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Indonesia

Indonesia

17,000 Islands of Adventure

Last updated: 2025-03-25
7/10

Essential Phrases

Hello

Halo

Ha-lo

Thank you

Terima kasih

Teh-ree-ma ka-sih

Yes

Ya

Ya

No

Tidak

Tee-dah

Excuse me

Permisi

Pehr-mee-see

Sorry

Maaf

Ma-ahf

Please

Tolong

To-long

Help!

Tolong!

To-long

Where is...?

Di mana...?

Dee mah-na

How much?

Berapa?

Beh-ra-pa

Cheers!

Selamat!

Seh-la-mat

Goodbye

Selamat tinggal

Seh-la-mat ting-gall

Emergency Contacts

Police

110

Police (emergency)

Ambulance

118/119

Medical emergency

Fire

113

Fire department

Tourist Police

+62 21 501 6560

Tourist Police Jakarta

US Embassy Jakarta

+62 21 5083-1000

Jl. Medan Merdeka Selatan No. 5-6, Jakarta 10110

Money & ATM Reality

Currency

Indonesian Rupiah

IDR

1 USD ≈ 16,000 IDR (approximate)

ATM & Card Access

ATM Availabilitywidespread
Card Acceptancehigh
Cash PreferredYes

ATM Fees: 15,000-25,000 IDR per withdrawal

  • • ATMs everywhere in cities, limited on smaller islands
  • • Most ATMs charge 15,000-25,000 IDR fee
  • • Cash preferred at local warungs and small shops
  • • Tipping not expected but appreciated in tourist areas

Internet & Connectivity

Free WiFimoderate
VPN Recommended

Restrictions:

• Government filters some websites

• Social media occasionally restricted

• VPN recommended for full access

SIM Card Tips
  • • Telkomsel, Indosat, and XL are major providers
  • • eSIM available from providers
  • • Tourist SIM: 100,000-300,000 IDR for 5-20GB valid 30 days
  • • Airport and convenience stores sell SIMs

Popular Apps

WhatsAppGoJekGrabGoogle MapsTokopedia

Safety Index

7
Overall
/ 10
Based on Global Peace Index & US Dept of State Travel Advisories

Crime Overview

Petty Theftmoderate
Violent Crimelow

Transportation

Traffic is chaotic - be careful crossing roads. Use ride-hailing apps. Domestic flights generally safe.

Common Scams

  • •Taxi overcharging
  • •Overpriced tours
  • •Gem scams in Bali
  • •Beach vendors aggressive pricing

Areas to Avoid

  • • Some areas of Papua and West Papua (check advisories)
  • • Remote areas of Kalimantan (Borneo)

Natural Disaster Risks

  • • Volcanic eruptions (Bali, Java)
  • • Earthquakes (common)
  • • Tsunamis (coastal areas)
  • • Flooding during rainy season

Note: Safety ratings are based on Global Peace Index, US Department of State Travel Advisories, and local government sources. Ratings are subjective and should be used as a general guideline only. Always verify current travel advisories before your trip.

Solo Women Travelers

7
Overall
/ 10
Based on solo female traveler reviews & government advisories

Night Safety

safe

Dress Code

Modest dress at temples (sarong required). Beachwear OK at beaches and resorts.

Harassment Risk

rare

Tips

  • •Generally safe in tourist areas
  • •Dress modestly at religious sites
  • •Use GoJek/Grab for transport
  • •Avoid isolated beaches at night
  • •Be cautious with unwanted attention

Note:Women safety ratings are based on solo female traveler experiences, TripAdvisor reviews, and US Department of State advisories. Every woman's experience may vary. Trust your instincts and research specific destinations.

Festivals & Events

Varies• Every 210 days (Balinese calendar)

Galungan & Kuningan

religious

Balinese Hindu celebrations honoring ancestors

Impact:Temples busy, offerings made
April-May• Varies by lunar calendar

Idul Fitri (Eid)

religious

End of Ramadan - major Muslim celebration

Impact:Massive migration - travel crowded, businesses may close
June-July• Mid-June to mid-July

Bali Arts Festival

cultural

Monthly cultural performances and exhibitions in Jakarta

Impact:Great for culture - performances daily
March• Varies by Hindu calendar (usually March)

Nyepi (Day of Silence)

religious

Balinese Hindu New Year - complete silence for 24 hours

Impact:Bali essentially shuts down - no flights, no going out
August• August 17

Independence Day

national

National independence day - parades and celebrations

Impact:Public holiday - patriotic atmosphere

Offline Survival Kit

Documents

Passport (valid 6+ months)
Indonesia visa (VOA or e-visa)
Travel insurance with medical evacuation
Return/onward ticket proof
Hotel confirmations

Apps

Google Maps (offline maps)
GoJek (transport & food)
WhatsApp (communication)
Google Translate with offline Indonesian
XE Currency

Downloads

Offline Google Maps for Indonesia
Indonesian phrasebook
Emergency contacts offline

Essentials

Sunscreen (expensive in Indonesia)
Insect repellent (for mosquitoes)
Sarong for temple visits
Reusable water bottle
Motion sickness pills for boats

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Indonesia safe for tourists?
Indonesia has an overall safety rating of 7/10, making it generally safe for tourists. Petty theft is moderate and violent crime is low. Areas to be cautious in include: Some areas of Papua and West Papua (check advisories); Remote areas of Kalimantan (Borneo). Always stay aware of your surroundings and take standard travel precautions.
Is Indonesia safe for solo female travelers?
Indonesia has a women's safety rating of 7/10, making it moderately safe for solo female travelers. Night safety is rated as "safe" and harassment is rare. Generally safe in tourist areas
Do I need a VPN in Indonesia?
Yes, a VPN is recommended when visiting Indonesia. Internet restrictions include: Government filters some websites. Social media occasionally restricted. VPN recommended for full access. Popular apps include WhatsApp, GoJek, Grab.
What scams should I watch out for in Indonesia?
Common scams in Indonesia include: Taxi overcharging; Overpriced tours; Gem scams in Bali; Beach vendors aggressive pricing. Always use reputable services, agree on prices before committing, and trust your instincts if something feels off.
Should I use cash or card in Indonesia?
Cash is preferred in many places in Indonesia. The currency is Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Card acceptance is high, especially in urban areas. ATMs everywhere in cities, limited on smaller islands
What are the emergency numbers in Indonesia?
Emergency numbers in Indonesia: Police: 110. Ambulance: 118/119. Fire: 113. Tourist Police: +62 21 501 6560. The US Embassy in Indonesia (US Embassy Jakarta) can be reached at +62 21 5083-1000.