If there’s one thing that I’ve been delaying for so many years, it’s exploring Indonesia. The pandemic makes me feel the ‘itch’ to do it.
But now, even if I wanted to, I can’t travel to Indonesia because of the international travel restriction.
Yes, although I myself am an Indonesian, I haven’t explored my wonderful country a lot – except for some famous places such as Bali, Bandung, Jogja, Toraja and Raja Ampat. If you check out the “Countries” tab of my website, you won’t see many posts about Indonesia.
I’ve been delaying this dream because I wanted to “aim high” aka travel to far, far away places that require a tourist visa to enter. I thought as long as I’m still working in Malaysia and able to save up for far, far away holidays, I should do it.
Then the pandemic happens. And suddenly, I have another permanent financial responsibility starting this month.
Actually, the responsibility is within my means and I’m happy spending on it, but that means aiming for far, far away holidays will be challenging… Like, if it took me 1 year to save up for a Europe trip, this time it could be 2 years.
Heck – I’m not gonna wait for 2 years to have a holiday ??
I’m so grateful that I automate my travel saving every month. Plus, my 2 future holidays are almost fully paid for, so when the international travel industry resumes, I could still go for the trips (amen, alhamdulillah, Amitabha)…
With the Covid-19 restrictions lifted up bit by bit, I have high hope that the international travel industry will resume next year. At least, maybe there would be travel bubbles between Malaysia and the neighbouring countries, including Indonesia ???
I’ve done my homework and listed out some places that I want to explore in Indonesia, such as:
- Sumba
- Bangka
- Komodo Island & Labuan Bajo
- Banyuwangi (for the Blue Fire volcano)
- Nias (for the stone wall jumping show)
- Medan (for Toba Lake and food hunting)
- Surabaya (for Mount Bromo and food hunting)
- Sukabumi (for the supernatural room of Nyi Roro Kidul)
- Padang (for the legend of Malin Kundang and food hunting)
- etc, etc …
Also… Japan is finally on my upcoming travel plan! #booked
I’ve been delaying visiting Nippon because I’ve seen too many photos of it online. But one day, I saw a 14-day budget group itinerary that struck my heart, conducted in English and at a great price.
I know, I know, the fund is a bit tight now but it’s a 15% discount and flexible travel date 😍#bookfirsttravellater
Actually, I also want to go to South Korea… But from many friends’ experiences, the South Korean embassy in Malaysia makes it difficult for Indonesians to obtain a tourist visa. As a result, all of them had to fly back to Indonesia and apply for a tourist visa from the embassy there.
OPPA, WHY???
Before I end this post, let me share my 2 cents:
- pay your (travel) debt ASAP
- automate your goal savings
- when traveling, don’t bargain too much as the sellers need to make money
I’m getting excited – can’t wait to explore Indonesia!
What about you, friends? Is there something that you’ve been delaying for a long time but have the chance to do it now? Share with me in the comment!
Also read: “Houhai, Beijing: A Charming Travel Spot You Must Visit”
Also read: “Digital Detox Trip: Nature Edition in Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Also read: “Toraja Trip: Rammang Rammang, King Kong Cave & Pias Poppies Hotel”
