Whether you're chasing waterfalls in Bali, scuba diving in Komodo, or looking for a private villa with sunset views—I’ll help you build a trip that’s seamless, soulful, and totally you.

Let’s create your dream Indonesia adventure—one island at a time.