What you should know before coming to Indonesia

Before embarking on your journey to Indonesia, an archipelago of over 17,000 islands rich in cultural diversity and natural beauty, it is crucial to be well-informed about its unique customs, travel logistics, and essential preparations to ensure a seamless and enriching travel experience.

 

Visa

Most visitors to Indonesia can obtain a visa on arrival unless they are citizens of one of the 10 visa-exempt countries. Since November 10, 2022, the government has launched the e-VISA on Arrival (e-VOA) system to simplify the entry process for foreign travelers. Additionally, starting from February 14, 2024, the Indonesian government will implement a compulsory tourist fee of 150,000 IDR (approximately 10 USD) for all international visitors to Bali, regardless of age. This fee will be collected one time before entry, regardless of whether visitors arrive by land, sea, or air.

Apply for the e-VOA at The Official E-visa Website for Indonesia here: https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/

 

Airports

Given Indonesia’s vast archipelago, air transport is the most efficient way to visit the main tourist destinations. The primary gateways for entering Indonesia are Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, near Jakarta (CGK), and Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali (DPS). These airports have undergone significant expansions and now offer state-of-the-art facilities. Other international airports include Juanda Airport in Surabaya (SUB), Hasanudin Airport in Makassar (UPG), Kuala Namu Airport in Medan (KNO), and West Java International Airport in Majalengka (KJT), which opened in June 2019.

Traveling from Australia to Indonesia takes only 4 to 7 hours. There are direct flights from Amsterdam, London, and Istanbul to Jakarta; however, flights from other European countries to Indonesia typically require a layover. Traveling from the Americas takes about 20 hours, with at least one layover in Europe, the Middle East, or East Asia.

 

Attire

Like other tropical nations, lightweight cotton attire is the most comfortable option for being in Indonesia. Carrying a light waterproof jacket is beneficial during the rainy season. It’s recommended to cover your arms and legs in the evenings when going outdoors to guard against mosquito bites. Additionally, an umbrella is advisable during both the hot and rainy seasons to shield against intense sun and unexpected tropical rain. When visiting religious sites, it is strongly advised to avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, tank tops, or similar attire. It is customary to remove your shoes before entering a religious structure or private residence. Apart from beach areas, it’s essential to dress modestly as a sign of respect towards conservative society. Topless bathing is strictly unacceptable in Indonesia.

 

Electricity

In Indonesia, the standard voltage is typically 230 Volts at 50 Hz. Visitors from the UK, Europe, Australia, and many parts of Asia and Africa will find their phones, laptops, and other devices working as usual. However, travelers from countries such as the United States, Canada, and most South American nations may encounter differences in voltage. Most power plugs and sockets in Indonesia are of type C and F, featuring the standard European design with two pins. It is always recommended to bring a travel plug adapter.

 

Telephone

While most hotels offer IDD phones, Internet cafes are emerging as a more affordable alternative, providing lower phone rates and selling prepaid international calling cards. If your mobile phone has worldwide coverage, you can use it to make local or international calls while in Indonesia. However, it is advisable to check with your mobile provider about the cost before traveling. SIM cards are available at airports as well, with multiple booths representing local cell phone providers like Telkomsel, XL, Smartfren, 3/Tri, Axis, Indosat/IM3, and others. Prices vary between providers, starting from IDR 10,000. Foreigners must present either their Passport, KITAS, or KITAP (the latter two for long-term visitors) to register their local SIM card. The provider’s booth officer will assist you with the registration process.

 

Internet

Major hotels across the country provide Wi-Fi access and business centers equipped with timed computer usage. Additionally, internet cafes are easy to find in the city, where you can also purchase international phone cards for making international calls.

 

Vaccination

Vaccinations are typically not mandatory for entry, except for yellow fever if arriving from affected areas. However, it is strongly recommended that visitors be vaccinated against typhoid fever, cholera, hepatitis A and B, tetanus, and polio. Malaria and dengue fever are prevalent, so it is highly recommended to take precautions, especially when venturing off the usual tourist areas. Please make sure to bring any necessary medications, as they may not be readily available in some areas.

Exercise caution when consuming alcohol, opting for reputable establishments, and avoiding local homemade beverages such as Arak (rice wine) and Tuak (palm wine). Always ensure your drinks are prepared in your presence and remain within sight.

 

Insurance

Prior to travel, it is highly recommended to obtain a health insurance policy, as treatment may not be administered without proof of payment or evidence of comprehensive travel insurance. When renting a car or motorcycle, ensure the rental is covered by appropriate auto insurance.

 

Hospitals in Bali:

Chào Asia Travel does not assume responsibility or liability for the professional competence, reputation, or quality of services provided by any hospital. However, here are some hospitals in various locations:

1. Siloam Hospital (based in Denpasar, Badung, and Nusa Dua)
2. Bali Royal Hospital – Private hospital in Denpasar
3. BIMC Hospital (based in Denpasar, Nusa Dua, and Kuta)
4. Kasih Ibu Hospital (in Denpasar)
5. Udayana University Hospital (in Badung, South Kuta)
6. Prima Medika Hospital (in Kuta)
7. Surya Husadha Hospital (based in Denpasar and Nusa Dua)

 

Public Transportation

Local modes of transportation include Bajaj, compact three-wheeled scooters reminiscent of Thai tuk-tuks, primarily found in larger cities. Becaks, resembling bicycle rickshaws, serve as one of the most affordable and vital forms of short-distance transport. In major cities, you can also book taxis or cars through transportation apps like Grab, Gojek, or Bluebird.

Exclusive transportation options such as the Metro bus, MRT, and LRT systems are available in major cities, along with the option to book cars or taxis through transportation apps like Gojek, Grab, or Bluebird. Taxis are readily available in major cities, all properly registered, while minibuses and rental cars bear yellow license plates.

You can also rent a car for personal use (with an international driving license) or hire a car with a driver through a trusted travel agency for your trip in Indonesia.

 

Useful phone numbers

Police/General emergencies: 110 or 112 (from satellite and mobile phones)

Ambulance: 118 or 119

Fire department: 113

Search and rescue (BAARNAS): 115

Natural disaster assistance: 129