With its perfect blend of affordability, cultural experiences, warm hospitality and relatively short flight time, it’s no surprise that Bali continues to top our treasured holiday destination list.
But you’ve been to Bali too many times to mention? Indonesia – happily – is the gift that keeps on giving.
If you’re hankering for something a little different, but still after that same low price point it could be time to look at other options dotted in and around Indonesia.
READ MORE: Where to stay in Brisbane for a Mexican twist on a summer weekend staycation
Raja Ampat
Dreaming of a getaway that’s largely designed around diving and snorkelling in turquoise waters?
A lush archipelago comprising over 1,500 tropical islands and cays surrounding the four main islands of Waigeo, Salawati, Batanta and Misool, Raja Ampat is home to a wealth of marine species and vibrant coral formations.
READ MORE: What is cowboy core and how can you experience it on holiday
Western Australia named one of the top ‘places to travel this year’
Take a luxury cruise with the likes of Aqua Expeditions to visit Raja Ampat’s most picturesque islands, but if you’re going it alone, activities and day tours are plentiful. On the top of the list? Spotting rare birds in lush rainforests, paddling through serene lagoons and mangroves on a kayak tour, and hiking to viewpoints such as Playnemo.
Yogyakarta
Welcome to the heart of Java’s cultural hub, a destination celebrated for its rich history, art and traditional crafts. Before you get caught up in the holiday spirit, you’ll need to pack your walking shoes, because there’s plenty to see in Yogyakarta.
Grab an early morning start at Borobudur Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest Buddhist temple in the world, before checking out Prambanan Temple (another UNESCO site).
The Keraton (Sultan’s Palace) is a perfect addition to the list of attractions, as is shopping along vibrant Malioboro Road, strolling Taman Sari Water Castle, and for the adventurous among us, hiking Mount Merapi, an active volcano.
Borneo
Okay, not strictly Indonesia since it’s shared with Malaysia and Brunei, but since Borneo is the last place on the planet (aside from a few spots in Sumatra) where you can still see orangutans, Borneo makes the list.
There are several ways to see these gorgeous creatures in the wild; some head to Tanjung Puting National Park, for example, or they hire liveaboard boats to travel up the Sekonyer River to feeding stations in Camp Leakey, but what’s important here is to book with a trusted operator. World Expeditions, for example, which offers a 14-Day Borneo Adventure tour.
Of course Borneo isn’t only about viewing orangutans, the rainforests are also home to pygmy elephants, and proboscis monkeys – among others, while the waters surrounding Borneo (particularly around Sipadan Island) are renowned for exceptional diving opportunities.
READ MORE: Pilot reveals the ‘best kind’ of suitcase to travel with – and one kind to avoid
Bintan Island
For those still seeking that luxury resort vibe complete with golf courses, cabana service and spectacular coastal views (but could do without a strong serve of western tourists behaving badly), Bintan Island could be exactly what the doctor ordered.
The largest island in the Riau Islands and only a short ferry ride away from Singapore, Bintan Island is the perfect place for those seeking a little rest and relaxation.
Check into Club Med Bintan Island where the focus is on wellness, or consider The Sanchaya or Natra Bintan, and say yes to spending a little downtime on beaches such us Trikora and Lagoi, engaging in local water sport options (plentiful at the local resorts) and visiting local Malay villages to learn about the island’s cultural heritage. The adventurous among us aren’t excluded: you can explore the sand dunes of Busung, take guided wildlife tours or check out the abandoned ship of MV Doulos Phos.
Lombok
Whether you’re still talking about how amazing Bali used to be before mass tourism took hold, or you’re after a classic overwater bungalow for the ultimate romantic holiday, Lombok, an island located just east of Bali in West Nusa Tenggara, is for you.
Celebrated for its spectacular beaches, diverse marine life and the majestic Mount Rinjani, Gili Islands (a short boat ride away) might be known as the jewel in its crown but Mandalika with its high-end resorts, chic bars and clubs is emerging as the place to be.
Wherever you choose to base yourself, aim to visit the traditional Sasak villages of Sade and Ende, cycle through the rice terraces of Tetebatu, trek to the summit of Mount Rinjani (Indonesia’s second-highest volcano) and hit the waves at Gerupuk and Ekas which cater to both beginners and experienced surfers.
Komodo National Park
No one’s ever going to suggest foregoing a trip to the Galapagos, but for something a little closer to home (and infinitely more affordable), a trip to Komodo National Park – located in Indonesia’s Nusa Tenggara region – is a dream come true for wildlife lovers.
Spread across three main islands – Komodo, Rinca and Padar – as well as a collection of smaller islets, this UNESCO World Heritage site might be famous for its Komodo dragons, but the Park is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, from wild horses and water buffalo to long-tailed macaques and more than a few snakes.
Many cruise lines take in visits to Komodo National Park across select sailings, but if you’d prefer a longer, independent stay, be sure to take in a couple of snorkel and dive tours to make the most of the coral reefs and those manta rays.
Aqua Expeditions also has sailings between Bali and Komodo National Park.
Jakarta
There’s every chance you’ve been through the airport, but despite the chaos of city life with its 10+ million residents, Indonesia’s capital Jakarta is not only home to some of the country’s best restaurants and bars, but also its finest museums.
Base yourself around Menteng District in Central Jakarta and be sure to put the Museum Nasional, MACAN and Galeri Nasional at the top of the list for your dose of art and culture.
Explore the historic district of Kota Tua (old town) where a walk around Fatahillah Square is encouraged. A visit to Jakarta Cathedral, Istiqlal Mosque (one of the largest mosques in Southeast Asia) shouldn’t be missed.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss Ancol Dreamland – its waterpark and beach is the perfect remedy for those humid Indonesian days.
link