11 Things Only People Who’ve Been To Java Will Understand

By Geckos Adventures: the world’s finest purveyors of awesome, small group adventures (even if we do say so ourselves).

Java is a small Indonesian island. Also, it’s a wonderful place; full of smiles, delicious food, kick-ass beaches and people. Yes, there are a lot of people here. In fact, Java is one of the most densely populated places in the world and is home to 57% of all Indonesians. Mental right?

And with that in mind, you know it’s going to be a full-on travel experience. But that’s pretty lucky, really, because it just so happens that ‘FULL-ON’ are exactly the type of travel experiences we like!

On the magical island of Java, here are 11 things you can count on happening. Enjoy.

1. The call to prayer alarm clock

Light sleepers might not appreciate the morning call to prayer at 4:30am, but it tends not to be too intrusive. In fact with its soothing tones, it’s sure to lull you back to sleep. Heavy sleepers fear not – there are four more calls to prayer throughout the day so you’ll definitely get the opportunity to experience it! Be sure to catch the evening call to prayer, just as the sun sets; it has a pretty special vibe about it.

2. The local guides are the best!

You’ll have your awesome Geckos local leader, but there are people out there who specialise in specific areas, and really know their stuff when it comes to history and contemporary culture. Not only do these local guys rock, but when you pay for their services, you’re encouraging the local economy, which is super beneficial.

3. Like snacks, but weirder

Salmon teriyaki, chicken paprika, and Nori Seaweed are obviously the flavours of crisps we’ve been searching for our whole lives right? Forget salt and vinegar and prawn cocktail; they’re nowhere to be seen in Indonesia. On an Indonesian adventure, it should be your personal mission to find the strangest flavour and combinations you possibly can. Challenge accepted?

4. Fumble in the jungle

When you reach the jungle area in the north-east of Java you really do know it. With huge elephant ear leaves surrounding you, legs hidden in the undergrowth, and fascinating wildlife habitats, it’s a bit like being in Lost – without the plane crash and giant polar bear obvs!

5. The locals don’t travel light

Whether on the road, or watching from the side, you’ll see people balancing crazy amounts of goods on a scooter. Towers of toilet rolls, livestock, groceries, clothes and boxes; we can’t quite understand how they do it, but think they are darn talented!

6. Can’t move for paddy fields

No wonder rice is on the menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for Indonesian peeps in Java. It’s everywhere. From the reflective water paddies, to the fully grown rice ready for harvesting and picturesque terraces drifting into the distance, rice paddies are very much at home in rural Java.

7. The hostesses with the mostess(es)

The hostesses on the trains wear vibrant turquoise outfits (Thunderbird-style) and move down the train serving tea, coffee, fresh juice and chicken pies. There is a restaurant carriage, but really no need to leave your seat…unless you need to use the stainless steel squatter after all those fluids. It isn’t that bad.

8. Cycle cars in Pangandaran

We reckon these are as close to a golf buggy as any vehicle we’ve seen before – but they’re are pedal powered, and covered in neon rope lighting with a sound system playing Indonesian pop. And that’s not the best bit: you can rent them by the hour and actually own one of these for an evening. Remember to stick to the left though.

9. Street art or political performance?

The street art in Java is not only awesome in terms of talent, but it’s also highly political. You’ll learn a lot about contemporary culture from perusing the colourful walls around Yogyakarta… if that’s what you’re into. Otherwise, it’s just pretty awesome to look at!

10. If you don’t Angklung by now…

Made entirely from bamboo and each instrument creating a different note, the Angklung is the traditional Indonesian musical instrument. If you’re lucky, you’ll get the chance to learn how to play, and even take part in a small rendition of ‘Que Sera, Sera’. Any takers?

11. Epic lands

Indonesia’s landscape is volcanic, so most of the time you’re looking at epic mountains looming around, but really Mount Bromo takes the biscuit for the best volcano vista from afar and the experience on its almighty rim. You can either walk up it or be lead up on a horse… your choice!

Check out Geckos’ range of Indonesian trips and you’ll be well on your way to having a good time.

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