Indonesia advice?

[ChrisP]

Just found out I have an opportunity to go to Indonesia in August (I know its like a year away but I'm excited). I'll have about 3 weeks to adventure there.

Does anyone have advice for the best things to see while I'm there? Anything I should know in advance?

I'd be especially interested in suggestions people have for going off the beaten path as I'm not a huge fan of the tourist hot spots, and I'm fine with things like camping in the middle of nowhere because I love the wilderness (and from what I understand getting a guide for a few days is fairly inexpensive, especially compared to Iceland which is where my last adventure took place).

Also advice for any must see photographic opportunities would be great but in my opinion some of the best images come out of things that are just great experiences in general.

Thanks in advance,
Chris

 

[alan davus]

Chris, avoid Bali like the plaque if your not a fan of tourist hot spots. In Java you could climb Mt Bromo in the very east and the Dieng Plateau in central Java is relatively remote but beautiful (well it was when I went there in the mid '70's.) Sumatra is also something of a wild place. Did some amazing trips there on little local river boats. Never made it to Borneo or Sulawesi unfortunately. Bargain for every thing, meals in the markets, bus fares and so on. People generally are great and friendly. You'll love it.

 

[Rayt]

When in August? You will likely get there during Ramadan and then Indul Fitri when getting around will be difficult so should plan ahead based on that.

 

[saxshooter]

When in August? You will likely get there during Ramadan and then Indul Fitri when getting around will be difficult so should plan ahead based on that.

Yes, definitely check on when the fasting month falls. This year it was all of August.

 

[rizraz]

Yes it will be around the muslim fasting month and eid...... travelling could get tricky closer to eid (should be around 19 August 2012 plus or minus one day) as everybody in the big cities, especially Jakarta is rushing to get back to their home town/village, but it could be a photo opportunity...... you can see the madness at the train or bus station...... I would suggest book early, I can't help you on where to go as the last time I was there was 20 odd years ago, when I was studying there.......