Hi there.

I’m planning to visit Bali at the end of September. I’d love to hear your tips on renting a scooter.

Is it possible to explore the island just using this mode of transport? Are gas stations easy to find? Do I need an international license? (It takes a long time to get one, and I don’t have it yet.) I’ll be staying in Ubud. Any rental places you’d recommend?

Thanks so much!!!

Hi! We (a couple) are heading to Indonesia from July 9th to August 15th (I already know some spots). > We’re hesitating about the direction of the route: Java/Bali/Nusa/Flores/Sula or Java/Sula/Flores/Bali—does it depend on the rain and flights? (That’s my first question, by the way :)) We land in Jkt on the 9th (follow-up question: where to stay? We saw the Wonderloft for 20 €—does that seem reasonable? I used to pay way less a long time ago). We’d like to leave for Borobudur on the 10th in the mid-afternoon (question 2: train or VIP bus—we’ll have just landed—nighttime or not?). Next question: any chill but nice places to stay in Borobudur, Yogyakarta, and Solo? We’re thinking one full day in Borobudur, then Yogyakarta (1 day), then Solo (1 day). Does that work time-wise without rushing?

After that, we’re heading toward the volcanoes (I always mix them up… any tips?) and crossing over to Bali (2 days?). If I’m calculating right, we’ll be in Java from the 9th to the 18th—does that sound okay to you? Or too much? I’m struggling to estimate how long temples and volcanoes take to visit.

Bali: I used to stay around Seminyak or Canggu. What’s the best place to stay now without breaking the bank? Somewhere not overrun by Australian surfers or hipster restaurants? Another question: where and how to rent a scooter in Bali? (So we can easily get to the temples and Ubud?) Is there still a way to see Kecak without it feeling super touristy, or is it just for tourists now?

We’re detouring to Nusa Penida: same deal—I want to see rays but don’t necessarily want to dive. I’ve heard the sea can be rough. Where to stay for 2–3 chill days? What to do there? It’s all new to me (haven’t researched it yet).

Then to get to Flores: do we *have* to go back through Bali and take a flight? I haven’t looked into Flores or Sulawesi much yet, so I’m not even sure what questions to ask ;) Feel free to point me in the right direction—thanks!

Sulawesi too—any tips or ideas are welcome!

Thanks so much!

🙂 Hi everyone!

Hope you're all doing well! It's been a while since I last traveled, but I'm finally heading out again soon!

For those familiar with SOUTHEAST ASIA, I'm planning to leave in mid-June (with the trip ending at the latest in November), and I don’t have a precise idea of exact places or itineraries yet. The thing is, this period is usually the rainy season...

Any advice? I was thinking of Malaysia or Indonesia, like Sulawesi, for example (all countries and islands in Southeast Asia interest me except Bali).

Any recommendations? I’m doing my research online, but if anyone here has the time and knowledge, I’d love to hear from you.

Thanks everyone, take care and stay happy! ❤️

We’ve already explored Bali, eastern Java, and its volcanoes back in 2013, and we’d love to return to Java to discover other spots that aren’t so "mainstream." There’ll be three of us—a couple and our 25-year-old son. We love nature, small towns, villages, beautiful landscapes, and a bit of beach time... We’re used to backpacking around Southeast Asia. Any tips for exploring some great spots in Java in a coherent way, with 3 or 4 bases for a 3-week trip from late June to mid-July? We don’t want to revisit Bromo or Ijen (they seem way too crowded compared to 2013), and we might swing by Djogja but won’t redo Borobudur or Prambanan (same issue...). Looking forward to your tips! Thanks 🙂

Hello everyone!

In early July, we’re heading to Indonesia for a solid three weeks as a family (my partner and I are in our fifties, and we have two daughters aged 17 and 20). We’ll be arriving and departing from Denpasar. Our itinerary is still entirely up in the air, and we’d like to explore islands other than Bali (we’ve already been there a few years ago).

I’d love to gather your tips and great recommendations to help us plan our route. For now, we’re thinking of visiting Lombok, Flores, and the Komodo archipelago. Here are some of our questions: - I visited Lombok myself back in 1999. I loved it, but I’ve been reading very mixed reviews in recent travel journals. Some are as enthusiastic as I was back then, while others are much more lukewarm (due to the overly strict and visible influence of the island’s governor on the population and because of massive hotel projects—I’m not sure if they’re on hold, underway, or completed). What’s the current situation? Is Lombok still a must-visit? And do you have any tips (hotels, places to visit, health, etc.)? - Still on Lombok, I did the Rinjani trek back then. I remember the hike wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t as tough as what I’ve read in quite a few recent travel journals... My partner and I are in decent shape, but that’s about it, and especially, my partner and our two daughters really don’t like the cold. What’s your experience with this trek? And do you have a trekking agency to recommend? (If we do it, I think we’d want to make sure we have good support, including quality gear, tents, jackets, etc.) - Flores and Komodo would be a completely new experience for all of us. Any tips and recommendations are welcome (sightseeing, accommodations, transport, etc.)! In particular, we’d like to explore the Komodo archipelago with a trusted agency that will take the time to show us the archipelago’s treasures in good conditions (safety and "decent" comfort). Do you know of any such agencies? - Are there other nearby islands you’d recommend? Any advice on places to visit and where to stay?

We’ll have three weeks on the ground... and we like to mix sightseeing with downtime where we just enjoy the moment. So we’re not looking for an overly packed itinerary, but still something rich (no point traveling so far just to lie on a sunbed all day ;-))

Thanks so much in advance for your advice!

Albin

Hi there. To make the most of Lake Toba, is it better to find accommodation on the lake’s shores (which one?) or on Samosir Island? Thanks for your tips!

Hi there,

I arrive in Jakarta on July 24th and want to head to Flores Island the next day. Do you know which airlines offer direct flights to Labuan Bajo (or elsewhere)? Is it possible to book tickets directly on Indonesian airline websites (I get the feeling that when connecting from France, access is blocked...)

Also, are there direct flights from Maumere or Ende back to Jakarta for the return trip, or do I have to go back through Labuan Bajo?

Thanks and have a great evening

Hi there.

I’m planning to explore Bali solo for two weeks. I’m too late to get an international permit... Is it a good idea to get around with Bluebird taxis? Rates, schedules, reliability...

Thanks for your input! !

Hi there,

We’re planning a 17-day trip to Indonesia starting on April 22nd and would love to hear your suggestions. We’re looking for itinerary ideas or places to see monkeys, birds, and beautiful rice terraces, as well as interesting natural spots like lakes or waterfalls. We’d also like to avoid overly long distances and limit ourselves to a maximum of one internal flight. For the last three days, we’d love to end the trip on a stunning beach with the chance to swim with manta rays. If you have any recommendations, must-see spots, or experiences not to miss, we’d be thrilled to hear them. Thanks in advance for your help! 😊

Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to Indonesia (Java and Bali) and I’d like to explore on my own, but I’m struggling to find contacts for French-speaking guides—not for a full tour, but for short visits ranging from a few hours to maybe 2-3 days. I checked GetYourGuide and Klook, which seem to fit my needs, but I don’t see any French-speaking guides. Where can I find French-speaking guides locally?

If anyone has any info or tips, I’d really appreciate it! Cheers

Hello, I need your help. We’re a family of four (kids aged 5 and 8), and we’re really excited to explore North Sulawesi for three weeks in August! We’re planning to visit Manado, Bunaken, Tangkoko, the Togian Islands, and possibly Makassar and Bira. Does anyone know how to get from the Togian Islands to Makassar without too much hassle/difficulty? (Fast boat, stops, etc.)

Hey everyone, I travel quite a bit, and I’m here to share my thoughts about an upcoming trip to Indonesia, specifically the Togian Islands.

I’m planning to go for 3 or 4 weeks in July-August and looking for a sunny destination that’s not too expensive (flights + cost of living), with varied points of interest. About fifteen years ago, I had planned a trip to the Togian Islands, but it didn’t happen, so I’m revisiting this destination (Sulawesi, Toraja country) + maybe others? Given that in Indonesia, I’ve already done volcanoes in Java, Bali, part of Lombok, and the Gili Islands. The issue is that I’ve read some posts about the plastic waste problems around the Togians, and it seems like they’re not the paradise islands they once were.

So, I have a few questions: I’d love to hear recent feedback from travelers who’ve been to the Togians to get an objective opinion (?) or if you’d recommend other paradise-like islands in Indonesia (not overcrowded).

If you confirm that it’s still an exceptional destination, what did you pair it with? The Moluccas and which islands in particular? Or Flores/Komodo? For my part, I don’t scuba dive—just snorkeling.

Finally, if you have other dream-island destinations (affordable and sunny), I’m all ears.

Thanks in advance!

hi there, I’m looking for info on the Banggai Islands as an alternative to the Togians in Central Sulawesi. I’d like to compare the two destinations in terms of activities, accommodations, and access—the Togians seem gorgeous but very (too?) touristy (lots of resorts and already fully booked for July), while Banggai seems much more off the beaten path. I’m planning to go in July, traveling with 5 people including older teens. Thanks so much for your ideas, tips, or suggestions about Banggai!

Hi there, I’m looking for information about a ferry that runs between Pam (or Fam) Island and Sorong every Saturday morning. We’re traveling in February–March. It’s been tough to find precise details, especially whether it still exists! If you have any info on this ferry, thanks in advance! Evelyne

Hi everyone, First post in years on the forum—I’m so happy it’s back up and running!

I’ve been wrestling with this question for weeks now: Flores or Sulawesi?

I’m leaving in July for 24 days, followed by 2 weeks around Makassar/Wakatobi for work. For the first part, I’m traveling with my family (my partner + 3 kids aged 6 to 14).

I’ve had a long-time dream of Komodo, but I’m worried it’s become super touristy... though the crossing to Maumere still sounds amazing. I’m also not thrilled about all the internal flights.

On the other hand, since I’ll be in Sulawesi anyway, I’m thinking a crossing from Gorontalo to Luwuk via the Togians (maybe even a few days in Banggai) + a detour to Toraja (which I visited 10 years ago) could be an incredible trip too.

For my family, this is their first trip to Indonesia, so I’d love it to feel *mythic* ;).

Any advice is welcome—I’m really struggling to decide! I know it’s a choice between two great options...

Thanks!

Hi everyone, I’m trying to make sure this provider is reliable—they organize private tours in Bali with French-speaking guides. I’m currently in touch with them for a 15-day/14-night trip in May 2026. If you’ve heard of them, I’d really appreciate your feedback—it’ll help put my mind at ease (or not...). Looking forward to your replies,

Hi there,

I’m heading to Bali at the end of August and I’d love to know if there are any transport options like buses. I’m planning to visit Tirta Empul temple and then make my way to Penelokan. Are there any local transport solutions, or is it necessary to hire a driver?

Hi there! I’m heading to Bali for 15 days between July and August. I’d love some ideas for fun itineraries where I don’t have to switch accommodations more than 3 times. I’d like to explore nature, culture, and also enjoy some beach time. Thanks in advance for your suggestions!!

Hi there, I’m planning my trip to Flores, Indonesia with a 6-year-old child. I’ve contacted driver-guides who are quoting astronomical prices for one week. Is a guide really necessary? Or would a driver who knows the area well be okay? Do you think I should book from France, or wait and arrange it day by day once I’m there? What’s the average price?

Also, do you think the daily drives won’t be too long?

Thanks

Hi there, we’re planning to spend a month in Lombok in July 2026 and would love to hear your thoughts on Gili Gede.

We really enjoy snorkeling, preferably from the beach (so we don’t have to rely on renting a boat). On the side, we also love short hikes of a few hours—like to waterfalls or through rice fields (max 5–6 hours round trip). We’d like to stay in small family-run hotels away from the crowds (but with a pool, since our kids love spending their evenings there).

Do you think Gili Gede checks at least 2 of these 3 boxes (snorkeling + small family-run hotels away from the crowds)? Would you recommend a better spot in Lombok that ticks all 3 boxes?

Thanks so much in advance! Fanny

Hi everyone, I’ve been browsing accommodation sites for the Togian Islands for a few days now.

It’s a bit overwhelming—there are so many options and islands—so I was wondering what the forum members’ favorite spots have been.

We’ll be there for 5-6 days, and we’ll be making the crossing (Gorontalo -> Ampana or the other way around, not sure yet). I’m thinking it might be possible to stop in Bomba or Kadidiri and then Malenge?

We’re looking for simple places to stay—we’re not into luxury resorts. Small beach bungalows would be amazing. Also, one of my kids wants to get their diving certification, so if there’s an option with an accessible dive center, that’d be a plus (though not a must—priority is the scenery, proximity to magical spots, and an authentic vibe).

Thanks for your tips—I’m looking forward to reading your replies!

My kids are dreaming of discovering Indonesia this summer—they’ll be celebrating their 15th and 20th birthdays! For the occasion, I was thinking of Sulawesi, a bit farther from Bali’s crowds.

I usually plan my trips myself, but I’ll admit I’m a little lost when it comes to transportation and logistics. We’d be there for about 18 days.

I’ve looked into guided tours, but the prices are pretty high. North or south for 3 weeks? Anyone have any firsthand experience to share?

hi there I’m planning a trip focused mainly on snorkeling and diving in Raja Ampat, covering two islands: Gam and Mansuar. I’d also like to spend a few days on Fam and Rufas Islands. Is it cheaper to depart from Gam or Mansuar? Do you have any info on the budget I should expect? If you’ve got any great tips, I’d love to hear them! Thanks in advance

Hi everyone. I’ve been wondering about the safety of the crossing between Gili Gede in Lombok and Bali via Gili Gateway. I need to get to Bali in early September, and the 2-hour crossing is appealing, but given recent boat incidents, I’m questioning the safety and navigation conditions. If anyone has any info, I’d love to hear it! Flying is still an option... Thanks

Hi there,

Does anyone know if it's possible to go directly from Malaysia to Jakarta by boat? If so, could you please share the companies, websites, departure points, and/or schedules if you have them?

Best regards

Hi there, fellow travelers,

My mom and I are heading to Indonesia on July 11, 2025, for a month. We’ll spend 15 days in Borneo (Kalimantan) and 15 days in Sulawesi. We’re traveling with backpacks and really want to meet locals and experience their culture. We have a layover in Singapore before flying to Borneo, but we’re not sure yet which part of the island we’d like to land in.

I’m looking for the most up-to-date info possible because our research results are pretty confusing. Initially, we wanted to focus on the Indonesian side of the island, but we’re finding way more info on the Malaysian side (better tourist infrastructure). We’re feeling a bit lost...

Our priority is a 4-5 day trek max. We also want to connect with an English-speaking guide to explore Borneo’s primary forest and its wildlife. Ideally, we’d like to venture into the island’s center. But we might not have the time (given the lack of infrastructure and long distances—we don’t have 15 days just for a trek) or the physical stamina to get there. Still, we’d love to get off the beaten path and avoid pricey, touristy excursions. From our research, we’ve come across 3-day, 2-night trips on longboats or 4x4s (e.g., orangutans in Tanjung Puting) for 400 to 500 €. But that’s way out of our budget, and we think it’s too expensive. We get that as tourists with higher incomes than locals, we should pay more—but there’s a limit, especially compared to the cost of living in Indonesia. We want to avoid tour operators and crowds of tourists. Our goal is to see what’s left of Borneo’s preserved and wild tropical forest and observe animals in their natural habitat. If we don’t see any during a trek, oh well—we’ll take our chances.

On the Malaysian side, there’s Danum Valley, and on the Indonesian side, places like Gunung Palung, Betung Kerihun, and Kayan Mentarang...

What do you think?

Does anyone have any tips?

Has anyone here met indigenous communities on the island?

Does anyone know a friendly local guide?

We’d love any extra info on Borneo and Sulawesi! ;)

Take care!

Hi everyone,

This summer, I’m spending 5 days in Yogyakarta, and I’d like to rent a car on my own, but I can’t find anything... (just to clarify, I’ve already driven on every continent, including Bali, so that’s not an issue for me).

Do you have any reliable contacts? I don’t want a taxi or driver—I want the freedom to explore on my own...

Hi there,

I’m heading to Bali in May and would love to spend 2 or 3 days in Munduk. What are some things we can do around Munduk? Also, do you know if hikes can be organized from there?

Thanks in advance!

Hello, We’d like to take a cruise to see the orangutans and monkeys in Tanjung Puting National Park, CENTRAL KALIMANTAN, Borneo. There’ll be 2 adults and a 6-year-old child. Do you have any affordable contacts with a French-speaking guide? We contacted eko_harwanto@yahoo.fr, but he’s not available. Have you done any other activities or visits in the area?

Thanks for your feedback

Hi, I’m traveling with my 13-year-old son in June and July 2025 for 6 weeks—2 weeks in Flores and 4 in Sulawesi. I don’t want a super "roots" trip because long transport times eat up too much time, so I’d prefer to use only private or shared drivers whenever possible since I’ve read that public transport really slows you down. That said, I don’t want to hire the same driver for the whole trip because I think it’d be way over budget.

My first question is about transport times and approximate costs. I’d like to double-check the times I’ve seen because it’s not clear to me whether they’re for private vehicles or public buses: - Labuan Bajo – Denge (Wae Rebo): 5–6 hours ???? - Denge – Ruteng: 3 hours ???? - Ruteng – Bajawa: 4 hours ???? - Bajawa – Moni (Kelimutu Volcano): 3.5 hours ???? - Moni – Koka Beach: 1.5 hours ???? - Maumere – Koka Beach: 2 hours ????

My second question is about the Maumere–Makassar ferry. It’s impossible to find a clear answer—PELNI’s website shows only about 2 ferries per month, but Rome2Rio mentions a daily departure (with a return the next day, like the Labuan Bajo–Makassar route, I assume). I’d really like to avoid flying since it’s so expensive on this route.

My third question: I’ve read that flight tickets are more expensive when bought from France than from Indonesia. Has anyone else heard this?

Thanks so much for your help! This is my first post on the forum in ages, so I hope the length doesn’t scare anyone off.

Best, Vanessa