Java is the undiscovered jewel of South East Asia, an island where the unique geography is interwoven into the fabric of life. Buddhist and Hindu temples are testament to the rich history of the island, whilst the calls of the imams reflect contemporary life in the world’s largest Muslim nation.
Bali may be the backpacker’s choice in Indonesia, with cheap flight offers always tempting tourists on a budget, but there is more to this archipelago than nightclubs and beaches.
Jakarta
Jakarta is quickly becoming an economic powerhouse, boosted by the rise of the Asian economies. The city is alive with people, whilst the traffic displays the typical confusion which is so prevalent in this part of the world. The locals are friendly and accommodating, making you feel at home, whilst they are willing to tell you literally anything about their daily lives.
Yogyakarta
Indonesia exists due to tectonic activity and the volcanoes which form the spine of the island demonstrate the power of nature and its lasting influence here. The same is true in Yogyakarta, which was significantly damaged by a 6.3 magnitude earthquake in May 2006. Cracks can still be seen in the Kraton, the court of The Yogyakarta Sultanate. The Dieng Plateau, with its bubbling lakes of sulphur, poisonous effusions, and mists, is like a different world and one totally created through plate tectonics.
The landscape at the Dieng Plateau has assumed religious significance and is home to the oldest Hindu temples in Central Java. These eight small buildings are from the seventh and eighth centuries and formed the basis for the grand complexes at Prambanan and Borobudur. The former is a Hindu temple, the latter a Buddhist structure, and both dominate the landscape in which they are set. Watching the sun rise at either is a must-see activity, whilst the Ramayana Ballet, a traditional Javanese dance set in the shadow of Prambanan, is also worth the excursion.
Guide books suggest you avoid eating from roadside stalls but this is contrary to Javanese culture. Indeed, the satay from such outlets is cheap and delicious, making an ideal snack. The same is true regarding the pungent Durian fruit, although you won’t want to be around this for long!
Aside from receiving the appropriate vaccinations and medication, travelling to Java is relatively easy. Visas can be purchased on arrival for $10 and there are direct flights from European destinations, although some of the cheapest flights go via Singapore.