In Indonesia

Population: 251 million
Capital: Jakarta
Approximate number of tourists per year: 8 Million

One of the world’s more complicated states, the Republic of Indonesia is made up of 17,508 islands, which are home to the world’s 4th largest population. Considering this, it is amazing that it has risen to be the world’s 17th most successful economy. It consists of literally hundreds of distinct ethnic tribes and linguistic groups, the largest being the Javanese.

The Indonesian capital of Jakarta is on the northwest coast of the island of Java, and is a bit of a mish mash of a city to be honest. Surprisingly green it has the worst traffic imaginable; it does though enjoy an exciting nightlife and a vibrant shopping culture. The city has become the melting pot of Indonesia. This melting pot mentality has good and bad sides to it. You are likely to encounter a wider variety of characters here than anywhere. The people though are among the most friendly, hospitable, and helpful people in the world.

It has become known amongst expats as the Big Durian. In a reference to New York, the name also takes into account the culture shock of sight and smell, the sweltering heat, and the astonishing mass of 28 million people packed into one enormous city. Predominantly Muslim, Indonesia was a small representation of Christians, Hindus and Buddhists.

Indonesia is though, a terrific destination for those looking for the best holidays in Southeast Asia. The sheer volume and diversity of its island ensure that whatever your reasons for visiting, you will find something to your taste.