To provide an opportunity to collaborate with teachers and integrate new perspectives with informal environments to enhance learning initiatives.
To be immersed in the cultures, lifestyles, and the language of Indonesia.
To discover landscapes different to Australia
To observe natural selection and evolutionary divergence through exploring islands such as the Sulawesi island and observing different wildlife on the different islands of Indonesia, as Wallace did to develop his theories.
To understand how climate change is affecting the landscape of Indonesia, as well as the conservation of animals and land by visiting and engaging with local conservation programs.
General Information
More conservative clothing is recommended in Indonesia, especially when visiting temples and participating in traditional ceremonies. It is advisable to wear t-shirts with sleeves, polo shirts, and knee-length shorts. Please note that uncovered shoulders and knees may result in students being denied entrance to many temples due to it being considered disrespectful.
Luggage should be packed in a medium-sized suitcase or bag. All items should be marked with the student’s name.
Please remember that all students are responsible for packing & carrying luggage items.
General Luggage: Indonesian/English dictionary, padlocks for suitcase, laundry bag or plastic bags for dirty clothes, poncho/raincoat, one warm jacket, small umbrella, lightweight t-shirts and shorts, sandals, comfortable walking shoes/runners (we’ll be doing a lot of trekking and hiking).
Two pieces of luggage are allowable: 1x check-in luggage and 1x carry-on luggage
One medium sized soft bag, i.e. duffel bag or medium sized suitcase no more than 25kg
Small backpack for day use to be placed in coach and in overhead lockers on the plane - no more than 7kg
Any spare lithium & alkaline batteries must be kept in hand luggage. Camera should also be carry-on luggage.
Restrictions apply to the amount of liquids, gels and aerosols you can have in your carry-on luggage.
Please visit: http://www.infrastructure.gov.au/ transport/security/aviation/LAG/index.aspx for more information
Prior to Departure
Fill in and affix luggage tag to your luggage (you might like to also add some other identifying ribbon, etc.).
Photocopy of passport and carry copy in your suitcase. Copy itinerary to leave with family. Check you have packed your passport.
11D/10N Jakarta and North Sulawesi | Art, Biology, Geography and Indonesian Language School Trip
JAKARTA ITINERARY
DAY1: Melbourne - Jakarta
Depart from Australia (e.g. Melbourne on Garuda GA717 flight to Jakarta), scheduled for 08:10am departure.
Upon arrival at Jakarta International Airport at around noon time, our local guide will be waiting to pick us up and transfer us to our accommodation in the Jakarta city centre.
Check-in at the hotel, followed by lunch at the nearby Shopping Centre (Lunch YO).
After lunch we will visit the Indonesian national monument, and several landmarks of Jakarta city such as the Istiqlal Grand Mosque and Jakarta's Cathedral.
We will head to the Grand Indonesia mall for dinner (Dinner YO) and back to hotel afterwards.
Accommodation
We offer two accommodation options that might affect the price of the trip. The first option is a 4.5-star accommodation like the Oakwood Suites Apartment Hotel (pictured below) or a similar option. The second option is a 4-star accommodation.
DAY2: Indonesian National Museum, The Old Batavia City Centre, City sightseeing and Plaza Indonesia
After breakfast at the hotel, we will visit the Indonesian National Museum. The museum hosts one of the largest artefacts of Indonesian ancient history some of which dates back to the 8th century. We will learn about Indonesia's great kingdoms such as the Srivijaya empire. The Srivijaya Empire was a vast and influential maritime empire that existed from the 7th to the 13th century. It was centered in the region of modern-day Indonesia, specifically on the island of Sumatra. The empire had significant control and influence over trade routes in the region, particularly in the Strait of Malacca, connecting the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. At its peak, the Srivijaya Empire encompassed a large territory, including parts of present-day Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Singapore. Its influence extended as far as Cambodia and the Philippines. The empire's control over maritime trade routes contributed to its wealth and power, allowing it to thrive as a major trading and cultural center in Southeast Asia
We will continue our trip and visit the Jakarta's Dutch colonial city centre to have lunch at old colonial themed cafe called Cafe Batavia (lunch provided).
After having lunch, we will visit the Fattahillah museum in the old Batavia city complex to learn about the Jakarta's past.
After seeing the Jakarta's past we will visit the modern part of Jakarta and students will have free time at Plaza Indonesia and return to hotel afterwards, in preparation to depart to Manado early in the morning (Dinner YO)
INDONESIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM
The Indonesian National Museum in Jakarta showcases the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia through captivating exhibits. Visitors can explore archaeological artifacts, traditional textiles, woodcarvings, ancient statues, and more, highlighting the country's diverse history and traditions. The museum also houses an impressive collection of ethnographic artifacts, offering insights into the customs and traditions of different Indonesian ethnic groups. With its extraordinary collection of ancient Indonesian artifacts, the museum provides a glimpse into the country's rich history and artistic achievements. It plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Indonesia's cultural identity, making it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
THE OLD BATAVIA CITY CENTRE, JAKARTA'S DUTCH COLONIAL CITY CENTRE
NORTH SULAWESI ITINERARY
DAY3: Departing Jakarta to Manado, North Sulawesi
After an early breakfast and check-out from the hotel, we will head to the airport to catch a morning flight to Manado, the capital city of North Sulawesi. The flight will take approximately 3.5 hours. Upon arrival in Manado International Airport in the afternoon, we will have lunch at the city center before proceeding to the dive resort for check-in (lunch provided). After a short rest, we will attend an afternoon briefing with the resort's snorkeling instructor and have dinner on-site (dinner provided).
DAY4 and 5: Snorkelling Manado Bay and Bunaken Island (Very Mild to No Currents)
Manado is blessed with world-class snorkeling and diving sites, namely the Manado Bay and Bunaken Island of Bunaken Marine National Park.
Our days will be dedicated to snorkeling at Manado Bay and Bunaken Island, with boat transfers provided by the resort. The Bunaken National Marine Park is renowned for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, with a high chance of encountering turtles during our snorkel trip. The reef flats teem with vibrant marine life, offering perfect conditions for underwater photography. There's nothing quite like the experience of effortlessly drifting along the gentle currents, observing the mesmerizing underwater world of these precious reefs.
What to see: Turtles, trumpet fish, damsel- butterfly- and batfish, clownfish, snappers, groupers, sweetlips and occasionally dolphins from the boat
Conditions: Very mild to no currents
DAY6: Visiting Tangkoko Batu Angus Nature Reserve
Today, we embark on an exciting day trip to the Tangkoko Batu Angus Nature Reserve in North Sulawesi. After an early breakfast, we will make our way to this remarkable reserve, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Located on the eastern tip of the island, Tangkoko Batu Angus Nature Reserve is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. Upon arrival, we will be greeted by lush tropical rainforests, towering trees, and a rich array of flora and fauna.
Our knowledgeable guide will lead us on an adventurous trek through the reserve, where we will have the opportunity to encounter unique wildlife species. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare and endangered black crested macaques, as well as the adorable tarsiers, known for their large round eyes.
As we explore deeper into the reserve, we may also spot colorful bird species, such as the Sulawesi hornbill and kingfisher. The reserve is also home to various reptiles, insects, and butterflies, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the region.
During our trek, our experienced guide will provide interesting insights into the ecosystem, pointing out fascinating plant species and sharing stories about the wildlife that inhabits this protected area.
After a fulfilling day of exploring and immersing ourselves in nature, we will return to the resort in the evening, where a delicious dinner will be served. Reflecting on the wonders of Tangkoko Batu Angus Nature Reserve, we can appreciate the importance of preserving such pristine environments for future generations to enjoy.
DAY7: Visiting the Minahasa Highlands
After breakfast, we will head to Tomohon, the North Sulawesi's highland, about an hour drive from the capital city.
On the way to Tomohon, we will make a stop at Sawangan village to visit the Waruga Sawangan site, which has existed since around 1500 BC. Waruga is a place where the deceased are stored in stone tombs, along with the belongings they had during their lifetime. After enjoying the beauty of the megalithic site at Waruga Sawangan, we will continue our journey to Tomohon and head back to our hotel for dinner (Lunch and Dinner Provided).
DAY 8: Departing Manado to Denpasar via Makassar, South Sulawesi
After breakfast, we will head to the airport, departing from Manado to Bali via Makassar, South Sulawesi.
The flight to Makassar will take approximately 1.5 hours, and we will have a 4-hour layover before our departure to Bali.
Upon arrival in Makassar, our local guide will pick us up, and we will exit the airport for a sightseeing tour of the capital city of South Sulawesi.
We will also enjoy lunch during this time (lunch provided).
After exploring Makassar, we will continue our journey to Bali and arrive in the evening.
Upon arriving at the airport, we will have dinner before heading to our hotel for a late check-in.
BALI ITINERARY
DAY 9: BALI
After a long trip, we will have free time to unwind and enjoy our time on the "Island of the Gods."
We will be staying at a hotel in Kuta, where students, accompanying teachers, and guides can walk to the nearby shopping center, Kuta Beachwalk, for lunch and shopping (Lunch YO).
After returning to the hotel and taking some rest, we will head to the nearby beach club, Potato Head, for dinner (Dinner YO) and then return to the hotel.
DAY10: BALI
After breakfast, we will depart from the hotel and head to Tanah Lot Temple, which is situated on a rock formation in the sea. Here, we will learn about Balinese culture and Hindu traditions while enjoying the breathtaking coastal scenery.
Next, we will visit the world-famous Tegalalang Rice Terrace, where we can take stunning photos and learn about traditional Balinese agriculture.
For lunch, we will dine near the rice fields and savor a delicious meal of traditional Balinese cuisine (lunch provided).
Afterward, we will head to a nearby chocolate factory to learn about sustainable cocoa production and have the opportunity to make our very own chocolate bar.
Having spent the day having fun and immersing ourselves in Balinese culture, we will return to the hotel for rest and free time, allowing the students to pack up for their journey back to Melbourne.
DAY 11: Departing Bali to Melbourne
Students will participate in morning yoga activities at the hotel and have a late breakfast.
Afterward, we will have free time for shopping at the nearby art market for any last-minute purchases before checking out and heading to the airport (lunch YO).
Following a late check-out, we will proceed to the airport for check-in and have dinner at the airport (dinner YO).
All of our trips include the following:
International and domestic airfares
Best accommodations with breakfast
Insurance coverage
Some meals for students, all meals for teachers
Admission tickets to all performances and attractions
Local guides
First aid responder (for snorkelling activities)
Experienced and certified divers (for snorkeling activities)
Marine biologist for coral plantation activities.
Risk and safety management plan
Airport transfers
Transportations (coaches and boats for inter-island hopping)
Teachers travelling FOC (All inclusive, maintaining a 1:6 teacher to student ratio)
This is our sample itinerary for an 11D/10N trip from Melbourne to Jakarta, North Sulawesi and Bali. The entire experience and itinerary can be adjusted to meet your needs and budgetary requirement, this includes the length of the trip, type of accommodation, and activities. All activities will be conducted in accordance with the Department of Education's risk and safety plan, with identified risks and appropriate mitigation measures will be put in place to meet the Department's requirements.
The itinerary can be adjusted to suit your needs. Please contact us for more information
