Russia Travel Resources >
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Russia Travel Guide - Communications You are here: About > Travel > Eastern Europe for Visitors > Russia-Belarus-Ukraine > Russia Travel Resources > Travel Essentials - Russia > Russia Travel Guide - Communications Travel Go Eastern Europe Essentials Best of Eastern Europe Map of Central/Eastern Europe Photo Gallery Country Profiles Discount Travel Websites Articles & Resources Planning Your Trip Ways to Travel What to Do in East Europe Maps for Eastern Europe Czech-SlovakTravel Hungary Travel Poland Travel Russia-Belarus-Ukraine Romania-Moldova Travel Baltic Travel Balkan Travel Culture and Holidays Photo Galleries East Europe Travel and Language Books Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Eastern Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Eastern Europe for Visitors Stay up to date! Email to a friend Print this page Most Popular First Christmas Tree Europe map Best of Eastern Europe Croatia Naturism and Nudism Discount Travel Websites What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings Related Topics Hotels / Resorts / Inns European History Architecture Air Travel Europe for Visitors Communications From Apply Now , Your Guide to Eastern Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Russia Travel Guide Communications services throughout Russia vary according to the region, although improvements are gradually coming.
Post Office
Russia has 40,000 post offices. All of them sell stamps and envelopes and can process domestic and international letters and cards. Larger post offices will offer more service, including domestic and international parcel post, telephone calls, domestic and international express letters, Internet service and currency exchange.
The post can take some time to be delivered in Russia. For quicker and more reliable service, use American Express if you are a member or a private delivery service.
Telephones
The country code is for Russia is 7.
The city code for Moscow is 095 and for St. Petersburg 812.
In larger cities, you will find modern public telephone booths that accept phonecards, for sale at hotel front desks, post offices, newspaper kiosks and metro stations.
To make an international call from Russia, dial 8, wait for a tone, then 10 + country code + area code + number. To dial another city in Russia, dial 8, wait for the tone, then the city code + number. Send faxes from your hotel, business centers, or telegraph offices. Some post offices can also send faxes.
Mobile Telephones
There are three main providers of mobile telephone service in Russia:
Mobile Telesystems - MTS
VimpelCom
Megafon (Russian-language site)
If you want to use your own GSM phone (it has a Subscriber Identity Module smart card that has account information about the subscriber) you should check with your local provider about which company to use in Russia. However,the cost per minute will likely be high.
GSM is a popular system in Russia, although other standards also operate on different networks.
A good alternative is to buy a pay-as-you-go mobile phone. You can purchase one from a telecom shop for not much money.
Internet Service
You can find Internet cafes throughout Russia, and naturally cities have the greatest abundance. You won't have any trouble finding an Internet cafe in St Petersburg or Moscow. For a list of Internet cafes in Russia, see Globaltrek .
Radio
Radio stations abound in Russia. With the Internet, you can listen to Russian radio stations. See this list for a list of radio stations in Russia.
Television
Russians enjoy numerous television stations, now that satellite transmissions supplement the traditional fare. Major stations are:
1TV
Ladya-TV
RTR-Planeta
Here you can get a list of other stations with Internet transmission.
Newspapers
There are several English-language newspapers published in Russia. The Moscow News and the Moscow Times are dailies. The St. Petersburg Times is an English-language paper published twice a week. Pravda has an English edition as well as its Russian version .
Webcams
Webcams provide a current look at far away places. Here are webcams of some favorite spots around Russia.
St. Petersburg
Moscow
Ekaterinburg Russia Travel Guide Index
Profile of Russia
City Profile: Moscow
City Profile: St. Petersburg
Before You Go
Need to Know
Money Matters
Intercity Travel
City Transit
Driving
Health and Safety
Lodging
Dining and Drinking
Communications
Shopping
Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Krakow Photo Gallery Profiles of Eastern Europe Moscow City Profile Czech Republic Photo Gallery - Charles Bridge and castle Sofia's Religous Buildings
Germany Travel
German Travel You are here: About > Homework Help > German Language > German Travel Homework Help German Language Essentials German Vocabulary German Word Games German Lessons German Grammar Guide Wort des Tages Articles & Resources Audio / Listening Vocabulary Culture Lessons Grammar Genealogy DVD Video TV Reading German Speaking German Writing German Jobs/Careers Games, Exercises German Travel Teaching German Translating German Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks DVDs and Videos in German German Dictionaries German Music CDs Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the German Language newsletter! See Online Courses Search German Language > German Travel German Travel Articles, information, and links about traveling to or in German-speaking countries. Subtopics Travel Web Links (37) Articles & Resources Sort By : Guide Picks | Alphabetical | Recent Course Newsletter: Travel German Planning a trip to Germany, Austria, or German Switzerland? This special Travel German course will help you prepare. You'll learn the essential German vocabulary and key phrases that will help you get more from your trip. Each week for six weeks you'll receive a new lesson. German for Travelers: The Basics An article on basic German travel vocabulary from your Guide. English-German Travel Glossary An annotated English-to-German travel lexicon from your Guide. Essential German - On One Page Don't have time to learn German? You know you need to know a few basics, but you're a busy person. Here's some help. A one-page phrasebook for people in a hurry. Fotogalerie - German Photo Gallery Take a virtual tour of Austria and Germany in our special photo gallery for German. Features scenic and cultural photographs of many places in German-speaking Europe. Driving Glossary: Traffic Signs If you're planning to drive in Europe you should make sure that you know what the traffic signs mean. Most European traffic signs are uniform throughout the continent and they usually communicate via symbols and graphics, but there are also situations where knowing German is important. With a self-scoring quiz. Euro & Money Glossary German-English The euro () and other money-related vocabulary. The euro went into circulation in Austria, Germany, and 10 other countries on January 1, 2002. German Menu/Dining Guide A menu and dining guide with words and expressions that are likely to be encountered on a typical menu ( die Speisekarte ) in Austria, Germany or Switzerland. Part of Lektion 13 - Essen und Trinken (German for Beginners). German Weather Glossary How to understand a weather forecast and talk about the weather... in German. Medical Vocabulary - English-German German words and phrases related to medical treatment, diseases and injuries. What to tell the German doctor or pharmacist when you're not feeling well. German for Beginners Our free online course is perfect for Europe-bound travelers who know little or no German, or those who need to brush up 0n a hurry. No book required and you can start any time. Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot German Words of the Year 2005 (plus English) German First Names and Their Meanings 6 German Word of the Day - 23. Dezember German SMS 2 - Sources - Text Messaging auf Deutsch German Word of the Day - 22. Dezember Headlines German SMS - Text Messaging auf Deutsch German SMS, also known as text messaging, has been popular... German Words of the Year 2005 Each year in December the Gesellschaft fr deutsche Sprache (German... Christmas Lights in Germany: Weihnachtshuser It's common to see colorful Christmas lights and decorations on... Bauernregeln - German Folk Sayings The German word Bauernregel (f.) is variously defined as "country...
France Travel
France Travel Guide - French Trip Planning, French Culture and Destinations You are here: About > Travel > France for Visitors Travel Go France Essentials New Year's Eve in Paris and France Worst of France 2005 Paris Travel Guide Top French Ski Resorts Best New Year's Eve Champagne Articles & Resources Destinations Trip Planning Transportation Interests & Situations Money, Safety & Issues Things to Do in France Where to Stay in France Staying Connected Blogs Picture Galleries Culture, Language & People Fun, Freebies & Quizes Relocating to France Nudism, Sex & Gay Travel D-Day & Historic Travel Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Sites Selling French Products Before You Buy the Gift of Travel Gifts for the France Fanatic Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the France for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search France for Visitors From Kelby Carr , Your Guide to France for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and smoke. So why are they so thin and fit? Recent news reports have touted the wonders of the so-called French diet. Just what is the secret to the French paradox? During the time I lived in France, I ate whatever I wanted (think chocolate croissants for breakfast, tartes aux fruits rouges at night for dessert). I never dieted, and I never went to the gym. I indulged in wine. Yet I lost a significant amount of weight during that time. My theories why the French diet works are in my article, Lose Weight with the French Diet: Unraveling the Mysteries of Why it Works . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as rioting spread throughout the nation and the grand city of Paris lost its front-runner bid for the Olympics. Here is a recap of the bad headlines of 2005 for France with Worst of France 2005 . Wednesday December 28, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it in the mesmerizing Pyrenees mountains lining the Spanish border or the magestic Alps along the Italian and Swiss borders. France also encompasses no less than five other mountain ranges. The hotel accommodations at some of these resorts range from upscale and luxurious to inviting and cozy. This list of Top Ski Resort Hotels in France features the best places to stay for French ski enthusiasts. Monday December 26, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether it's clubbing in Paris or the sublime midnight grape-picking event in the Midi Pyrenees or an upscale, medieval celebration in a Loire castle. Find out how to plan a New Year's Eve visit to Paris or France , and which events and festivals are planned for the turn of the new year. Even if you can't zip over to Paris to celebrate, you'll also find tips on finding French New Year's Eve parties in your town or even how to plan a France-themed New Year's Eve party at your own house! Bonne fete! Wednesday December 21, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines Looking for a last-minute gift idea? Planning a New Year's Eve get together? If you plan to celebrate with some bubbly, you want to be sure you do it in style. You can get a crappy grocery store sparkling wine, but only vintages from the Champagne region are truly called Champagne. There is also a small village in France that claims it, in fact, invented sparkling wine centuries ago. Here is a list of the Top French Champagnes and Sparkling Wines for New Year's Eve, wedding toasts, celebrations or just for fun for all price ranges! Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Christmas 2005 Gift Guide for Francophiles, Travelers and Foodies Here is the Christmas 2005 Gift Guide , filled with some of the top gifts for travelers, francophiles and foodies. The guide also includes buying advice for choosing travel guidebooks as gifts, how to create a French gift basket, as well as tips on giving the gift of travel. Whether the recipient on your list loves gourmet food gifts, French wine, home decor items, is planning a honeymoon or simply adores anything trs francais , you can find the perfect gift and buying advice here. Friday December 16, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Most Romantic Paris Hotels Paris is the city of romance, and a tremendously popular destination for couples, lovers and honeymooners. The city is filled with cozy, intimate romantic hotels and accomodations. Be sure you get the best of this snuggle time with this list of Most Romantic Paris Hotels . Thursday December 15, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Budget Paris Hotels Paris is one of the world's most expensive cities, but it's also one of the top tourist attractions. Find out how to conserve your cash for the finer thinks, like a fabulous dinner or incredible shopping, with this list of Top Budget Paris Hotels . It features high-quality cheap places to stay in Paris. Monday December 12, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris If you're going to visit the luscious city of Paris and you have the means, why not do it in true style? Paris has some of the world's finest, most luxurious hotels. This is a city that is well-suited to upscale services. Get a list of the Top Upscale, Luxury Hotels in Paris , which includes prestigious names like the famous George V, Ritz Paris and even a bona fide castle outside of the city. Friday December 9, 2005 | permalink | comments (0) Hot Deal for Visiting Paris in the Springtime You've just gotta love Paris in the Springtime. But then, so does everyone else, driving up those prices. But the France Tourism Office and Gate 1 Travel are offering a hot bargain, allowing you to get a 6-day Paris spring fling for $499 per person, airfare and hotel included. Find out more on the Paris Tourism Office site. It would make an incredible Christmas gift, but be sure to consult my advice on what to do Before You Buy the Gift of Travel . For more on Paris, be sure to see: Paris Travel Guide Top Paris Travel Guidebooks Free Things to Do in Paris How I 'Do' Paris Wednesday December 7, 2005 | permalink | comments (1) Email to a Friend Display Latest Headlines | | | Read Archives Advertisement Related Blogs Dispatches from France Blog Paris Blog French Word-a-Day Blog La Coquette Blog Chroniques dune Fraise Nice Blog Rsidence Les Marronniers Provence Blog L'Oiseau Blog Chocolate and Zucchini Blog Forty Days in Paris Blog Most Popular "Naked City" Christmas in Paris Photo Tour Paris Sex District Top Paris Attractions Christmas in France What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Related Topics Europe for Visitors French Language French Cuisine Honeymoons / Romantic Getaways Wine Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot New Year's Eve in France Paris Gay Pride Parade Host A France-Themed Party Nice, France Photo Gallery Camping in France Headlines Lose Weight with the French Diet The French eat rich foods, drink lots of wine and Worst of France 2005 The year 2005 was a tough one for France, as Top Ski Resort Hotels in France France features some of the world's best skiing, be it New Year's Eve in Paris and Other French Cities The French really know how to celebrate New Year's, whether
European Vacation Spots Travel
Europe off the beaten track - My favorite European Vacation Spots You are here: About > Travel > Europe for Visitors > Europe Travel Planning > Europe off the beaten track - My favorite European Vacation Spots Travel Go Europe Essentials European Vacation Planning Map Europe Travel 101 - Before you Go European Distances The Best of Europe European Photo Gallery Articles & Resources Europe Travel Planning What to do In Europe Lodging - Hotels and More European Travel Maps Sex and Nudism Travel Photography Transportation Benelux Countries France Germany Austria Switzerland Greece Italy and Malta Travel Info Scandinavian Travel Spain and Portugal United Kingdom and Ireland Buyer's Guide Before You Buy Top Picks Italy Travel Guidebooks Europe Travel Guidebooks German Travel Guidebooks Product Reviews Forums Help FREE Newsletter Sign Up Now for the Europe for Visitors newsletter! See Online Courses Search Europe for Visitors Meteora Monastery - Off the beaten tourist track and worth visiting James Martin Stay up to date! Meteora Monastery - Off the beaten tourist track and worth visiting James Martin Email to a friend Print this page European Travel Planning Travel Planning Guide European Maps European Distances Recent Discussions Need Help Planning a Trip Accomodation in london Mediteranean Feries Most Popular Europe Map - Distances Between Cities in Western Europe Europe's Best Nudist Beaches Europe Picture Galleries Italy Pictures Europe Travel 101 - Before You Travel to Europe for the Firs... What's Hot Power Adapters Noord-Holland - Delights of North Holland Travel Visiting Pompeii Italy Guidebooks Naples - Getting There Related Topics France for Visitors Greece for Visitors United Kingdom / Ireland for Visitors Eastern Europe for Visitors Italy for Visitors Europe Off the Beaten Track From James Martin , Your Guide to Europe for Visitors . FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now! My favorite "undiscovered" European vacation spots It's fine to visit the European capitals. They're all big enough to sop up a glut of tourists. But smaller places that are both uniquely interesting and lightly traveled are getting more difficult to find and often seem amazingly ethereal: travel is so easy today that Rick Steves' back doors stop becoming back doors the minute he mentions them. So my favorite places aren't undiscovered--they're just a bit too far off the beaten track for the mega-tourism companies to worry about. Meteora - Greece Monastic history starts in Meteora in the 11th century when the first hermits sought peace and solitude in the rifts and caves in the isolated pinnacles that rise above the valley of the Pineios (Pinios) river. By the 14th century the Byzantine Empire was coming apart at the seams and the monastic communities of the Athos peninsula were always in danger of Turkish pirate raids and other persecution. After one such encounter, three monks went searching for a rather inaccessible home to avoid it all. They eventually settled on top of a rock called Stylos . Endowments and people followed, and an amazing community of 24 monasteries built pinnacles on was born. Everything got hoisted up (and down) by nets, even people. And the toilets? Off the cliffs went the waste--all of it. Today, a paved road winds between the largest monasteries. The most spectacular vistas in all of Europe are just around the bend. Bring plenty of film. Meteora means "suspended in air" and they mean it. You can find a hotel in Kalambaka and walk to the monasteries from there if you're reasonably fit--Kalambaka is 9kms from the monasteries. There are busses, tours, and taxis as well. Close by: Metsovo, a small community of excellent woodcarvers is just to the northwest of Kalambaka. Much of the really fine carving you'll see in the monasteries comes from the carvers of Metsovo, but if you go to Metsovo (easy by bus) you can buy carvings made for tourists as well. When to go: Spring or Fall to avoid crowds. Yes, this is a place that's "discovered" but remote. Late fall works well, although it'll be cold in the morning, and downright freezing in Metsovo, higher up in the mountains. Still, this allows you to taste Greece's "other" cooking, the hearty and warming stews you don't get in summer. More: Meteora is one of the Great Walks of Europe Also see: Meteora Pictures | Meteora Travel Directory Cathar Country - France I was at a party just before embarking on my first European vacation in the 70's when I asked a French guy I'd just met what his favorite city in Europe was. He answered "Carcassonne," a walled city smack in the heart of Cathar country. By golly, he was right, Carcassonne is definitely worth a day or two in itself. But I've since made a recent trip back to the area and discovered many other interesting things to see in the Aude region--except for tourists--and it was the middle of the season. What's here? Castles perched high on hilltops, the mysteries of Rennes le Chateau, great sparkling wine called Blanquette de Limoux, and great walking trails. Plus, Cathar country is easy on your wallet; the Aude is one of France's poorest areas and lodging is relatively cheap and plentiful. What's nearby: Provence isn't far, and if you're driving it's a great "next stop." More: Cathar Country Travel Directory | Rennes le Chateau | The Best Cathar Castles to Visit Asturias - Spain Northern Spain is ignored by many American tourists, yet it's one of the places I'd go back again and again. Some of the attractions are righfully famous, including the prehistoric painted cave called Altamira--the "Sistine Chapel of Prehistoric Art". The country around the Picos de Europa range is some of the most beautiful in Europe. Lodging options include nice historic country inns called Posadas, as well as Casa Rurales--rural houses that will allow you to slow down your vacation and see the countryside at a leisurely pace. This is a rural area that preserves its history and way of life in a way that can be attractive to tourists looking to discover a beautiful solitude. Have a cider, some of the local blue cheese called Cabrales, and contemplate a trip to one of the regions prehistoric caves--or a walk along the pilgrimage route passing through the pretty port town of Ribadesella. When to Go: Tempered by the cool Bay of Biscay to the north, Northern Spain doesn't sweltering in the summer, usually. Don't be afraid of going in the high season, although we did witness some incredible thunder storms in July. Did it stop us? Nope--we just dragged a chair out under the covered patio of our casa rurale , got out a camera and some cheese and bread, and watched nature's finest display of natural fireworks. Incredible. Close by: Basque Country More: Asturias and Cantabrian Coast Map and Travel Planner | Summer Storm Pictures | Picos de Europa Visit Europe's most compelling islands next. 1 2 Next Topic Index | Email to a Friend Our Story | Be a Guide | Advertising Info | Work at About | Site Map | Icons | Help User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Privacy Policy | Kids' Privacy Policy ©2005 About, Inc., A part of the New York Times Company . All rights reserved. Around About New Video iPod - Review POLL: Must-Have Gadgets VIDEO: Portable Gaming VIDEO: Choosing a TV Hugh Hefner's Life What's Hot Power Adapters Noord-Holland - Delights of North Holland Travel Visiting Pompeii Italy Guidebooks Naples - Getting There
Asia Travel || Indonesia
Travel Information of Indonesia Indonesia Country and Travel Information Climate || Visas || Customs || Transport || Currency || Tipping || Clothing Office hours || Food || Shopping || Culture || Public holidays Tourist Destinations || Map of Indonesia Introduction The Republic of Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago and is the fifth most populous country, with 17,700 islands streching 5,120 kms (3,200 miles) between Australia and the Asian mainland. Population and Language 200 million people are distributed throughout 27 provinces. However, 55% of these people are concentrated on Java, Bali and Madura, on only 7% of the total area. Climate A tropical country, with humidity ranging from 69% - 95%, there are two seasons: Dry Season, from May to October and Wet Season, from November to April. It should be noted that occasional showers do occur during the dry season; similarly, during the "rainy" season it is more likely that heavy tropical down-pours are interspersed with sunshine. Average temperatures range f rom 68 to 86 or 20 to 30C . Passport and Visas Visitors must arrive in Indonesia with passports valid for at least six months after arrival and with onward or return tickets. Visas are not required for nationals of: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Philippines, New Zealand, Singapore,South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America and West Germany. A non-extendable tourist pass for citizens of these is issued for a maximum of 60 days with entry and departure through: Airports: Medan, Batam, Pekanbaru, Padang, Jakarta, Bali, Manado, Ambon, Biak,Ku pang, Pontianak, Balikpapan and Surabaya; Seaports: Medan, Batam, Jakarta, Surabaya, Semarang, Riau, Bali, Manado, and Ambon. Through other ports, a visa is required. Nationals of countries not listed above can obtain 30-day tourist visas from any Indonesian embassy or consulate abroad. Health Certificates International certificates for smallpox and cholera are not required and yellow fever vaccination are necessary only for visitors coming from infected areas. Customs Each adult is permitted to bring, on entry, a maximum of two litres of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 100 grams of tobacco and a reasonable quantity of perfume. Photographic equipment and typewriters must be declared and are admitted provided they are taken out on departure. Prohibited from entry are the following items: narcotics, arms and ammunition, TV sets, radio and radio casette recorders, pornography, fresh fruit, printed matters in Chinese characters and Chinese medicine. All movie films and video casettes will have to be deposited for review by the Film Censor Board. There is no restriction on import and export of foreign currencies and travellers cheque; however, import or export Indonesia currency exceeding Rp 50,000,- is prohibited. Airport Tax Airport tax levied on passengers for international travel is Rp 17,000,-. While for travel within Indonesia it varies from one region to another with an average of Rp 3,500,- for each departure. Top Transportation An airconditioned airport-hotel shuttle service, operates frequently scheduled trips to/from major hotels to coincide with flights from Jakarta's international airport at a cost of approx Rp 4,000,per person. Taxis at a higher rate, are also available with metered taxis operating only in Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, Semarang and Solo. Elsewhere, other forms of transportation, which required setting the fare in advance, include minicars for two passengers, "bemos" or small buses covering regular routes and "becaks" powered by human energy. Trains operate in Java and parts of Sumatra. Garuda Indonesia has an extensive networkof dailyflights toallcitiesinthe 27 provinces. These flights are supplemented by domestic air services on Merpati, Nusantara, Mandala and Bouraq . Currency The local currency is the Rupiah. Foreign currencies, either banknotes or travellers cheques, are easily exchangedatbanks and moneychangers in major tourist destinations. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants in main cities. It is advisable to carry sufficient amounts of Rupiah when travelling to smaller towns or outer provinces. Tipping Major hotels add a 10% service charge to bills. Where it is not included a tip of between 5% to 10% of the bill would be appropriate if service is satisfactory. Airport poterage is Rp 500,- for a small bag and Rp 1,000,- if weighing more than 20 kg. Tipping taxi and hire-car drivers is not mandatory, but Rp 500,would be sufficient for a taxi driver, but more for a hire-car driver. Clothing Dress is generally informal in Indonesia. Light fabrics are recommendeddue to the warm, humid climate. For men, a jacket and tie is considered appropriate when making officials calls or non formal occasions. Or, follow local custom by wearing a long-sleeve batik shirt. It is recommended to bring a sweater or light jacket for travel to mountain areas. Shorts and beachwear are not considered appropriate except at sports facilities and on the beaches, and never appropriate for visits to temples, mosques and other places of worship. Top Office Hours Government offices: Monday - Thursday 8 am to 3 pm Friday 8 am to 11.30 am Saturday Saturday 8 am to 2 pm Business offices Monday - Friday 8 or 9 am to 4 or 5 pm Some offices are open half day on Saturday. Banks: Monday - Friday 8 am to 3 pm Food The main staple food of the majority of the population is rice. Coconut milk and hot chili peppers are popular cooking ingredients nationwide. Tastes range from very spicy dishes of meat; fish and vegetables to those that are quite sweet. The most popular dishes are "nasi goreng" (fried rice) which is otten served for breakfast, lunch or dinner, "satay" barbequed meat or chicken on skewers and "gado-gado", a vegetable salad with a pean ut sauce.All are most compatible with internationaltastes. Inthemaintouristcenters and cities, restaurants catering to international visitors are many, from fine continental grill rooms to Japanese specialty restaurants. Chinese restaurants are found in all towns throughout Indonesia. Tropical and subtropical fruits are available yearround. Bottled drinking water can be purchased everywhere. Shopping Many of Indonesia's main cities have department stores, supermarkets and large shopping complexes, open generally from 9 am to 8 pm, where fixed prices prevail. In local markets and small shops bargaining is the rule. Time Indonesia streches across three time zones:Western Indonesia (Sumatra, Java, West and Cen tral Kalimantan) + 7 GMTCentral Indonesia (Bali, South and East Kalimantan, Sula wesi, Nusa Teng gara) + 8 GMTEast Indonesia (Maluku and Irian Jaya) , +9 GMT Electricity Most hotels use 220 volts 50 cycles and two-pronged plugs. However it is not uncommon to find some hotels using 110 volts, particularly in the provinces. Check before using an appliance. Some hotels supply adaptors on request. Communication Long distance calls within Indonesia may be made by direct dialing through International Direct Dial (IDD) in major cities or through operator-assisted calls. Telex and fax services are readily available in major hotels and larger cities. Top Culture and Traditions Indonesians are a very friendly and polite people. Handshaking is customary, for both men and women, on introduction and greeting, smiling is a national characteristics. The population is predominantly Moslem. Nevertheless, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and other religions are freely practiced. Traditional customs form a major part of family and community life. The use of the left hand to give or receive is considered ill-mannered. Likewise crooking your finger to call someone is impolite. Public Holidays January 1 New Year Feb 20, 21 Idul Fitri Festival March 21 Seclusion Day / Saba New Year April 5 Good Friday April 28 Idul Adha Great Day May 16 Ascention day of Christ May 19 Hijriah New Year June 2 Waisak Day July 28 Maulid of Prophet Mumammad August 17 National Independence Day Dec 8 Isra Miraj of Prophet Muhammad December 25 Christmas Day Top Asia Travel || Indonesia Hotel and Resorts