GUIDE TO INDONESIA

WHERE TO VISIT IN BALI & BEYOND

Where do you start with a holiday to Indonesia… a country which spans over 3,000 miles? It can seem overwhelming. That's why many visitors begin with Bali, and with good reason. Bali is one of the most popular Indonesian islands and offers so much to the modern traveller, including the well-known hospitality of its people. While some areas are affected by over-tourism, specifically the beaches in the south and Ubud, most of Bali remains entirely unspoilt. Nearby Lombok is also an incredible island destination, particularly for those with Robinson Crusoe beach fantasies.  

Slightly further afield, Java is home to world-class cultural and historical sites, including the incredible Borobudur Temple Complex and outstanding volcanic scenery. Sumatra and Sulawesi remain superb 'off the beaten track' destinations, with so much to discover in terms of culture, wildlife and scenery. Surfing, cultural exploration and glorious beaches mean that Sumba should be on the radar for those after a dreamily distant yet accessible destination. Flores is well-known for its Komodo dragons and works as an excellent base for wonderful yachting trips to deserted beaches, coves and islands.

Indonesia is brimming with incredible wildlife you can witness ethically in its natural habitat.

So, with its rich history, culture, wildlife and offerings of endless land and water-based activities, Indonesia's islands are simply an incredible holiday destination.

Suggested itineraries in Indonesia

From beach holidays in Bali and Lombok to a thrilling close encounter with wildlife in Sulawesi or cultural explorations in Java, there is an incredible variety of experiences for holidays in Indonesia.  

Most people would at least consider Bali and Java as part of their trip. Still, Lombok, Sulawesi, Sumatra, The Maluku Islands, Sumba, Flores and West Papua and Sumbawa have their own charms. Hiking through lush forests, climbing volcanoes, exploring rich cultural sites, snorkelling in stunning island waters, or perusing the local food markets for a taste of traditional delicacies: it's all there for your Indonesia experience.

Here at  ETG, we love crafting distinctive holidays unique to you. Before doing anything, we get to know you - as that enables us to create your dream Indonesia holiday itinerary. In addition, our in-country presence means we offer up-to-date knowledge and fantastic on-the-ground support and guidance. We work closely with our partners to source the best local guides, so your holiday is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

We love crafting distinctive holidays, unique to you. Our in-country presence means we offer up-to-date knowledge and fantastic on the ground support and guidance. We work closely with our partners to source the best local guides so your holiday is a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Pick up the phone and find out why our customers say it’s a pleasure to deal with our consultants.

Popular hotels in Indonesia

Indonesia was one of the birthplaces of the boutique hotel, and it is still home to some of the best in the world. More recently, this style has spread to islands such as Java and Flores, where you'll find properties with a similarly understated charm but realised within the local vernacular.

On islands where tourism is less developed, you'll uncover the occasional gem, but most are simple options that offer a base from which to experience your stunning surroundings. If you're someone who finds locations or experiences the essential part of a holiday - despite less than stellar accommodation - Experience Travel Group can help ensure you find those gems and let you know what to expect.

What you are unlikely to find on an ETG holiday is a bland or corporate hotel. Instead, we feature Indonesian hotels that speak to the destination and are part of the local community, allowing you to understand and experience your environment.

Before you travel to a country like Indonesia, you'll want to be sure that you have all the required information necessary for staying safe and healthy, ensuring you have the correct visa information and relevant travel insurance.

Experience Travel group have a wealth of information for our customers on our website and also once you confirm your holiday, as part of our ‘journey’ on our app, customer portal and sent in our exciting pre-departure packs and email.

The consultants are always up to date on the latest travel advice, and while trips are not listed, but tailor-made, they all have protection and the ATOL license. Through the ATOL scheme, customers would receive the ATOL certificate then the booking details.

We offer 100% protection and bonding on all of our holidays.