Motorcycle snatch and ride scene

Why CRIME isn’t a big issue in Indonesia plus common-sense rules for protecting yourself and your things regardless

Not a real robbery but rather a scene from a TV drama shoot – none-the-less be aware that this kind of petty theft can happen in Indonesia and other Asian …

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Bali Bombings Memorial

SAFETY and SECURITY – Debunking the myth that Indonesia is a dangerous country to visit

Memorial at Kuta in Bali to the more than 200 people who died in the terrorist bombings of 2002. Pic Jonathan Liem – Wiki Commons Many people are nervous about …

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Passengers arriving in Bali international airport

VISA RULES – Covid restrictions eased for holiday visitors to Indonesia

Two Visa options aimed at bringing back tourists As of October 2022, it’s relatively easy for holiday travelers to visit Indonesia, provided you are vaccinated against COVID-19 and intend to …

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Students at Jogjakarta lamguage school playing games as part of learning Indonesian

Beating the language Barrier – understanding and being understood when you visit Indonesia

Most of us fear finding ourselves in a foreign country where we are unable to speak a word of the language. This is perfectly understandable. Not so long ago it …

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Staff of Indonesian medical centre in full PPE during the COVID Pandemic

Staying healthy when you visit Indonesia – what are the risks? How good is the care?

You probably wouldn’t give too much thought to health issues if planning a holiday in Bali, right? Yet if you are like most people, you might get all get all …

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Western woman haggling for souvenirs

Haggling and bargaining in Indonesia – the when, the where and the how

Many Westerners find the idea of public bargaining for goods and services uncomfortable, even a little distasteful. Unlike the societies of Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, it’s just …

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Indonesian money changer counting banknotes

Managing your travel money in Indonesia – safely, easily, and without being ripped off

Dealing with strange ‘foreign’ money in unfamiliar places can be daunting. Especially if you are a first-time visitor grappling with banknotes in unfamiliar colors with stratospherically high denominations.  I well …

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