Introduction to Indonesia
Indonesia is the fifth most populated nation in the world. The country has a total of 17,508 islands, only 6000 of which are inhabited.
The total land area of Indonesia is 767,777 square miles. 220 million people call it there home and they are made up of 300 ethnic groups who speak an estimated 583 different languages and dialects. There are five main islands in Indonesia. These are: Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi and Irian Jaya.
Among these islands Sumatra is the most important one in every single way. Bukit Barisan is a mountain wall that is spreads on the western side of this island. This particular mountain range contains 93 volcanic peaks of which 15 are still active.
Sumatra is rich in its wild life as well. There are 176 different species of mammals, 194 reptiles, 62 amphibians and 150 birds living on this island which makes the place a blessing of nature.
Indonesia shares its island Kalimantan with Malaysia. Tourism has not much developed in this part of the country and so it is not among the favorite haunts of tourists who come to Indonesia for that matter.
Irian Jaya is the least visited of the Indonesian provinces. It occupies the western half of New Guinea. And the capital of the country, Jakarta, lies on the Java Islands.
In many parts of the country one finds cool and moderate temperature which makes it pleasant for tourists who come here. People coming here from the different parts of the globe find the climate to be suited to their habits and needs.
As the Indonesian constitution recognizes the freedom of religion here one can find the perfect blending of multiple beliefs like Hinduism, Christianity and of course Islam. 87% of the population is Moslems.
There are so many different tribes and ethnic groups living in Indonesia like the Balinese, the Javanese, the Dayak and so many more.
Each group has their own culture and customs to follow. They have their own festivals and rituals that they celebrate each year and this interest people around the globe.
Bahasa Indonesia is the official language of Indonesia which has many dialects and English is the mostly understood foreign tongue. There are certain things unique about the people and life style of Indonesia.
Like standing with the arms crossed or standing with the hands on the hips are considered to be insults over here. No aggressive gesture is to be taken while taking to an Indonesian.
It is said that if a host keeps his guest waiting then that's a compliment being paid. A guest always needs the host to invite him before he can take up his food or drinks. Before entering a temple cloth has to be worn around the waist area. Pointing a finger at anything is a rude gesture and so is pointing the feet above the ground.
While eating or receiving stuff from others the left hand is to be avoided as it is thought of as unclean.
Anyone coming to Indonesia for the first time is sure to be fascinated by its diverse cultures and art.
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