Thursday, January 7, 2010,
From Kementerian Budaya dan Pariwisata Indonesia
| Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with over 17,000 islands. The country stretches 5,100 km along the equator between Australia and Asia and is bordered by the Pacific and Indian Oceans at the Equator. Few countries in the world could match Indonesia’s diversity of population with some 490 different ethnics living together. With a fascinating, colorful and sometimes tumultuous past, Indonesia is a place of rich and diverse culture. Indonesia is "Ultimate in Diversity". |
Indonesia stretches 5,100 km along the equator (one-sixth of the circumference of the earth!) between Australia and Asia and is bordered by the Pacific and Indian Oceans at the Equator. The country is divided into three different time zones. Flying from Banda Aceh on the Western tip of Sumatra Island to Jayapura in Eastern Papua would take approximately six hours, a time comparable to a flight from Tokyo to HawaiiIndonesian landscapes are among the most diverse in the world. Visitors will not only see some spectacular beaches and coral reefs but also discover waterfalls, paddy fields, rice terraces, Southeast Asian largest lakes and even snowy mountains tops in Irian Jaya.
Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago with over 17,000 islands (no one knows the exact figure!). However, only 9,000 are inhabited.
Indonesia is the fourth most populated country in the world with a population of 238 million inhabitants (2005) living on an area of 1,904,443 km2. The most important islands in terms of population are (figures for 2003):
Java | 127.7 million | 132,186 km2 |
Sumatra | 46.4 million | 473,481 km2 |
Sulawesi | 15.7 million | 189,216 km2 |
Kalimantan (Borneo) | 11.9 million | 539,460 km2 |
Bali | 3.3 million | 5,561 km2 |
Papua (ex Irian-Jaya) | 2.3 million | 421,981 km2 |
Maluku | 1.3 million | 42,853 km2 |
Indonesia has 10 cities with at least one million inhabitants and another eight cities with more than 500,000 inhabitants (figures for 2005). The largest are:
1- Jakarta | 8.54 million |
2- Surabaya | 2.37 million |
3- Medan | 1.75 million |
4- Bandung | 1.70 million |
5- Makassar | 1.32 million |
Eighty-seven per cent of the Indonesian population follows the principles of Islam. But the Indonesian constitution guarantees the freedom of worship and recognises not only Islam but also Christians (11%), Buddhism (1%) and Hinduism (less than 1%) as official State religions whose major holidays are celebrated by everyone and are on the official calendar.
Indonesia’s economy is booming again after years of stagnation following the Asian financial crisis of 1997-98. Indonesia’s GDP grew by over 4 per cent in 2003 and gained strength in 2004 with a rate of 5 per cent. This year, the GDP is further expected to grow by 5.5 per cent with inflation hovering around 6 per cent.
Culture and History
With a fascinating, colourful and sometimes tumultuous past, Indonesia is a place of rich and diverse culture. In the seventh century, the Buddhist empire and the Hindu empire were struggling for supremacy. In the thirteenth century, the Hindus faced a strong challenge from Muslim forces south of the Malay Peninsula. The Hindus slowly lost ground and eventually retreated to Bali, where they remain today. The remaining islands became Muslim, and several sultanates were established.
The first Europeans to arrive in Indonesia were the Portuguese in the sixteenth century, who broke the Islamic hold on Indonesia. However the Portuguese were eventually displaced by the Dutch who continued to rule until World War II and the invasion by the Japanese. Sukarno, who saw Japan as a possible force of liberation, led the Indonesian revolutionary nationalist movement into a four year war of independence from 1945 to 1949 that ended in victory.
Indonesian independence was in a state of turmoil until Sukarno unified power in 1957. In 1965 an attempted coup against Sukarno again saw Indonesia move into turmoil. General Suharto led the army to restore order and initiate a purge of communists. Suharto eventually replaced Sukarno as Presidency bringing in a time of economic development and stability.
In May 1998, Suharto stepped down from presidency and B. J. Habibie assumed this position. In the parliamentary elections held in June 1999, Megawati Sukarnoputri, the daughter of Sukarno, received the highest percentage of votes. Subsequently, in the October 1999 presidential elections Megawati failed to win, and Abdurrahman Wahid, from the National Awakening party, became the country's first democratically elected president. In July 2001, Wahib was removed from office and Megawati became president. September 2004 was the first time that Indonesians were able to elect a president directly and Megawati lost the presidency to Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, the candidate for the Democrat party.
Although most Indonesians are either of a Polynesian or Malay descent, the country comprises over 300 ethnicities with minority populations from countries such as India, China, Persia, Arabia, Holland, Portugal, England and Spain.
Although Indonesia is primarily a Muslim nation, Hinduism (particularly in Bali) and Christianity also have a significant presence. The most common language spoken is Bahasa Indonesia, however there are a number of other languages and dialects spoken, including English and Dutch.
Best of Indonesia
With a country as big and diverse as Indonesia, it would be impossible to summarize in one or two pages all its attractions. However, if a list could be set up of the twelve “must-see places” in Indonesia, here are suggested attractions that should be part of a trip:
Sumatra
1 Lake Toba is Southeast Asia’s largest lake surrounded by amazing landscapes composed of cliffs, hills and waterfalls. Batak people live in wooden houses richly painted and shaped like boats.
2 Bukittinggi and the Minangkabau Highlands are home to one of the most intriguing Indonesian ethnics in West Sumatra. In lush landscapes, visitors can admire finely sculpted wooden houses crowned by buffalo-shaped roofs, some of them over 300 years old. Minangkabau people is a devoted Muslim society, where women play however a pivotal role in daily life…
Java
3 Jakarta’s old town is one of the best preserved in Indonesia around Fatahillah Square, where the first house of the Dutch governor has been converted into the Jakarta History Museum. On the west side of the square, the Wayang Museum displays a fine collection of puppets from Indonesia and the rest of the world. Do not miss in Jakarta the National Museum for its outstanding art collections, Jalan Surabaya for its antique dealers shops, the great view from the top of the National Monument (Monas) and Taman Mini Indonesia, a theme park presenting all the various Indonesian islands.
4 Bandung, the capital city of West Java is either dubbed the “Parijs van Java” or an Asian “Miami Beach” because of its impressive collection of Art Deco buildings. Promised to be the new capital city of Dutch-ruled Indonesia, Bandung has striking examples of western inspired architecture. Not to be missed, the Asia-Africa Street with its fine 1930s-style hotels and the building which hosted the famous summit in 1955 as well as the “Gedung Sate”, an imposing structure in pure Art Deco style. Do not miss the view on Bandung from the top of the tower !
5 Yogyakarta is considered as the cultural cradle of Java. The city still has within its premises the Royal Palace( Keraton), an old town with small traditional Javanese houses which host numerous batik workshops as well as the magnificent Taman Sari (Water Castle) complex, a century old royal spa. It also has easy access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Borobudur, Prambanan and Ratu Boko. There is magnificent natural beauty nearby as well in the mountains and sea.
The ancient city of Yogyakarta has been able to preserve centuries-old traditions under the rule of its Sultan. Today, it increasingly becomes a primary tourist destination with a sophisticated offer as well as a gateway to Central and East Java.
Yogyakarta is a “must” for any visitors to Indonesia and especially to Java. This city - with almost a million inhabitants- is located in the centre of Java island, half-way between Jakarta and Bandung in the west and Surabaya in the east. Considered by all Indonesians as one of their most historical cities, Yogyakarta is indeed the cradle of the Javanese culture. The town still today bears the testimony of the refined art and handicraft skills of Javanese people. Batik workshops, puppeteers, interpreters of Javanese classical dances, wood carvers, the people of Yogyakarta continue to maintain centuries-old traditions alive.
Yogyakarta’s symbol of its everlasting traditions is certainly the magnificent Keraton, the Sultan’s palace in the heart of the city. the. In contrary to other Indonesian Sultans, who mostly play an honorific role today, Hamengku Buwono X, ruling Sultan of Yogyakarta is still a well-known figure of Indonesia’s political life. The Sultan presides in fact over the destiny of Yogyakarta as the elected Governor of the Province. As such, he has large powers to implement economic, social and tourism reforms in his city. His residence, the Royal Keraton, belongs to the favourite attractions among visitors, who can learn more about the life and customs of Yogyakarta. Classical dance shows are regularly performed within the Keraton compound.
Yogyakarta has many other wonderful sites to discover: the bird market, old Javanese mansions, batik factories and the Water Palace (Taman Sari), a unique architectural “spa” ensemble from the XVIII° century and part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Yogyakarta is also the gateway to two of the most magnificent temple complexes of Southeast Asia : Borobodur and Prambanan -both on the UNESCO World Heritage List- tell about a time where Hinduism and Buddhism were dominant in the Javanese kingdoms. Even today, the unique blend of Hindu, Buddhist and Islam religions continues to impregnate Yogyakarta’s way of life. For the visitors, the Yogyakarta Tourism Development Board proposes special meditations tours during the sunrise at Borobodur temple or spectacular Ramayana performances in front of Prambanan temple.
Tourism seen as an important economic factor
Yogyakarta is today one of Java largest city with a population of some 900,000 inhabitants is an important economic and education centre. However, priority has been given by the current Sultan to the development of tourism and infrastructures. Over the last five years, the city opened the Jogja Expo Centre (JEC) and currently works on its expansion with a new five-stars hotel as well as a conference centre. New hotels of major international chains, the upgrading of the airport with the construction of a new terminal are some of the initiatives fostered by the Sultan of Yogyakarta.
In 2004, the city recorded 103,000 international visitors in hotel accommodation and some 600,000 from domestic visitors. The target is to welcome a million international visitors by 2010 and a similar number of domestic travellers. In terms of hotel capacity, Yogyakarta has today a total 9,500 rooms of which 3,500 are classified from two to five stars.
The city is confident to become with Bali and Jakarta one of Indonesia’s major tourism hub. The opening of the airport to international flights last year already makes the city easily accessible. Today, Yogyakarta is directly served from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur and more international destinations should be added once the new terminal completed and the runway extended for long haul flights in 2006.
Yogyakarta’s commitment to be a new gateway to Indonesia is more than ever true as the city has hosted in 2004 and 2005 TIME at the Jogja Expo Centre, the country’s largest inbound travel show. The event has been organized for 11 years by the Indonesia Tourism Promotion Board (ITPB) with the support from the entire tourism industry in Indonesia attracting each time over 100 buyers from all over the world and some 150 sellers from all Indonesia.
Information on Yogyakarta under:
www.indonesiatourism.go.id
www.visit-java.com
6 Borobudur and Prambanan, the two magnificent temples are both listed on Unesco’s World Heritage List. Borobudur, built between 778 and 856 is the world’s largest Buddhist monument and is surrounded by volcanoes. It is worth a visit at any time but particularly at sunrise. Prambanan dates from 856 and is Southeast Asia’s largest Hinduism temple with outstanding bas-reliefs. Ramayana performances are hosted for visitors at dawn.
Non-stop domestic and limited international flights from Yogyakarta and Solo (Central Java)
7 Mount Bromo. Two hours away from Malang in East Java stands the majestic Bromo mountain surrounded by paddy fields and fruit plantations in East Java. Visitors will enjoy a magical sunrise at the volcano with its various shades of colours. Accessing the crater is possible with small mountain horses. Nearby, Malang is a delightful Art Deco city with old bakeries and an interesting birds market.
Non-stop domestic and international flights from/to Surabaya (East Java)
Bali
8 Ubud. This village is known as a retreat for artists since the 30’s and is now a famed resort destination. Old houses and palaces, temples stand next to discreet boutique hotels, all bearing a distinctive Balinese style and surrounding by paddy fields.
Non-stop domestic and international flights from Denpasar (Bali)
9 Tanah Lot. Bali most famous Hindu temple is a delicate structure built on a top of a large rock facing the sea. At high tide, the temple is surrounded by the sea but at other times, visitors have an access to this sacred site. It is best to view in the sunset.
Non-stop domestic and international flights from Denpasar (Bali)
East Indonesia
10 The Mount Kelimutu is located a few hours from Ende, Flores island main city. It is the most visited natural wonder in the island as the mountain is topped by three crater lakes, separated by thin ridges and showing each a different colour. The largest lake is turquoise, the next one olive green and the third black. The colours vary over the time.
Direct flights Bali-Maumere and Surabaya-Maumere (Flores)
11 The Toraja Highland in South Sulawesi (Celebes) has some of Indonesia’s most spectacular landscapes. Elaborated houses with long roofs form typical villages nestled in valleys and surrounded by paddy fields. Strange tombs with sculpted wooden effigies representing deceased people can be observed.
Non-stop domestic flights from/to Makassar (South Sulawesi)
12 Bunaken National Park in North Sulawesi (Celebes) is one of the most spectacular snorkelling and diving area in the world with large coral reef populated by a rich maritime life.
Non-stop domestic and limited international flights from Manado (North Sulawesi)
Traveling In Indonesia
Nowadays, it has never been easier than to come to Indonesia. Numerous international airlines have direct flights from all over the world to Indonesia or via a big hub such as Singapore, Bangkok or Hong Kong in Asia. The recent emergence of low cost budget airlines within Southeast Asia and especially in Indonesia gives even a greater choice of flights and more affordable prices for all budgets.
Indonesia has more than 100 airports spread all over the country, the largest being Jakarta, Surabaya, Denpasar (Bali), Medan, Makassar and Yogyakarta. The following airports have international connections:
Balikpapan, Bandung, Batam, Denpasar, Jakarta, Kupang, Makassar, Manado, Mataram (Lombok), Medan, Padang, Palembang, Pekanbaru, Pontianak, Semarang, Solo, Surabaya, Yogyakarta.
| • | Garuda Indonesia International is Indonesia’s national carrier and offers a large number of flights to/ from the capital Jakarta or Denpasar, Bali to the rest of Asia, Australia and the Middle East. The carrier offers also non stop flights from Medan, Semarang, Surabaya and Yogyakarta to regional destinations in Southeast Asia. The airline has a code share agreement with Malaysia Airlines for flights to Europe via Kuala Lumpur. |
| • | Merpati is Indonesia’s largest domestic carrier with a few regional flights to Malaysia and Singapore. |
| • | Air Paradise International is a carrier based in Bali which offers non stop flights to Australia. |
| • | Lion Air is Indonesia’s largest low fare airline with regional flights to Malaysia and Singapore. |
| • | Major international airlines such as Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Malaysia Airlines, Royal Brunei, Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines or Japan Airlines have regularly scheduled flights to Jakarta and/or Denpasar. |
Domestically, they are today over 30 airlines offering flights to all regions of the country. Among the newest carriers in the country are Adam Air, Awair, Batavia Airlines, Jatayu, Srivijaya Air and Star Air among others. The competition is intense which guarantees very low prices for consumers! As an example, a flight from Jakarta to Bali can cost as little as 21 US$ one-way and from Jakarta to Medan as little as 25 US$ one-way. To find the best deals, consult a travel agency, airline offices or airline websites.
For travellers with more time, Indonesia has also an extensive train network linking cities on Java Island and a small rail network in Sumatra. Buses assure road services between all cities throughout the country as well as boats and ferries for inter-island services. When in Indonesia, ask a travel agent or your hotel for more details regarding types of train and bus services available, schedules, and costs. It is a great way to see the country first-hand!
Accomodation
Do you dream to sleep in a “hip” but not too expensive hotel? To wake up in a coffee plantation? To experience a lifestyle that recalls the golden age of travel in the 1930s? Or to have a room which objects have been displayed at the National Museum? Indonesia makes it possible with some extraordinary hotels. And they are even more waiting for you...
Over the last decade, many international chains invested and continue to invest in Indonesia as a sign of confidence for the tourism potential of the country. Hotels in Indonesia have even set trends over the world. The luxurious “Balinese style” with its intensive use of precious wood, its combination of natural material like cotton or rattan, its balanced integration of art pieces and its refined spa experience has spread to the rest of the world. Bali today continues to set trends in the industry with some of the most lavish hotels on earth. Travellers will however find more and more unique properties in other parts of Indonesia. You will find a selection of hotels which are exceptional in any standards. The list is not exhaustive and they are many more to discover during your next trip.
Jakarta: trendy living at affordable prices
If you expect the best of international chains, they are all there in Jakarta: Hilton, Hyatt, Mandarin Oriental, Meridien, Mercure, Nikko, Shangri-La or Sheraton and more… However, one of the new emerging markets is today boutique design hotels. Two properties are a must for trendy urbanites: the Alila Jakarta is a haven of relaxation and contemporary style with its minimalist modern lines and its collection of art. All the rooms are large, well lighted and equipped with free internet access. And surprisingly, rates start as little as US$ 90 for this four-stars property, a great bargain! For budget conscious but trendy travellers, the Sparks hotel is a new option. The eight-storey building has been designed as a three-star boutique hotel in modern “youthful” architecture, located in the heart of Chinatown. Travellers can even choose the colour of their rooms in three different shades (blue, green or purple) and will enjoy the funky bathroom! Prices start from US$ 60…
Yogyakarta: living like a Sultan
The development of Yogyakarta and its region has a major tourist destination ignited a boom of boutique hotels offering extraordinary experiences to travellers. The hotel “Rumah Semang », 20 minutes away from the city centre, is a former Javanese Palace dating back to the XVIII° century and reconverted into an exclusive boutique hotel surrounded by a traditional garden. Only six rooms are available to experience the life of a Royalty!
An hour and a half away from Yogyakarta, stay in the midst of a coffee plantation at the Losari Coffee Plantation Resort and Spa, surrounded by a tropical garden and facing eight volcanoes. 26 deluxe villas build in traditional Javanese style with antique furniture surround a magnificent colonial house, which used to be the property of the coffee plantation owner. Antique furniture equips each of the villa and special spa products are available in the bathroom. An octagonal swimming pool with surrounding terrace, part of a Hammam complex, is the perfect spot to admire the amazing mountain scenery. The Java Green Restaurant proposes a healthy lunch card featuring ingredients from Losari’s own organic gardens.
Closer to Borobudur, relax your mind facing in exclusivity the beauty of the majestic temple at the Amanjiwo. Opened in 1997, the limestone-made resort reproduces the layout of the Borobudur temple with its central dome reminiscent of a stupa. The hotel has 36 suites set in pavillion with 15 having their own swimming pool. Swimming , relaxing and facing a sunset over one of the most beautiful buddhist monument in the world is not anymore a dream…
http://tourism.jogja.go.id
East Java: recalling the past
For nostalgic travellers of a by-gone era, East Java offers colonial style hotels. In Surabaya, the Mandarin Oriental Majapahit is a landmark and symbol of the wealth of Indonesia’s second city and has been delighting guests for almost a century. With its white arcades, its opulent art deco rooms, its interior gardens, the hotel is a living memory.
An hour and a half away by road, Malang, nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains, used to be the cool retreat during the summer for retired Dutch planters, civil servants and wealthy residents of Surabaya. The city is the perfect host to the Tugu Malang hotel. The property looks like a museum as it is home of one of the finest antiques collection in the country with some of its objects regularly exposed at the National Museum in Jakarta. In this quiet atmosphere, guests of the Tugu Malang can enjoy the beauty and serenity of their rooms, all furnished with authentic antics following a classical style. One of the hightime at the hotel occurs in the afternoon when old ladies pour special blend Javanese coffee to guests accompanied by traditional Javanese cakes made in the hotel's own bakery.
Bali: spiritual living
In the Island of Gods, the Conrad Bali Resort and Spa on Tanjung Benoa Beach is a haven of high style and luxury, a soulful blend of contemporary Balinese sense of harmony and serenity. Here travellers experience the art of living according to the Balinese philosophy of Tri Hita Karana. This concept takes its root in the principles of a quest for harmony and balanced relations between the Humans and God, the Humans and their environment and among Humans themselves. The Conrad Bali will plunge the visitor into a world of smiles, with people that are refreshingly natural in their approach and genuinely friendly. The Spa uses traditional Balinese products in a refined atmosphere.
In the heights of Ubud Village, the Maya Ubud Resort and Spa offers a singular unexpected experience. The hotel location is already an amazing discovery: The Maya Ubud Resort is set in 10 hectares of hillside gardens, stretching 780 metres, high above two river valleys. The elegant and peaceful retreat is the place to enjoy Bali in all of its diverse activities: learn to cook Balinese, lift your spirit with the Reiki, an ancient system of Natural Healing, relaxed with your beloved in a private spa pavilion located beside the swirling waters of the Petanu river, have a private bicycle ride in surrounding villages. Plunge into the two pools set amidst the forest green, overhanging the river valley and at the riverside. It is then easy to forget that any world exists outside of Maya Ubud.
Lombok, living in a village
The Lombok’s Novotel Coralia is an impressive architectural masterpiece built in the style of a traditional Sasak village, one of the ethnics living in Lombok. The magnificent property stays on the shores of a crystal blue lagoon. The hotel is surrounded by tropical gardens where bungalows are located. The hotel has also traditional rooms decorated with coconut wood.
Sumbawa, living in luxury under tents
It might be a remote area from East Indonesia but the Amanwana in Sumbawa Besar, West Sumbawa, is one of the most stunning hotels in the country. Built like a nature camp, the hotel is located in a secluded cove on the island’s west coast surrounded by tropical forests. The hotel has 20 luxury tents offering the most comfortable stay with air conditioning, king size bed, a large bathroom, all decorated with exquisite pieces of Indonesian art. A restaurant and bar are located in an open air pavilion facing the sea. Guests have the possibility to explore the island and practice snorkelling and windsurfing.
With over 18,000 islands, travellers should expect the unexpected in Indonesia: landscapes, plants, flowers, fauna, discover some of the ecological wonders of the world's largest archipelago. No doubt: Indonesia is a paradise for nature-lovers...
Do you know that Indonesia has year-round snowy mountain?
The Province of Papua (ex-Irian Jaya) has the seventh highest mountain in the world, the Mount Jaya Wijaya. The temperature averages there minus 5°C. Cold enough to have all year-round snow on the mountain and to set up a world’s record: to be the world’s largest snow area under the Equator.
Do you know a lake born from a volcano?
Situated at 906 m above the sea level, the majestic Lake Toba (North Sumatra) is the deepest lake in the world at over 450 meters and is also Southeast Asia largest lake with a surface area of about 1,145 km_. It was born from a cataclysmic volcanic eruption during the prehistoric time. The large cliffs surrounding today the lake are parts of the volcano which dropped into the water. Intriguing is Samosir island in the middle of the Lake -an island bigger than Singapore-and the centre of the Batak community.
Do you know the world’s largest flowers?
With 40,000 species of flowering plants, including 3,000 trees and 5,000 orchids, Indonesia has a greater variety of flora than the tropical regions of Africa or the Americas. Among all species, the most spectacular flower is without doubt the Rafflesia Arnoldii, growing in the rainforests of Sumatra and Kalimantan. It can grow to a meter and weigh up to 7 kilos! It is a parasitic plant, with no visible leaves, roots or stem. Another large flower found in Indonesia is the Titan arum, also called "corpse flower" for its unpleasant odour. The plant can reach heights of 2.2 to 3.5 meters and weights up to 80 kg!
Do you know all the animals to be only observed in Indonesia?
| • | The Javan hawk-eagle is Indonesia’s official symbol. This unique bird, of which only 200 to 300 are still recorded, lives in the tropical lowland forest and rain forests in Java. It is today an endangered species and increasing measures have been undertaken to ensure its survival. |
| • | The Java rhinoceros living today only in Ujung Kulon National Park, on the Western tips of Java island. It is the last habitat on earth for 50 to 60 remaining animals. A permit is necessary to have access to the park. |
| • | The Orang Utan, the largest tree living mammal, is now a protected species living exclusively on Kalimantan (Borneo) and in Sumatra. |
| • | The Proboscis, a monkey with a long fleshy nose, living in Kalimantan. |
| • | The Siamangs or black gibbons living in Sumatra. |
| • | The Tarsier, dubbed as one of the smallest primates as it measures only 20 cm, living on Sulawesi island. |
Located between the islands of Flores and Sumbawa, Komodo Island in East Nusa Tengara is home to the last giant reptile, the Komodo Dragon. It is today the world’s largest lizard able to reach a size of 3 to 4 meters and has been living on the island for over 500,000 years. Komodo is today a National Park.
Do you know that some 10 percent of the world's remaining tropical forest is found in Indonesia, which has a total forest area of more than 225,000,000 acres?
The Gunung Leuser National park in Sumatra is one of the largest tropical rainforest in Indonesia (835,500 ha) with over 2,000 flora species and a Biosphere Reserve. The park includes an animal Rehabilitation Centre (orang-utans, gibbons, tigers, monkeys, elephants, leopards, Sumatran rhino).
People
Few countries in the world could match Indonesia’s diversity of population with some 490 different ethnics living together. For the visitors, this diversity means a wealth of different architecture, handicraft, textiles, dances, languages or even religions. It would be impossible to describe all the traditions of each living ethnic. However, discover some of the amazing people who makes contemporary Indonesia.
Enjoy a first experience to Indonesia Ethnic Diversity.
It would take years for a traveller to discover all Indonesian islands and its inhabitants. However, to have a first approach, the ideal place is Taman Mini Indonesia in Jakarta. Stretching on 120 ha of gardens, this open air theme park shows in pavilions the lifestyle, the architecture and the artefacts of 31 Indonesian provinces. Most of the houses were dismantled to be carefully reconstructed in the park and are a testimony of the artistic skills of Indonesian various ethnics.
JAVA
The Javanese
Indonesia’s dominant ethnic is the Javanese people. Java island has close to 130 million inhabitants, living from Banten to Surabaya. However, the cradle of the Javanese culture can be found in Central Java, between the cities of Semarang, Solo and Yogyakarta. These cities used to be powerful sultanates with a sophisticated court life around the Keraton, the royal palace. Sultans today are still present but their power is largely symbolic- Yogyakarta excepted-; but all the rituals and traditions remain. Visitors will not only discover the impressive carving and art pieces of the various palaces but also the traditional clothing, the art of batik textiles- each Sultanate and City has a different motive or colour-, classical Javanese dance and music.
Access: Flights to Jakarta, Semarang, Solo, Yogyakarta, Semarang or Surabaya.
The Sundanese
Sundanese people live in West Java since immemorial times. Traces of the previous grandeur of Sundanese Kingdoms can still be admired today in the city of Cirebon with the historical Sultan Palace. Cirebon is famous for its folk art with Puppets performances (Wayang) or Mask dances (Topeng). Cirebon batiks are easy to recognise with their clouds design inspired by Chinese motives. Another expression of Sundanese arts’ skills is the Angklung music. A group of musicians is then able to perform any type of music on a set of melodic bamboo instruments.
Access: Flights to Jakarta or Bandung
SUMATRA
The Batak
Batak people are among the largest ethnic groups in Indonesia and live in North Sumatra around the Lake Toba and its surrounding mountains. Visitors will notice architectural differences between the Batak living around the Lake (Toba Batak) and in the Mountains (Karo Bataks). Around the lake, Toba Bataks live in Boat shaped houses with long roofs as Karo Bataks live in square houses with a double-floor roof evocating a mountain. One Karo house can accommodate six to eight families. Bataks are known as skilled wood sculptors. Houses are decorated with intricate motives evocating the cosmos. Toba Bataks still perform traditional dances, the tortor dance, which celebrates a gift exchange for a wedding.
Access: Flights to Medan
The people from Nias
This large island, which faces North Sumatra, is dominated by a society traditionally divided into aristocrats, commoners and former slaves. Niasians formerly liked to compete again each other by holding feasts of merit. They still today compete with each other in a spectacular but friendly way. Visitors can today admire “stone-jumping performances” where young men pass over three meters- stone pedestals.
Access: Flights via Medan and transfer to Nias
The Minangkabau
One of the most curious ethnics in Indonesia, the Minang lives in West Sumatra. This Muslim society is based on a matrilineal practice where the descent is traced through women who inherit common goods. Minang succeed to preserve their own traditions in dances and in sophisticated costumes and in peculiar house architecture. The “Rumah Gadand” (“Great House”) is one of the most sophisticated constructions in Indonesia. It is a large wooden house decorated with intricate carvings and crowned by a high roof in shape of buffalo’s horns.
Access: Flights to Padang
BALI
Balinese fascinating culture is a blend of Hindu, Buddhist and animist religions which is translated into a holistic approach to life. Rituals continue to rhythm the way of life of Balinese people. Balinese see the world populated with good and bad spirits, humans and demons. Mountains and volcanoes belong to the Gods, the sea as the evil’s habitat, the coast and plains are the place for the mankind. Houses are built along the dharma principle of reaching the perfect state of being.
One of Balineses’ task is to keep this world in right shape through colourful processions, purification ceremonies, pilgrimages, offerings and sacrifices. Barong dances where performers wear sophisticated masks is a symbolic way to control these forces. More than in others parts of Indonesia, visitors to Bali have a fair chance to take part to these spectacular daily acts on the island. Many temples (Pura) organise festivals and religious ceremonies; Balinese noble palaces (especially in the village of Ubud) propose traditional performances of classical dances with gamelan.
Access: Flights to Denpasar
SOUTH SULAWESI
The Toraja
Tana Toraja in South Sulawesi is a piece of green land with lush valleys surrounded by mountains. Toraja “Tongkonan” are richly carved and painted houses crowned by a curved roof evocating a buffalo head. They are today a few villages which are still fully preserved and are like living museums. Even if the modern life took its toll on traditions, some of the Toraja rituals survive in villages. During funerals, Torajas perform traditional circle dances as well as buffalo slaughtering. A wooden figure of the dead called “Tau Tau” is then placed on a burial cliff or inside the caves where deceased will rest in peace.
Access: Flights to Rantepao via Makassar (Masamba, Malili, or Soroako and transfer overland)
PAPUA
Merauke is one of the last Indonesian frontiers of Indonesia as it is located deep in the Southeast of the Papua province. The area is covered by forests and large rivers which largely contribute to preserve the life of the Asmat ethnic from a rapid modernisation of their life style. Asmat are well-known in international art circles for their exquisite wood sculpted figures.
Access: Flights to Merauke
NUSA TENGGARA
West Nusa Tenggara islands are a heaven for architecture lovers. Sasak houses in Lombok are built from mud and straw. Rice barns are especially impressive with their “hat-shaped” roof. On Sumba island, the Uma Mbatangu is a house characterised by a disproportioned roof dominated by a central high tower.
Access: Flights to Lombok
Health and safety are today top concerns for tourists when travelling abroad. Here are a few tips on the way to have a perfectly relaxing holiday in Indonesia.
Money
Monetary unit: Rupiah
It is possible to exchange money at bank counters upon arrival at international airports or seaports. In town, most of the foreign currencies can easily be exchanged at banks and authorised money exchange counters. ATM’s are widely available everywhere for cash operations, even in smaller cities.
Health
The areas that most visitors want to go to are safe for travel for health conscious tourists. Malaria today is eradicated in all urban areas and most of the large tourist areas. Malaria transmission can occur after dark in rural, forested areas not usually frequented by tourists, except in Papua (formerly known as Irian Jaya), where risk is widespread.
However, over the past few years, malaria cases have been observed in Central Java Province. Insect protection measures (anti-mosquitoes cream or lotions) are advised against mosquito-borne diseases like malaria or dengue fever. They are available in any pharmacy or drugstore in Indonesia. The country also has a large number of well-equipped hospitals to international standards, especially in the largest cities and tourist areas.
Safety
Indonesia is an exceedingly safe country for foreign tourists and Indonesians will take pride and happiness to help and give their best to a traveller. However, as in any country in the world, in big cities such Jakarta, Surabaya or very popular tourist areas like Bali or Yogyakarta, it is advisable not to go out carrying too much cash or flashing expensive jewellery. To travel within a city, use only taxis with the name of the company. They are all equipped with meters.
Which destinations to visit?
Indonesia and is fully open to foreign visitors. The regions receiving the most tourists are currently Bali, Java, Lombok, Sumatra, Sulawesi and the islands of Batam and Bintan across Singapore.
As Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago, events happening in one specific part of the country do not mean that the whole Indonesia is affected. For example, the tsunami disaster affected only the Northwestern tip of Sumatra island in Aceh. In Bali, Yogyakarta, Jakarta or even in the rest of Sumatra, life continued normally.
In case of any event, the Indonesian embassy will be able to present detailed information on the affected zone. Media will also be able to contact the Ministry of Culture and Tourism to get the most updated information as well as a map of the affected areas. A list of the regions which might pose a threat to the safety of visitors is available from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
Visas
All travellers are warmly welcome to Indonesia. However, in most cases, travellers must obtain a tourist visa to enter a country, and for many countries these can be issued at the airport on arrival upon payment of a small administrative fee.
Visitors range into three categories: a few countries (mostly ASEAN) where visas are not necessary; countries whose citizens can obtain with visas on arrival (VOA); and remaining countries where it is necessary to first obtain a tourist visa from the nearest Indonesia embassy.
Countries which do not need a visa for a stay not exceeding 30 consecutive days: Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Malaysia, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
Countries which are entitled to a Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) facility: The list was recently extended and include since August 1st, 2005, 36 countries whose citizens can directly obtain their visas on arrival at all major international airports as well as international seaports.
The cost for a single visa is fixed at US$ 10 for a maximum period of seven days/six nights or US$ 25 for a maximum period of 30 days. A charge of US$ 20 per day will be imposed for overstaying. It is easiest to bring in some US dollars in cash with you and use them to pay the visa administrative fee directly upon arrival in the country.
These countries whose citizens can obtain VOA include the following, including Australia, China (PRC) and Japan:
| 1 | Argentina | 19 | Luxemburg |
| 2 | Australia | 20 | Maldives |
| 3 | Austria | 21 | New Zealand |
| 4 | Belgium | 22 | Norway |
| 5 | Brazil | 23 | Oman |
| 6 | Canada | 24 | Poland |
| 7 | China | 25 | Portugal |
| 8 | Denmark | 26 | Qatar |
| 9 | Egypt | 27 | Russia |
| 10 | Finland | 28 | Saudi Arabia |
| 11 | France | 29 | South Africa |
| 12 | Germany | 30 | South Korea |
| 13 | Hungary | 31 | Spain |
| 14 | India | 32 | Switzerland |
| 15 | Ireland | 33 | Taiwan |
| 16 | Italy | 34 | U.A.E. |
| 17 | Japan | 35 | United Kingdom |
| 18 | Kuwait | 36 | U.S.A. |
Citizens of all other countries not listed above in categories 1 or 2 must apply for a visa at their nearest Indonesian Embassy before departure.
Climate
Indonesia's climate is tropical. There is no Autumn or Winter and distinctive "dry" and "wet" seasons share the year. The East Monsoon, from June to September, brings dry weather while the West Monsoon, from December to March is moisture laden, bringing rain. Temperatures range from 21 degrees to 33 degrees celcious except at higher altitudes which can be much cooler. Heaviest rainfalls are usually recorded in December and January and humidity is generally between 75% and 100%.
Languages
Bahasa Indonesia (official), English, Dutch, Javanese, and more than 580 other languages and dialects.
Religions
Islam 88%, Protestant 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other 1%
Source : www.visit-indonesia.com.au (Kementerian Budaya dan Pariwisata Indonesia)
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