Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Indonesia (Plus, Itineraries)

Embarking on a Look-See trip before deciding to move to Indonesia is a crucial step. It allows you to experience the country's diverse culture, understand the daily life, and explore various cities and towns firsthand. This trip can help you make an informed decision about where you might want to live, work, or retire in Indonesia.

Recommended Itineraries

For a 10-day trip, consider starting in Jakarta to experience the bustling capital, then head to the cultural heart of Java, Yogyakarta. Next, visit the scenic areas of Bali, including Ubud and Canggu. For a 20-day trip, extend your stay in each location and add stops in the vibrant city of Surabaya, the cool climate of Bandung, and the stunning landscapes of Lombok, including the laid-back town of Kuta.

Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city, is a hub of business and culture with a population of over 10 million. Expats and digital nomads appreciate the modern amenities, vibrant nightlife, and diverse international community. The is relatively low compared to other major cities in the region.

Travel Tip: Visit the iconic National Monument (Monas) for a historical overview and panoramic city views.

Yogyakarta

Known as the cultural heart of Java, Yogyakarta offers a blend of tradition and modernity. With a population of around 400,000, it's famous for its arts, education, and the nearby ancient temples of Borobudur and Prambanan. The city is affordable and offers a high quality of life.

Travel Tip: Dine at ViaVia, a popular restaurant serving Indonesian and international cuisine in a charming garden setting.

Ubud, Bali

Ubud is the cultural center of Bali, surrounded by lush rice fields and ancient temples. It's a popular choice for digital nomads due to its relaxed atmosphere, numerous co-working spaces, and vibrant expat community. The cost of living is reasonable, with a wide range of accommodation options.

Travel Tip: Explore the stunning Tegalalang Rice Terrace and enjoy a meal at one of the local cafes overlooking the terraces.

Canggu, Bali

Canggu, a coastal village in Bali, is known for its beautiful beaches and surf culture. It has become a hotspot for digital nomads due to its laid-back lifestyle, numerous cafes, and co-working spaces. The cost of living is similar to Ubud, with a variety of housing options available.

Travel Tip: Visit The Lawn, a popular beach club offering stunning ocean views and delicious cocktails.

Surabaya

Surabaya, the second-largest city in Indonesia, is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 2.8 million. Known for its strong business climate, it offers modern amenities, a growing international community, and a relatively low cost of living.

Travel Tip: Visit the House of Sampoerna, a historic museum showcasing the history of the Sampoerna family and their cigarette empire.

Bandung

Bandung, located in the West Java highlands, offers a cooler climate and a more relaxed atmosphere than other major cities. Known for its universities, shopping, and culinary scene, it's an affordable option with a growing expat community.

Travel Tip: Explore the vibrant Braga Street, famous for its colonial architecture, street art, and numerous cafes and shops.

Kuta, Lombok

Kuta, Lombok, is a laid-back coastal town known for its stunning beaches and surf spots. It's becoming a popular destination for digital nomads seeking a slower pace of life and a tight-knit community. The cost of living is lower compared to Bali, with a range of accommodation options available.

Travel Tip: Visit the stunning Tanjung Aan Beach for a day of relaxation and enjoy a meal at one of the local warungs (small family-owned eateries).