5 Reasons Why Indonesia Is On My Travel Bucket List

Indonesia is one of the (many) places I regret not travelling to when I was young and carefree with zero responsibilities. Known as the 'Land of the Dragons', it is a country steeped in history, culture and beauty. The best time to travel is between May and September and it is definitely somewhere we'll be stopping off on our epic round the world trip we have planned when the children are older.

We will probably travel via a cruise and stop off at a few other destinations as part of a longer trip, but it's just as easy booking online and hotels such as the Aston Anyer Beach Hotel are available with Ocean views and Wifi at seriously bargain prices (I'm talking under £10). In fact,  it is very possible to travel around Indonesia on a complete shoestring and spend less than £5 per day if needed.

Here are the top 5 places I would love to visit whilst travelling through Indonesia:-

Beaches

Bali Beach

I think it's fair to say that Bali has some of the best beaches in the world. White sands lined with palm trees and beach huts selling fresh, local food sounds perfect to me.

Borobudur Temple

Borobudur Temple

The Borobudhur Temple is the world's largest Buddhist Monument. At over 1000 years old, the temple is still actually used for pilgrimage to this day and once every year Buddhists will visit to celebrate Vesak. Entry to the temple costs just 20 USD per adult. There are over 500 Buddha statues in and around the temple and they all look the same but on closer inspection, they all have tiny differences. Amazing!

Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary

The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary in Ubud is dedicated to conservation of the area and is a research centre specialising in monkey behaviour. There are around 600 monkeys living in the forest and visitors are able to walk through the trees and observe the monkeys in their natural environment. 

Food

Of course food always features high on my list for reasons to travel somewhere and Indonesia is no different. Indonesian cuisine features complex flavours and spices and varies depending on which area you are visiting. An example of a popular dish would be Nasi goreng (fried rice) with Chicken and Satay sauce. You can dine in 5* restaurants or shacks on the beach in Indonesia, I am planning on doing both!

Sekumpul Waterfalls

The Sekempul Waterfalls are said to be some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bali. The waterfalls are set in the middle of the jungle and guided tours are recommended. To get to the waterfalls you have to cross through waist-high water, descend slippery rocks and hike for mile (I can only hope it wouldn't end up like Danielle's experience of hiking Mount Rinjani). Despite the challenge, most people will tell you that the waterfalls are absolutely breathtaking and worth the journey.

So there you have my top 5 reasons to visit Indonesia. Sometimes I wish I could fast forward time and visit now! If you've visited, I'd love to hear your tips too.