Visiting Indonesia

Etiquette

On greeting someone it is customary for both men and women to shake hands with the right hand. To shake hands, give or receive, or eat with the left hand is considered impolite.

Pointing or summoning someone with your index finger is considered impolite and care should be taken not to climb over places of worship or local monuments.

Dress appropriately. Light, casual cotton clothes are the most practical in Indonesia's humid conditions. Indonesians are very clothes conscious and it is particularly important to be properly dressed when visiting government offices.

In deference to local customs, scanty clothing is not advisable in public places. Shorts are not permitted in mosques and women should have their head and arms covered. In Bali, waist sashes should be worn when visiting temples.