Made of thousands of volcanic islands and home to hundreds of ethnic groups speaking many different languages
The most prominent religion is Muslim, with the exception of Bali (and its small surrounding islands) that practice Hinduism
Capital: Jakarta, on the island of Java
Currency: Indonesian rupiah
Population: ~249.9 million
If arriving in Bali, make sure to get a taxi at the counter when leaving the airport. They have fixed prices that are likely cheaper than you'd get finding one on your own
Again in Bali, where 90% of residents are Hindu, you'll find Canang sari - offerings made of woven palm leaf, flowers and herbs
Look for "Warung," small, family-owned restaurants that serve the cheapest and most delicious local food
The local beer is Bintang, a light, refreshing pilsner - it's pretty good, but relatively expensive by SE Asia standards at about 20,000 IDR ($1.50)+ per bottle
Green Travel
Take public or shared transportation like Perama Tour
Bring reusable, packable daypack or grocery bag to avoid plastic shopping bags
Limit the use of non-organic waste, such as plastic water bottles
Tap water isn't drinkable in Indonesia - see our list of more sustainable water options in the Sustainable Travel Guide
Responsible Travel
Find and eat at locally-owned restaurants, called "Warung's" in Indonesia
Support restaurants and shops that have a community giveback in place
Approximately 90% of Balinese are Hindu - learn about it to better understand the local culture and customs
Don’t step on offerings (canang sari) which the Balinese put on the sidewalk or street first thing each morning in the street
Don't feed the monkeys, as many now heavily rely on snacks from tourists rather than finding natural sources of food
Donate or pay when visiting historical/cultural landmarks - the money usually goes toward protection and preservation of the landmark
Limit public displays of affection, which can be considered offensive
Stay away from the head - it's sacred
Don't ride elephants - all have been through a horrible "taming" process in order to be ridden by tourists
