With so much to do and see in Indonesia the there are infinitely many options to cater for all preferences from relaxing on the beaches of Bali to witnessing the pristine wilderness of islands like Flores and Sumatra or immersing in the lively culture of Java. Just like any other tourist hot-spot, Indonesia does pose a few safety concerns, which certainly should be taken into account. Indonesia is quite tourist friendly however, in order to make sure of your security, it is always advisable to have a thorough knowledge about the places to visit, be cautious about your surroundings and respect the culture. Besides, the necessary tips regarding security, health, transport and social behaviour will not only ensure a trouble free journey, but will be more fun.
Get Your Affairs in Order Before You Leave
Planning is the most important factor in your safety in Indonesia. First of all, check your home country’s travel advice to be sure nothing has changed. Most countries still advise a greater degree of caution owing to terrorists and natural calamities, and some areas of Papua require a much greater order of caution. Secondly, have a valid comprehensive travel insurance, including medical problems, evacuation and trip interruption, as the health services along the country vary greatly. Your passport should also be valid for 6 months after your departing date. If your country needs one, try to obtain a visa before travelling. Research everything you can about the places you will visit, watch volcano alerts, check the weather, etc. Finally, inform your embassy or consulate of your travel plans in case they should need to contact you.
Keep Your Health in Check While Traveling
For traveller’s in Indonesia the main health hazards tend to be related to contaminated food and water and mosquito borne diseases. Stick to bottled waters and don’t use ice in your drinks unless sure of where its come from. Extra caution should be taken with street foods, and eat only those places with a high turnover of food. As traveller’s diarrhoea is quite common, take some basic medication with you. Visit a doctor or a travel clinic prior to leaving to discuss what additional vaccinations may be appropriate for you, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid and routine immunisations.you maybe advised to take additional malaria or Japanese encephalitis treatment if planning to travel to rural or wooded areas. Apply skin covering insect repellent, consider wearing full length clothing when in the evenings and use mosquito nets wherever possible. Read up on where you can obtain good medical care, including some recommended large hospitals in Bali or Jakarta.
Stay Safe & Crime Free
Small scale theft (e.g., pick pocketing and bag snatching) is prevalent in crowded areas, busy markets, beaches and in tourist areas and is mainly commited by youths, so be vigilant. Avoid carrying too much cash and valuables when travelling about and keep valuables in hotel safes and carry money in travel-conscious belts or small hidden pouches. Avoid wearing conspicuous jewellery or carrying expensive electricals. Avoid travel alone at night in entertainment districts and do not leave your belongings unsupervised on the beach. Likewise there is a problem with credit card duplication and ATM cloning in Bali with robbery at the cash point so use ATM’s inside banks and review your bank statements. Violent crimes like mugging and attacks are uncommon but sexual assault has been reported in places like Bali and Lombok so female travellers should take care, particularly when travelling alone or at night.
Travel Safely by Road, Sea & Air
Transport is up there as one of the higher risk areas for the visitors. Road traffic accidents are inevitable given the haphazard nature of driving here, the lack of maintenance of roads and the wide prevalence of motor bikes and scooters. Always wear a helmet while riding and never travel after dark on windy mountain roads. Use good quality ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek rather than a random driver-cab. If you are floating or cruising between islands, make sure to use reliable providers and check the weather conditions, as the seas can become very turbulent during the monsoons. Stick to the major airlines for journeys within the country. Do not attempt to drive yourself unless you are experienced and know the area very well, always check the qualification and safety arrangements of any agency or tour operator you use.
Disaster Preparedness
Indonesia is situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire and has high levels of seismic activity, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and landslides. Make sure to download trusted alert applications and follow official sources including local Indonesian meteorological agency for live updates. Know the evacuation routes at the hotel or accommodation you are staying at and stay away from no-go areas near active volcanoes. The rainy season in Indonesia runs between November and April so be vigilant of floods and landslides especially in hilly locations. The authorities and hotel staff the best trained in emergency procedures so listen to their instructions in the event of an emergency.
Respect for local laws and cultural sensitivities
A knowledge of their culture may help you to get out of a tight spot… Cover your body appropriatly when you visit a religious building, remove your shoes when entering someone’s house or the temples. Of course there are conservative intonations in many other parts of the country away from the tourist centres too, but please remember that Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim community so do not expect much sympathy from the authorities on your choice to abide by the new criminal code…don’t flirt in public (you might offend), stay away from all drugs (the punishment is…)! Authorities in the tourist destinations may ask for IDs so you should either carry your passport and visa or a photocopy of them. Finally just have respect for the Indonesian people and learn a little Arabic!
Identify and Avoid Common Scams
There are many Tourist scams, especially involving transport, accommodation and money. Use only official bureau de change, and always check your money. Don’t allow strangers to help you with your luggage, hotel reservations or tickets at airports or ports. Be wary of friendly characters offering you free tourist guides, massage and shopping tips-these are often followed up with aggressive sales pitches at inflated prices. To avoid being fleeced through ‘good deals’, arrange for everything through your hotel or other reliable source rather than wandering around a street market. Watch out also for homosexual and other romantic scams targeting foreigners.
In conclusion,
Blend common sense, preparation and adaptability. The vast majority of travelers will have a trouble free visit if they are aware and observant, otherwise prepared and a little common sense applied. Travel in Indonesia with confidence and without worry, knowing that you are protected by insurance, in good health, using reliable transport, respecting cultural diversity, aware of the current situation and therefore can enjoy your safe travels. Have the most accurate and up to date information and heed your common sense. All that is needed for a safe memorable holiday in Indonesia.
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