Indonesia is a country that will always hold a spot in my heart for a long long time for a number of reasons the people are always smiling, the nature is unrivalled offering everything you want from some of the best beaches in the world to stunning landscapes and dont forget the majestic wildlife.

Jakarta

My first stop on my Indonesian adventure was the island of Java a volcano dotted island and home to around 140 million people, a lot of whom reside inJakarta the capital city of Indonesia Jakarta is a city which is full of different cultures bringing a mix of amazing foods and people combining to create a city with amazing food and history which is sure to leave an impression on anyone who visit. Culture vultures should visitKomunitas Salihara,which is one of the best places to experience music and art in Jakarta from all over Java To get a sample of the original Jakarta, a visit to the old town is a must. Stroll around, take a look at the old houses and feel the genuine atmosphere of Jakartas allure.

The lure of Jakarta’s bright lights has attracted Indonesian migrants from all over this huge country. As a result, the capitals menu is stupendously varied.Staples such as noodles and nasi goreng (mixed fried rice) are on the menu everywhere, but theirs much more to try.Fine dining destinations can be found at most of the hotels that litter the city in great numbers, but what truly shows Jakartas culinary traditions is its vast assortment of street food, a delicious option to keep you going.

Jogjakarta (Yogya)

This town is one of South-East Asias real gems. Its Javas cultural heart, has a great atmosphere and is a personal favourite. From batik workshops to the nearby Hindu and Buddhist temples, Yogya offers a great array of cultural avenues to explore.

Jogjakarta is the second most visited place in Indonesia, after Bali, and I found out why.There are so many things to do around the city that its easy to get overwhelmed when trying to plan your holiday. Of course most people come to Yogya to visitBorobudur Temple.The best way to visit the temples is at sunrise so make sure you set an alarm!Goa Jomblangis a natural cave located just outside of the city and are a must if your visiting Yogya and one of my highlights of the trip.

For some of the best views around Yogyakarta I highly recommend hiking Merapi Volcano. You canclimb Merapi Volcanofor sunrise and it offers beautiful views over the surrounding countryside. Getting further afield you can also do day tours to Dieng, which are in the highlands a few hours drive from the city keep an eye out for the pieces of art scattered around the highlands. Yogyakarta has a great restaurant scene and the food here is very cheap with a wide selection of cuisines from around the world.

Mount Bromo

Last but certainly not least was Mount Bromo, probably the most well-known volcano on Java and my favourite part of my Java trip. If your in Java its a must one of the if not the most beautiful sunrises I have ever experienced.

Located some 4 hours drive fromSurabaya, the capital of East Java, Mount Bromo is a part of the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park that covers a massive area of 800 square km. While it may be small when measured against other volcanoes in Indonesia, the magnificent Mt Bromo will not disappoint with its spectacular views and dramatic landscapes. At 2,392 meters tall, Mt Bromo is not among the tallest of Indonesias mountains but its stunning beauty lies in its incredible setting.

The eerie landscape has spurned countless legends and myths. Mt Bromo has particular significance for the Tengger people who believe that this was the site where a brave prince sacrificed his life for his family. The people here appease the Gods once a year during the annual Kasada festival where offerings of vegetables, chickens and money are thrown into the crater of the volcano.