My little tips

Always carry small cash (IDR 2k–20k) for snacks, toilets, parking.

Download Grab/Gojek before landing.

Don’t drink tap water—use refills.

Dress modestly outside tourist areas.

Scooters everywhere → look both ways twice.

Sun is strong—SPF daily even on cloudy days.

Buy a Telkomsel SIM for best coverage.

Keep a sarong for temples/beaches.

Traffic is real → plan extra time for airport transfers.

Learn 3 words: terima kasih (thank you), permisi (excuse me), maaf (sorry).

Carry a dry bag for boat trips (rain + splash happen suddenly).

ATMs: choose “without conversion” to avoid bad rates.

Always check Google Reviews and recent photos before choosing a restaurant.

In markets, start bargaining at 50–60% of asking price.

For temples: avoid pointing feet at altars; remove hats.

Use offline maps—signal can drop in rural areas.

Buy electrolyte packets (Pocari Sweat powder) for heat days.

For scooter passengers: keep legs tucked in, road edges are tight.

Bring bug spray especially near rice fields and forests.

Weather changes fast—carry a light rain poncho.

Street food is safe if it’s busy + high turnover.

For ferries: morning departures = calmer seas.

Respect “foto bayar” signs—some places charge for photos.

Tap your table or say “Mbak/Mas” to get staff attention politely.

Wear reef-safe sunscreen if snorkeling/diving.