Getting to Indonesia
You can fly direct to Indonesia from just about anywhere. Most
people traveling from Europe and the US arrive on direct flights
to Jakarta, while those coming from Australia usually go first
to Bali. The main international entry points are Soekarno-Hatta
airport in Jakarta, Ngurah Rai airport in Bali, and Polonia airport
in Medan. There are also non-stop flights from several Asian cities,
including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, Nagoya, Fukuoka
and Osaka.
Direct flights connect Bali with many major cities in Asia and
Europe. Air fares vary depending on the carrier, the season and
the type of ticket purchased. A discount RT fare from the US costs
from $1,000-1,200 and from Europe costs $800-1,200; about half
that from Australia or East Asian capitals.
An excursion fare return ticket from Singapore to Bali with stops
in Jakarta and Yogyakarta, good for a month, is available in Singapore
for around $300. Buy through travel agents-check the classified
section of the Straits Times for details.
Note: You need a return or onward ticket to get a visa-free entry
upon arrival in Indonesia.
Air tickets from Batam and Bintan are also inexpensive. These
Indonesian islands just off the coast of Singapore can be reached
via short ferry hops from Singapore's World Trade Center. Ferries
to Batam cost $12 single, $17 return and to Bintan $32 single,
$45 return. Inquire at travel agents in Singapore for latest fares,
then compare with direct Singapore to Bali discount rates.
Garuda offers a visit pass to foreigners purchasing outside of
Indonesia. A minimum of three coupons can be purchased for $300.
Additional coupons are $100 each, up to 10 coupons. One coupon
is valid for one flight and you can not return to a destination
already covered. If the flight is not directly to your intended
destination, you are charged one coupon per stop. This program
is good value for long-haul travel within Indonesia, Medan to
Jakarta for instance or Bali to Biak, which otherwise is quite
costly. |
