Much of North Sulawesi feels truly untamed, but the one place you can feel completely immmersed in it is Tangkoko National Park. Just a couple of hours from Manado city, this dense pocket of jungle is where big-eyed primates crash through the trees, black sand beaches meet thick rainforest, and bucket-list wildlife encounters are guaranteed. It’s raw, a little unpredictable, and easily one of the most memorable experiences you can have in this part of Indonesia. The Wildlife:

If Bunaken is North Sulawesi’s glittering underwater jewel, then Tomohon is its fiery highland heart. Just 45 minutes from the bustle of Manado, this cool-climate mountain town sits in the lush Minahasa Highlands, framed by volcanoes and stitched together with flower farms, crater lakes and villages where tradition still shapes daily life. It’s dramatic, fascinating, occasionally confronting — and absolutely worth carving time for. Here’s everything you need to know to plan y

When we told friends we were heading to Bunaken Island in North Sulawesi, reactions were a mix of "Sorry, where?" and "Oh wow, the diving!" They weren’t wrong - while it took a bit of travel to get there, the diving and snorkelling was INCREDIBLE. Believe it or not though, the under water world was not quite the real highlight of Bunaken Island. What surprised us - two midlife travellers who appreciate a good night’s sleep almost as much as a good reef - was how much we fel

We arrived in Manado city on December 29th, and we could feel the excitement buzzing in the air as people filled the streets preparing for the upcoming celebrations of New Years Eve. Blue Micros (local buses) zoomed around the city, ferrying locals about while blasting bright, upbeat Manado tunes through their huge speakers. "Manado music" is an interesting mix that can be super catchy or super annoying - depending on your mood at the time, but it's everywhere here. Being a l

When you're travelling overseas, every dollar counts — and hidden fees can quietly chip away at your holiday budget. Whether you're...

If you're like us, you might get a bit stir crazy sitting in the busiest tourist area of Bali for your entire trip. While Kuta has plenty...

Bali stands out as a fantastic choice for first-time travellers looking for an exciting mix of culture, beaches, and ease. It's a...

Sections Welcome Getting to Makassar Getting around Makassar and Sulawesi Things to see and do in the City Day Trips From Makassar...

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The ultimate guide to visiting Maratua Island, Indonesia - a snorkeling and diving paradise.

This guide covers everything you need to know about visas, tourist levies, customs declarations, health screenings, and passport validity.

When you’re heading to Indonesia, staying connected by phone is essential for everything from finding your way around to keeping in touch with family back home. But with so many options for mobile service, it can be tricky to know what will work best for your trip. In this post, we’ll compare three popular options: international roaming (using Telstra, Optus, and Boost Mobile as examples), using an eSIM , and buying a local SIM card on arrival. 1. International Roaming: Telst

Discover the warm hospitality, stunning scenery and amazing marine life that Amed has to offer.

Are you a food enthusiast looking to elevate your culinary skills while immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Bali? Look no...

Travelling to Bali is a dream come true for many adventure-seekers and culture enthusiasts. However, amidst the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of this Indonesian paradise, lurks a common ailment that can put a damper on your vacation - the dreaded Bali Belly . Let's delve into what Bali Belly is, its symptoms, ways to avoid it, treatment options, and when it's crucial to seek medical attention. What is Bali Belly? Bali Belly , also known as travellers' diarrhoea

Sidemen , located in the east of Bali, is a tranquil haven where time seems to slow down. It's a destination where rice terraces stretch...

Situated on Bali's tranquil eastern coast, Candidasa offers a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and serene ambiance,...

Nestled in the northwestern tip of Bali, the West Bali National Park is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and tranquil beaches. This pristine area, covering over 190 square kilometers, is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience a different side of Bali away from the crowded tourist spots. Among the highlights of this national park are Menjangan Island and Gawana Bay—each offering uniq

If you're thinking of exploring the north coast of Bali, Lovina makes a fabulous base. Roughly an hour and a half's drive to the west and you will find yourself in the West Bali National Park - with stunning scenery and the amazing waters around Menjangan Island to explore. Heading south, you'll find the lush green slopes of Munduk and the twin lakes area which offer culinary delights, cultural must-do's, waterfalls galore and adventure if that's your thing. Just East of Lovi

Let me start by saying, we are not big budget travellers. We tend to search out every little saving we can when planning a trip. We're not high-income earners, we have three teenage kids, and a fairly decent mortgage. With that said, we prioritise travel because it's something we both love and it brings us joy. These tips are based on our experiences in Bali but can be used for other destinations too. This is how we do it. Saving Up We've been Barefoot Investor converts for