Indonesia

Indonesia, officially the Republic of Indonesia, is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania, between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It consists of more than seventeen thousand islands, including Sumatra, Java, Bali, Borneo, Sulawesi and New Guinea.

The most diverse treasures of Asia. Its remarkable and varied landscape contains innumerable contrasts; from idyllic white sand beaches to fiery volcanoes, and from rugged, arid landscapes to a dense jungle inhabited by exotic animals.

Indonesians themselves are as varied as the landscapes they inhabit. Indonesia is the largest Islamic country in the world with 90% of the country's population of 235 million practicing Muslims, but there are also many other religious influences present in the country, such as Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity. The culture is correspondingly varied and more than 350 languages ​​are spoken throughout the archipelago. While businessmen in Jakarta may be haggling over business, the Baliem tribe in Papua will decorate their hair with cassowary feathers and cover themselves with pork fat to keep warm. With such a rich and diverse culture and people, Indonesia is one of the most attractive destinations in Southeast Asia.

Despite the cultural diversity, the only thing the people have in common is their kindness. Indonesians are among the friendliest in Southeast Asia, which is itself one of the most sociable areas in the world. Wherever you travel in the country, chances are you'll be greeted by a chorus of 'Hello Mister's from the local people'. Indonesians have no inhibitions when it comes to striking up conversations with strangers and you will often find yourself in passing conversations with numerous locals. People are so sociable that it can take a little getting used to.

These aspects of Indonesian life may seem a little hard to believe upon first arriving in the country. The two main cities with international airports, Jakarta in Java and Kuta in Bali, are a long way from the country's highlights. Jakarta is a huge and rather unpleasant city with traffic jams, shopping malls and skyscrapers; Kuta is a hedonistic seaside resort with high-rise luxury hotels and thousands of tourists. With the rich landscape and culture that Indonesia possesses, it is somewhat surprising that it is not a more popular tourist destination. There is the possibility of carrying out activities that adapt to all imaginable tastes. In Java alone, you can climb the numerous volcanoes (active and dormant) that spread across the island, spend time admiring the stunning flora and fauna in the islands' remote national parks, watch the sunrise over Borobodur, the largest Buddhist temple and impressive in the world. , or find your own deserted island paradise in Karimunjawa National Park. Bali and Lombok have numerous great surfing views, spectacular rice paddy landscapes, great beaches, idyllic islands and the ability to enjoy the country's rich food and culture. The warm and humid equatorial climate enhances the country's natural attractions. The tropical rain makes the country look fertile and lush, while the temperature of around 28C/82F makes the country pleasantly warm for traveling or relaxing on the beach. Despite this, tourism in much of Indonesia is extremely limited and it is quite possible to go days without seeing another Western side. Travel Diva India recommends Indonesia for fun trips, leisure, water activities, Honeymoon and MICE.