Wonders of Indonesia

Indonesia is a collection of Islands located off the coast of mainland Southeast Asia that lies across the Equator and spans a distance equivalent to one-eighth of the Earth’s circumference. With 17,000 Indonesian islands scattered between the Asian mainland and Australia, the archipelago has more than its share of natural wonders and curious wildlife for one to travel.

Known for its diverse archipelago with a plethora of alluring sights, Indonesia must be a bookmark for travelers worldwide : the cultural core of Ubud, the colossal Buddhist stupa looming over Java, the turquoise crater lakes and cragged peaks of Gunung Rinjani, and the dazzling white-sand beaches of the Gili Islands are just some examples of what Indonesia has to offer. That’s not to mention the staggering wildlife, from huge Komodo dragons to the tiny tarsiers of Tangkoko National Park, and scores of wild orangutans cavorting among the jungles of Bukit Lawang. But beyond these obvious charms lies an abundance of undiscovered territory.The far-flung Banda Islands are a diver’s paradise, while a boat trip along Borneo’s great rivers offers a taste of traditional Dayak life.

Indonesian cuisine may seem simplistic on the surface, but scratch beneath to discover regional specialities from across the archipelago and beyond. Influences from Chinese, Middle Eastern, Malay, Indian and Polynesian cuisines find their way into kitchens across Indonesia. While rice is the favored staple, noodles are also widely popular. Chicken, goat and beef are the main meats in this predominantly Muslim country, though plenty of pork options feature in Christian areas and seafood dominates coastal menus.

All in all, Indonesia can be seen as a melting pot of cultures, with an abundance of spots that travelers would certainly enjoy, making it a must visit when traveling to that part of the world.