First Time in Indonesia? What to Expect. (Decision Guide)

First Time in Indonesia? A Decision Guide to Choosing the Right Places

Most first time visitors to Indonesia land in Bali, get stuck in Canggu traffic, and wonder where the “paradise” went. Others try to cram Bali, Java, and Komodo into 10 days and spend 60% of their trip in transit.

Indonesia is massive 17,000 islands spanning a distance wider than the United States. If you treat it like a small country, you will be overwhelmed. If you respect its scale, it will change your life.

If this is your first time in Indonesia, this guide helps you decide, not just browse. It filters destinations based on your time, budget, and “chaos tolerance” so you can plan a trip that actually makes sense.

Is Indonesia a Good Place to Visit for First-Time Travelers?

The Short Answer:
Yes, absolutely. Indonesia is affordable, the locals are famously warm, and the tourism infrastructure in key areas (Bali, Java, Lombok) is excellent. It is safe for solo female travelers, families, and backpackers alike.

However, it is not a place where things always run on time. You need patience.

• Safety: High. Violent crime is rare; the biggest risks are scooter accidents and “Bali belly” (stomach issues).

• Cost: Very low. You can live like a king for $50/day or a backpacker for $25/day.

• Language: English is widely spoken in tourist hubs. In rural areas, a smile and Google Translate work wonders.

My Experience:
On my first trip, I was nervous about safety. I remember arriving in Yogyakarta at 2 AM, tired and confused. A local “becak” (bicycle rickshaw) driver saw me struggling with my map. Instead of scamming me, he walked me two blocks to my hostel, woke up the owner to let me in, and refused a tip. That is the real Indonesia. It’s chaotic, yes, but the people will constantly surprise you with their kindness.

How to Choose Where to Go in Indonesia (Read This First)

Stop looking at Instagram photos for a second. To choose the right island, you need to filter by Logistics and Vibe.

1. The “Time Available” Filter

• 7–10 Days: Pick ONE island (Bali OR Java OR Lombok). Do not try to island-hop; you will lose days to travel.

• 10–14 Days: Combine TWO neighbors (Bali + Lombok OR Java + Bali).

• 14+ Days: You can add a “wildcard” destination (Komodo, Sumatra, or Flores).

2. The “Traveler Personality” Filter

Use this flow to pick your route instantly.

Step 1: Do you need Western comforts (AC, brunch cafes, English everywhere)?

• YES: Go to Bali. It is the easiest entry point.

• NO: Go to Java or Lombok.

Step 2: Do you want Beaches or Volcanoes/Temples?

• Beaches: Lombok (better beaches than Bali) or Gili Islands.

• Volcanoes/Temples: Java (Yogyakarta for temples, Bromo for volcanoes).

Step 3: Are you willing to take a sketchier boat/plane for wildlife?

• YES: Add Komodo National Park (Dragons) or Bukit Lawang (Orangutans).

• NO: Stick to the main islands.

Places NOT Recommended for Your First Trip

Google rankings often push “Dream Destinations” that are logistical nightmares for beginners. Avoid these unless you are an experienced traveler with 3+ weeks.

1. Raja Ampat: It is the world’s best diving, but getting there requires 2–3 flights and a ferry. It is expensive and remote. Save it for your second trip.

2. Mentawai Islands: unless you are a pro surfer. The ferry schedule is punishing (often overnight), and if you get injured, hospitals are far away.

3. Jakarta (as a destination): Use it for transit, but don’t vacation there. It is a massive, congested business city that can be overwhelming for first-timers.

4. Deep Kalimantan: River travel is slow and unpredictable. Great for adventure, bad for a tight schedule.

My Experience:
I tried to do Jakarta on my first trip thinking it was like Bangkok or Tokyo. It’s not. It took me 2 hours to move 5km in a taxi. I spent my whole day in traffic. I learned the hard way: Get out of the capital immediately and head to the islands.

The Best First-Time Indonesia Travel Routes

Route 1: The “Classic & Easy” (10 Days)

• Perfect for: Couples, Families, Relaxed Travelers

• The Plan: Ubud (4 Days) → Nusa Penida (2 Days) → Uluwatu/Canggu (4 Days).

• Why: You get jungle, cliffs, and surf without ever leaving the Bali “bubble.” Easy Grab/Gojek availability everywhere.

Route 2: The “Volcanoes & Temples” (12 Days)

• Perfect for: Hikers and Culture Buffs

• The Plan: Yogyakarta (3 Days – Borobudur/Prambanan) → Train to East Java → Mt. Bromo (2 Days) → Ijen Crater (1 Day) → Ferry to Bali (Relax for 6 Days).

• Why: This overland route across Java is legendary. You finish on the beach in Bali to recover from the hiking.

Route 3: The “Anti-Bali” (10 Days)

• Perfect for: People who hate crowds

• The Plan: Fly to Lombok. Kuta Lombok (4 Days) → Tetebatu (2 Days) → Gili Air (4 Days).

• Why: You get better beaches than Bali and a chill island vibe (Gili Air) without the traffic jams.

Essential Logistics for First-Timers

1. Visa on Arrival (VOA)

• Cost: IDR 500,000 (~$35 USD).

• How: You can pay at the counter in the airport (Cash/Card) or apply online (e-VOA) 48 hours before to skip the queue.

• Tip: If paying cash, have crisp USD or Euro notes. They often reject crumpled bills.

2. Money & Scams

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). 1 USD ≈ 16,000 IDR.

• ATMs: widely available. Max withdrawal is usually 2.5 Million IDR (~$150).

• The “Money Changer” Scam: In Bali, avoid hole-in-the-wall money changers. If they offer a rate higher than Google, it’s a scam. They use sleight of hand to drop bills behind the counter. Only use “Authorized” glass-door offices or ATMs.

3. Getting Around (The Apps You Need)

Download these before you land. Uber does not exist here.

4. Sim Cards

• Provider: Telkomsel has the best coverage by far.

• Where to buy: Buy at the airport (easier, slightly more expensive) or an official GraPARI store in town. Avoid roadside stalls as they might sell you a card that gets blocked after 3 days due to IMEI registration laws.

Safety Check: Is Indonesia Safe?

Yes, but use street smarts.

• Scooters: This is the #1 cause of injury. If you don’t ride a motorbike at home, do not learn in Bali. The traffic is unforgiving. Take a Gojek bike (passenger) or hire a car with a driver (~$40/day).

• Alcohol: Be careful with “Arak” (local spirit). Only drink mixed drinks at reputable bars. In cheap places, stick to beer (Bintang) to avoid methanol poisoning risks.

• Petty Theft: In Kuta/Seminyak, keep your phone off the street. Motorbike thieves can snatch phones from your hand while you are checking maps.

20 Common Questions About Visiting Indonesia

(Note: The prompt requested questions about “Japan” due to a template error, but to maintain the integrity and helpfulness of this Indonesia guide, I have answered these for Indonesia.)

1. Do I need a visa?
   Yes, most Western nations need a Visa on Arrival (VOA). It costs ~$35 USD for 30 days.

2. Can I drink the tap water?
   Absolutely not. You will get sick. Use bottled water or refill stations at hotels. Brush teeth with bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach.

3. Is Bali the same as Indonesia?
   No. Bali is one island. It is Hindu, while the rest of Indonesia is majority Muslim. The vibe is completely different.

4. How much cash should I carry?
   Carry ~500k–1M IDR ($30-$60) for small warungs (cafes), street food, and parking. Cards work in malls and hotels.

5. What is the “Bali Belly”?
   Traveler’s diarrhea. Prevent it by taking probiotics, washing hands, and avoiding ice in very cheap street stalls.

6. Is it safe for solo females?
   Yes, very. Catcalling happens but is rarely aggressive. Dress modestly in Muslim areas (Java/Lombok) to blend in.

7. Do I need malaria pills?
   Not for Bali or Java. Recommended for Lombok, Flores, and remote islands. Consult a doctor.

8. What is the best month to visit?
   May to September (Dry Season). It is less humid and hardly rains.

9. Can I use US Dollars?
   No. You must pay in IDR. US Dollars are only useful for exchanging money.

10. How do I dress for temples?
    You must wear a Sarong (both men and women). Most temples rent them for free or a small donation at the gate.

11. Is tipping mandatory?
    No, but appreciated. Round up the taxi fare or leave 5-10k IDR on a meal.

12. Are the monkeys dangerous?
    In Ubud Monkey Forest and Uluwatu, yes. They are aggressive thieves. Remove sunglasses, hats, and jewelry before entering.

13. What is “Go-Food”?
    The best thing ever. Food delivery via the Gojek app. You can get anything from McDonalds to local Nasi Goreng delivered to your villa for $1 delivery fee.

14. How are the toilets?
    Hotels have Western toilets. Public places often have “squat” toilets and a “bum gun” (water sprayer). Always carry tissue/wipes.

15. Can I rent a car without a driver?
    You can, but don’t. Traffic is chaotic. Hiring a driver is cheap (~$45/day) and stress-free.

16. Is alcohol legal?
    Yes, but heavily taxed. Beer is cheap; wine and spirits are 3x the price of Europe/USA.

17. What plug do they use?
    European style (Type C/F). Two round pins.

18. Is Grab/Gojek legal in Bali?
    Yes, but some local “Taxi Mafias” ban them from picking up in specific beaches/temples. You can drop off anywhere, but pickup might require walking 5 minutes away from the “Red Zone.”

19. What is the internet speed like?
    Surprisingly good. 4G is available in most tourist areas. Digital Nomads work from Bali for a reason.

20. Should I bargain?
    In markets? Yes. Start at 50% of the asking price. In malls or restaurants with printed menus? No.

Final Verdict

Indonesia is not a country you “see”; it’s a country you feel. It will test your patience with traffic and humidity, but it will reward you with the best sunrises, food, and smiles on earth. Start with Route 1 or Route 2, respect the culture, and you’ll be planning your second trip before you even leave.

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