Council Connection

Every island feels like a world unto itself, with its own distinct charm and experience, and if I had to choose a few personal favorites then Bali, Lombok, and the Bangka Belitung Islands would certainly be at the top of my list.

Bali, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods,” is my go-to destination. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, from its lush rice terraces and volcanic mountains to its pristine beaches and coral reefs. Beyond its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, what captivates me is that Bali also exudes a deep spiritual essence and cultural richness. The experience of visiting temples like Tanah Lot and Uluwatu, set atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the endless Indian Ocean, provides a profound sense of connection to the land and its history.

I’m drawn to Lombok for its unspoiled beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The pristine beaches, like Senggigi and Kuta, are stunning, but the real highlight is Mount Rinjani, Indonesia’s secondhighest volcano. The trek to the summit is challenging, yet the view of the crater lake at the top makes it all worthwhile.

Lastly, Labuan Bajo is a small town on the western tip of Flores Island, famous for being home to the Komodo dragons. In addition, the area boasts stunning natural beauty, including vibrant coral reefs and clear blue waters offering some of the best diving spots in the world, such as Padar Island, Rinca Island, and Kanawa Island. Labuan Bajo offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and travelers seeking unique experiences.

Indonesian food is a vibrant celebration of flavors, influenced by the country’s diverse culture and natural resources. Known for bold flavors, with a balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and sour, each region has its own specialties, reflecting local ingredients, traditions, and culinary techniques. However, as a vegetarian, my options are a bit more limited, but I’m grateful that Indonesia still offers a fantastic variety of plant-based dishes that are full of flavors.

One of my favorites is gado-gado, a refreshing salad made with steamed vegetables, tofu, tempeh, all smothered in a rich peanut sauce. Another dish I love is karedok, often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. The combination of fresh, crunchy raw vegetables like cucumber, bean sprouts, cabbage, and long beans, and the spicy, creamy peanut sauce makes it a delicious, healthy choice for those who enjoy light but flavorful dishes.

My favorite Indonesian dessert is es campur, a refreshing treat made with shaved ice topped with a mix of ingredients such as fresh fruits (like avocado, jackfruit, or melon), sweet syrups, coconut milk, grass jelly, tapioca pearls, and sometimes sweetened condensed milk.

To truly understand the essence of Indonesian culture, travelers should explore a range of experiences that deeply connect them to the country’s vibrant traditions, customs, and culture. A few experiences you shouldn’t miss are attending cultural performances, such as the Kecak Dance in Bali that will give you a glimpse into the island’s artistic and spiritual traditions.

Participate in local festivals like Nyepi Day, the Balinese Hindu New Year, during which large, colorful Ogoh-Ogoh (demonic effigies) are paraded through the streets and then burned to drive away evil spirits. Exploring sacred temples like Borobudur and Prambanan will deepen your understanding of Indonesia’s spiritual heritage. For a more hands-on experience, you can try participating in workshops for traditional crafts like batik painting to appreciate the artistry behind Indonesian textiles.

Another great way to connect with the culture is to visit traditional villages, such as those in Lombok, where you can see local customs, architecture, and ways of life firsthand. You can even join a cooking class to learn how to prepare classic Indonesian dishes and truly appreciate the country’s culinary diversity.