• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah 
• Time difference: GMT +7 
• Flight from the UK: 7 hours and 30 minutes 
• Visa: No (for visits up to 30 days) 
• Language: Bahasa Indonesia 
• Regional drink: bajigur (made from coconut milk and palm sugar) 
• Regional dish: basko (meatball noodle soup)

Java Activities

Without a doubt one of the highlights of any trip to Java is a sunrise hike to the summit of Mount Bromo. Sitting within the desert-like black sands of Loatian Pasir (or the Sand Sea) climbing the 250 steps to the summit is worth the effort for the incredible views. Just as impressive (thought lesser known) is Mount Ijen – treks to the highly acidic crater lake are rewarded with sights of brightly coloured ‘flames’. For a more cultural activity, take in a traditional Javanese masked performance.

Java Food & Drink

Popular throughout Indonesia, you’ll find most dishes are prepared with sambal, a chili based sauce with a definite kick! As well as typical dishes found throughout the country, including nasi goreng, local Javanese dishes including bakso a meatball noodle soup, kambing gule a goat and coconut curry and the signature jackfruit and coconut curry found in Yogya.

Java Attractions

Top of most peoples ‘must see’ lists when travelling to Java is the awe-inspiring 8th century Buddhist temple of Borobudur. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the largest Buddhist monument in the world with over 500 statues set over three tiers – sunrise visits are highly recommended. In contrast, Prambanan is a series of impressive jagged Hindu temples built in the 10th century with shrines dedicated to the deities Brahama, Vishnu and Siwa. Don’t forget to take time to explore the island’s history and culture in Yogyakarta (pronounced ‘Jogjakarta’) to witness the art of silver crafting.