Facts for visitors: Useful information for business and leisure travellers

ETIQUETTE: A handshake is usually the first introduction in a business setting and is used as a greeting and farewell. It is recommended to address men as Pak (equivalent to “Mr.”) and women as Ibu (equivalent to “Mrs.”). Visitors should try to use the right hand when passing money and other objects, and are expected to show respect toward religion, culture and local values.

LANGUAGE: Bahasa Indonesia is the national language and is used in business, government affairs, education and daily conversations. There are around 300 local languages and dialects spoken throughout the country. In rural areas, people generally speak a local language and/or dialect. Most medium- and high-level businesspeople, as well as government officials in Jakarta, are able to speak conversational English. In Bali, due to the strong tourist trade, English is widely spoken.

VISA: Since January 2010 citizens from 62 countries are eligible to apply for a visa on arrival (VOA) at certain airports and seaports, regardless of the purpose of the visit. There are 20 airports, 18 seaports and one land/border crossing that facilitate VOA, which allows visitors to stay in Indonesia for 30 days and can be extended once for a further 30 days at a local immigration office. A 30-day visa costs $25. Visitors from 12 countries can acquire a free tourist short-visit visa. Since procedures and requirements change frequently, it is advisable to check online for visa prices and conditions. The tourist visa covers business travel, but only if the employer is not based in Indonesia. A one-year business visa can be issued for people with work authorisation and permission from the Ministry of Manpower. This must be obtained by the employer.

ELECTRICITY: Electrical outlets are standard 220-V, 50-Hz AC-type C or F, the same two-pin system used in most of Europe. Bringing an adaptor is recommended, as they are not readily available everywhere.

CURRENCY: As of autumn 2011, the exchange rate was roughly $1:Rp8600. ATMs can be found nationwide, but they are more common in big cities. General banking hours are from 8am to 3pm, Monday to Friday.

HEALTH: High-quality health care is available in many hospitals in Jakarta. However, in remote regions and rural areas, health services are quite poor. In big cities, there are international hospitals, clinics and 24-hour pharmacies that can attend to expatriates.

Due to the hot tropical climate, it is advisable to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Tap water is not potable, however, and it is highly recommended for visitors to consume only boiled or bottled water to drink, or when brushing their teeth. When visiting rural areas of the country, visitors are advised to carry mosquito repellent, while those heading to Bali should have an up-to-date rabies shot.

DRESS: Indonesia has tropical climate with hot and humid weather, although it is more moderate in the highlands. As the temperature generally ranges from 23° to 33°, wearing light fabrics is advised, although a sweater may be necessary in the highlands. The dry season runs May-September, while the wet season occurs between the months of October and April.

Visitors are expected to dress modestly. This applies particularly in more conservative rural areas, and especially to women, who should wear clothes that cover both the shoulders and legs. In Jakarta and Bali it is acceptable to dress in a more Western fashion.

TRANSPORT: Due to the size of the archipelago, flying is the primary means of travelling around the country. There are a number of domestic airlines offering affordable prices and frequent flights. A round-trip flight from Jakarta to Bali, for example, costs $100-250.

An international driving licence is required to hire or drive a car. Traffic in big cities, especially in Jakarta, can be very heavy during weekdays. First-time visitors are advised to take a taxi or hire a driver.

TIPPING: Hotels add a 10% service charge on top of the 10% tax. Some restaurants add a 5-15% service charge, although if not, it is advisable to tip 10-15%. For taxis and other services, tipping is appreciated and it is common to round up the fares to the nearest Rp10,000 ($1.20). Hired drivers may receive a larger tip.