Safety: travellers to Indonesia should check on the current safety conditions with their country’s embassy in Indonesia. Like the rest of the world, Indonesia is on high alert regarding terrorist activity. Since Bali’s nightclub bombing, security has been heightened and visitors are advised to keep the threat in mind, without letting it ruin the holiday. Indonesia has been experiencing many internal problems that have led to armed conflict. Generally, Indonesia is fairly safe to visit providing sensible precautions are taken including avoiding going out alone at night, never flashing expensive jewellery around in public, being careful when withdrawing money and using your common sense.
Driving in Indonesia can be hazardous and stressful because of the numerous drivers who do not follow traffic regulations. Money: the Rupiah (Rp) is the currency used in Indonesia. Several options are available for changing money including money changers and banks. The larger malls in the cities will accept payment in foreign currency from certain countries but do not offer the best exchange rates. When visiting places in remote areas it is best to carry lots of notes and coins in lower denominations as retailers may tell you that they don’t have change after you have consumed your meal and will keep the change. Credit cards and travellers cheques are accepted in most establishments in the larger cities. Emergency: 118 for ambulance
Ambulance: 991 (or call hospitals listed below)
Police: 110
Fire & Rescue: 113
Recommended hospital:
Bali - Sakit Dharma Husada Tel: 62-361-227560
Surabaya – Husada Utama Hospital Tel: 031-501-7975
South Jakarta – Rumah Sakit Pondok Indah
Tel: 021-750-0157
Jakarta (city) – Rumah Sakit Cipto Mangunkusumo
Tel: 021-330-808 Business needs: there are several international banks and businesses operating in Indonesia. It isn’t difficult to do business in Indonesia but it helps to know government officers of high ranking to get things done quickly. The ‘middle man’ plays an important role in helping speed up things for businesses. But at the end of the day it all depends on how much you are willing to pay to have things done efficiently and quickly. | 
