When you ask someone what their dream destinations are, some would mention countries like Japan, France, or Italy. However, there are a lot of countries in the world waiting to be discovered. Perhaps you want to visit Asia one of these days and explore its one-of-a-kind beauty.
One of the lesser-known countries in Asia is Indonesia. This guide should convince you to visit this Southeast Asian country at least once in your life.
All about Indonesia
Officially called the Republic of Indonesia, this country is also the largest archipelago in the world. The entire country spans almost 2 million square kilometers and has more than 17,000 islands. Indonesia has a population of more than 225 million with Bahasa Indonesia as the main language. The currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah ($1 = IDR 16,000.00)
This Southeast Asian country sits on the equator and has two major seasons all year round: dry and rainy. The majority of Indonesians are Muslims. There are also other religions that exist here such as Catholicism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
Indonesia was a former colony of the British, Dutch, Japanese, and Portuguese. The country was formerly known as the Dutch East Indies until it became independent in 1945.
What you can do
You can indulge in their delicious delicacies and walk around under the tropical heat. Here are some enjoyable things you should not miss when you visit Indonesia.
1. Borobudur Temple
This ancient temple is located in Magelang in Central Java. If you are staying in Yogyakarta, you should pay a visit to this historical site. People visit this place to worship and stare in awe with its spectacular scenery. It is named the largest Buddhist temple in the world and has more than 70 sculpted Buddha figures surrounding the central dome. In fact, the Borobudur temple is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Pulau Weh
Also known as Weh Island, Pulau Weh is located in Aceh at the tip of Sumatra in the Andaman Sea. The island is a popular snorkeling spot with spectacular blue waters and abundant marine life. The town of Sabang is also located in this northern island. You can also visit Gapang beach or Anoi Itam beach, the latter of which is known for its black sand.
3. Bali
This is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Indonesia. It boasts of breathtaking beaches and resorts that guests won’t regret spending time in. When in Bali, make sure to visit the Hanging Gardens, the Aksari Villa, and the Kamandalu Ubud.
4. Candi Prambanan
Java is also home to a 9th-century temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Shiva called the Candi Prambanan. It was buried in obscurity until a Dutchman discovered the temple in 1733. The Candi Prambanan is also near Borobudur, of which you can visit both in a day.
5. Batik clothing
Java is also popular for the Batik, Indonesia’s traditional cloth used by its natives as part of its usual clothing. Visit Surakarta or known as Solo where you can learn to make your own batik fabric.
6. Sulawesi
It is in this place where you can find the Toraja tribe. Unlike most people, Torajans celebrate death complete with elaborate funeral rites. So much is their respect for the dead that they even house the dead in their homes for months until they are able to save for the entire funeral procedure.
7. Local cuisine
A visit to any country would not be complete without tasting their local delicacies and cuisines. Indonesians love their food a mix of sweet and spicy. Their national favorites include the chicken or veggie satay and nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice). However, there are also other cuisines that Indonesia has to offer such as:
- Beef rendang (a spicy curry meat dish)
- Martabak (a popular street food that resembles a roti, stuffed and pan-fried)
- Tempeh (an Indonesian vegetarian dish)
- Binte Biluhuta (a corn soup served with lime juice and Indonesian basil)
- Tumpeng (features cone-shaped rice with meat and veggie dishes on the side)
8. Nusa Dua
If you want to see the majestic beauty of the Indonesian waters, you should visit Nusa Dua. In particular, visit the Devil’s Tears Bay in Nusa Lembongan and experience the power of Mother Nature right on top of a cliff. You can also try surfing lessons in this place, too.
9. Mount Merapi
Located in Java, it has a perfectly shaped cone and is also known locally as the Fire Mountain. It stands almost 3,000 meters. above sea level and inhabited by some locals on its foot. A lot of tourists visit this place to hike, experience a lava tour, and experience an off-road adventure through the area’s ruins.
10. Komodo Island
Indonesia has one of the only 7 naturally pink beaches in the whole world. Visit Pantai Merah to see the pink beach with your own eyes. Not to mention this place is definitely Instagrammable thanks to its spectacular and one-of-a-kind view. You can also schedule a tour to see the famous (but dangerous) Komodo dragons.
See? There are so many things you can do in this amazing country. Here are some more enjoyable things you can do in Indonesia!
- Visit the Jomblang Cave in Java, Indonesia.
- Wear Indonesian traditional clothes as your OOTD.
- Try those beach swings for your Instagram feed.
- Visit Lake Toba and stay in a hotel suite in Samosir (that is larger than Singapore!)
- Explore the Kalimantan Rainforest Canopy through its suspended bridges
- Dive in Bali’s USS Liberty Wreck
- Dance with the locals at the Kecak Dance (Uluwatu Temple)
- Take a photo of the majestic Ulun Danu Beratan in Northern Bali
- Relieve Indonesia’s colonial history at Oudstad in Semarang
- Spot gentle but elusive orang-utans in Kalimantan
Perhaps if this global pandemic that is COVID-19 already subsides, you should schedule a trip to Indonesia, start HERE!
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