travel information
climate
Situated six to nine degrees south of the equator, Java enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round. The weather is particularly pleasant from June through September. The wet season runs from November to April. Even during the heaviest rains the sun is rarely out of sight for long.
language
Javanese people and their language dominate the island and village conversation. In the western uplands, however, the Sundanese, Java’s other major indigenous ethnic group, have a language of their own - they speak Bahasa Sunda. A third major language, Madurese, is spoken on the island of Madura, just off the northeastern coast of Java. Bahasa Indonesia, the national language, is used by almost everyone. English is spoken in Java’s main tourist centres. Dutch is still understood by the older generation.
currency
The national currency is the rupiah. The bills are issued between 1000 and 100,000 rupiahs while coinage runs from 100 to 500. US dollars are acceptable in a number of the larger tourist centres. Money changers readily change most currencies but not always traveller’s cheques and rupiah bills dating from 1996 or older will not be accepted by most money changers or hotels. Credit cards are accepted by hotels and major tourist areas. Outside these areas, cash is recommended.
immigration requirements
Visitors from certain countries are required to get a tourist visa in advance, some can obtain these on arrival at any international airport in Indonesia and some do not require a visa at all. Prices also vary. Visas are valid for up to 30 days and are non-extendable. One-week visas are also available. Passports must be valid for at least six months from the arrival date and should have at least four full blank pages. Guests are advised to check with their nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate prior to travel or contact our central reservations department for more information.
health
A nurse is on call 24 hours a day at Amanjiwo. In certain areas of Southeast Asia there is a chance of contracting mosquito-borne diseases. Reasonable precautions, including the use of mosquito repellent will minimise the risk. You may also wish to consult your doctor.
travel tips
Electricity is 220 volts/50 cycles. Indonesia’s time zone is plus seven hours GMT. Loose and casual clothing is advisable. In the dry season, April to November, a light sweater may be useful in the evenings, especially in the hill country. Bargaining is common practice in Indonesia. Done with good humour, you can bring prices down considerably in local markets.