Indonesia has all the usual diseases of a tropical country- malaria, typhoid, dengue fever, hepatitis, rabies and Japanese encephalitis, among others. Although the administration requires you to have medical clearance only if you’re coming from areas where there is cholera, smallpox or yellow fever, it’s best to get yourself immunised before you leave for Indonesia. Even if you don’t, take precautions, anyway. Carry along malaria pills and insect repellent, and make very sure not to eat food, which has been lying around for long (or which you’re not sure is hygienic). Drink only boiled or bottled water; keep to clean places and you should be quite all right.

Parts of Indonesia, especially beyond the `touristy’ places like Bali and Kalimantan, have been in a state of turmoil in recent times, following political instability and the economic crisis. If you’re planning to go Indonesia, it’s best to check with your embassy to find out whether it’s safe to go.

As far as crime is concerned, keep in mind the fact that, with the economic crisis hitting Indonesia, inflated rates have disrupted life in much of the country. The value of the rupiah has collapsed so dreadfully that foreign currency- and especially US$- are much coveted. Take care not to let your money (and you belongings) out of your sight, and always sleep with doors and windows locked. While walking through crowded places, keep a firm grip on your wallet, and don’t flash your cash around.