What to Expect When Travelling to Java
Boasting a dazzling array, from the bewitching landscapes to the very majestic volcanoes – and virgin beaches from west to east, the island is one of the best to visit in the world. Holding the status as the heartland of Indonesia, anything can be found – yet be felt here. From the crowded megacity Jakarta to the quiet and shady Ranu Kumbolo, this is Java, the Island of megacities, mesmerizing natural beauty, magical archaeological sites and profound traditions in art, music and dance.
Home to more than 150 million people, travelling to this most populated island on earth can be something adventurous. You will be fascinated right away once you stepped your feet onto the ground. Yet, there are few things to be consider, as it is important to you to know the island, the people, and the culture. Here we offered you up few things to expect when you travel to Java.
Do expect that there’s no good public transportation. Java, and Indonesia in general is one of the largest country without a decent or well- functioning transportation system.
Do expect the long driving. Traffic everywhere, ranging from Jakarta, Surabaya, even Jogjakarta involves many intra-city transportation complex issues. Better to drive not in the crowded time e.g 7am – 9 am and 4 pm – 7 pm. Travel between cities also takes long drive, so make yourself comfortable in the car.
Do expect the less-clean public toilet. Most of the public toilets are lack in hygiene and clean water. Make sure to bring wet tissue and sanitizer by yourselves.
Do expect that google map is not usually accurate. Sometimes, the destination you wanted to go is simply failed to understand by the e-maps. To prevent the wrong direction that possibly happen, check it with the local people you meet. Asking the ‘pros’ might help you better than the GPS. Or having a guide with you to avoid all the confusion.
Do expect the extreme hospitality. Indonesian love bule (a term they used to call foreigners or tourists). They are excited to see tourists, make a conversation, and taking photos with every bule they seen. You will be treated like a movie star!
Do expect that you will have the best view in the world. From rice fields to jungle and the beaches to the mountain, you will experience the most wonderful that will leaves you speechless.
Do expect to be spontaneous. Java is a big islands and most of the touristic place has never been visited by anyone. To explore that wilderness, the easier one is making your trip more spontaneous and flexible. Plan the unplanned, and bet you the lucky one to discover!
Do expect that children is friendly. Indonesian love bule, right? Even the children are so excited when they see bule, though they will call “mister, mister! or sir, sir!” to you, asking for taking photos and many more. They are not as shy as the elder, and believe it, making friends with them could be something unforgettable!
Do expect the difficulties of phone’s connection. In some area in Java Island, you’ll find that it is hard to catch the signal and good connection for phone calling, internet and et cetera.
Do expect the sound from the mosque. 5 times a day. Indonesia is a country with the biggest Muslim population in the world. And the people have to pray 5 times every day, from dawn to the evening. A man from the mosque, called muezzin, will remind them from the mosque when the praying time is come.
Do expect cheap and delicious food on the street. Java is famous with its various street food. The taste is delicious, and the price is affordable. Most of the street food is less than 1 US Dollar (IDR 13,000) for every meals, snacks, drinks, fruit and et cetera. Time to spice up your tongue!
In the end, whether it’s “good or no good,” you will still have a wonderful experience when travelling to Java. All the points above are just a small part of many ‘surprises’ that you will have. How to know that? You need to discover it yourself. Come and enjoy Java with Tripperhood Tours!