Indonesia flights and travel guide

Language

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, but many dialects are spoken. English is widely understood in Jakarta and tourist resorts.

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Communications

The international access code for Indonesia is +62. The outgoing code is 001 or 008 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 00144 for the United Kingdom); it is not necessary to dial the first zero of the area code. City/area codes are in use, e.g. 36 for Bali and 21 for Jakarta. For operator-assisted international calls, phone 101. The local cell phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

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Tipping

Major hotels add a 10 per cent service charge to bills. Where it is not included a tip of between 5 to 10 per cent of the bill would be appreciated. Airport porters usually receive around Rp 2,000 per small bag. Tipping taxi and rental car drivers is not mandatory, but if you do choose to tip, Rp 1,000 is sufficient for taxi drivers and a little more for rental car drivers.

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Safety

Following the bombings in Bali (October 2005), there remains a high risk of terrorism directed against foreigners throughout the country and reports indicate that terrorists are planning further attacks on Westerners and western interests and are likely to be carried out at locations frequented by tourists. The Indonesian Police are on a state of high alert in Jakarta, and have deployed additional personnel around the city. The security situation remains unsettled in Sulawesi and foreigners are advised to avoid parts of Maluku, particularly Ambon, and Central Sulawesi.

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Health

There are a number of health risks associated with travel to Indonesia and medical advice should be taken at least three weeks before departing. Malaria is a year-round risk except in Jakarta, other large cities and the tourist resorts of Java and Bali. The dengue fever mosquito is found throughout Indonesia and visitorsshould be aware of a significant increase in reported cases of dengue fever throughout all the country's provinces during the rainy season. Outbreaks of polio occurred in Java and Sumatra and a local vaccination program has been started; visitors are advised to ensure all innoculations are up to date before travel. Outbreaks of bird flu have also occurred. Human cases have been reported, andmany people have died from the disease; travellers are not at risk but are advised to avoid close contact with caged, domestic and wild birds, and ensure that all eggs or poultry dishes are thoroughly cooked as a precaution. Travellers' diarrhoea is a major risk; visitors should only drink bottled water and avoid dairy products, uncooked meat, salads and unpeeled fruit. The standard of local medical care is poor and very expensive. It is essential that you take out full medical and travel insurance covering all eventualities.

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Electricity

Electrical current is 120/230 volts, 50 Hz. A variety of plugs are in use, including the European two-pin and UK-style three-pin.

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