Indonesia Travel Guide

No — Indonesia is excellent value. Backpackers comfortably spend £25–40 per day, mid-range travellers £50–100, and luxury travellers £150+. Local meals cost £1–3 and beers are around £2.

Bali wins on variety, food and infrastructure; Lombok wins on quieter beaches, surf and trekking. Many travellers do both — they're a 90-minute fast boat or short flight apart.

2 weeks is the sweet spot for Bali plus one extra region (Komodo, Lombok or Java). 3–4 weeks lets you combine Bali, Java, Komodo and the Gilis without rushing.

Yes — Indonesia is generally very safe, especially in Bali, the Gilis and Lombok. Main risks are scooter accidents and natural hazards (volcanoes, currents). Standard awareness applies.

Absolutely — it's one of the best island-hopping destinations on earth. Use domestic flights for long hops and ferries or fast boats between nearby islands.

May, June, September and October give the best all-round conditions across most of Indonesia — dry weather without peak-season crowds.

Yes — cash is essential outside tourist hotspots. Cards are accepted in hotels and bigger restaurants, but warungs, markets and most street food are cash-only.

One of the best in Asia. Cheap dorms, cheap food, easy transport and a huge social scene in Bali, the Gilis and Lombok.

Crowded in places, yes — but it's earned its reputation. Skip Kuta, base yourself in Ubud, Uluwatu, Sidemen or the Bukit, and Bali still delivers.

Most nationalities get a 30-day Visa on Arrival (extendable once for another 30 days). Always check the official requirements before flying.

No — drink bottled or filtered water. Most hotels and hostels provide refill stations. Brushing teeth with tap water is fine.

For 2 weeks: Bali (Ubud → Canggu → Uluwatu → Nusa Penida) + a 3-day Komodo boat trip from Labuan Bajo, or the Gilis and Lombok.

Only if you're experienced and properly insured. Bali has high accident rates, traffic is chaotic and police often check for international licences.

Visa and Mastercard are accepted in hotels, malls and chain restaurants. Amex is patchier. You'll still need cash daily.

Very good in Bali, Java and Lombok. Slower on remote islands. 4G/5G coverage is strong — Airalo eSIMs are the easiest data option.

Pink Beach (Komodo), Kelingking & Diamond (Nusa Penida), Selong Belanak (Lombok), Padar viewpoint, Gili Meno and Belitung.

Yes — even without the dragons, the boat trip from Labuan Bajo through Padar, Pink Beach and the manta points is one of Indonesia's best experiences.

A 2–3 day boat trip is enough for most travellers. Multi-day liveaboards are best for divers wanting Raja Ampat-level reef time.

Yes — non-negotiable. Make sure your policy covers scooter riding (often excluded) and adventure activities like diving and volcano hikes.

No vaccinations are required for entry, but Hepatitis A, Typhoid and Tetanus are commonly recommended. Speak to a travel clinic before flying.

Bali is broadly welcoming and has a visible scene in Seminyak. Outside Bali, attitudes are more conservative — discretion is sensible, especially in Aceh.

Type C and F sockets at 230V/50Hz — the standard European two-pin. A universal adapter covers you.

Not traditionally. Many restaurants include a 10% service charge. Tipping drivers, guides and spa staff 10,000–50,000 IDR is appreciated.

Yes — rain often falls as short afternoon downpours. November–March is wettest, but the Gulf-style Raja Ampat region is actually best in those months.

Peak season (July–August, Christmas & New Year) book 2–3 months ahead, especially in Bali and the Gilis. Off-season a week or two is fine.