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Climate

Straddling the equator, Indonesia tends to have an uniform climate. High rainfall and tropical heat lend a high humidity and in turn have most of the country covered in tropical rainforest. The wet season runs from October to April, with rain falling in short and sudden downpours interrupted with sunshine. The dry season is from May to September.

Health

This is a malaria-prone area in general, but some areas such as Bali are mainly malaria-free. It is also worth remembering that there are not too many mosquitoes at sea so it's highly unlikely you'll catch malaria on an Indonesia diving cruise.
The tap water in Indonesia is definately not safe to drink unless well boiled. Bottled drinking water is cheap and widely available.
It's recommended that you seek medical advice about immunisations at least six weeks before your trip.

Tourist Visas

In February 2004 changes were made to the visa regulations. We summarise them below but check your own position again prior to your trip. 11 countries are eligible for a 30 day stay, with a free permit issued on arrival. They are: Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Philippines, Hong Kong SAR, Macau SAR, Chile, Morocco, Peru and Vietnam. Your passport must be valid for at least another six months.
Citizens of the following countries Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Luxembourg, Maldives, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Russian, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and United States of America. can obtain an entry visa upon arrival in Indonesia by paying a fee of USD $25 for a 30-day stay and USD$10 for a five day stay. Payment is made upon arrival in Indonesia. You can also obtain a visa prior to arrival from any Indonesian Embassy or Consulate.
This visa on arrival is not extendable and not convertible into other types of visas. It is available at all international airports and major borders. If you are crossing at an unrecognised entry post you will need a visa in advance. All visitors must have a valid passport for at least six months from the date of arrival. Proof of a return ticket is also required.
If you come from a country NOT listed above, or you wish to stay on vacation for more than 30 days then you must obtain your visa overseas before entering the country. For Portuguese and Israeli nationals there are other specific requirements.

Communications

Internet cafes are popular in the main cities and tourist areas but connection speeds are slow.

Behaviour

The left hand is considered unclean as it is used to wash after visiting the toilet, so never hand over or receive things with this hand as it will be viewed as offensive. Shake hands, right handed of course, when introduced to anyone when arriving and leaving.
A person's head is regarded as the seat of the soul and therefore sacred, so to touch somebody on their head will also cause offence.

Tipping and bargaining

Tipping is not normal practice but is expected for special service. Generally if someone makes the extra effort for you, a tip is welcome. Bargaining is common game in Indonesia with the exception of restaurant meals, transport and sometimes accommodation, where the fee is generally fixed. When bargaining, don't show too much interest and keep it friendly. Be prepared to walk away and quite often you will be called back and offered the price you previously suggested.

Clothing

With temperatures ranging between 25 and 35C, light, casual clothes are the most practical. Natural fibres like cotton or linen are the most comfortable in Indonesia's often humid conditions. Casual clothes are acceptable in must places and a lightweight suit and tie are usual for business or formal meetings. Light cotton dresses are generally acceptable in most situations. Batik is popular for both men's shirts and women's dresses. When exploring the night-life, tight dresses, shorts, and miniskirts pose no problem. However, naked sunbathing or topless appearance in public places is considered offensive, especially when you are outside the main touristic areas. You must wear conservative clothing when visiting temples, mosques or other places of worship.

Criminality

The vast majority of Indonesians are honest people with a strong sense of right and wrong. Tourism however does attract pickpockets and thieves the world over so to ensure an enjoyable stay, use some common sense. Be aware and don't leave valuables unattended.