Jakarta Indonesia Travel Tips

Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Jakarta, Indonesia

General Etiquette

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas.
  • Remove shoes: When entering homes, temples, or mosques, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
  • Use right hand: When eating, giving, or receiving something, use your right hand as the left hand is considered unclean.

Communication

  • Learn basic Indonesian phrases: Greet locals with “Selamat pagi” (good morning), “Selamat siang” (good day), or “Selamat malam” (good evening).
  • Be respectful in conversations: Avoid confrontational tone, and use polite language when discussing sensitive topics.
  • Avoid public displays of affection: Refrain from kissing, hugging, or holding hands in public, as it’s considered impolite.

Food & Drink

  • Try local cuisine with an open mind: Be adventurous and try traditional dishes like nasi goreng (fried rice), gado-gado (vegetable salad), or sate (meat skewers).
  • Use your right hand when eating: When eating with your hands, use your right hand to handle food.
  • Avoid eating on the go: Eat at designated areas, as eating while walking is considered impolite.

Temple & Mosque Etiquette

  • Dress conservatively: Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or temples.
  • Remove shoes: Before entering a mosque or temple, remove your shoes to show respect.
  • Be mindful of prayer times: Avoid visiting mosques during prayer times (usually 5 times a day).

Transportation & Traffic

  • Use reputable taxi services: Opt for Blue Bird or Silver Bird taxis, which are considered safe and reliable.
  • Negotiate prices: When using non-metered taxis or ride-hailing apps, agree on the price beforehand to avoid disputes.
  • Be prepared for traffic: Jakarta is notorious for its traffic congestion, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Shopping

  • Bargain politely: Haggling is expected in traditional markets, but do so with a smile and respect.
  • Use local currency: While some places may accept USD or credit cards, it’s best to use Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) for easier transactions.
  • Avoid public displays of wealth: Refrain from flaunting expensive items or large amounts of cash in public.

Health & Hygiene

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid consuming tap water.
  • Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Jakarta is a densely populated city, so be prepared for crowded areas and take necessary precautions to stay healthy.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a respectful and enjoyable trip in Jakarta, Indonesia!