USEFUL TRAVEL TIPS
Comprehensive Travel Guide: Holidaying in Indonesia
Welcome to our complete guide designed to provide you with all the necessary information for an unforgettable holiday in Indonesia. Should you need more detailed insights, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Health and Vaccination
Vaccination Recommendations:
- Mandatory Vaccinations:
- None required
- Suggested Vaccinations:
- Typhoid fever
- Hepatitis A & B
- Poliomyelitis
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis
- Under Certain Circumstances:
- Yellow fever
- Malaria
- Rabies
- Unnecessary Prevention:
- Meningitis
Health Tips:
- Consult your family doctor for the latest vaccine recommendations.
- Consider taking antimalarial medication.
- Eat and drink safely to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Prevent bug bites using insect repellent.
- Avoid contact with stray animals.
- Minimize exposure to germs by practicing good hygiene.
- Avoid sharing body fluids and use only sterile medical or cosmetic equipment.
Visa and Arrival Taxes
- Visa on Arrival: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, valid for one month and extendable for another month. Fee: $38 USD (2019).
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned departure date from Indonesia.
- Departure Taxes:
- Local flights: 20,000 – 50,000 IDR ($2 – $6 USD)
- International flights: Approximately 150,000 IDR ($17 USD)
Passport and Formalities
- A valid passport is mandatory for entry and must have an expiry date that is at least 6 months after your planned departure.
Voltage and Sockets
- Voltage: 220 volts (same as Belgium).
- Sockets: Compatible with European plugs.
Excessive Luggage for Local Flights
- Baggage Allowance: 15–20 kg.
- Excess Luggage Fees: $1 to $3 per kilogram.
Climate and Weather: Best Time to Visit
- Year-Round Travel: Indonesia has an equatorial climate.
- Seasons:
- Dry Season: May to September.
- Rainy Season: October to April.
- Average Temperature: 26°C (range: 20°C – 33°C). July is the coolest month with an average of 25°C.
- Tip: Bring warmer clothes for cooler mountain regions.
Dress Code
- Recommended Clothing: Light jacket for mountainous areas, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Beachwear: Bikinis are acceptable at beaches and hotel pools. Wear shorts and a T-shirt in public areas to respect local customs, especially around temples.
Language and Money
- Languages: Bahasa Indonesia and English. Most Indonesians speak some English, and many are fluent.
- Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (1 EUR = approximately 15,000 IDR). Check up-to-date rates on www.xe.com.
- Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted – expect a 3% surcharge for non-Indonesian cards.
Drinks and Food
- Drinking water: Tap water is unsafe to drink. Be cautious with ice cubes.
- Alcohol: Good beer due to Dutch influence. Australian wine can be expensive.
- Cuisine: A delightful fusion of Chinese, Malaysian, and Dutch influences.
Cultural Tips
- Avoid kissing in public.
- Always wear a scarf around your waist when entering temples (available for rent).
- Do not touch children’s heads; it’s considered the seat of the soul.
- Avoid using your left hand to eat, receive, or point as it is considered impolite.
- Maintain a respectful distance from priests during ceremonies.
- Do not make jokes about drugs; drug offenses carry severe penalties.
- Embrace local curiosity; it signifies interest.
Belgian Embassy
- Address: Deutsche Bank Building, 16th floor, Jl. Imam Bonjol No. 80, 10310 Jakarta, Indonesia
- Email: Jakarta@diplobel.fed.be
- Phone: +62 21 316 2030
- Emergency contact: +62 (0) 816 947 859
Feel free to download our travel tips brochure for more detailed information. Enjoy your trip to Indonesia, and travel safely!