Indonesia

The islands of the Indonesia archipelago are strung like beads across the equator. Clear blue seas lap pristine beaches on some 17,000 plus islands. Gently warm breezes carry scents of cinnamon, clove and vanilla. Divers are in trance by the ocean riches. In land dramatic volcanic ranges tower above a green mantle of terraced hillsides and lush rich rainforests.

Faces Facts

Climate: Tropical climate varying from area to area. Eastern monsoon brings the driest weather June to September; while the western monsoon brings the main rains December to March. Rainstorms occur all year round.

Best time to dive: it is possible to dive year round. Conditions depend on the area.

What you can see: Pristine reefs, sharks and other pelagic, world class critter diving, amazing walls and depths, quite simply some of the best diving in the world.

Visibility: 10-40m (32-130ft.) varies from area to area

Water Temperature: 20-30°C (68-86°F)varies from area to area

Languages Spoken: English and Bahasa Indonesia

Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

ATM’s and Banks: ATM’s are widely available in major cities. All major credits cards are accepted in some areas. If you travel out far from any city center don’t expect that there will be much for money exchange or ATM’s so be sure to have enough cash to cover your costs. If you take USD $100 notes be sure that they are newer than 1996 and that all forms of currency are in good, nearly perfect condition as Indonesian banks are sticky and often will not accept any sort of damaged money. This makes it hard as no one wants to take damaged dollars.

Time Zone: GMT +7 to GMT +9

Voltage: 220V-240V/60HZ

Health Regulations: Please consult your doctor or nearest health authorities for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure.

Visa Requirements: British, Australian, Canadian, American and other EU nationals are required to have a visa for stays of up to 30 days; these are available on arrival at all major airports for a fee of $25 USD. Nationals not referred to above are advised to contact the embassy/high commission to check visa requirements. For more up to date information on visa requirements check www.embassyofindonesia.org

Top Tip

Be sure to catch a barong dance in Bali. Explore the island of thousands of temples. Take a surf lesson at Kuta beach and indulge in the inexpensive local cuisine. Take plenty of photos of the many different faces of Indonesia, as each islands is full of a culture that is nearly its own.