With 18,110 islands, 6,000 of them inhabited, Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world offering a virtually unrivalled range of holiday options. While the picturesque island of Bali remains the most well known and the most popular of Indonesia’s tourist destinations, there is so much more on offer for those willing to step off the beaten track. Pack your itinerary with visits to: the historic monuments and temples of Central Java; the world renowned dive sites of idyllically remote Raja Ampat; the extraordinary Island of Komodo, home of the unfathomably large Komodo Dragon; as well as a range of vast tropical forests providing sanctuary to incredibly diverse wildlife from Orangutans and other primates to critically endangered Javan Rhinoceros and Tigers. The range of choices is mind-boggling but, however you decide to spend your time on this remarkable group of islands, you are sure to have some truly exhilarating experiences and some unforgettable adventures.
With a rich abundance of art deco buildings to serve as a reminder of the city’s colonial past, the metropolis of Bandung is the capital of West Java province. Set amid volcanoes and tea plantations, this bustling city is an excellent shopping destination – ‘Jeans Street’ and the plethora of local factory shops attract visitors from all over. Alternatively, take in some culture at the various theatres and museums. Day trips to local volcanoes, hot springs, and tea plantations are easy to organise – be sure not to miss the striking Kawah Putih volcano lake.
