Indonesia is the 4th most populous country in the world – Identified as the “Tiger Cub” economy and is the largest economy in South East Asia with a population of around 250 million. Home to 20% of the world’s coral reefs, and with more 150 volcanoes and over 170,000 islands to explore, it’s a place where fun and discovery never cease.
Map
Climate
Indonesia has an almost entirely tropical climate. Their dry season is from June to October, while rainy season will be from November to March.
Language
The official language is Bahasa Indonesia. Many Indonesians are also fluent in speaking English, Dutch, Javanese and there are also more than 250 other languages and dialects spoken in the country.
Currency
The currency of Indonesia is called the Rupiah (IDR). The Rupiah banknotes that being used currently are Rp1,000, Rp2,000, Rp5,000, Rp10,000, Rp20,000, Rp50,000, and Rp100,000.
Transportation
There are 4 modes of transportation commonly used in Indonesia such as waterways, roads & highways, railways and airways.
For expats and tourist to get around any cities, wherever possible, the Blue Bird taxis or even Uber are the safest, and most reliable forms of transportation. Public transport, including buses, minibuses, and taxis, are commonly used in most areas connected to the road network between the major cities like Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya etc. Jakarta’s Soekarno–Hatta International Airport serves as the main airport of the country.
Housing
Housing rental differs from the different cities. Different options for accommodation and housing for expats in Jakarta, which is the capital city of Indonesia. Depending on one’s income and lifestyle, there are properties available to rent from luxury penthouse apartments or houses with a pool and garden, to a room
Food
There are all types of international cuisine available in Indonesia. However, the most famous local street food is Mee Bakso. Most of the Indonesian restaurants are based upon different regional cuisine traditions and they vary from island to island. Eg, chicken and fish in Java; beef in Sumatra; duck and pork in Bali, seafood in South Sulawesi and Minahasa enjoys mice and dog.
In Indonesia, food is eaten with the fingers on right hand only or with a spoon and fork. The most widely used spices are coriander, cumin, and ginger instead of chili pepper.
Education
There are many good well-known international schools in Indonesia, though they can be expensive. The medium is in English and offer a comprehensive education up to university.
Shopping
From high -end upmarket malls to local supermarkets and department stores that sell a lot of local products, tourists and expats alike have plenty of choices to choose from.
Besides Jakarta, Bali has been ranked as the best shopping place in Indonesia for years.
Attractions
According to a travelling website named “Touropia”, there are 10 top-rated tourist attractions in Indonesia including Lake Toba, Tajung Puting, Baliem Valley, Mount Bromo, Bunaken, Torajaland, Gili Islands, Komodo National Park, Borobudur and the first place is Ubud. Ubud is said to be the cultural heart of Bali, which located far from the cities and commercialism.
Having 75% of active volcanoes in the world becomes one of the reasons for foreigners to explore the country of Indonesia.
Festivals and Events
The most important national festival in Indonesia is their Independence Day which is held on 17 August every year. Due to many different regions in Indonesia, most of the ceremonies are celebrated in memory of kings and sultans who ruled long ago. There are also some interesting festivals celebrated around the country such as bull races taken place in Madura, between September and November every year.
Other religious festivals like Waisak Day, Galungan, Ramadan, and Nyepi are celebrated due to multi religious beliefs society in Indonesia.