I'm finally in Indonesia! It took three long days for me to arrive here. It has been an amazing adventure and an experience I will never forget.
From Hawaii, I spent a night in Japan, then flew to Jakarta the following day. The plane was empty and I was unsure of what to expect once I landed. In many ways I was terrified, but I was also excited and ready to begin my new adventure. After landing, it was complete madness and chaos at the airport.
I waited for almost an hour in line with several hundred people. Fortunately, the line I stood in moved the quickest. I asked an Australian man nearby, "Is this where we wait?" We were both confused. It was extremely hot and you could smell burning incense. I noticed people being stopped and interviewed. I had wondered, "Will I make it to my next flight?"
I went through immigration without a problem. I picked the right line. I noticed the computer stated "no threat," as the immigration officer returned my passport. Afterward, it was time to grab my bags. I'm glad others knew where I should go because I was lost. I dragged my two heavy bags and felt completely paranoid about receiving any help, but eventually had to give in.
I grabbed my bags and exited the terminal when I noticed a row of money changes in front of me. They all began to yell to compete for my business. I quickly scanned the booths for the best rates, as they all started to hold up signs and yell to attract my attention. I decided to go to the last one with the best rate. It was too funny.
It was overwhelming at the airport and it is not easy to navigate either. I was completely lost, but a young man helped me find my way. I tried to refuse his help, but he knew I was lost and wouldn't leave. In the end, everything worked out and I realized things would be fine. Throughout my travels, I felt as if someone was always with me. I had many people along the way who made sure I would be okay from the beginning.
From Jakarta, I had to fly to Yogyakarta. There were less and less foreigners. I started to feel lost. I could barely understand anyone's English. When we landed in Yogya, we didn't have a hard landing, but the aircraft was bouncing like I have never experienced. It made me laugh.
Once I arrived in Yogyakarta, it was madness once again. Taxi driver's want to take you to your next stop, but fortunately I booked a hotel with the Hyatt and a taxi. It made life much easier.
The Hyatt in Yogyakarta is incredible! Here are some photos from my stay. It's a 5 star hotel and it only cost $99 for the night. The service was incredible! The food excellent.
Good to know that you arrived there safely! Your trip does sound like a big adventure already!
ReplyDeleteWhat a looong journey to your destination! I went to Thailand last year and it was very similar. Long layovers, taxi drivers vying for your fare. At least I had a friend with me, I can't imagine doing it alone! Have fun and keep us updated!!
ReplyDeleteWow, that looks so amazing! I hope you're having a wonderful time.
ReplyDeleteMy boyfriend has family in Indonesia, and he speaks fluent Indonesian. I hope to go some day with him!
wow! you've visited indonesia! that's one of my dream destination. I wanna chill in Bali.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone for your comments!
ReplyDeleteJohn, it has been an incredible adventure! =)
Lisa, it sure was long. I'm sure you know exactly how I feel with you Thailand experience. hehehe
Eleni, you have to visit Indonesia one day! You will love it.
Janjan, definitely visit Bali! From what I hear, it's a South East Asian paradise.