Formerly a Dutch colony, Indonesia achieved independence in 1949. For the visitor Indonesia has many attractions. The climate is tropical with two distinct seasons, dry from May to October and the most popular time to visit. The wet season is from December to March and can restrict travel in some regions.

The official language is a modified form of Malay called 'Bahasa Indonesia' and visitors will find English, Dutch and local dialects, the most widely spoken of which is Javanese. In the main tourist areas, those who mix with tourists will speak some English, French or German.

For a relaxing holiday in the sun, Bali is one of the worlds favourite tourist destinations with great beaches, fine arts, and a great selection of stunning resort hotels. Bali is predominantly Hindu in contrast to the Muslim majority and has many festivals. The Island of Bali can be driven around in a day, and has many contrasts, the south is wet, the north, very dry. The scenery ranges from tropical jungle to terraced rice fields and there is a crater lake in the now dormant volcano.

Lombok is a wonderful beach resort off the coast of Bali dominated by the spectacular Gunung Rinjani volcano. Off the beaten track, the Lombok people are not as accustomed to tourists, so good behavior and respect for the Muslim culture is advised. Lombok Accommodation.

Java is the most developed island in Indonesia, with contrasting wealth and poverty. Jogyakarta (Yogyakarta) is a major city and a popular destination where half-day trips from the city will take you to visit the temples of Borobudur, a Buddhist temple now restored and Prambanan temple believed to have been built by King Balitung Maha Sambu in the middle of the ninth century. Its parapets are adorned with bas-relief depicturing the famous Ramayana story. These monuments reflect the time when the Hindu-Buddhist empires reached their peak. Jogyakarta is also renowned for producing fine batik.

Komodo situated between Flores and Sumbawa,  Komodo is home to the Komodo dragons, the worlds largest lizards which are fierce and capable of eating you. So if you want to see these creatures watch an organized feeding frenzy or join a guided dragon-spotting trek.  To visit Komodo, arrange a trip from Bali or Flores.

Bintan Island about an hours ferry journey from Singapore has many charming beach resorts for all tastes and budgets and a great place to relax.

Health and Safety
The water is not good. Only drink bottled water with a genuine seal, or else boil or treat local tap water. In some areas of Sumatra banditry is common and militant rebels operate in some regions, read more in travel advisories.

For entry into Indonesia, foreign nationals require passports with at least six months of validity and appropriate visas.

Drug Users Take Note:
The Indonesian police take brutal delight in arresting any foreigners who use or possess non prescription drugs. There is no leniency and lifetime prison terms are mandatory even for very small amounts. The simple option is to stay clean and make sure that no one puts any drugs into you baggage. Indonesian prisons are places to die in. Prescription medications require a letter from your doctor or pharmacist. Indonesian News Headlines.