Indonesia is the largest Muslim country in the world. The majority of the population is Muslim (except on Bali, where Hinduism is the main religion). Although Indonesia and its people are very modern, open, friendly and helpful, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Mosques If you are a light sleeper, we advise you to bring earplugs. Every kampung or village has at least one mosque (usually more than one). They call to prayer five times a day. The first call is very early in the morning (around 04:30); if this wakes you every morning, your time on some Indonesian islands will be tough. Earplugs can help you get a good night’s sleep. If you are not used to earplugs, it is best to practise sleeping with them at home first.
Ramadan During Ramadan, expect extra activity from the mosque. There is more communal prayer, and to reach as many people as possible the mosque’s loudspeaker system is used. Keep in mind that if you travel during Ramadan, your driver may (partly) observe it too. That choice is his. The fact that your driver observes Ramadan of course does not mean you have to join in and skip lunches or coffee stops.
Eid al-Fitr For a Muslim, Eid al-Fitr (Lebaran) is the most important celebration of the year. It is celebrated with family, people dress up for it (often in newly bought clothes) and there is lavish eating, especially of sweets. If you travel during this period, it is a thoughtful gesture to bring a small gift for your driver for this day (after all, he is away from home). For example, a pack of stroopwafels from the Netherlands (Indonesians also give each other huge boxes of sweets around this day) or some extra money; IDR 100,000 or 200,000 is enough. Of course this is entirely optional and you should not feel obliged to do anything.
Clothing People appreciate it if you dress (somewhat) modestly: blouses or T-shirts that cover your shoulders and trousers or skirts down to the knee. Tank tops, bare midriffs and very short shorts or skirts are becoming more common, but are usually only worn by tourists or in modern Jakarta. However, nobody will confront you about what you wear.
PLEASE NOTE!!! Topless or nude swimming or sunbathing is considered inappropriate and very rude by Indonesians. On Bali, topless sunbathing is usually tolerated on your hotel’s beach.
PLEASE NOTE!!! At some sights (e.g. the Kraton in Yogyakarta, Solo and Cirebon, or temples on Bali) you will not be admitted if you are too lightly dressed. Covered shoulders and legs are required there. Sarongs can often be rented on site. If you want to visit a mosque, take off your shoes before entering. Women must cover their heads, but you will usually be lent a robe.