Avoiding Bali: Why I’ll Never Visit the Twin Volcanoes in Indonesia This Lifetime

🌋Inspired by the thrilling scenes in “Volcano Lovers,” I set my sights on Indonesia, a land often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Islands” and the “Land of Volcanoes,” for my Spring Festival adventure. This 10-day journey was a deep dive into the heart of this volcanic wonderland. First, a word of caution: don’t be fooled by the mesmerizing photos of blue fire volcano lakes online; apart from the truly azure seas, much of what you see is far from the reality!

Here’s a breakdown of my itinerary:
1️⃣ Bromo Volcano. From Surabaya Airport, it’s a four-hour drive to the hotel nestled on the slopes of Bromo. At 2 AM, the driver rouses you for a sunrise spectacle, but during the rainy season, thick fog can obscure even the most iconic National Geographic views well past 6 AM.

A jeep then transports you to the foot of the volcano, where the ascent begins. The wind is fierce, and volcanic ash fills the air, rendering masks and glasses nearly useless. Your ears and eyes are soon coated with a fine layer of black residue. At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, after navigating a wild path, riding horses, and climbing stairs, you finally reach the crater.

The railing is precarious, and one misstep could send you tumbling down. Yet, the sight of the lava flow is nothing short of breathtaking (p1-3).

2️⃣ Ijen Volcano. This is the site where a Chinese girl tragically lost her life last year while attempting to capture the perfect shot. There are no guardrails, just a rugged path, and the climb is arduous. The first kilometer is relatively gentle, but from 2-3 kilometers, the incline becomes a steep 45-50 degrees.

Regular exercise made it manageable for me, but those with less stamina can opt for a human-powered “Lamborghini” for 500 RMB. The most exhilarating part is reaching the crater, where the pungent sulfur fumes hit you. Forget about seeing the blue fire; in the fog, visibility is zero (the blue fire is only visible at night).

Then, you descend to the volcanic sulfuric acid lake, a treacherous area filled with loose rocks. I strongly advise against this descent unless you are prepared for extreme conditions; your safety is paramount (p4-p6).

3️⃣ Bali – Nusa Penida. The sea here is genuinely stunning, living up to its reputation as an Apple wallpaper. It feels more beautiful than any other Southeast Asian, Mediterranean, or Atlantic waters I’ve seen. However, the roads on the island are a different story—narrow, bumpy, and nerve-wracking when passing another vehicle.

Tourists often take a flurry of photos and then quickly retreat due to the intense heat. The scenic spots are quite rustic [disappointing]. The southern attractions of Bali, however, are well worth a visit, and history and art enthusiasts should not miss the Kecak Fire Dance. It’s highly recommended to familiarize yourself with Hinduism and the Ramayana beforehand to fully appreciate the experience.

4️⃣ Yogyakarta: A hidden gem with a more developed infrastructure and lower prices than Bali. This city is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, Prambanan, the world’s largest Hindu temple, and Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple. Both are must-see attractions that offer a deep dive into the rich cultural history of the region.

While the palace and water palace may not be as captivating, Malioboro Street is a bustling hub for shopping, where you can find exquisite batik fabrics and unique souvenirs.

* The climate in Indonesia varies dramatically from the cool, misty volcanoes to the sun-drenched islands and bustling cities. Be prepared with a down jacket for the chilly volcano treks, and don’t forget your sunscreen and hat for the tropical island heat.
* The predominant religion in the area is Islam, so it’s essential to be mindful of your attire and behavior, especially when visiting Hindu sites.

Respectful dress and etiquette are key to a harmonious experience.
* In my opinion, Indonesian cuisine, while diverse, doesn’t stand out as much as the flavors found in countries along the Mekong. However, coffee lovers will be in paradise, with incredibly affordable options like Arabica, Robusta, and the exotic Kopi Luwak.

Additionally, the local fruits and skincare products are top-notch and worth trying.
* The locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and there is no anti-Chinese sentiment. Celebrating the Spring Festival here is safe and enjoyable, making it a great destination for travelers looking for a warm and inclusive experience.