Everyone who is anyone will have a trip to Indonesia on their bucket list, I’m sure. It’s a popular haunt for backpackers and honeymooners as well as everyone in between as it is such a diverse country. And that’s all thanks to its geography. You see, Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands, some of which are tiny and uninhabited. But those that do have a population on them are completely unique and each one has its own culture and personality. So, as you can see, island hopping might feel a bit like visiting a totally different country every time you land on a new island! Thanks to this amazing diversity, there is so much to see and do, and travelling to Indonesia can suit city lovers as well as those who want to do nothing more than just relax on a tropical beach.
When you are deciding on where to travel in Indonesia, you will no doubt need to make a shortlist of possible islands. Here are some of the best so that you can make the best decision for you.
Java
Java is one of the most popular islands for tourists and is also the location of the country’s capital city, Jakarta. Jakarta is a bustling city and many tourists head there to see what city life in Indonesia is like. It’s a very cheap city to visit, especially compared to other capital cities around the world. Accommodation can be very cheap, especially if you stay in a long-term rental like the ones on https://www.rumah.com/rumah-disewa/di-area-jakarta-pusat-idjk02 or find a room in a hostel. The food in the city is also very cheaply priced, and you will get a lot of bang for your buck if you eat at the fantastic street-food markets. Of course, Jakarta isn’t the only tourist attraction on the island of Java. You could always visit the famous Borobudur Temple and the House of Danar Hadi.
Bali
You will have no doubt heard a lot about Bali as it is possibly Indonesia’s most famous island. Popular with both the backpacking and honeymooning crowds, it is well-known for its lush rainforests and tranquil beaches. You’ll be able to enjoy a holiday that combines hedonism and spiritualism when you visit Bali as it has a fantastic nightlife and also many temples and Yoga retreats. If you are travelling on a budget, then it’s a good idea to stay in Kuta and take advantage of its discount accommodation. For something a bit more sophisticated, head to the south of the island where the majority of its five-star resorts are.
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The Wakatobi Islands
The Wakatobi Islands are made up of four islands called Binongko, Tomia, Wangi-Wangi and Kaledupi. These are well-known within the world of watersports as they have some fantastic diving and surfing spots. Even if you have never dived before, you will be able to get under the waves and check out all the tropical sea life if you sign up to one of the islands’ many diving schools. These islands are also part of the Wakatobi National Park, so you know you are going to see some stunning vistas and coastlines. The islands are still considered an unspoilt paradise, so the long journey to them via Bali is very much worth it!
Nusa Lembongan
Not too keen on all the usual crowds that are often at most tourist hotspots? If not, then you might want to spend the majority of your time in Indonesia on the pretty island of Nusa Lembongan. Even though it doesn’t take too long to get to this island, it isn’t too popular with tourists so will still feel like you have managed to get off the beaten track. It’s just off the coast of Bali, so you will be able to head to Bali if you ever want to indulge in its nightlife or check out some of the bigger sights. The water just off the coast of Nusa Lembongan is much clearer than Bali’s, though, and you will have a great chance of spotting stingrays, sharks, and turtles below the waves.
Wai Island
Wai Island might be tricky to get to – it is a long journey and will involve a few transfers – but the journey is definitely worth it. It is one of the most unspoilt of all the islands that make up Indonesia. Not only will you see some truly stunning landscapes, but the sunsets on the island are also known for being simply spectacular. So don’t forget your camera! This is the perfect island for you if you picture yourself whiling away your time in Indonesia on the beach or paddling in clear waters.
The Gili Islands
There are three islands that make up the archipelago known as the Gili Islands. These are situated close to the coast of Lombok. The largest of these three islands is Gili Trawangan, but it’s still possible to bike around the whole of the island – that gives you an idea of just how small these islands are! You will be able to visit the island’s turtle sanctuary and say hi to its cute residents as well as visit large coconut groves. Of course, the beaches on all the Gili Islands are amazing, and you will be able to sunbathe and relax on the sands if you prefer. If you enjoy a good night out then Gili Trawangan is the island for you as it boasts a pretty great nightlife scene and there are plenty of bars to keep you entertained!
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Nusa Penida
As you can see at https://www.seekseetravel.com/home/2017/7/25/travel-tips-for-nusa-penida-bali, there is so much to do on the island of Nusa Penida! It’s really close to Bali so will be easy for you to get to. It’s a very peaceful island and features unforgettable beaches, seaweed farms and excellent spots for watersports.
Hopefully, this blog post has helped you decide which Indonesian islands to visit when you take your trip there!