When planning to travel to Indonesia, there are a lot of things you would prepare for: booking your stay, scouting the best shopping areas and marking the map with the best sightseeing venues. What you might forget to do is check up on the etiquette expected from you in that country – the dos and the don’ts according to the locals. .
Dos
Greet villagers – The culture of Indonesia is one of friendliness, where they are always willing to strike up a conversation. Being aloof and distant is considered rude, so greet the people even when you are walking down the road!
Ask permission – The way to show respect is to ask. The big cities like Jakarta and Bali are more used to tourists, and so not much etiquette is needed there. But if you happen to be exploring through the countryside and villages, do seek permission if there is anyone on the road before embarking down that road, or even when taking a picture of someone. They will be more than happy to pose for you.
Smile – The easiest way to breeze through your vacation is to just smile at everyone you meet and be friendly and polite.
Cover up – Even though Indonesia might be a mix of a lot of different cultures, they still hold fast to their traditions. Modesty is highly valued, especially when in Aceh, home to the Grand Mosque and what can be regarded as the most religious city. Women should cover their heads when going to the mosque, and men should be decently dressed in long pants and a shirt that covers their arms.
Allow yourself to be treated as a guest in the home of a villager – Villagers regard visitors as something of a novelty and, as per their custom, will invite you in. Accept graciously and take a gift. Remove your shoes – It is advisable to remove footwear before entering a house and to not show the soles of your feet to anyone.
Use your right thumb to point – using the index finger is considered to be rude. Always bend slightly when talking to someone older or in a higher position than you as this demonstrates respect .
Don’ts
Be in a hurry – First of all, you’re on holiday. You should be going with the flow instead of having a packed agenda. Secondly, this is not the place for you to be impatient because people here don’t know the meaning of ‘rush’. It’s better to keep your cool and accept things the way they are.
Get angry and raise your voice – In a situation where you are wronged, avoid raising your voice or using angry gestures like stamping your feet or placing your hands on your hips. Try to keep your temper and explain your side in a calm manner. Emotional outbursts and accusations are advised against.
Wear short clothes – Modesty is valued, and it is shameful for women to walk around in skimpy clothing. They might be mistaken for prostitutes, and will be bothered, especially at night.
Judge people based on their religion – as Indonesia is a complex mix of a lot of different cultures, religions and influences. Even though it is home to the largest Muslim population in the world, their practices differ considerably from others, and they are regarded as being only fairly moderate Muslims compared to those in the Middle East.
Never use your left hand for anything – Whether it be touching someone else or picking something up, the left hand is regarded as unclean. Eating with it is a big no-no, so if you’re a leftie, take care to use your right hand more. . .
For more information on Indonesia please visit http://www.indonesia.travel
