7 INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

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7 INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

Indonesia Travel Tips

7 INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

 

More and more Filipinos are traveling nowadays, thanks to various companies that offer affordable tickets and tour packages. Couple that with the longer validity of passports, and you have yourself a perfect combination for more frequent trips abroad.

One destination that has become popular among Filipinos in recent years in Indonesia. With its tropical climate and hundreds of beautiful beaches, Indonesia, particularly the island of Bali, continues to draw the attention of Pinoy tourists. What’s more, since both countries are members of the ASEAN, Filipinos don’t need to apply for a visa to gain entry to Indonesia.

If you’re one among many Filipinos who love to travel and are planning to visit Indonesia for the first time, here are a few tips for a more enjoyable stay.

7 INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

Indonesia Travel Tips

Indonesia Travel Tip #1 Choose Hostels or Homestays

If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, it’s a good idea to choose a hostel or a homestay for your accommodations. One of the best reasons is, of course, is their affordable price. These kinds of accommodations are a whole lot cheaper than hotels, and so they can certainly help you stretch your budget. However, another good reason to stay at a hostel or a homestay like Oples in Bali is that you’ll get to meet new friends. You’re also more likely to discover neighborhood secrets and experience the “local flavor” if you stay out of the chain hotels.

7 INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS

Indonesia Travel Tip #2 Watch the Zeros

Indonesia’s currency is called the rupiah (Rp) and it has one of the lowest values in the world. To give you a clearer picture, Php 1 is equal to more or less Rp 270 and USD 1 is equal to more or less Rp 14,200. This makes conversion a little tricky since you’ll be dealing with a lot of zeros. Make it a habit to check the amount you’re paying, especially if you’re using a credit card.

Moreover, be mindful of how you spend. You might be tempted to eat and shop to the max because of the exchange rate, but you might end up blowing through your budget a little too quickly if you’re not careful. If you’re really excited about trying their local cuisine, you can use apps such as Eatigo and look for Jakarta restaurant discounts. They provide you with a list of must-try dishes and special deals so you can enjoy their food without breaking the bank.

Indonesia Travel Tip #3 Use Blue Bird Taxis

For the safest and most reliable way to get around Indonesia, Blue Bird taxis are your best bet. Unless you’re staying somewhere really remote, you won’t have any problems hailing one of these blue cabs. However, beware of other taxis imitating the color and logo of Blue Bird. Check the icons, in particular,  since the official Blue Bird logo has a unique diamond-like shape. Just to be sure, download the Blue Bird app, and book a ride from there. You can pay with a credit card using the app, which is handy if you don’t have the correct amount to pay in cash.

Jojo Vito Travel Blogger

Indonesia Travel Tip #4 You Can Rent a Motorbike Without a License

Technically, as a tourist, you need an international motorcyclist’s license before you can rent and drive a motorbike in Indonesia. However, most rental shops ignore this law. Even the police let this slide! Still, it’s important to know and remember that the law exists. For those who want to rent a motorbike or scooter the right way, local police stations issue tourist driver’s licenses. Of course, remember to always wear a helmet. Another valuable tip is to inspect the motorbike carefully for existing damage. Take photos of these, and ask the owner acknowledge to them. This way, you don’t get blamed and charged for “damaging” the motorbike.

Indonesia Travel Tip #5 Bring a Travel Adapter

Indonesia’s power outlets have a standard voltage of 230 V and a standard frequency of 50 Hz. This means you can plug in your gadgets safely (the Philippines have a standard of 220 V and 60 Hz). However, Indonesia uses two-pin round-end plugs (type C or type F). It’s wise to bring a universal travel adapter for charging.

Jojo Vito Travel Blogger

Indonesia Travel Tip #6 English is Common

As long as you’re staying in tourist-heavy areas, you won’t have any problem finding English-speaking locals. Just like in other countries, however, the level of English declines as you move away from city centers. Either way, learning a few key phrases can help get you by. Terima kasih (thank you), sama sama (you’re welcome), la (yes), tidak (no), makan (eat or to eat), and permisi (excuse me) are a few of the essentials. For shopping, you should remember “berapa harganya?” (how much is this? or How much does this cost?) and “bisakah saya mendapatkan diskon?” (can I get a discount?).

Indonesia Travel Tip #7 Get a SIM Card

If you want to stay online during your whole trip, as opposed to waiting to get to your hotel or finding a restaurant with WiFi, getting a local SIM card is advisable. The most popular and most reliable is Telkomsel. Wait until you get out of the airport before buying a SIM card unless you want to spend more than necessary. The usual price is around Rp 150,000 or about Php 550.

Got all that? Now all you need are your passport, your plane ticket, your itinerary, and your bags, and you’re all set for a wonderful trip to Indonesia! Have a Happy Trip!

Jojo Vito Travel Blogger

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