Best time
May-Sept
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah
Language
Indonesian
Getting around
Grab/Gojek
When people think ‘Indonesia’ they too often think ‘Bali’. I have said I’m going to Indonesia in the past and people always say “oh, where in Bali are you going?”. For some, Bali has a bad rap for being over-run with badly behaved Brits and Aussies, but they would be incorrect. Indonesia is made up of an incredible 17,800 islands, and Bali itself offers so much beyond raucous Kuta.
Bali is still worth your bucket-list. Even Seminyak and Canggu, as much as they feel like a Disney-fied version of South East Asia, are wonderful if all you want to do is switch off and relax.
Two of my absolute favourite hotels, Nihi Sumba and Bawah Reserve, are located in Indonesia – they are definitely worth your bucket list. I recommend starting in Bali – savour seafood and surf views in Uluwatu, wander waterfalls and temples in Ubud, and relax on Nusa Penida’s spectacular beaches. Then, venture beyond – walk alongside Komodo dragons, come face to face with orangutans in Sumatra, explore the largest temple complex in the world in Java. That’s just getting started.
Katie’s verdict
Indonesia is so much more than the Bali stereotype.
Everyone knows Bali has ballooned in popularity in recent years. Kuta and Seminyak may be somewhat over-run, but beyond the hotspots a lifetime’s worth of adventures awaits.
Before you go
Quick tips
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Good to know
How many days do I need?
Two full days covers the headline sights. Three or four lets you slow down and eat your way around without rushing.
Is Indonesia cheap?
Hotels and alcohol are pricey, but food and transport are a steal. Balance a splurge dinner with hawker lunches.
Is it a good stopover?
The best. Changi is a destination in itself and the city is twenty minutes away.
How do I avoid “Bali belly”?
Cards work nearly everywhere; keep a little cash for hawker stalls and wet markets.
Don’t miss
Highlight Experiences
Encounter Komodo dragons in their natural habitat
Gallop along exclusive beaches
Surf Uluwatu’s famous waves
Wander the world’s largest Buddhist Temple
Chase waterfalls in spiritual Ubud
Hike Mount Batur at sunrise
Where to lay your head
Highlight Accommodations
Explore Komodo aboard superyacht Aqua Blu
Head off the beaten track at Bawah Reserve, seaplane access only
Play adventurer in Bill Bensley’s Capella, Ubud
Enjoy privileged access to the world’s largest temple complex at Amanjiwo
Experience barefoot luxury and equine pursuits at Nihi Sumba
Embrace Bali’s beach club culture in style at Potato Head
explorer further
Wander By Region
Bali is still worth your bucket-list – but don’t stop there. Keep wandering below.
Bali
Sumba
Coming soon
And Beyond…
From the journal