Indonesia

Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country and one of the most culturally diverse, is sprawled across more than 17,000 islands with over 300 different ethnicities and dialects. Many travelers head straight to the Hindu island of Bali, but there is so much more to this vast country. The people, most of whom are moderate Muslims, range from modern urban professionals in Jakarta, to village farmers and fishermen on many of the islands, to Stone-Age tribal people in West Papua.

A former Dutch colony that became independent in the wake of World War II, Indonesia is a land of rich cultural and religious heritage, fascinating architecture, superb beaches and diving, unique wildlife, and remote village life. Remote Lands immerses you in Indonesian culture by providing insider access to private events and extraordinary people. Our luxury journeys introduce you to a multi-faceted selection of remarkable people, from government leaders and top businessmen to villagers and fishermen. Your interactions with these people will be stimulating, edifying and enlightening, and you will have a well-rounded and profound learning experience that you will value forever.

Facts Area:

Total: 1,192,740 sq miles Land: 1,134,950 sq miles Water: 57,790 sq miles

Climate:

Tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands

Elevation Extremes:

Lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 ft Highest point: Puncak Jaya 16,498 ft

Population:

245,452,739

Ethnic Groups:

Javanese 45%, Sundanese 14%, Madurese 7.5%, coastal Malays 7.5%, other 26%

Religions:

Muslim 88%, Protestant 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other 1%

Languages:

Bahasa Indonesia (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects, the most widely spoken of which is Javanese.

Country name:

Conventional long form: Republic of Indonesia Conventional short form: Indonesia Local long form: Republik Indonesia Local short form: Indonesia Former: Netherlands East Indies; Dutch East Indies

Government type:

Republic

Capital:

Jakarta

Independence:

17 August 1945 (independence proclaimed); 27 December 1949 (Netherlands recognizes Indonesian independence)

GDP – per capita (PPP):

$3,600 (2005 est.)

Currency:

Indonesian rupiah (IDR)

Time Zone:

Sumatra, Java and West & Central Kalimantan: GMT +7 Bali, Nusa Tenggara, South & East Kalimantan and Sulawesi: GMT +8 Irian Jaya and Maluku: GMT +9

Country Dialing Code:

+62

Electricity:

230V 50HzHz