If you’re planning a trip to Indonesia, I highly recommend starting with Yogyakarta. This city is the cultural hub of the country, offering a rich blend of history, art, and tradition. I like to stay at the Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta, which provides a comfortable and luxurious experience. For dining, you can’t miss places like Bale Raos, which offers royal Javanese cuisine, and Gudeg Yu Djum, famous for its traditional gudeg, a sweet and savory jackfruit stew.
Instead of the typical Bali experience, I prefer the more tranquil islands of Karimunjawa, located off the coast of Central Java near Semarang. These islands offer beautiful, uncrowded beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. In Karimunjawa, consider staying at The Happinezz Hills Hotel, which offers stunning views and easy access to the islands’ natural beauty. For fresh seafood, head to Amore Café & Resto, where you can enjoy delicious dishes right by the water.
Another fantastic beach destination is Pangandaran, which is not overrun by tourists and boasts great seafood. Nyiur Indah Beach Hotel is a comfortable place to stay, offering close access to the beach and local attractions. Nearby, the Green Canyon is a must-visit for its stunning river and rock formations. Don’t forget to explore the nature preserve in Pangandaran, home to a large population of fruit bats.
Java is well-connected by public transit, and booking on the go is easy. Trains are reliable and comfortable—check Seat61 for pointers on routes and schedules. I found the trains in Java to be some of the cleanest and most comfortable in Asia. It’s a great way to travel, but it’s a good idea to book your tickets a few days in advance, especially for popular routes.
Bali still has many beautiful parts worth exploring; just avoid the crowded tourist hotspots. Enjoy the island at your own pace. If you’re looking for quieter areas, consider Pemuteran on the northwest coast—one of my favorite places in Bali. I visit twice a year for its tranquility and beautiful coral reefs. In Pemuteran, Taman Sari Bali Resort & Spa is a great place to stay, and you can enjoy excellent meals at Frangipani Bar & Restaurant.
Jakarta, while primarily an economic engine for Indonesia, is worth spending a night or two in. It’s a great place to get situated, pick up any last-minute essentials, and enjoy some local cuisine. Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta offers luxury and a central location. For food, try Plataran Menteng for high-quality Indonesian dishes, and don’t miss a visit to the National Monument or the National Museum. Be sure to avoid evening traffic, as it can be quite congested—Google Maps can help you navigate the best times to travel.
If you have four weeks in Indonesia, you’ll have plenty of time to explore a couple of volcanoes or other points of interest in Java. Should you have spare time, consider heading further east to Lombok and beyond. Keep in mind that Idul Fitri, marking the end of Ramadan, usually around early April, can cause a lot of domestic travel. Aim to arrive after mid-April to avoid the busiest travel times. Also, remember that visas are for 30 or 60 days, not by the month.
For those looking to explore beyond Java and Bali, Indonesia offers a vast array of experiences. Consider places like Raja Ampat, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi, which provide unique landscapes and cultural experiences. Surabaya, Java’s second-largest city, offers a glimpse into the real Indonesia. I’ve stayed at the Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, which is centrally located and provides a comfortable stay. For food, the malls are a safe bet, offering clean and diverse dining options. Grab and GoJek make getting around the city easy and affordable, although English isn’t widely spoken.
As always, I recommend one bag travel. It’s a great way to streamline your trip. Indonesia is a massive country with so much more to offer than just the popular tourist spots. Take the time to explore its diverse geography, cultures, and natural history. You’ll find that Indonesians are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. Have a great trip!