Fabulous Indonesia travel spots include the ever popular Bali, island resorts near Singapore such as those on Bintan and Batam, and other sublime spots like Wakatobi in Sulawesi. With over 17,000 islands, there’s obviously plenty to explore! And there are also plenty of things to do in Bali and beyond, from diving, golfing and dining to relaxing in a luxury Bali villa. We’ve done the research and compiled a mini Indonesia travel guide, including some recommendations on where to stay in Bali, from an island resort to a villa for a big group and more. You’ll also find a fact file with our tips on visas, food, money and some language phrases to get you started.
Family-focused vacation villa in Bali
Seeking some time together with the whole gang? Nothing quite does it like a big family vacation. And this Bali villa can cater for everyone, including grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins…the list goes on! Villa JOJU has nine bedrooms, including two kids’ bunk rooms. That means you can invite up to 22 family members or friends to stay.
This accomodation option is also in one of the top Indonesian travel spots, with a little something for everyone. In addition, your villa in Bali is a fully staffed property where everything can be organised for you. Meanwhile the housekeepers, butlers, chef, driver, nannies and villa manager, who acts as a concierge service with restaurant and excursion bookings, will step in to help when you need. You’ll also have a Finn’s Platinum Membership throughout your stay. This means you’ll have complimentary access and discounted food and drinks at the nearby Splash waterpark, Finn’s VIP Beach Club, and gym and fitness facilities.
If you’re bringing a hoard of youngsters, there’s loads of room outside for them to run amok. Alternatively, they can take advantage of the crafts and activities included in a stay. Watch their joy as they make slime, play family lawn games, dip their toes into the fish spa, enjoy a pool foam party, and meet a Paw Patrol, Easter bunny or Santa mascot. This Bali villa’s tropical garden is also home to four friendly pet bunnies that love a cuddle and a carrot. The property also comes with complimentary cribs, pool fencing, high chairs and sterilisers.
+65 8737 2325 | michelle@villajoju.com
villajoju.com
Island resorts near Singapore
The ANMON Resort Bintan does things a little differently, from the teepee-style tent glamping accommodation to the location just steps away from Crystal Lagoon, Southeast Asia’s largest man-made seawater lagoon. It’s an location for mixing downtime with fun activities which makes it one of the best Indonesia travel destinations and island resorts near Singapore. These range from cooling off in the turquoise waters of the lagoon, to exploring a mangrove forest or sampling the region’s culinary flavours. Better yet, this glamping getaway caters for all ages, from families with little ones to teens and couples on holiday.
Beyond relaxing in your glampsite, there’s a bunch of things to do. Nature enthusiasts can escape the crowds and take a guided kayak ride through mangroves. If that’s not up to your speed, get behind the wheel of an ATV for a ride into a forest with a guide. And foodies can learn from the resort chef how to make and cook local dishes such as Gulai Ayam, a traditional Indonesian chicken curry, and Dadar Gulung, a sweet coconut rolled pancake.
This adventure holiday and glamping experience on an island resort near Singapore comes with all the comforts you need for a relaxing vacay. For example, the teepees are fully air-conditioned, with an ensuite, private patio and space for up to four people. Plus, like with any good outdoor setup, you can sit outside with a teepee-side barbecue dinner under the stars.
+62 770 691266 | iwanttostay@theanmon.com
theanmon.com
Indonesian travel spots for diving
Set on a small island a thousand kilometres east of Bali, Wakatobi is a boutique resort that delivers relaxation, fine dining and attentive service in spades – and all in an idyllic setting. But what truly sets Wakatobi apart is what lies beyond the beach. This is one of the best Indonesia travel destinations to dive and snorkel in a collection of internationally-acclaimed sites with colourful coral and bio-diverse reefs. The island resort’s house reef is one of these sites and it begins directly in front of the property. During your stay you can also explore 40 other locations on one of the resort’s custom boats that venture out daily.
The experience at Wakatobi isn’t all about what’s in the water. The upscale accommodation options at the island resort include luxury bungalows positioned in a palm grove facing the ocean, or oceanfront villas, all with fantastic sunset views. Expect private verandahs, Asian-style outdoor showers, pools in the two-bedroom villas and more. Everything has been hand-crafted in a regional style using sustainable materials, too.
In 2025, the island resort will also introduce the Villa Residences. These larger options come with a private swimming pool, kitchen and exclusive services including a butler and private boat for snorkelling and island excursions. Other notable features of a holiday at Wakatobi include the ratio of five staff members to each guest and a five-star beachside alfresco dining experience crafted by the team of chefs. Additionally, there are conservation programmes in place that make a stay here a particularly feelgood option. These include a number of efforts to protect the marine environment and provide social benefits to the local community.
+62 361 759669 | office@wakatobi.com
wakatobi.com
Where to stay in Bali with Javanese architecture
Walk into your private villa in Bali at The Club by The Legian Seminyak, Bali and you’ll quickly notice that there’s no sound. Unlike other properties dotted along the busy streets in this popular spot in Bali, this one is located away from all the hubbub. However, once you step outside you’ll also discover that you’re perfectly positioned to explore plenty of iconic things to do in Bali.
There are four different accommodation options to choose from. The One Bedroom Pool Villas open out onto a secluded garden and shaded balé beside a private 10-metre swimming pool. If you love Javanese architecture, the Two Bedroom Joglo Pool Villa is inspired by traditional designs, including an outdoor dining structure known as a pendopo. The Two Bedroom Maisonette Pool Villa is particularly spacious, with living areas ideal for friends and families on holiday. Finally, the Three Bedroom Pool Villa is spread over two floors and includes a master bedroom and numerous places to relax.
All these private villas have been created by Indonesia’s famous international designer, the late Jaya Ibrahim. They also come with a range of perks, such as return airport transfers in a private hotel limousine and a personal butler trained by The Guild of Professional English Butlers! During your stay, you can also make full use of the resort facilities. These include Wellness by The Legian facilities, The Gymnasium powered by Technogym, morning yoga classes and Pilates at The Studio. Plus, you’ll have exclusive access to The Club Lounge with daily cocktails and canapés from 4pm to 8pm, or have these in your Bali villa.
+62 361 730 622 | reservation@lhm-hotels.com
lhm-hotels.com/en/the-legian-seminyak-bali
Indonesia travel that’s eco-responsible
Soori Bali is a resort with a holistic approach to travel, encompassing protecting the environment and also the local culture. And it’s clear why as the resort is set on a stretch of a volcanic black sand beach and surrounded by an iconic Balinese landscape – the majestic Batu Karu Mountain and green terraced rice fields.
Designed, owned and operated by renowned architect Soo K Chan and his wife Ling Fu, the property supports the environment and community from the creation to operations. For example, it’s built using stone from nearby village quarries and showcases terracotta and ceramic ornaments from local artisans.
Moreover, having it’s own foundation, Soori Bali preserves and promotes Balinese traditions, through authentic, hands-on cultural experiences. You’ll have exclusive access to the Tanah Lot temple, rescue sea turtle eggs laid on the hotel’s beach and can organise a private waterfall picnic. And there are many more things to do where guests can gain deeper insights into Balinese heritage and nature.
For these initiatives, Soori is Earth Check Gold Certified and has been recognised with a Change-Makers Award and also named a Sustainability Leader by the Leading Hotels of the World.
+62 361 894 6388 | reservations@sooribali.com
sooribali.com
# INDONESIA TRAVEL TIPS
The basics
Population: 277 million
Capital: Jakarta
Religion: Predominantly Muslim, but Hinduism is dominant in Bali
Emergency number: 112 (standard GSM number)
Some trivia about Indonesia travel
- Indonesia is one of the largest producers of nutmeg in the world.
- There are over 700 indigenous languages across the country.
- Indonesia’s Komodo dragon is the largest living species of lizard, growing to three metres.
- The Indonesian flag has identical features to the flag of Monaco; it’s just a tiny bit wider.
Best Indonesia travel destinations
Popular Indonesia travel spots include Bali, Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Lombok, Aceh and Bintan. Borobudur temple, Komodo National Park and Sumatra’s rainforests are among the World Heritage Sites and also some of the best Indonesia travel destinations if you’re looking for history and nature.
Important questions when going to Indonesian travel spots
Do I need a visa?
Rules have changed in recent times, and most visitors are now required to apply for a visa on arrival, either online or at the airport. A few ASEAN countries are exempted, including Singapore and Malaysia.
What time is it Indonesia?
Indonesia is between 7 and 9 hours ahead of GMT. Bali is the same time as Singapore, and 2 hours earlier than Sydney.
What’s the money situation?
The official currency is the Indonesia rupiah (Rp). There are ATMs throughout the country.
When’s the perfect time to explore Indonesian travel spots?
While it’s warm year round, rainfall is common from November to March. May to September is considered the driest time, but the north can also be wet throughout the year.
What’s the lingo?
The official language is Bahasa Indonesia (though English is widely spoken.) Try “Selamat” for “hello” and “Terima kasih” for “thank you” for starters!
Staying safe and healthy
- Malaria and dengue fever exist in parts of the country – use adequate protection and carry antimalarial medicine.
- Avoid swimming in freshwater streams and lakes as disease-causing organisms can be present.
- Unlabelled bottles of the locally distilled rice spirit called arak can have dangerous additives.
Cultural things
What to read: This Earth of Mankind by Pramoedya Ananta Toer. This love story takes place at the end of the Dutch colonial period.
What to watch: Laskar Pelangi (“The Rainbow Troops.”) Tells the story of 10 school children and their two teachers on a Sumatran tin mining island
Notable quotes
- “The firm tree does not fear the storm.” – Indonesian proverb
- “Because Indonesia is made up of thousands of islands, hundreds of languages and people from scores of regions and ethnic groups, my time here helped me appreciate the humanity of all people.” – Barack Obama
Last but not least
What’s a must-try dish?
Gado gado – a salad of boiled vegetables served with a peanut sauce dressing. Also, on the Hindu island of Bali you mustn’t miss babi guling, or roast suckling pig.
What should I buy as a souvenir?
Puppets! Look for shadow puppets (wayang kulit) and also wooden doll puppets (wayang golek).
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