A Traveller’s Guide To The Best Of Indonesia – Destination Asia

Guest Post For Fair Dinkum Traveller by The Gypsy Heart Travel

 

There’s so much more to Indonesia than just the beaches of Bali and The Monkey Forest; if you want to see the best that Indonesia has to offer, take a look at my guide, which will take you overland to some of the famous spots but also some more off-the-beaten-path destinations to ensure you get a chance to see the real Indonesia in all its glory…

 

 

Best transportation options when travelling through Indonesia

Indonesia offers many transportation options that cater to every type of traveller. For those looking for a quick and convenient mode of transport, a domestic flight is the way to go. With over 17,000 islands in the archipelago, you can reach almost every destination in hours. However, if you want to explore Indonesia’s natural beauty leisurely, you can hop on a train or bus. The train ride from Jakarta to Bandung is famous for its stunning countryside views.

Meanwhile, buses offer a more affordable option, though they may not be as comfortable as trains. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also widely available in major cities, providing a convenient mode of transport for short distances. Whatever your preference, all transportation options in Indonesia guarantee you a memorable journey through this diverse and captivating country.

Click here to find affordable and ideal fares through Indonesia!

 

 

 

 

A Traveller’s Guide To The Best Of Indonesia

Indonesia is a country that could easily take a lifetime of exploration to scratch the surface. With over 17,000 islands, each with its unique treasures, travellers have endless options to discover.

From Jakarta’s vibrant streets to Bali’s calm beaches, Indonesia has something to satisfy any traveller. Venture to Yogyakarta and explore ancient temples, or hike to the top of Mount Bromo for a breathtaking sunrise.

Taste the flavours of Indonesia as you try out the local cuisine, from spicy curries to delicious satay. Whether it’s natural beauty, cultural immersion, or adventure that you seek, Indonesia has it all. So pack your bags and dive into the world of this diverse and enchanting country.

 

Start your Indonesian journey in Jakarta.

Although not known for its captivating beauty or thrilling ambience, Jakarta is an economical gateway to kickstart your Indonesian adventure. Brace yourself for a concrete jungle filled with noise, constant hustle and bustle, and intriguing pockets waiting to be discovered.

One gem is ‘Kota Tua’ or the old square, boasting Dutch colonial-era buildings and a delightful restaurant. Surprisingly, in Indonesia, you’ll even stumble upon a Gothic church, while right across stands the magnificent Istiqlal Mosque, home to the world’s second-largest drum. And if panoramic city views tickle your fancy, visit the Independence Monument and ascend to its rooftop for a complete 360-degree vista.

Regarding accommodation options in Jakarta, Six Degrees is highly recommended. This pleasing hostel offers a convenient location, amiable staff, exciting excursions, well-equipped kitchen facilities, and comfortable beds adorned with privacy curtains.

From Jakarta, embark on an affordable train journey to Yogyakarta, a ride lasting about 9 hours. Pack some delectable treats along the way, especially if you have specific dietary requirements, as the onboard food selection is somewhat limited and lacklustre.

If luck favours you with good weather, be treated to glimpses of picturesque countryside, local towns, and the mesmerizing daily lives of the Indonesian locals as your locomotive carves through the land.

 

 

 

 

 

Explore Yogyakarta

Yogyakarta, the enchanting city that never fails to captivate visitors, offers many delightful experiences. From exploring the majestic palace and immersing in mesmerizing traditional puppet shows to indulging in the rich tapestry of art galleries and museums, there is no shortage of cultural treasures.

Venture into vibrant local markets and uncover a kaleidoscope of colours while satisfying your taste buds at the delectable House of State, synonymous with their unrivalled satay, including mouthwatering vegetarian/vegan tempeh options.

For those with an adventurous spirit, embarking on a tour of the legendary temples of Borobudur and Prambanan is a must. Fear not; the journey is pleasantly brief, allowing you to soak in the marvels without draining your energy. If that’s not enough, why not embark on an exhilarating cooking and cycling tour?

Traverse picturesque rice paddies, witness the intricate process of tempeh-making at a local factory, observe the skilful creation of mud bricks basking under the warm sun, and unveil the secrets of traditional recipes taught by a gracious local woman. Imagine relishing the flavoursome coconut stew and indulging in the tantalizing Gado Gado.

Among the many accommodation options in Yogyakarta, one gem truly stood out – the Good Karma hostel. This haven of tranquillity, boasting an incredible atmosphere, is graced by the charm of its hospitable staff. But the real magic lies in the morning meal, where you’ll encounter the most extraordinary breakfasts ever experienced at a hostel. The hostel offers many exceptional tours to complete your adventure, such as the enthralling cooking and cycling tour we embarked on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Head to the mountains: Volcano treks in East Java

From the vibrant city of Yogyakarta, you have several options to embark on your adventure. You can hop on a train to Surabaya, immersing yourself in the rhythmic clatter of the tracks as you traverse the stunning Indonesian landscapes. Alternatively, you can opt for an exhilarating tour that conveniently picks you up, guiding you to the majestic Mount Bromo and the awe-inspiring Ijen Crater.

As you embark on this enthralling journey, be prepared for a lengthy drive. It’s vital to wear comfortable clothes, allowing you the freedom to revel in the boundless beauty that envelops you. Keep a plethora of engaging distractions within arm’s reach to stave off any moments of lull on this magnificent escapade.

For our expedition, we opted for the convenience of a guided tour. Not only did they transport us to our desired destinations, but they also arranged a delightful overnight stay near the enigmatic Mount Bromo. We seized the marvellous opportunity to ascend to the crater’s summit, marvelling at nature’s grandeur in its purest form. Subsequently, we embarked on yet another captivating drive to the remarkable Ijen Crater.

Having spent a peaceful night nestled in the embrace of Mother Nature, we roused ourselves with the first light of dawn. Eager to explore further, we embarked on an invigorating hike to the ethereal Sulphur Mine within the Ijen Crater. With our senses heightened by the intoxicating aroma of sulphur, each step undoubtedly etched unforgettable memories within our souls. Our extraordinary tour culminated in a leisurely drive to the vibrant ferry port, where we eagerly awaited our voyage to the enchanting island of Bali.

Although the total cost for this extraordinary adventure likely amounted to approximately £100, it’s crucial to remember that this estimation solely considers the tour expenses, excluding the ferry ticket. While it’s undeniably possible to undertake this expedition without assistance and substantially reduce costs, one must be prepared for many challenges and inconveniences.

 

 

 

 

Take a break after your hike in Bali.

From the enchanting ferry port, set your sights on the breathtaking haven of Bali. Prepare to be captivated by the cultural oasis of Ubud, where the mesmerizing Sacred Monkey Forest, ancient Goa Gajah temples, and the awe-inspiring Tegalalang Rice Terraces await your eager exploration. For those yearning for an adrenaline rush on the waves, the captivating shores of Uluwatu and Canggu beckon you to partake in exhilarating surf adventures.

Indulge in the ultimate getaway with an array of surf and yoga retreats that await your booking, promising an unforgettable experience. Amidst this paradise, many hostels offer their humble abodes, ensuring every traveller finds a sanctuary that resonates with their soul.

For an unforgettable stay in Canggu, I found solace at the Canggu Surf Hostel. While not the epitome of perfection, it provided a comfortable haven, straddling the line between adequate and exceptional. Yet, admittedly, some of the staff seemed to have a knack for leaving a slightly unfavourable impression.

Embrace the tranquillity of Ubud with a stay at Wayan’s Family Hostel, enveloped by the charm of its surroundings. Situated near the famed Monkey Forest, this delightful establishment boasts a lovely small pool and complimentary breakfast to start your day on a fun note.

 

 

 

 

 

Head to the Gili islands for parties and snorkelling

From the enchanting shores of Bali, embark on a breezy 2-hour boat ride to the mesmerizing Gili Islands. Picture this: three captivating islands await your exploration. First up, Gili Trawangan is the epitome of hedonistic revelry and the ultimate hotspot for spirited backpackers. On the contrary, Gili Air and Gili Meno boast a tranquil seclusion that whispers sweet serenity.

Here’s an interesting fact for you: the Gili Islands proudly enforce a no motor vehicle policy, so wave goodbye to the sight of scooters zipping past in a blur. Fear not, for an abundance of bicycles and horse-drawn carts gracefully pave the way instead!

But wait, there’s more! The Gili Islands are a snorkeler’s paradise where you can dive into an aquatic wonderland and swim with majestic turtles. It’s an experience that promises to leave you in awe. When the sun sets, unleash your inner party animal and immerse yourself in the vibrant festivities of Gili T’s main strip.

Or perhaps you’d prefer to embark on a leisurely cycling adventure, exploring every nook and cranny of the island while indulging in various snorkelling spots. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not indulge in a glass-bottom kayak and witness the underwater world from a unique vantage point?

Regarding accommodation options in Gili Islands, we encountered a slight difficulty on Gili T. The demand was high, and most places were fully booked. Nevertheless, we secured a comfortable stay at the delightful Wonderland Guest House for a few nights and then at the charming Flipside Bungalows for a few more.

Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Gili Islands!

 

 

 

 

Other fantastic options for the Best of Indonesia, including Lombok

Oh, the wonders of Indonesia! After soaking up the sun on the delightful Gili islands, why not visit Komodo to encounter the legendary Komodo Dragons? If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a short boat ride over to

Lombok is a paradise awaiting your exploration. Picture cascading waterfalls, pristine Senggigi beach calling for relaxation, and temples carved into the majestic rockface. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Accommodation Option in Lombok: We stayed at Ressa Homestay in Lombok, a quaint and simplistic abode. While bare in its amenities, the true gem of this place lies in its genuinely friendly and exceedingly helpful staff, eager to make your stay truly memorable.

From Lombok, my journey took me to the mesmerizing island of Sulawesi. Prepare yourself for an extraordinary cultural immersion, where authenticity thrives and diverges from the typical scenes of sun-soaked beaches with tourists adorned in bikinis. Sulawesi is a haven for those seeking something truly unique.

Venture into the enchanting highlands of Tana Toraja, where you’ll witness a fading culture that still clings to their animist beliefs. They hold sacred sacrificial rituals and lay their deceased to rest in caves and on cliffs, creating a sight unlike any other. And if that doesn’t resonate with you, Sulawesi also boasts unparalleled diving experiences that will leave you breathless. But if none of that piques your fancy, then perhaps a detour to neighbouring Borneo is in order. You can witness this world’s awe-inspiring wildlife and even visit an Orangutan sanctuary there.

Once you’ve filled Sulawesi or Borneo, the next leg of your journey beckons; whether you fly onward to the Philippines, return to Jakarta, or venture to Kuala Lumpur, the possibilities are endless. Allow yourself ample time to explore the true essence of Indonesia, and I assure you, disappointment shall never cross your path!

 

 

 

 

 

Author Bio

Rhiannon is a freelance writer who funds her intrepid travels with her words. She loves adventures and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. She’s curious about the more weird and beautiful aspects of life and would rather be trekking to remote tribe villages than be out-hitting the clubs. You can follow her latest escapades on her blog, The Gypsy Heart Travels. [LINK https://thegypsyhearttravels.com]