With the government’s announcement of airfare price reductions during the holiday season, you might want to consider exploring other parts of Indonesia that are just a short flight from Bali.
From swimming with turtles to culturally rich cities, here are a couple of top spots to consider for your end-of-year getaway.
1. A Quieter Beachy Island with Pristine Sea Life: Gili Trawangan, Lombok
Need a break from Bali’s traffic congestions but still want to enjoy the beachy nature? A mere 40-minute flight from Bali, Gili Trawangan offers a captivating contrast to the bustling island life.
Compared to Bali, Gili Trawangan stand out for its absence of motorized vehicles. With only bicycles and horse-drawn carts for transportation, the island maintains a peaceful, eco-friendly vibe that offers a refreshing break from the bustling crowds and traffic of Bali.
For those who enjoy nightlife, Gili Trawangan strikes a balance. While not as intense as Bali’s club scene, the island’s beach bars offer a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, where you can unwind with a cocktail while enjoying the cool sea breeze.
Swim with Sea Turtles
Known for its crystal-clear waters and thriving marine ecosystem, the island is a hotspot for sea turtles. These majestic creatures are often spotted while snorkeling or diving, as the surrounding waters offer a safe haven for both green and hawksbill turtles.
Gili Trawangan is particularly celebrated for its turtle conservation efforts. Several local organizations work tirelessly to protect turtle nests, with hatchlings released into the wild as part of ongoing preservation programs. Visitors can witness this incredible process firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of turtle conservation and the impact of their actions on the environment.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, the island’s shallow coral reefs and calm waters provide perfect conditions for encountering these incredible creatures. Swimming alongside them in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that sets Gili Trawangan apart from many other destinations in Indonesia.
For a complete, everything-you-need guide (turtle locations, accommodations, prices, etc.), access our tailored travel guide, written by our team, here.
2. Vibrant Javanese Cultural Hub: Yogyakarta
Just a short flight away from Bali, Yogyakarta, also known as Jogja, is the cultural soul of Java.
Steeped in history and tradition, this city is a must-visit for travelers looking to dive into Indonesia’s rich heritage.
Yogyakarta boasts iconic landmarks like the awe-inspiring Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and the Prambanan Temple, an ancient Hindu site that’s as breathtaking as it is intricate.
Beyond these monumental sites, the city’s streets are alive with traditional art, from batik workshops to vibrant markets where local artisans display their crafts.
Yogyakarta is also renowned for its food, and no visit is complete without trying local delicacies like Gudeg (a jackfruit stew), Bakpia (a sweet pastry), and the refreshing Es Dawet (a sweet iced drink).
For those with an adventurous spirit, you can also trek to the top of Mount Merapi, one of Indonesia’s most active volcanoes, for a thrilling sunrise hike and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adrenaline junkie, Yogyakarta offers something for every type of traveler.
We’ve crafted two Yogyakarta travel guides: One to explore the city’s hidden gems, and another for sunrise watching in the wondrous Borobudur temple.
For more travel guides, crafted and curated by our team, visit Guide Your Travel.
