Thinking of leaving Bali? Here’s why Da Nang is rising fast among remote workers.
Latest
Is Bali still worth visiting?
Recent years, a different narrative has taken hold: overcrowded streets, relentless traffic, and growing concerns about pollution.
Explore
Cities
Travel cards
Jakarta uses several transport cards for buses and urban rail. The most useful are JakLingko, e-Money (Mandiri), Flazz (BCA), BRIZZI (BRI) and TapCash (BNI). These cards are accepted across various services, including TransJakarta buses, MRT Jakarta, LRT Jakarta and commuter trains, depending on the operator. Cards can be purchased at participating stations, banks and selected convenience stores. Bali does not have a comparable island-wide transport card system, so travelers generally rely on taxis, ride-hailing apps and local transport.
Plug adapter
Indonesia primarily uses Type C and F sockets, featuring two round pins. The standard voltage is 230V at 50Hz. Most European two-pin plugs work without an adapter, although travelers from the UK, US and other countries with different plug types will need one. Check that your electronics support 220–240V before connecting them.
Visa
Indonesia offers several visa options depending on nationality and purpose of travel. Eligible visitors can obtain a 30-day Visa on Arrival (VoA) or electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA), generally extendable once for another 30 days. A 60-day tourist visit visa is available for longer stays, with extensions subject to the visa category and immigration rules. Longer-term options include eligible business, family and remote-worker visas. Visa-free entry is available to certain nationalities, particularly within ASEAN. Travelers should also complete Indonesia’s required digital arrival declaration and pay the Bali tourist levy when applicable. Visa eligibility, fees and permitted activities vary by nationality and visa type.
Holidays
| 1 January | New Year's Day |
| 16 January | Isra and Mi'raj |
| 17 February | Chinese New Year |
| 19 March | Nyepi (Balinese New Year) |
| 21–22 March | Eid al-Fitr |
| 3 April | Good Friday |
| 5 April | Easter Sunday |
| 1 May | Labour Day |
| 14 May | Ascension Day |
| 27 May | Eid al-Adha |
| 31 May | Vesak Day |
| 1 June | Pancasila Day |
| 16 June | Islamic New Year |
| 17 August | Independence Day |
| 25 August | Prophet Muhammad's Birthday |
| 25 December | Christmas Day |
Safety
Indonesia is generally safe for travelers, particularly in popular destinations such as Bali, Yogyakarta and Jakarta. However, petty theft, tourist scams, drink spiking and traffic accidents are common concerns. Motorcycle accidents pose a significant risk, especially in Bali, so always wear a helmet and ensure you have the appropriate licence and insurance. Avoid unregulated alcohol due to the risk of methanol poisoning, respect local customs and exercise caution during demonstrations. Some remote regions, particularly parts of Papua, face additional security risks. Always check regional conditions before traveling.
Natural disasters
Indonesia lies along the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it highly vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis. Active volcanoes such as Mount Merapi and Mount Semeru can erupt with little warning, disrupting flights and nearby communities. Earthquakes occur throughout the archipelago, while coastal areas face tsunami risks following powerful undersea earthquakes. Heavy monsoon rainfall, generally between November and March in much of the country, can trigger flooding and landslides. Tropical cyclones rarely strike Indonesia directly because of its equatorial location, but nearby storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds and dangerous seas. Follow local warnings and evacuation instructions.
ATM fees
ATM withdrawal fees in Indonesia vary by bank and card type. Many ATMs historically offered withdrawals without an additional local operator fee, but this is changing. Bank Mandiri introduced a fee of IDR 50,000 per withdrawal for foreign-issued Visa and Mastercard cards in February 2026, with an increase to IDR 100,000 scheduled for 6 November 2026. Other banks may charge different amounts or no local fee. Your home bank may also apply withdrawal and currency conversion charges. Always check the ATM’s displayed fee and choose to be charged in Indonesian rupiah (IDR) rather than your home currency to avoid unfavorable conversion rates.
