Like many countries that have territories in Oceania – Indonesia is an archipelago  comprising of approximately 17,000 islands.  A huge country spanning the size of Japan, UK, Germany, Spain, Italy and Greece combined offers a cultural experience to match it too.

Lombok

The island of Lombok does not receive as much fanfare as its hugely popular neighbour Bali, but that actually works in the tourist’s favour.  Travel to the charming and undisturbed island to enjoy its many scenic spots.  Escape the tourism net and stay at a farmhouse in one of the many beachside and mountainside villages.  Relax on the beautiful yet quiet beaches along the southwest or tackle the big waves with a surfing trip to Bangko-Bangko.    

Bali

The famed Island of the Gods is undoubtedly the tourist’s favourite when it comes to Indonesia. 
Its varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, lush rice terraces and barren volcanic hillside all providing a picturesque backdrop to its colourful, deeply spiritual and unique culture.  Marvel over the traditional Barong and Kris dance performances, visit the splendid Kintamani volcano and stroll through the holy mon-key forest in Sangeh.

Gili Trawangan

Having been harshly labelled as a backpacker destination - setting off images of hoards of over-enthusiastic students cramming into cheap hostels - Gili Trawalgan has now shaken off that reputation, reinventing itself with a hip and trendy crowd from Europe and Asia.  A raw, unpretentious and hedo-nistic scene with stylish bars, vibrant nightlife and a number of luxury diligent hotels dotted around make this tiny refined island off the north-west of Lombok a true hidden gem.

Raja Ampat

Raja Ampat or ‘Four Kings’ as it is known comes from a local myth.  The four major islands found here are Waigeo, Misool (home to the ancient rock paintings), Salawati and Bantana.  Under-water enthusiasts will be in heaven as they scuba dive through the clear coral reef offering fascinating sights of the world’s greatest concentration of marine biology.  Likewise, hikers and trekkers will walk with bliss as they awe over the delectable landscapes and rock formation, and explore the natural and untouched beauty of its enthralling rainforest. Each island has an unrequited atmosphere that is quickly establishing Indonesia as a budding tourist attraction, without feeling over-commercial. Either go on an island hopping tour, or pick the island that suits you best and reap the benefits of a relaxing and unrestrictive stay.

Share this article: