Indonesia

From the relaxing sensation of water running through your palm to the rush of adrenaline from hiking around an active volcano, Indonesia’s unique geographic location has something for all of your senses. Composed of 17,508 islands, only 6,000 are inhabited by a diverse population of 300 ethnic groups.

Even with its multiple cultures, traditions, and dialects, Indonesia has the world’s largest Muslim population. Stunning beaches, exotic fishes and monumental volcanoes are part of the attributes that make Indonesia a remarkable tourist destination.

History

The predominant ethnic groups present in Indonesia today are Malays, Javanese, and Malayo-Polynesian. The religions of Hinduism and Buddhism were introduced to the islands as early as the 3rd century, through trade with China and India. It wasn’t until the eighth and ninth century, and the arrival of Muslim traders, that Islam took root among the archipelago, and reached its peak in the 15th century when the trading kingdom of Melaka embraced Islam. In the early 16th Century the Portuguese arrived, seeking to capture and dominate the valuable spice trade. Soon the Spanish, Dutch and English sent ships to the region in search of wealth, and the Dutch East India company (VOC) established a considerable presence, often through violent means. In the space of half a century the VOC went from being a trading company to a colonial master. In the 18th Century, the Dutch government took control and began its sugar and coffee cultivation (through indentured compulsory planting).

As Dutch control expanded through the archipelago more and more land was taken from traditional leaders. In 1942 the Japanese Imperial army marched into Batavia, arresting Europeans and removing signs of Dutch rule. The Japanese were harsh masters, but also provided training and impetus for the declaration if an independent Indonesia in 1945. Almost 50,000 Indonesians were killed in the ensuing war and the UN stepped in in 1947 following a particularly bloody offensive by the Dutch. In February 1948 the Dutch broke the UN agreement and launched another full scale attack, turning global opinion. As a result it was forced to negotiate independence and the Indonesian flag was raised on 27th of December 1949. Almost 50 years later the Tsunami of 2004 ravaged 487 communities. The remarkable resilience and recovery since this natural disaster is indicative of the individual ingenuity and the communal efforts of the Indonesian people. Despite a tumultuous political history and natural disasters, Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia.

Food

The national dishes of Indonesia have gained international attention from the Middle East and U.S. President Barack Obama. Adapted by the Arab traders, satay is meat marinated in turmeric, dipped in barbecue sauce and served on a stick with rice cake on the side. It is sold by vendors on the streets of Jakarta; it can also be found in Sate Ragusa. Praised as a favorite dish by President Obama, bakso is a relishing meatball noodle soup; the meatball is either made up of chicken, beef or a combination of both. Bakso is sold from pushcarts but if there isn’t any around, visit Bakso Lapangan Tembak Senayan. Recognized as one of the national dishes of Indonesian, nasi goreng is fried rice with a mixture of soy sauce, carrots and cucumbers; it is served in Menteng Plaza. Fire up your taste buds with the spicy sambal sauce served in almost every Indonesian restaurant. The sambal sauce is a special chilli sauce blended with shrimp paste, lime juice, sugar, and salt. With all the appetizing dishes of Indonesia, refresh your taste buds with something new, you never know it might become one of your favorite dishes!

Namaaz Dining

Fine dining is not just about eating a good meal, it is about the experience. If you’re in Jakarta, and your wallet stretches enough, Namaaz is a must. The first molecular gastronomy restaurant in Indonesia, Namaaz serves Indonesian food as its signature dishes. With just 28 seats, space is limited and reservations are a must. Diners are invited to experience a set course of 17 course creations that change every season. Inspired by a multitude of art disciplines and prepared through scientific techniques Chef Andrian Ishak will take you and your tastebuds on an unforgettable journey.

Bakmi GM

When you can’t decide where to go for lunch or dinner try Bakmi GM. described as serving the best noodles in town, Bakmi is authentic Indonesian cuisine that is fast, cheap and available almost anywhere in Jakarta. Order their special bowl of chicken noodle with mushrooms accompanied by fried dumplings and fried chicken wonton for a taste of Indonesia. The menu also boasts a choice of Chinese foods with a distinctive Indonesian touch. Try the coffee jelly, fresh, tasty and different.

Attractions

Komodo National Park

Named after the infamous Komodo dragon, the Komodo National Park is the perfect place to explore a variety of aquatic and terrestrial species. The national park includes three large islands such as Komodo, Rinca, and Padar which is the only place in the world where the largest lizard, Komodo, can be found. The Komodo National Park is also famous for snorkeling with 50 different diving sites. It is the home to over 1,000 tropical fishes, 260 species of coral, 70 species of sponge, and many more alluring sea creatures.

Derawan Archipelago

In the east of Indonesia, your dream destination awaits you. The Derawan archipelago consists of 31 islands. The most popular of them are Derawan, Maratua, Sangalaki and Kakaban. The astonishing scenery includes palm trees that swing from side to side while the ocean changes colors from green to blue. Accompanied by the various sea creatures such as the stingless jellyfish, dolphins, manta rays, giant turtles, dugongs and barracudas, and even whales (if you’re lucky), there will never be a dull moment. The Darawan islands has over 460 different corals and more than 870 species of fish. In fact, due to the bio-diversity, the Derawan islands are considered the third best diving sites in the world.

ARMA Museum & Resort

Examine and interpret the paintings of Balinese, Indonesian and foreign artists at the Agung Rai Museum of Art in Ubed. Enjoy art collections as well as theatre performances, dance, music, bookshops, painting classes, seminars, training programs, and special exhibitions. ARMA also provides culture workshops such as wood carving, cooking classes and batik. Elegant rooms with sophisticated architecture await at the resort of ARMA. Ponds filled with waterlily create an atmosphere of serenity as you enjoy the iconic statues. Head over to the open-air restaurant to demolish your hunger with Thai cuisine while gazing over the ancient rice fields. The resort also offers spa treatments like meditation, yoga, massages, somatic therapy, flower remedies and other soothing treatments. If you’re searching for a place of tranquility to relax your nerves, the ARMA Museum & Resort is the perfect place for you.

Bali Safari & Marine Park

Get friendly with different species of rare animals all in one place in the Bali Safari and Marine Park. The park consists of over 70 species and around 400 specimen from Indonesia as well as India and Africa. The diverse collection of animals include Himalayan bears, black bucks, African hippos, zebras, camels, ostriches, baboons, blue wildebeests, lions, spotted dear and even Indian white tigers! Mingle with the orangutang or ride on the back of an elephant through the Elephant Back Safari ride and the Animal Encounter space. Don’t miss out on the Ranthambore exhibit which is a replica of the city of Rajasthan that showcases the Komodo dragon. Keep an eye out for various free animal shows and the current show playing at the Bali Theatre. The Bali Safari & Marine Park is a day of family fun with amazing opportunities to learn about tons of animals and interact with them up close.

Natural Wonders

Tengger Semeru National Park

If you’re looking for adventure, pack your baggage with hiking shoes and a whole lot of courage. Mount Bromo is an active volcano located in the Tengger Semeru National Park, four hours away from the capital of East Java. The beauty of Mount Bromo can be seen from Mount Penanjakan. The breathtaking sight of Mount Bromo is one of a kind, the striking landscape captivates visitors and leaves them in awe. Witness the spectacular sunrise and experience nature firsthand. Above the clouds with the world under your feet, peek the sun as it makes its way up the horizon. Other mountains such as Mount Batok and Mount Semeru are also spotted from the top of Mount Penanjakan. If that experience further invokes your curiosity, take a horse ride to Mount Bromo itself. At Mount Bromo you can catch a glimpse of the crater as it releases sulfur dioxide. Remember to bring a mask in order to avoid taking in the sulfuric gas. The dramatic setting will send chills down your spine. A memorable experience worth every second of your time!

Mosque

Baiturrahman Grand Mosque

Seek spiritual healing within the walls of the majestic Baiturrahman Grand Mosque which will inspire your soul to form an unbreakable bond with the Al-Muhaymin. This ancient mosque is a symbol of Indonesia’s great Islamic history dating back to the 1200s. Some sources testify that the mosque was built in 1292 under the power of Sultan Alaidin Mahmudsyah while others argue it was built in 1612 during the rule of Sultan Iskandar. The mosque was burned to the ground in 1873 and rebuilt in 1879 by Major General Vander. The Baiturrahman mosque proved to be a gift from the All Mighty since it survived the devastating tsunami of 2004. While the houses of Banda Aceh shattered into particles of dust, the mosque stood firm sheltering the residents of the area. As a result, many people believe that the Baiturrahman mosque is protected by Allah. Not only is the history of the mosque intriguing but the facade itself is mind blowing. The body of water in front of the mosque reflects the intricate architecture which includes seven grand domes and seven minarets. Gorgeous chandeliers hang from the ceiling while Arabic inscriptions cover the walls. An epitome of greatness, the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque will restore your belief in the Al-Khaliq while the complex design mesmerizes your presence.