Organize your stay Indonesia
Money Indonesia
Currency
The Indonesian unit of currency is the rupiah, or Indonesian rupiah (Rp). We have left a number of prices in US currency, as the dollar remains the international currency of reference, and prices, particularly those of medium and higher category hotels, were often given in this currency. However, in some places, such as Bunaken Island, accommodation and dives are quoted in euros. It is still possible to pay in rupees, but be sure to check the exchange rate beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises. Banknotes are in denominations of 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 50,000 and 100,000 rupees. Coins are available in denominations of 25, 50, 100 and 500 rupees, which you will hardly ever use. You'll often have large bundles of bills with you, and you'll often find it hard to "break" your big bills, as small street vendors will open their eyes wide at the sight of a 100,000 Rp bill. So it's a good idea, especially if you're traveling outside the tourist areas, to carry lots of small bills. Remember to break your high-denomination notes when paying for a hotel or a more upscale restaurant, even if you still have some small-denomination notes in advance. And be careful with your change. It's easy to get confused by all those zeros.
Exchange rates
In the first quarter of 2024, exchange rates were as follows: €1 = Rp16,860, US$1 = Rp15,635, CHF1 = Rp17,875, and CAD$1 = Rp11,615.
Other currencies (Australian, Thai or Japanese) are also negotiable in Bali's main tourist centers. Please note: most bureaux de change will not accept US dollar bills with an issue date prior to 2013.
Banks and currency exchange
Government offices in general and banks in particular are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 3pm or 9am to 4pm. You can change your money at banks and money-changers. The US dollar is the most widely accepted currency, especially in the more remote parts of the archipelago. Other currencies (European, Australian, Thai or Japanese) are also negotiable in major tourist centers such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, Surabaya, Bali and Lombok. Only go to authorized exchange stores (for greater security, don't hesitate to ask at your hotel reception). Calculate for yourself how many rupiahs you should get and count your money in front of the seller. Don't be paranoid, but if you realize you've made a mistake later... it'll be too late! As a general rule, however, you should be aware that exchange fees can be multiplied by five from one exchange office to another (these fees are often already included in the posted exchange rate). For this reason, it's best to use your bank card. For card withdrawals and payments, the exchange rate used for transactions is generally more attractive than the rates charged by exchange bureaus.
Bank card
If you have a bank card (Visa, Mastercard, etc.), there's no need to carry large amounts of cash. If your card is not accepted by the merchant, simply go to an ATM. In the event of loss or theft of your card abroad, your bank will offer you appropriate solutions to ensure that you can continue your stay in peace. Before you leave, make a note of the assistance number printed on the back of your bank card or available on the Internet. This service is available 24/7. In the event of a stop payment, this is immediately confirmed as soon as you can provide your bank card number. Otherwise, the opposition is recorded, but you must confirm the cancellation to your bank by fax or registered letter. Don't forget to tell your bank advisor about your trip. He or she can check with you whether your payment and withdrawal limits have been set. If necessary, ask for an exceptional authorization to increase your limit.
ATMs
All international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, Alto) are accepted by ATMs in tourist resorts and in the main towns of Bali and Lombok. Please note: if you're off the beaten track, ATMs will be harder to find, and it's best not to rely on them too much: so plan to withdraw cash before leaving the major cities. Some ATMs may not accept European cards, so look for one nearby.
ATMs are generally operated in the same way as in France. If the French language is not available, select English. "Retrait" is then called " withdrawal ". If you are asked to choose between withdrawing from a " checking account ", a " credit account " or a " savings account ", select " checking account ". Select "debit" for debit and "credit" for credit. (If you make a mistake in any of these options, don't worry - the only risk is that the transaction will be refused). Enter the desired amount and confirm (" enter "). Answer " Yes " to the question " Would you like a receipt ", and keep your receipt in a safe place.
As the euro is not the local currency, a commission is deducted from each withdrawal. Withdrawal fees vary from bank to bank, and generally comprise a fixed fee averaging 3 euros and a commission of between 2 and 3% of the amount withdrawn. Some banks have partnerships with foreign banks or allow you to benefit from their network, and offer you advantageous fees or even free withdrawals. Ask your bank advisor for details. Note also that some ATMs may charge a commission, in which case this will be mentioned at the time of withdrawal.
As a general rule, avoid carrying too much cash. It could be lost or stolen, with no possibility of recourse. Pay with your bank card whenever possible. Charges are lower than for ATM withdrawals, and the spending limit is often higher. Note that when paying by credit card, you may not need to enter your pin code. You will, however, be asked to provide your signature and, if necessary, your ID.
Hotels, restaurants and high-end stores accept them without any problem. Everywhere else, however, you'll find it more difficult to use your card, but you'll be able to find cash dispensers nearby.
Outside the Euro zone, credit card payments are subject to bank charges. Depending on the bank, a fixed fee of between €0 and €1.2 per payment applies, plus a further €2 to 3% of the amount paid by credit card. The overall cost of the transaction is therefore lower than for foreign withdrawals. Ask your bank advisor for details.
Budget & Tips Indonesia
Budget
When you choose Indonesia as your vacation destination and decide to go there without using a travel agency, the biggest expense is the plane ticket. And even if prices have tended to rise in recent years, particularly in Jakarta and Bali, you'll have a very inexpensive stay... When you're in touristy areas or big cities, you quickly forget that Indonesia is still a developing country. The malls of Jakarta and the luxury hotels of the big cities will advertise very cheap food and drinks: "Gosh, it's only a few euros! In a small warung next door, the juice is just as good, the dish just as hearty, but without the glitz, and it won't cost more than 20,000 Rp.
Cost of living
In Indonesia, the government counts 20% of the population as poor, but this figure is not in line with international standards. Two-thirds of the population live on less than $2 a day. Keep this figure in mind if you don't want to shock Indonesians, who don't understand why a family's monthly salary can be spent on one meal; or why a tourist, who is inevitably wealthy by national standards, will haggle over the price of a taxi-bike(becak) for 2,000 Rp less... In short, even if you often feel like you're being ripped off, you can't forget that 17,000 rupees is only one euro.
Tips, haggling and taxes
In stores and boutiques, hotels and restaurants, taxes are always included in the price. Apart from that, things get complicated. The Indonesian equivalent of VAT is set at 21% of the price; in restaurants, service is generally included, but not always; so if you see a 10% added to your bill, it's service. Hard to know in advance... As for tips, service is generally included in the bill. But a tip is always appreciated. Leave change in cabs. It won't make much difference to your budget anyway!
A meal in a restaurant: less than Rp 20,000 in a small street restaurant(warung); between Rp 40,000 and Rp 100,000 in a medium-sized restaurant for tourists.
A night in a small budget hotel (losmen) : around 150,000 Rp for a double room.
A night in a luxury hotel: from 1,200,000 Rp.
Breakfast: Rp 20,000/30,000 for basic, Rp 40,000/50,000 for continental.
A local beer in a bar (0.62 l): Rp 40,000.
A soda on the street: 10,000 Rp.
A pair of flip-flops: from Rp 20,000, depending on your negotiating skills.
Snorkelingmask and snorkel rental: Rp 20,000.
Short-distance local transport (ojek, becak, bajaj...): Rp 12,000.
Scooter rental: from 70,000 Rp per day.
Passport and visas Indonesia
There are four types of visa for Indonesia.
Visa on arrival
The first is a visa on arrival, valid for 30 days and costing 32€ (500,000 Rp). Requirements include a passport valid for at least 6 months and presentation of an onward ticket. This visa can be extended by visiting an immigration office and paying an additional fee. It's important to note that when flying across the country, the airline may organize a stopover in Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. In this case, you may have to pay the visa fee again, which can represent a significant expense. It would therefore be preferable to stay in the country to avoid these additional costs.
E-visa Visitor
Then there's the e-visa Visitor, also valid for 30 days, with a cost of 32€ (500,000 Rp). Conditions are similar, requiring a valid passport and an onward ticket. This visa can be applied for and paid for online at www.molina.imigrasi.go.id, with the possibility of extension via the government portal (Rp 500,000). It is necessary to create an account by providing your personal details accurately. Be sure to upload a photo of your passport and a color photo of yourself, face forward, in 4 x 6 cm format, with a minimum resolution of 400 x 600 pixels, and in JPEG, JPG, or PNG formats.
E-visa Tourism
The third type is the e-visa Tourism, allowing a 60-day stay at a cost of 93€ (1,500,000 Rp). It cannot be extended, but avoids administrative formalities during the trip. Like the Visitor e-visa, it can be applied for and paid for online at www.molina.imigrasi.go.id.
B211A Visitor Visa
Finally, the B211A Visitor visa offers an initial stay of 60 days, renewable twice, at a cost of €95. Requirements include a valid passport and a letter from a sponsor/guarantor. This visa can be applied for via the immigration website or through an agency, with costs varying according to the place of application. It can be extended for a total of 180 days in Indonesia. If you exceed the authorized duration, fines apply (1,000,000 rupiah, i.e. €62 per day for the first 60 days of overstay), and it is advisable to follow the rules to avoid complications.
If you plan to stay longer than 60 days in Indonesia, you'll need to apply for a visa run, i.e. leave the country and return to apply for a new visa. A more practical alternative if you plan to stay longer than 60 days would be to apply for a B211 visitor visa.
Before you leave, remember to photocopy all the documents you'll be taking with you. Take one copy of each document with you, and leave the other with someone in France. In the event of loss or theft, this will make it much easier to renew your passport with the consular authorities. You can also keep copies on the official website (mon.service-public.fr). Simply create an account and scan all your identity papers and other important documents into the confidential area.
Finally, as Indonesia is a huge country, you must always take distances into account; and a visa, even for two months, is absolutely no way of visiting the whole country, except perhaps on the run and by plane very often. So choose to concentrate on a few regions that you can take the time to appreciate.
Driver's license Indonesia
To drive legally on Indonesian roads, French nationals are advised to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before their departure. This document, which can be requested from the prefecture of police, sub-prefecture or town hall, requires supporting documents such as an identity document, proof of residence, a recent passport photo, the specific application form and the original French driving license. Once the application fee has been paid, the PCI is usually issued within a few weeks. It is essential to respect local driving rules in Indonesia and to ensure that the international driving license is recognized for the duration of the stay. For up-to-date information, we recommend that you consult the relevant French authorities.
Health Indonesia
Traffic accidents
They account for 30% of repatriation cases worldwide. Drive carefully and check the condition of your vehicle. Traffic is very heavy in Indonesia. Be very careful when crossing the streets. There are hardly any crosswalks. And be especially careful on motorcycles, which are particularly exposed. Even if it's unpleasant in a tropical country, please wear a helmet.
Water
It is unthinkable or suicidal to drink from the tap: use only the bottled water provided in hotels or your own bottles, and check that mineral water bottles are properly sealed.
Bites and stings
Malaria prevention requires treatment prior to departure. The first symptoms of this disease can appear several months after your return, and it can be fatal if not treated in time. This is a good reason to avoid mosquito bites and other bugs as much as possible. Mosquitoes have their own habits and timetables: in full sun, you risk virtually nothing; on the other hand, between sunset and sunrise, it's snack time for these little flying creatures. Water (lakes, swamps) and shady areas (forests, jungles) are their favorite habitats: all you have to do is leave as little skin as possible within reach of their voracious appetite (pants, long-sleeved sweatshirt, socks). At night, the best protection is a mosquito net, which can be sprayed with anti-mosquito spray for added effectiveness. For other cases of stings (bees, wasps, horseflies, scorpions), bites (ticks, spiders, snakes) or cuts, there are no real preventive measures. So it's important to be aware of your surroundings: shake out your clothes and shoes before putting them on, and lift the sheets off the bed rather than jumping on them with both feet. Wounds in hot, humid climates take a long time to heal, and can even become infected: so treat them as quickly as possible with an antiseptic and leave them in the open air as often as possible, rather than covering them with a bandage.
In the event of illness
Contact the French consulate. They'll be happy to help and accompany you, and will provide you with a list of French-speaking doctors. In the event of a serious problem, the consulate will also inform the family and decide on repatriation. To find out about emergency services and establishments that meet international standards, visit www.diplomatie.gouv.fr and www.pasteur.fr.
If you have a Visa® or Mastercard® bank card, you are normally covered by medical insurance and repatriation assistance for any trip abroad lasting less than 90 days (you don't have to pay for your trip with your card to be covered; simply holding a valid card ensures you are covered). Ask your bank for details, and carefully check the overall amount of coverage and deductibles, as well as the conditions of coverage and exclusion clauses. If you are not covered by one of these cards, don't forget to take out medical assistance before you leave.
Mandatory vaccination Indonesia
You need to think about vaccinations before you leave, sometimes several months in advance. Your other vaccinations must be up to date (diphtheria, tetanus, polio, hepatitis A and B, rabies...). A safety vaccination against yellow fever may also be considered. Make an appointment with your doctor, or with a doctor at a specialized institute or hospital, for specific advice. Advice in a travel guide is absolutely no substitute for advice from a doctor! For any further information, don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist for advice.
Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is transmitted by a nocturnal mosquito (peaks at dusk and dawn), mainly in rural areas. Depending on the region, transmission may be perennial, or limited to the rainy or hot seasons. Initially confined to East and Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent, the disease now extends to Papua New Guinea and the far north of Australia. Most forms of the disease are symptomless, but it can also lead to neurological sequelae, and even death. The Haut Conseil de la Santé Publique (HCSP) does not recommend systematic vaccination but, since September 2013, has strongly recommended it for people aged 2 months and over, in the event of expatriation or a stay with outdoor exposure in rural areas (e.g. camping, hiking, cycling, rice paddies and flood irrigation areas, outdoor work).
The vaccine is available in France from vaccination centers under the name Ixiaro® (2 injections 28 days apart, with a booster 12 to 24 months after the first injection). Vaccination by appointment only. Contact the Institut Pasteur medical center on 01 45 68 80 88.
Hepatitis A
For hepatitis A, prior immunity makes vaccination unnecessary. It is common if you have a history of jaundice, have spent a long time abroad or are over 45. Hepatitis A is usually benign, but it can be serious, especially over the age of 45 and in cases of pre-existing liver disease. It can be caught through water or poorly washed food. If you have liver disease, vaccination against hepatitis A is highly recommended before any trip where hygiene is precarious. The first injection, one month before departure, is enough to protect you for a short trip. The second (six months to a year later) reinforces immunity for decades.
Hepatitis B
High risk in the country. Hepatitis B is more serious than hepatitis A. It is contracted through sexual intercourse or blood. The hepatitis B vaccine is given in two doses, one month apart (although accelerated one-month vaccinations are available for travelers in a hurry), followed by a booster six months later to reinforce the duration of protection.
Malaria
Malaria is also known as malaria. If you're traveling through a malaria-transmitting country (especially in Africa, but also in all humid and/or equatorial zones), consult your doctor about the appropriate preventive treatment: it differs according to the region, the period of travel and the person concerned. Avoiding treatment is possible if your stay is less than seven days (and provided you are able to consult a doctor in the event of fever within a month of your return). In addition to pills, reduce the risk of contracting malaria by avoiding mosquito bites (repellent and covering clothing). The risk of being bitten is highest between sunset and sunrise, near stagnant water and shady areas.
Rabies
Rabies is still present in the country. Avoid contact with dogs, cats and other mammals that may carry the virus. The onset of the first symptoms (phobia of air and water) varies between 30 and 45 days after the bite. Once these symptoms have been observed, death occurs within a few days, in 100% of cases. In the event of any doubt following a bite, it is essential to consult a doctor, who will administer an anti-rabies vaccine combined with appropriate treatment. Preventive vaccination does not exempt you from curative treatment in the event of a bite.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection characterized by high fever, febrile diarrhea and impaired consciousness. The most severe forms can lead to digestive, neurological or cardiac complications. The incubation period varies from ten to fifteen days. Contamination occurs through stool or saliva, either directly (contact with a sick person or healthy carrier) or indirectly (ingestion of contaminated food: raw vegetables, seafood, water and ice cubes). The vaccine, which takes two to three weeks to take effect, protects you for three years. In the event of contamination and non-vaccination, treatment with fluoroquinolones is recommended.
Security Indonesia
Potential dangers and advice
Most of Indonesia is quite accessible, although precautions should be taken in the Sharia province of Banda Aceh, Papua, central Sulawesi and parts of the Moluccas. Between 2002 and 2009, several attacks were carried out in Bali (200 dead) and Jakarta, claiming numerous victims. In 2012, in central Sulawesi, there were violent confrontations with the police. In Papua, 8 soldiers and 4 civilians were murdered in the Puncak Jaya region in February 2013. The country remains unstable in certain remote regions, due to ethno-religious tribal conflicts, but in the busiest and most touristic places - airports, hotels, religious monuments, discotheques - security has been greatly reinforced. That said, recent suicide bombings in 2018 in Surabaya, the country's second largest city, call this into question. First, two churches were targeted, followed by a police station, killing nearly fourteen people in all. Daesh claimed responsibility for these terrorist acts. For all that, the whole archipelago seems pretty safe, even if a few separatist tensions may arise here and there. In fact, the last legislative elections went off without a hitch, and all the major Muslim mass organizations supported the government in its fight against terrorism. For more distant expeditions, however, it is advisable to keep abreast of political developments (traveller information website: www.diplomatie.fr/voyageurs). Special authorization is required for travel to Papua and West Papua, for example.
Jakarta was also hit by attacks claimed by the Islamic State organization in January 2016. As the sad reality reminds us, attacks do happen, but we shouldn't fall into paranoia either.
The country's economic difficulties have led to an increase in crime. Violent assaults, however, remain relatively rare. During your stay, it's a good idea to keep the following handy at all times: your passport, the telephone number of your repatriation insurance, the telephone numbers of your embassy or consulate, the numbers of your traveler's checks and the telephone and fax numbers of your bank, your national and international driver's license if you drive. Photocopy your important documents: plane ticket, passport. Keep these documents in two different places.
Talented thieves are legion. The "hottest" places are train and bus stations, where crowds are compact and jostling is frequent. The safest thing to do is carry a discreet pouch around your neck, tucked under your shirt or T-shirt. Bananas" are bulkier and more conspicuous. Never display anything that might arouse envy, i.e. jewelry, watches, etc. Keep your belongings with you on cheap, long-distance buses, and sometimes on more expensive buses and trains, especially when you're sleeping. Travel with a locked bag (with a padlock), especially on night trains.
In your hotel, beware of the window at night, and close it tightly, as some thieves are masters in the art of numbing your surveillance. Usesafety boxes to keep your belongings safe.
Beware of dishonest guides who take you to stores where they charge a percentage. Other guides will charge you exorbitant fees for excursions you could have done on your own. They're usually extremely clingy, and you'll have a hard time getting rid of them. To choose a guide, take your time and talk to him or her, or go through a travel agency. There are licensed guides - check with tourist offices. In regions where tourism is less developed, you may be observed from every angle. Children, in particular, may crowd around you, shouting " hello Mister ", whether you're Mr. or Mrs., just out of curiosity. It's just a matter of curiosity, which is actually quite funny. In big cities, you'll often come across beggars. Miserable, blind people, sometimes with amputated limbs... Follow the instructions of the local security authorities and exercise caution, avoid crowds, and don't flaunt your wealth. Indonesia is a relatively safe country, and foreigners are very welcome. Further advice is given in the Transportation section.
Travelling alone
Of course, the image of "the world's largest Muslim country" remains, but the vast majority of Indonesians practice their religion in a moderate way. What's more, Indonesia is a major destination for backpackers, many of whom are Australian or European, and many young women travel alone every year. Most Indonesians will be surprised to find you alone, and it's true, you can't escape certain annoyances and insistent demands. Usually, an imaginary husband who will be joining you in a few days' time is enough to ward off the most insistent, who are immediately very respectful. The wedding ring alone is of little use; prefer a photo of you and your lover, real or imagined, prominently displayed in your wallet. If the photo shows a child, your supposed baby, it's a free pass to peace and quiet. Most basic measure: dress decently. While beachwear is acceptable at the beach, walking around town alone in a bathing suit top exposes you to the (almost certain) risk of being accosted by a clingy character. In general, the more modestly you dress (knee-length skirts or shorts, shoulders covered), the more you avoid this kind of trouble. And if you're dealing with someone really clingy, be as prudish as possible. In most countries of the world, women's liberation boils down to the following equation: Western woman = easy woman. You've got to show it's more than that! The final (and sometimes major) danger: Balinese gigolos. The island is now famous for these men, often very handsome, who sell their services to wealthy, lonely Western women, directly or indirectly ("my uncle has just died, I have no money to pay for the funeral"). If you're a single woman, you're a potential prey. Single men are also very much in demand, whether by women or men: a Western boyfriend is often perceived as a source of financial tranquillity, which makes him very attractive when you have a family to support.
Travelling with children
Travelling with children in Indonesia doesn't immediately seem to be a matter of course, yet many families enjoy their stay here. Indeed, Bali and Lombok, as well as Manado/Bunaken, Yogyakarta and even Flores, are real tourist hubs, equipped with all the infrastructure recommended for comfortable family travel. You can travel in comfortable chauffeur-driven 4x4s from one tourist site to another, take the train, the plane, and so on. Off the beaten track, however, your child needs a minimum of adventurous spirit and a certain natural wisdom. The magic of colors, sounds and smells can act as powerful magnets for the traveling soul... Mid-range and upper-range hotels often offer babysitting services.
Be very careful what you feed them and, above all, make sure they drink often - dehydration sets in very quickly in the tropics.
Disabled travellers
If you have a physical or mental disability, or are going on vacation with someone who does, there are a number of organizations and associations that can help. Find out about accessibility facilities in hotels, tourist attractions and transport in Indonesia. Some urban areas may be better equipped than others.
Sea and beaches
Beaches are beautiful, but not all are open to bathing. Find out more. Currents can be dangerous, so you need to be careful: don't swim alone, too far from the coast, or after a heavy meal. Avoid sudden plunges into the water after prolonged exposure to the sun: enter gradually. Beware of sea urchins, coral, stonefish, sharks and jellyfish. Avoid walking barefoot in lagoons.
Time difference Indonesia
Jakarta is 5 or 6 hours behind Europe. The country spans 3 time zones. When it's 6 a.m. in Sumatra and Java, it's 7 a.m. in Kalimantan, Bali, Sulawesi and Nusa Tenggara, and 8 a.m. in the Moluccas and Irian Jaya. For example, when it's midday in France, it's 6pm in Java, Sumatra and Kalimantan. Similarly, when it's midday in France, it's 7pm in Bali, Lombok, Komodo, Flores and Sulawesi, and 8pm in Papua Indonesia and the Moluccas. It's always advisable to check the exact time difference at the time of your trip, as it can vary according to region and changes linked to daylight saving time in France.
Spoken languages Indonesia
There are some 580 languages and dialects spoken in Indonesia, often belonging to the Malayo-Polynesian languages of the Western group of the Austronesian family. The most important are Javanese, Soundanese, Lampung Pesisir, Madurai, Minangkabau, Malay and Balinese. None of these languages is in the majority in relation to the total population, and although Javanese is spoken by the largest number of Indonesians, it is Indonesian Malay, Bahasa Indonesia, that has become the official language. This language was imposed by the fathers of independence as a factor in the construction of national identity. This has worked well, for today Indonesian is spoken almost everywhere, by almost three quarters of the population, except in very remote regions such as Papua. Bahasa Indonesia is not very difficult to learn, as it is in fact a simplified Esperanto, and if you learn a few words and expressions it can be very useful. The language also borrows words from Dutch, Arabic, Chinese, Sanskrit, Portuguese... But most of these borrowings are English words. In tourist areas, English is unquestionably the lingua franca: in hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, near monuments, on the beach... you'll always find someone who speaks English.
Communication Indonesia
How do I call?
To call from Indonesia to France, dial +33 followed by your correspondent's number without the 0. To call from France to Indonesia, dial +62. Collect calls are generally not possible from Wartel. In a hotel, dial 101 and you'll get an international operator.
Cell phones
Your cell phone or smartphone will work on the Indonesian network, unless it's a little dated. So be careful not to overuse it, or your bill may well increase. Instead, we recommend buying an Indonesian SIM card. They're available everywhere, and require no paperwork. It will work provided you have de-locked your phone beforehand. We recommend Simpati (Telkomsel company); cards are easily recharged by buying units (20, 30, 50 or 100,000 Rp) at many local kiosks, stores and outlets. These cards contain a code that you can use to top up your account. Please note: when you buy a recharge card, you are generally charged more than the value of the recharge itself; up to Rp 60,000 for a recharge of Rp 50,000. You can also enlist the help of a local resident or your accommodation to recharge your cell phone directly from their phone. All you have to do is hand over the corresponding amount in cash. If you want to keep your French plan, you'll need to activate the international option (usually free) by calling your operator's customer service before you leave. Who pays what? The rule is the same for all operators. When you use your French phone abroad, you pay for the call, whether you make it or receive it. In the case of an incoming call, your correspondent also pays, but only the price of a local call. All calls made to or from abroad are not included in the package, including those to voicemail.
Other ways to call
There's also Skype, Line, Viber, WhatsApp and all the other applications that let you make free calls from your smartphone. Provided you use a free wifi connection.
Electricity and measurements Indonesia
Almost everywhere in Indonesia, electricity is 230 volts. In most cases, sockets (type C and F) are provided for the various electrical utensils we take with us on our trips, but sometimes the hole spacing is different, so remember to buy an adapter before you leave and a power strip to plug everything in at the same time. If you're staying in high-end hotels, don't worry, they'll provide you with one. Don't forget a flashlight and batteries. Note that trains and buses often include electrical outlets.
In Indonesia, the metric system is used for measurements. Temperatures are generally expressed in degrees Celsius, distances in kilometers, and weights in kilograms.
Luggage Indonesia
What to pack?
Travel light! You'll find almost everything you need locally, for very little money, and you'll be able to bring back many more souvenirs on your return. In addition to your usual belongings, we recommend: a small backpack, good walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sun cream, a light sweater for cool evenings or mountain hikes, a lighter or box of matches, a flashlight with spare batteries, a Swiss Army knife, a first-aid kit, a mosquito net and everything you need to hang it up, a meat bag. Soap and shampoo can be found everywhere, but shaving cream and razors are a little rarer and not necessarily of good quality. Tampons can be hard to come by. Buy a sarong quickly on the spot, as it will be very useful: outside tourist areas, women must wear a sarong when bathing, and its use is also compulsory in Balinese temples. Outside the major tourist centers, sloppy dress is frowned upon, so pants and a shirt are de rigueur. Dress a little more elegantly, as you may be invited to a wedding or party. If not, buy yourself a nice Indonesian outfit on the spot(kebaya for women, batik shirt and sarong for men). Be careful when riding a motorcycle: the sun burns the skin and the wind often seems icy cold. Where there are massive coral reefs, wear rubber sandals or tennis shoes. Coral is sharp and wounds quickly become infected. A jacket or poncho-style waterproof garment will be welcome in case of heavy showers, unless you sacrifice yourself to the local custom of using a banana leaf as an umbrella.
Regulations
Generally speaking, 23 kg of baggage is allowed in the hold for economy class, and 30 to 40 kg for first and business class.
Some airlines allow two pieces of hold luggage up to a total weight of 40 kg. Find out before you leave what your ticket allows.
In economy class, one piece of hand luggage and one accessory (handbag, laptop computer) are allowed, all of which must not exceed 12 kg or 115 cm in size. In first and business class, two pieces of baggage are allowed in the cabin. Liquids and gels are forbidden: only tubes and bottles of 100 ml maximum are tolerated, and then only in a closed transparent plastic bag (20 cm x 20 cm). The only exceptions to this rule are baby food and medicines accompanied by their prescription.
When it comes to excess baggage, airlines are now rather strict. If they sometimes let you off the hook for 1 or 2 kg too much on certain destinations, you'll have no margin at all on others. If you're traveling light, don't be surprised to be accosted several times in the check-in hall by other travelers who want to take those kilos you're not using. The choice is yours, but this practice is forbidden, especially if you don't know what you're being asked to carry. It's true that once you've exceeded the weight limit, the axe comes down, and it comes down hard: €30 per extra kilo on a long-haul flight with Air France, €120 per extra bag with British Airways. Note that airlines sometimes offer discounts of 20-30% if you pay for your excess baggage on their website before you get to the airport. If the cost is still too high, you still have the option of sending some of your belongings by post, if the destination allows.
On average, 16 out of 1,000 passengers don't find their luggage on the conveyor belt on arrival. If you're one of the unlucky ones, go to your airline's counter to declare your baggage missing. For your claim to be accepted, you must react within 21 days of the loss. The airline will provide you with a form, which you should return by registered mail with acknowledgement of receipt to its customer service or baggage claims department. In most cases, you'll get your luggage back within a few days. In all cases, the airline is solely responsible and will have to compensate you if you do not see the color of your belongings again (or if some items are missing from your baggage). The reimbursement ceiling is set at €20 per kilo, or a flat-rate compensation of €1,200. If you consider that the value of your belongings exceeds these ceilings, you are strongly advised to inform your airline at check-in (the ceiling will be increased for a fee), or to take out baggage insurance. Please note that hand baggage is your responsibility, not that of the airline.
