WE plan to visit Indonesia/Bali in December 2000 - during Christmas week. Understand that due to their holy month, most vacation areas may be closed during that time? How about the weather? Suggestions? Plan is 3 days in Bali and a couple of days inJakarta.

bali, being hindu, will not be affected by the islamic holidays but it will be quite busy at that time of year. be sure to make your reservations early. <BR>your information is correct that jakarta and other places on java, like yogyakarta would be affected by the holidays. they don't exactly close down, but many people are traveling so services and entertainment can be limited. under any circumstances, i wouldn't advise jakarta as a vacation destination. there is very little to do or see. yogya is a much better bet. <BR>weather in all places is hot with some rain.

I agree with momrath about Jakarta not being worth going to. I spent a week there this summer and wish I would've spent it in Yogyakarta or Bali instead. Also, keep in mind that there are a lot of advisories against traveling to Jakarta, given the recent car bombings and other threats. Bali would be safer.

I agree with momrath. I lived in Jakarta for 3 years and it is not a good tourist place. would spend more time in Bali or Yogya. The latter is a very interesting place with plenty of places to visit. It will be quiet given the Islamic holidays but Bali will be busy given its hindu roots.

Can't advise Jakarta at all. Would advise central Java -- Borobudur, etc. Solo area is also nice with a good airport.