Reasons To Visit Indonesia
Heading up Krakatau is like trekking over Mars and as the guides tell you once you get half way: "No further or our boots melt". The basic nature of camping out on the island is outshone by the fact you will probably be the only people staying overnight and will be sleeping just metres from the ocean in the shadow of a volcano. A beautiful coral reef around one side of the island offers excellent snorkelling and the views over to the peak of the smoking Anak Krakatau are superb.
The most obvious choice for a beach destination in Indonesia would be the island of Bali. Places like Seminyak, Sanur and Jimbiran are idyllic retreats.
Indonesia is scattered with many temples and ancient monuments. Perhaps the most famous is the vast pyramidal structure of Borobudur, considered to be one of Southeast Asia’s greatest religious relics. Hundreds of Buddha images stare impassively out over the plains and the detailed galleries and terraces that lead up to its central stupa tell tales of ancient gods and battles.
There is never really a 'bad' time to go to Indonesia and the weather is good during the British summer months unlike many other Southeast Asian destinations. Even during the wet season, the rain won't dampen the enjoyment of your holiday as it falls in short downpours and it means that the scenery around you will be lush and colourful.
Indonesia is home to some incredible wildlife and the national parks in Kalimantan and Sumatra are some of the best places to see it. Trek through jungles, rivers and waterfalls on foot or by elephant to discover the wonders of nature from the orang-utan to the world's largest flower.
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Southeast Asia
Bali, with its glorious beaches, rice-terraced mountains and vivid Hindu culture, has attracted writers and artists since the beginning of last century but they have done little to change the islanders’ traditional way of life.
See a performance of Barong and Kris dance, both of which re-enact the eternal fight between good and evil. After watching the dance you visit the woodcarving centre at Mas before spending time in Ubud, the hill town known for its beautiful setting and connections with the arts.
The Banjar Village is the first stop of the trip and is where the only Buddhist Monastery on the island is located. It has a blend of Balinese and Southeast Asian architecture and its site offers a stunning panorama of the northern valley down to the sea.
The Ombak Putih was built and rigged as a traditional Buginese schooner but all modern conveniences have been added to make sure you are safe and comfortable.
Ubud has been known for centuries as an artists and crafts centre. Verdant terraces, sculptured a thousand years ago are still planted and lovingly cared for by hand.
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Further reading:IndonesiaWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout IndonesiaCountry Guides
Other countries in Southeast Asia:BorneoBurmaCambodiaLaosMalaysiaPapua New GuineaThailandThe PhilippinesVietnam