When the pace of the Jakarta lifestyle starts to get you down ... and you need a little holiday vacation in a more scenic, rural or adventurous setting ... check out some of these Great Escapes. As expatriates living in Indonesia, we have the unique advantage of being within a few hours flight or drive from beautiful pristine beaches, towering volcanic mountains, great scuba diving/snorkeling, verdant rain forest, wildlife refugees and fascinating cultural experiences.

Take a long weekend, or use a portion of your annual holiday leave to see more of this fascinating country that we expats are temporarily calling home. Just imagine the air fares you'd be spending to get back to Indonesia again for holidays in the future! Many savvy tourism operators, recognizing the great pool of potential customers right here in-country, offer discounts to resident expatriates. Don't get stuck in the big city ... get out and see what Indonesian life is like in more laid back, traditional settings.

Many of these sponsors listed below offer special rates for KITAS holders, so mention you saw their listing on the Living in Indonesia website, and see if they offer a discount!

Great Escapes in
Bali, Central Java, Banten, Lombok, Kalimantan

North Sulawesi Dive Resorts, Tours and Sailing Adventures, Airlines

Click on the Facebook or Tiwtter icons below to follow these great travel destinations on Facebook and Twitter !

Bali

Two expatriate New Zealanders, Aprile and Hugh Collett, who have lived and worked in Indonesia for more than 15 years, have planned, built and now operate Alam Sari Resort in the small Balinese village of Keliki located in the cool hills north of Ubud.

Their aim has been to create a small, quiet hotel with all the modern facilities which allow its vacationing guests to experience aspects of the Balinese landscape, people and culture that the larger beach-based resort cannot do. By maintaining close links with the local villag ers, Alam Sari offers many opportunities for our guests to experience unspoiled Bali while enjoying the hospitality and personal service that a small hotel can offer. Relax and rejuvenate at Spa Alam Sari and enjoy the fitness facilities for a to ensure yours is a relaxing and refreshing vacation. Newly opened at Alam Sari - beautiful Villa Teratai is a three-bedroomed villa built in Balinese style and set in lush tropical gardens high above rice terraces with superb panoramic views from every room. Special rates for stays of 5 nights or more.

Voted one of the ten most romantic hotels in Bali. The Watergarden features twelve elegant bungalows and one suite set amidst luxuriant tropical gardens and surrounded by lily ponds filled with Koi Carp. Only the murmur of flowing water, bird song and the splash of leaping fish disturb the tranquillity when you sit on your very private verandah. Traditional styled bungalows with everything you need for your comfort and convenience.  Located in the small village of Candi Dasa the hotel is a popular place for those wishing to avoid the chaos of Kuta and to explore the delights East Bali, all within easy reach are Ujung Water palace, Tirtagangga Water palace, Besakih Temple and Tenganan. Our famous Restaurant is probably the best in Candidasa, renowned for its Food Festivals. Our newly opened “Orchid Spa” is fast becoming as famous as our restaurant and very reasonably priced.  Although the staff's natural warmth and friendliness make it hard to leave the hotel. For info on nearby diving read Water World - one expat's experiences learning to dive in East Bali. For info on nearby diving read Water World - one expat's experiences learning to dive in East Bali.

Designed, built and operated by the expat owners, the hotel's restaurant, The Watergarden Kafe, is justly renowned for its diverse menu, fabulous frozen margaritas, twice a week BBQs, and vegetarian dishes - and as the local meeting place every evening at Happy Hour.

Discover a haven embraced by nature where tranquil pleasures await. The perfect place to do so is Taman Rahasia - “The Secret Garden” Boutique Resort & Spa, nestled in the quaint village of Penestanan, Ubud. Seven comfortably appointed rooms reside amongst lush tropical gardens, towering coconut palms and gently swaying bamboo. Exceptional service, absolute tranquility and relaxation make this a favorite spot for expats. Enjoy the natural stone swimming pool and waterfall, or pamper yourself at our Spavox award-winning Spa. One or Two Day “hands-on” Balinese Cooking School offered, plus special 3 Night Value Packages available. In nearby Ubud, the “Cultural Heart of Bali,” you’ll find an abundance of shops, museums, galleries, restaurants and entertainment. As you can see - everything you need for your holiday getaway is tucked away into one perfect Secret Garden . . . a little jewel of a hotel where we do everything with an extra measure of care and personal attention. Won't you join us? Special Rates available for expats -- mention the “Living in Indonesia” site for additional savings!

Balispirit.com - your connection to Holistic Bali - is a centralized registry of Bali's holistic healers, resorts, spas, healthy restaurants, yoga studios, educational classes and eco-tours, retreats and workshops. We are an earth-friendly, socially responsible and health-mind-body conscious organization. Join us for a Bali Yoga Holiday and find your peace of mind with Balispirit.

Live richly in the heart of Seminyak, just minutes from fashionable night spots such as Ku de ta, Hu’u bar, and la Lucciola. The Elysian Luxury Boutique Villas is raising the lifestyle bar and attracting Asia’s trend-setters with the villas sleek comfortable design and chic little extras such as pre loaded ipod nanos and of course your own private pool. The use of ergonomic design has been carefully planned to treat you famously and create glamorous villas which offer a high degree of privacy whilst also giving a sense of openness. Step into a new world of luxury and elegance and enjoy the clean shapes and surprising compositions that give character to each and every space. Whether it means pampering yourself in our spa or tantalizing your taste buds in our restaurant, an exceptional Elysian villa is simply a frame for an exceptional holiday. Spoil yourself at the Elysian and enjoy the impossible dream - after all…. there is only one you.

Discover Bali’s ultimate number one holiday destination - the fabulous Tirta Ayu Hotel (which means lovely waters). Located within the beautiful, secure 22-acre grounds of Bali’s most treasured Royal Water Palace at Tirtagangga, the resort is located in the Karangasem Regency of East Bali which is overlooked by Mount Agung. Views of the surrounding countryside are blessed with some of the most amazing rice terraces with the warm crystal clear ocean in the distance. The mornings are stunning and inspire many guests to walk, and take photographs. In fact, many artists have painted these spectacular landscapes. The visual stimulus is breathtaking; this is the real Bali at its best and an ideal base to explore this magical island. At Tirta Ayu guest’s can enjoy being treated like Gods and Goddesses with first class royal treatment, be pampered and experience total relaxation. Island healers have praised the waters of the holy spring at Tirtagangga, for their healing and youth giving powers. It is said that if one bathes in the waters of Tirtagangga on the full moon, one is blessed with lasting youth and all illnesses will be healed. Is it any wonder that Tirtagangga is known as "The Fountain of Youth" of Bali?

Nagisa Bali Luxury Villa Management and Villa Rentals is a professional property management team that strives to manage villas and provide only first class villa rental accommodation in Bali combined with hands on approach to customer care and a genuine desire to give you the very best value for money. With our exclusive selections of beautiful and romantic Balinese villas, we aim to pamper you during your stay with: spacious and unique villa designs, affordable couple or group lodging, intimate privacy with your loved ones, personalized services provided, and private chef for your dining pleasure., Enjoy a memorable and wonderful stay in Bali with privileged services fit for kings and queens!

Lotus Bungalows, located in Candidasa, is an ideal base for explorations of eastern Bali, as well as a quieter alternative to the southern tourism centers. Set in a peaceful lush garden, Lotus Bungalows is located at the entrance of Candidasa and is only 1.5 hours away from the Ngurah Rai International Airport near Denpasar. With a very high international standard of service and comfort, Lotus Bungalow is the perfect place for honeymooners, nature lovers and diving enthusiasts. 20 well-appointed bungalows, comfortably decorated, have a spacious verandah overlooking the ocean and the Lombok Straits. All rooms are equipped with the many features you'd expect to find at a first class resort. Enjoy the pool, the excellent restaurant, or take advantage of the PADI dive center at the Bungalows to explore nearby diving spots such as Tulamben, and Menjangan. Visit soon and enjoy the hospitality of the ancient village of Candidasa, home to many cultural attractions.

The Kayana is a luxurious collection of private villas, hidden in the heart of the fashionable Seminyak district and supported by exemplary service and facilities. Our 24 villas are gracefully arranged on a peaceful pathway. The style is classy, modern and minimalist with geometric lines and artistic flair, cleverly blending chic sophistication with the traditions of Bali. Each villa, with its fresh contemporary decor, is designed to provide peace and privacy, while being equipped with everything that you will need for your comfort and convenience. Facilities at The Kayana include the tranquil Ayur Spa, where you can relax your mind, body and soul. Choose from a menu of traditional massage and indulgent body treatments, and be pampered into a state of lingering bliss by our skilled spa therapists. Enjoy leisurely lunches and romantic dinners at The Dauh Restaurant & Lounge, with a fine selection of international and local cuisine. Positioned beside The Dauh Restaurant and Lounge is the main Swimming Pool; this large and enticing lap pool melts into the ambience and overflows into infinity. Bali is renowned for the warm hospitality of its people and this is evident in the friendly smiles and attentive, yet unobtrusive, service of our considerate staff. We have the expertise and the facilities to coordinate small private meetings, receptions and weddings. Our multi-purpose Function Room is centrally located for your convenience. Considerable care has been taken to ensure that all villas and public areas can be accessed by handicapped guests. At The Kayana, our dedicated team of personal butlers is on hand, 24 hours a day, to look after your every need throughout the duration of your stay.  Every guest who steps through the door of The Kayana will be embarking on a unique experience of uncompromising quality and attention to detail. Our desire is to present you with a blissful lifestyle experience.

North Bali Divecenter is a small beachfront resort for scuba divers in the quiet Northwest of Bali. We organize diving trips to the wonderful coral reefs and the muck-divespots in North Bali. Menjangan, Secret Bay, Puri Jati and Tulamben are among the most famous of our dive destinations. Small groups of max. 4 divers per guide are guaranteed. Nitrox is available. Our education program for Scuba Divers ranges from Beginner to Instructor. All our bungalows offer a spectacular ocean view. The restaurant next to our pool offers Balinese and Indonesian food, as well as some Western dishes. The spa services includes Bali massage, Hot Stone Massage,  Herbal Massage, and others.

Alam Anda Dive & Spa Resort has been a "popular secret"for many years and today has a loyal following of those looking for the perfect holiday destination. The hotel consists of nine Seafront Bungalows, twelve Deluxe Garden Bungalows, two Losmen, the Ambu Ambu double bungalow, two Bahari villas, the Lumba Lumba villa, and the Purnama villa. The resort is located on the northeast coast of Bali, hidden behind coconut and orange plantations, far away from the crowded tourist areas, At Alam Anda Dive & Spa Resort it is still possible to find the original Bali with its culture and the typical living habits of its people. On the almost empty beaches you might occasionally meet a fisherman or children playing - but no sign of tourists. Guests enjoy the two hectare palm garden, with hundreds of shady coconut and Lontar palm trees, Kambodjas, Eucalyptus, and banana trees - the fulfilled dream of a German architect. Our motto says it all ...“Our guests are our friends. We wish to indulge them in all aspects: in diving, culturally, culinary and at the Spa - bodily." Because of this there is a 30 min. Santai Massage included in each 5-day diving package.

The Siddhartha Dive Resort & Spa, built in 2009, sets a new standard for hotels in the northeastern region of Bali. This hotel offers you the luxury of a boutique hotel with stunning architecture in a fabulous setting, yet prices are still reasonable. The mood is informal and relaxed, so you will be able to truly unwind. Siddhartha is a fantastic diving resort situated directly on the beach in the small village of Kubu. The hotel has seven Superior bungalows, 18 deluxe bungalows, five Ocean Front Deluxe bungalows as well as the "Santai & Pantai", two dream villas with their own swimming pools. Located far from all the commercial tourism, the 30 bungalows & villas blend in perfectly within the 2.66 hectare surrounding terraced landscape. The stunningly beautiful tropical garden has been created around the existing palm trees and natural vegetation. Most of the bungalows have an ocean view, along the 180m of beachfront, thanks to the slightly sloping landscape. Bali's most holy mountain, the imposing 3,241 m high Mount Agung, towers in the background, the seat of the Gods!

Bali Villas & Hotels  We offer luxury, traditional villas, in Bali Island & links to Bali hotels & other resorts. Low Rates Guaranteed!

return to top

Central Java

Enter the nostalgic 1920s world of a Dutch coffee plantation in the forested highlands of Java with a memorable stay at Losari Spa Retreat & Coffee Plantation.. Surrounding the resort, eight mountains thrust above the luscious vegetation on the hills and the fragrant floral landscape plunges below each balcony of the 24 Javanese-style villas. Five splendid bedrooms with butler service are featured in the classic Bella Vista Villa, each bedroom has a private garden with its own pool. As you relax on the verandah of your 1828 Dutch mansion, a cup of the best organic Losari coffee in hand, you will see the old Javanese village and the coffee warehouse which has been converted into the Plantation Bar.

The Hamam Spa provides opportunities for creating a harmony between mind, body and nature. The rejuvenation treatments start with yoga beside the spring water-fed pool and end at the Hamam. The resort features two signature restaurants: the Java Red and Java Green offering International and Authentic Nusantara menus with gourmet delicacies and variety of salads from Losari's own organic garden.

return to top

Banten

Nestled around a beige sand beach are the 32 classic beach houses of hardwood and atap roofing that are Sambolo Beach Bungalows. This favourite out-of-town retreat for Jakarta expatriates is not an hotel. Bungalows are leased on short term and yearly contracts to individuals and multinational organisations. Arrange an overnight visit by calling Pak Chandra on (021) 532-3176.

Lombok

Escape to Villa Almarik and enjoy the wide array of Gili Taranwangan's beautiful tropical beaches, landscapes, and the nearby towering volcanic mountain - Gunung Rinjani on Lombok - and some of the most spiritual sites that Indonesia has to offer. This small exotic tropical island, originally home to only a handful of fishermen, lies between blue coral reefs and clear turquoise waters. The Villas are located on the beachfront , with a white sandy beach on the edge of a wide assemblage of beautiful blue corals. The resort is only a few minutes walk from the island’s central area which is alive with small cafés and restaurants. Villa Almarik has 20 elegantly appointed cottages. Each of these is air conditioned and has a spacious living area, a terrace, and a traditional outdoor courtyard attached to the bathroom. Enjoy the gastronomic mix of Indonesian and Mediterranean dishes that awaits you at the Almarik Hotel restaurant, relax at the spa, or enjoy nearby diving. Visit Villa Almarik soon and you'll agree you've found a truly unique vacation getaway. Learn more about this great holiday destination!

return to top

North Sulawesi Dive Resorts

This Gangga Island Resort & Spa, built under shady palms and surrounded by tropical gardens and a pure white sand beach, is located on the tip of the small island of Gangga – easly accessible from Manado International Airport, car and boat. The resort features 15 wooden bungalows, each with two rooms and built in the simple local Minahasa style, with a spacious veranda overlooking the beach and neighbouring islands. Equipped with features expected in a first class resort - hot water, air conditioning and ceiling fan, satellite television with international channels, and sports facilities including a swimming pool. Restaurants and bars feature international and Indonesian cuisine. Relax and rejuvenate in the newly opened Pasung Spa offering rare therapies from the local Minahasa families that have specialized in the ancient art and healing powers. On-site PADI diving centre coordinates diving adventures to nearby Bunaken Marine Park, with over 25 world-class dive locations. Travel to nearby villages and view traditional lifestyles of Bajau fishermen, Tangkoko National Rainforest or the Minahasa Highlands. For more information about Gangga Island Resort & Spa!

Tasik Ria Resort Spa & Diving, right place & comfort ... Located just on the edge of the peaceful and scenic Tasik Ria Bay, the Tasik Ria Resort Spa & Diving, offers a comfortable 3-star boutique style resort that allows you to experience the truly unforgettable Minahasan hospitality. The resort setting is memorable, surrounded by palm trees, landscaped gardens, beautiful flowerbeds and red bougainvillea. Here we can say, we truly look after divers and non-divers alike. From your room you can get to the boats in just a couple of minutes. Just roll out of bed onto the boats from the resort's private jetty. Our highly experienced guides will brief, guide and take care of your dive equipment and ensure your comfort, safety and relaxation. The three spacious dive boats are purpose built with bathroom, environmental toilets, seated dive deck, large sundeck, shaded salon, oxygen, radio and first aid. “Special Rate for expatriates” At Tasik Divers, we are divers too …

Whether you are longing for a beach resort holiday or sailing in the seas of Indonesia… Odyssea Divers @ Cocotinos, A Small Beach Resort offers you an unforgettable journey into the depths of the beautiful ocean. Taking you through diverse underwater terrains ranging from open seas to steep walls, through submerged reefs and coral gardens, creating unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Cocotinos, is our small beach resort located in picturesque Wori bay, North Sulawesi, in the heart of Kima Bajo, a fishing village overlooking Bunaken National Marine Park. This brand new resort will welcome you to world class diving in the Bunaken Marine Park, Bangka and Lembeh. North Sulawesi is renowned for its spectacular wall and muck diving. If you are not a scuba diver, you can also learn how to scuba dive with us at the comfort of our resort and experienced instructor. While scuba diving is the main activity in the resort, a lot more awaits the traveler. You can climb to the top of Mt. Mahawu, raft down a river or have lunch by the side of Lake Tondano, a crater lake in the highland, just to name a few. However if all you want to do is unwind, you can simply relax by the swimming pool with one of our exotic cocktails, or pamper yourself to a traditional Indonesian massage in the spa under a 50-years-old sea hibiscus tree.

return to top

Tours and Sailing Adventures across the Archipelago

Beyond diving and diving beyond .... Java Sea Charters runs luxury live aboard trips in West Java close to Jakarta on board the Cecelia-Ann. This well designed 18 meter motor-sailer is well known for her fabulous trips through the Sunda Straits. We visit famous Krakatau and Ujung Kulon national park, and scuba dive the spectacular wrecks of two large WW II vessels, USS Houston and HMAS Perth. The unique ecosystems in these areas are hardly explored and rarely visited by commerical vessels, making the diving and snorkling very special. Join our regular scheduled weekend trips and long weekends or book a customised charter. Our journeys are great for both scuba divers and non-divers; trekking, snorkling, fishing and bonfires in the remote areas are part of all our trips. A perfect weekend, long weekend or mid week holiday. A different kind of team-outing or a cozy trip with family and friends (up to 10 people) close to Jakarta. We also cater for 1 day functions, parties or celebrations (up to 35 people).

Go Beyond Your Comfort Zone ... Without Surrendering Comfort! No longer is a journey to the hidden gems of Indonesia's Far East a journey of certain hardship. The Seven Seas Dive and Adventure Cruises takes you there with all the style and comfort you would expect. Sumptuous buffets and a fine selection of wines, air-conditioned cabins and dining room, warm showers, a stereo and DVD will all ensure you feel at home albeit in the most exotic of locations. Diving is the main activity, but while anchored at a secluded bay, passengers can take a slow paddle on a kayak or jump aboard the speed boat to explore the beach. Children can play in the waves on a boogie board. Venture onshore to experience some of the local culture and perhaps purchase a beautiful tapestry. Or indulge in a Spa Treatment or Massage offered by our friendly Balinese staff. Seven Seas is all about safety, exquisite reefs, untouched nature, and comfort. Before starting their own family, the owners were vivid scuba-divers and sport-fishers, and they loved traveling to witness the remote nature beauty of Indonesia. Now they have kids, they simply continue to do just the same and take their kids with them. Throughout the year, for special group charters or just to step on with your individual family, Seven Seas organize family adventure cruises in eastern Indonesia. Read more about Sailing the Seven Seas of the Indonesian Archipelago.

return to top

Kalimantan

Join Kalimantan Tour Destinations on a relaxing Jungle River Cruise, on board the Rahai'i Pangun, from Palangkaraya in Central Kalimantan. See orangutans, hornbills, proboscis monkeys, traditional villages and livelihoods. Sit back, relax and enjoy the forested river banks and river life. Only a short hop from the hustle and bustle of Jakarta or Surabaya, you are transferred directly from the airport to the comfortable boat. Settle into your stylish cabins (there are 5 in total) with western bathrooms, and then go up on the viewing deck as the boat sets off on its journey along the meandering rivers. This is raw Borneo, where the rivers remain the main highways through this vast and mostly empty province. Our Jungle River Cruises are the first and only in Central Kalimantan, and provide a unique way to live on board and explore the Borneo Jungle and riverside villages inaccessible by road in relaxed comfort.The on board chef provides a selection of delicious local and Thai delicacies throughout the cruise. Our on board guide accompanies the boat to give you an insight into this little visited but fascinating region and the communities who live here. We are working with local communities to bring Ecotourism to this part of Central Kalimantan as a way of protecting the environment and creating alternative livelihoods. To directly support local communities, the costs for some optional canoe rides, village traditional guides and entertainments are payable directly to local communities by our guests.

return to top

Airlines

Beyond the Archipelago ... travel the world

Qatar Airways is one of the fastest growing airlines in the world now flying to over 82 leisure and business destinations across Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa, Indian Subcontinent and the Far East. Currently operating daily flights from Jakarta to its hub in Doha and daily flights from Bali to Doha, via Singapore, Qatar Airways offers easy and convenient connections to over 82 destinations. Whether you’re looking for relaxing trip to South Africa or a European experience to Paris, Qatar Airways offers seamless connections to all corners of the globe; while Doha itself offers year-round sunshine and a wealth of world-class hotels for those looking to break up their journey. Qatar Airways, in 2009 once again secured its 5-star ranking from independent aviation industry monitor Skytrax, as well as being voted as the ‘Best Economy Class in the World’, ‘Best Cabin Crew in the Middle East’ for the seventh consecutive year and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ for forth year running. Qatar Airways International Ranking also raises three places to fourth best in the world. On the ground, Qatar Airways’ unique Premium Terminal in Doha provides dedicated facilities for First and Business Class passengers in an atmosphere similar to a luxury hotel than an airport. As a premium passenger you will enjoy separate dining areas, exclusive duty free shopping, a dedicated business centre plus a spa, Jacuzzi, sauna and massage service in First Class.

return to top

Many of these sponsors offer special rates for KITAS holders, so mention you saw their listing on the Living in Indonesia website, and see if they offer a discount!

Looking for help in booking these vacations?
... read the article on Choosing a Travel Agent!

[Practical Information] [Expat Forum] [Site Map] [Search] [Home Page] [Contact]

Copyright © 1997-2010, Expat Web Site Association Jakarta, Indonesia http://www.expat.or.id All rights reserved. The information on Living in Indonesia, A Site for Expatriates may not be retransmitted or reproduced in any form without permission. This information has been compiled from sources which we, the Expat Web Site Association and volunteers related to this site, believe to be reliable. While reasonable care has been taken to ensure that the facts are accurate and up-to-date, opinions and commentary are fair and reasonable, we accept no responsibility for them. The information contained does not make any recommendation upon which you can rely without further personal consideration and is not an offer or a solicitation to buy any products or services from us. Opinions and statements constitute the judgment of the contributors to this web site at the time the information was written and may change without notice.