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Traveling in Indonesia and the rest of Southeast Asia can be both very exciting and very nerve-wracking. While Indonesia offers untouched natural beauty and fascinating culture, there are also political and geographical sources of instability that may threaten to unhinge your visit. Be sure to be well-educated about the area before setting out for your holiday, and know where the local hospitals and embassies are located. The best way to keep yourself safe while traveling is to have international insurance cover that will protect you in case of emergency.
Indonesian culture has developed a strong national pride that is seen in certain types of cultural expression such as art and dance. Certain social conventions should not be violated. Be sure to avoid doing the following faux pas:
- Eating before a host
- Losing your temper
- Accepting anything with your left hand
- Public displays of affection
- Pointing
- Patting children on the head.
It is common, however, to touch strangers of the same gender during conversation and to be extremely helpful.
Smiling is part of Indonesian culture, and you will find that Indonesians smile frequently, even when in uncomfortable situations. Informality is to be expected, but there are some social codes that must be followed strictly: namely, respect for Muslim customs. Be respectful and dress conservatively while traveling in Indonesia . Light clothes like flax or linen are best suited for Indonesia 's heat and humidity. Waist sashes are required by all when visiting temples.
Some things to be very careful of while traveling in Indonesia are the threats of natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Before traveling, check your local consular information for anything that might affect your trip.
- Indonesia has suffered several earthquakes over the past few years, most notably the quake in Yogjakarta in May, 2006.
- Indonesia was hit by the tsunami that ravaged many parts of Southeast Asia in December, 2004 and another in Pangaradan in July, 2006.
- Some parts of Indonesia are home to very dangerous volcanoes. If you plan to explore or stay in any of these areas, be sure to check for any heightened volcanic activity or eruption threat.
- There is currently tension between sectarian parties in the regions of Central Sulawesi , Aceh, Papua and Maluku. Be very careful when traveling around those parts, and keep yourself briefed on the political situation before and during your trip.
The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season that lasts from May until October. However, due to Indonesia 's funeral festivals in July and August, crowds can form and prices can rise. Also, the end of Ramadan sparks the beginning of inward tourism, which also heightens prices and makes availability more sparse.
Some common illnesses in Indonesia are:
- Dengue Fever: this virus is transmitted by a type of mosquito that is most often active during the day. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pains, nausea, vomiting, and a rash of small spots. Seek medical attention immediately if you think you are exhibiting symptoms of dengue fever, as the illness can become severe.
- Giardiasis: giardiasis is quite common with travelers unused to Southeast Asian climate conditions. The illness is caused by a parasite that can be acquired through contaminated food or drink. It will affect you a week after contracting the parasite and can last up to a month. At onset, you will experience consistent diarrhea, stomach pains and other unpleasantries. If you are diagnosed with giardiasis, a regimen of antibiotics will kick the bug. If you don't have access to medical care, you can treat the problem with metronidzole or tinidazole.
- Hepatitis: there are six types of hepatitis that range in seriousness, Hepatitis A, B, C, D, E, and G. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and jaundice. Hepatitis C is the only form that has no vaccine, and is transmitted from blood-on-blood contact. If you show symptoms of hepatitis, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Malaria: malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes, and therefore can spread quickly in Indonesia . Symptoms are fever, diarrhea and severe abdominal pain. Seek medical treatment immediately if you suspect you have contracted malaria. If you have no access to a doctor, you can quell the onset of the illness by ingesting malaria tablets. To prevent catching malaria, wear long clothes when outside and always wear bug spray that contains DEET.
- Typhoid: typhoid is caused by a bacterium, Salmonella typhi , which can be carried through food and water. The initial symptoms are flu-like and can become very serious over time if untreated. Dire consequences result very rarely and can damage the stomach. If you think you might have typhoid, seek medical care immediately.
The currency of Indonesia is the rupiah, which comes in denominations of 100 to 100,000. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, and money can be changed at all banks.
For more information about Indonesia international medical insurance that we can provide, or to receive a free quote, please contact one of our expert advisers today. |
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