Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago. There are more than 18,000 islands, about one-third of which are inhabited. These islands are also home to the fourth-largest population in the world. The tropical country is well known for its rich culture and breathtaking scenery.
The region is also of significant interest to history buffs. Due to its subcontinental heritage, there are a large number of ancient temples, the most famed being Borobudur. If you’re planning to visit Indonesia, there’s plenty to see. But before you leave, remember to purchase travel medical insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones against any unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries.
Indonesia Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
It is not uncommon to fall ill in tropical countries. The infectious diseases found in these parts of the world, like typhoid and malaria, wreak havoc on a tourist. The state of public healthcare in Indonesia leaves much to be desired, and the only option is to get treated at private hospitals.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Indonesia?
Indonesia no longer requires visitors to purchase travel medical insurance, but it is strongly recommended for all travelers.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Indonesia?
Snorkeling through the day and partying through the night makes for an ideal vacation after a hectic year. But it can quickly go south if you catch a bug. Besides, so many outdoor activities come with the peril of accidents. Always remember to buy travel medical insurance before you travel to Indonesia.
Things to Do for Travelers in Indonesia
There is no lack of things to do in Indonesia, from exploring temples to relaxing on pristine beaches. The experiences that this island nation offers are blissful and unforgettable. From hiking up one of the world's largest volcanoes to deep-sea diving, you can choose whatever suits your temperament.
- Splendid beaches of Bali: Bali is famous among travelers for several reasons, but its beaches surely top the list. In 2017, this island was named as the world's top tourist destination. The most popular is Kuta Beach, one of the best surfing beaches in the world. The best time to visit is November, when the seas start to swell due to rain. Seminyak is a more upscale beach that not only offers a lovely view of the sunset, but also a pulsating nightlife.
- Travel to Borobudur: Borobudur is known for its gigantic Buddhist temple with an area of 2,500 square meters (almost 27,000 square feet). Buddhism has spread here from Thailand and Cambodia, and the temple is as big as Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Constructed in the 8th century, it is located in Java and has a square base made of five terraces, on top of which is a colossal stupa surrounded by 72 smaller stupas. The temple was abandoned in the 11th century but rediscovered in the 19th century. It is now a major Buddhist pilgrimage site.
- Watch orangutans: There are several orangutan sanctuaries in Indonesia. These incredible primates have almost the same genome as humans, and that is easy to see when they are in the wild. The way they communicate and play is exceptionally similar to humans. The largest sanctuary is in Tanjung Puting National Park in Kalimantan, the Indonesian part of Borneo. With direct flights from Jakarta, the national park is easily accessible to tourists, and spending a couple of days here has to be part of your itinerary.
- Gili Islands: The Gili Islands have emerged in the past decade as a hip destination. They are a cluster of three islets—Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno, and Gili Air—with coastal waters well suited for diving and snorkeling. After exertion below the sea all day long, hit the plethora of bars in Gili Trawangan. With dance music blaring out of every party and filled to the brim with foreign tourists, it is a place that is lively and fun-filled.
- A day with dragons: No, you do not have to wander into mythology to find dragons. Just visit Komodo. The Komodo National Park is home to these massive reptiles. Located in the Sunda Islands, it offers you a close encounter with these lizards, which measure up to 10 feet long and can weigh 300 pounds (3 meters long and more than 135 kilograms). Don't get too close, though, because they can suddenly break from their lumbering walk into a fast sprint.
Travel Risks For International Travelers in Indonesia
Travel is supposed to be relaxing. It almost always is, but bad luck does happen. A trip to Indonesia has many activities and is packed with excitement. But you could suddenly be seized by cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment means you would have to hop islands on a plane and return to Jakarta or Surabaya as soon as possible. A trip to Indonesia is not without perils.
- Alcohol poisoning happens sometimes in Bali and Gili. Keep your drink close to you, and drink responsibly.
- Credit card fraud through skimming is common. Do not let your card out of sight while it is being swiped. Insist that the card be used in front of you.
- Petty theft and purse-snatching occur on and off. It's better not to wear jewelry that is too expensive. Keep your valuables close to you.
- Tropical diseases do occur in Indonesia. Be wary of insect bites, and observe food and drink sanitation to avoid typhoid.
- Keep in mind that you may run into trouble with the authorities if you attempt to rent a motorcycle in Bali. The government announced that tourists are to be banned from riding them in March, 2023.
Before You Travel to Indonesia - Do This
Have fun, and make merry. But remember this advice:
- At all times, be very careful with your travel documents. Losing them means spending valuable time at the embassy obtaining a duplicate passport.
- Be cautious when you are partying. In a strange land, a disaster is just a heartbeat away.