Explore Indonesia
Celebrating Indigenous Dance and Rituals at Gawai Festival
The crocodile appeared on the stage in the form of a human. The dancer writhed and slithered, accompanied by the deep tones of the didgeridoo. This opening dance at the 2018 Gawai Festival was received with loud cheers from the crowd. Dayak women dance at Gawai Festival. Photo by David Metcalf/NOW!JAKARTA The Gawai festival committee

The Journey of a Lifetime: Exploring the Spice Islands of Indonesia
To begin to understand the rich history of Indonesia, one must explore some of its most remote islands. The 11 Banda Islands are located in the heart of Banda Sea, the deepest in Indonesia. Despite its remote location, European ships sailed there from the early 1500s in search of “Gold” (Nutmeg). The value of the

Lembata, a Jewel in the Solor Archipelago
Sitting between Timor and Flores, Lembata is the largest island in the Solor Archipelago. Small villages dot the landscape, and tourism is still very low-key. Lembata is island in East Nusa Tenggara which offer low-key cultural tourism with its unique coastal community. Photo by Stephanie Brookes And Tonny Lebuan/NOW!JAKARTA The island has a rich tradition

Parks & Recreation: Bali Natural Spaces are a Treat
As much as we love Bali for its rich culture and traditions, sometimes a visit to an elephant or going on a safari park is what’s called for to keep your little ones entertained. Fortunately, Bali is home to a variety of exciting attractions fit for a fun family day out, making it an easy

Unique Christmas Traditions Across Indonesia Blend Religion with Local Culture
Indonesia diverse culture and tradition means festivals here combine religion with culture. From Sabang to Merauke, each region symbolises Christmas using local tradition to deliver the same message about Christmas. Wayang Kulit show adapts the story of Jesus Birth during Chritmas celebration in Yogyakarta. NOW!JAKARTA Rabo-Rabo, Jakarta Kampung Tugu, Cilincing, North Jakarta is a place

Holy Night in the Land of Spirits, Celebrating Christmas in Bali this Year
Christmas may come as a ‘quiet’ day here in Bali as a predominantly Hindu island. Yet, tucked away in the Jembrana regency side of the almost 20,000-hectare West Bali National Park, one could find a little Christmas surprise package. Yes, the western Bali villages of Palasari and Blimbingsari, areas known as the dwelling place of