When traveling to a foreign country, it is important to be aware of the culture and customs. Indonesia is a beautiful country with a rich culture, but there are some things that you should keep in mind before your trip. In this blog post, we will discuss seven important things that you should remember when traveling to Indonesia!
Indonesian facts
Indonesia is the world’s fourth most populous country with over 261 million people, and it is the largest Muslim-majority nation in the world. The Indonesian archipelago consists of more than 17,000 islands, making it the largest archipelago in the world! Indonesia has a tropical climate, so you can expect hot and humid weather year-round.
Indonesia is a friendly and welcoming country, but it is important to be respectful of the local culture. One way to show respect is by dressing modestly. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and cover up your shoulders and knees. Additionally, Indonesia is a predominately Muslim country, so it is important to be respectful of religious customs. For example, you should avoid eating in public during the month of Ramadan.
7 things to remember when traveling to Indonesia
Now that you know a little bit about the country and its customs, let’s discuss seven important things to remember when traveling to Indonesia!
Indonesian Money: The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian rupiah (IDR). The exchange rate fluctuates, but at the time of this writing, one
US dollar is worth around 14,000 IDR. When you are planning your budget for your trip, be sure to take the currency exchange into account!
Dressing Modestly: Indonesia is a friendly and welcoming country, but it is important to be respectful of the local culture. One way to show respect is by dressing modestly. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and cover up your shoulders and knees.
Religious Customs: Additionally, Indonesia is a predominately Muslim country, so it is important to be respectful of religious customs. For example, you should avoid eating in public during the month of Ramadan.
Tipping: Tipping is not common in Indonesia and is often seen as an insult. If you receive exceptional service, it is okay to give a small gift, but you should not feel obligated to tip.
Bargaining: Bargaining is a common practice in Indonesia, especially when shopping at markets. When bargaining, it is important to be respectful and keep your cool. Start by offering a lower price than what you are willing to pay, and be prepared to negotiate until you reach an agreement.
Public Transportation: Indonesia has a variety of public transportation options, including buses, trains, and taxis. When taking a taxi, it is important to agree on the fare before getting in the car. And, when using public transportation, be sure to keep your belongings close to you as pickpocketing is common.
Safety: Indonesia is generally a safe country to travel to, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when necessary. For example, avoid walking alone at night and keep your valuables hidden when out in public.
By following these seven simple tips, you’ll be sure to have a safe and enjoyable trip to Indonesia!