Communication: North Sulawesi

Local SIM Cards

Purchase SIM cards upon arrival at the airport or official provider stores in Manado. Passport registration is a government requirement.

Providers & Cost

Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat Ooredoo are main providers. Telkomsel generally has best coverage.
Data packages are inexpensive. 10-20 GB might cost Rp 50,000 - 150,000 (USD 3-10).
Remember your passport for registration. Consider an ESIM from Airalo for convenience.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in urban areas; mobile data is in remote locations.

Connectivity Details

In Manado, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and malls; speeds are generally decent.
On islands/remote areas, Wi-Fi might be slower or only in common areas. Telkomsel mobile data is reliable.
For reliable portable Wi-Fi, consider Solis Wi-Fi.

Postal Services

Pos Indonesia is the national postal service. International couriers are also available.

Mail & Parcel Options

Post offices are available in Manado. Services for international mail can be slow.
DHL, FedEx, and UPS have offices or agents in Manado for express shipping.
These are suitable for urgent documents or valuable items.

Language & Translation

Bahasa Indonesia is the official language. English is spoken in tourist areas.

Communication Aids

Indonesian is universally understood. Minahasan languages are local.
English is common in resorts and with tour guides, less so in local markets.
Use the Google Translate App (offline pack). A phrasebook Or Rosetta Stone for learning.

Important Phrases with pronunciation guides

Greetings & Basics

Hello: Selamat pagi (morning) / siang (day) / sore (afternoon) / malam (evening)
Thank you: Terima kasih
Please: Tolong (asking for help) / Silakan (inviting)
Yes: Ya

Common Questions & Needs

No: Tidak
How much?: Berapa harganya?
I do not understand: Saya tidak mengerti
Do you speak English?: Bisa bicara Bahasa Inggris?

Stay Connected Tip

For consistent connectivity outside urban areas, a local Telkomsel SIM card with a data package is your most reliable option.

Business Hours & Schedules

Typical Operating Hours

Government Offices: Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 4 PM. Banks: Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 3/4 PM. Shopping Malls: Daily, 10 AM - 10 PM. Local Shops/Warungs: Highly variable, often early morning to late evening.

Banking & ATMs

Banks close on public holidays. ATMs are available 24/7 in Manado (malls, convenience stores, bank branches). Fewer ATMs exist on smaller islands or remote areas. Priority Pass for airport lounges.

Airport Services

Airport services generally operate aligned with flight schedules. For flight disruptions, Compensair assists with claims for delays or cancellations.

Religious & Public Holidays

Indonesia observes numerous public holidays, many religious, which can impact business operations and travel.

Dates to Note

Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Idul Fitri): End of Ramadan; many businesses close, travel congested.
Christmas (December 25th) & Easter: Widely celebrated in North Sulawesi; reduced hours possible.
New Year's Day (January 1st) & Independence Day (August 17th) are national holidays.

Seasonal Closures

Activities may be limited during the wet season or for safety reasons.

Weather-Dependent Adjustments

During the wet season (January-February), some outdoor activities might be temporarily unavailable due to weather.
Dive centers generally operate year-round but may adjust schedules during heavy rain or rough seas for safety.
Check the current year's Indonesian public holiday calendar before travel for closures.

Dining & Shopping Hours

Restaurants

Lunch: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Many open continuously throughout the day.

Markets

Early morning (e.g., 6:00 AM)
Mid-afternoon (e.g., 3:00 PM)
Some night markets start late afternoon/evening.

Smart Planning

Verify specific business hours for attractions or restaurants during public holidays or special events to avoid disappointment.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greeting Customs

Light handshakes and time-appropriate greetings are common.

Polite Interactions

A light handshake is common. Men shake hands with men, women with women.
For opposite genders, a slight nod or hand on chest is common if unsure of a handshake.
Use "Pak" (Mr.) or "Ibu" (Ms./Mrs.) as a sign of respect, followed by name or simply Pak/Ibu.

Dining & Tipping

Observe local practices for meals and gratuities.

Mealtime Manners

Use your right hand for eating, passing food, or giving/receiving items. Left hand is unclean.
Tipping is not strictly required but appreciated for good service.
Do not drink alcohol in public outside designated bars or restaurants.

Photography Permissions

Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.

Ethical Photo Taking

Taking photos of people is generally fine, but politely ask permission for close-up shots.
Be discreet and respectful at religious sites and during ceremonies; observe "no photography" signs.
A simple "Boleh foto?" (May I take a picture?) or a gesture and smile usually works.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is appreciated in many settings.

Dress Code Guidelines

Modest dress is appreciated. Avoid overly revealing clothing outside of beach or resort areas.
At religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered. Women should carry a headscarf for mosque visits.
Remove shoes before entering mosques and some temples.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

What to Avoid

Never touch someone's head.
Do not point with your feet or show soles of your feet towards people/objects.
Avoid using your left hand for giving, receiving, or eating.

Serious Prohibitions

Keep public displays of affection minimal.
Be cautious discussing politics, religion, or sensitive social issues with strangers.
Indonesia has extremely strict drug laws with severe penalties, including the death penalty.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

Indonesian society is generally conservative.
Women travelers are common and generally safe.
Modest dress and respectful behavior are advisable to avoid unwanted attention.

LGBTQ+ Information

LGBTQ+ relationships are not widely accepted publicly in conservative parts.
Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not recommended.
Discretion is generally advised, though tolerance may be greater in liberal tourist hubs.

Patience is a Virtue

The Indonesian pace of life can be slower than what you are used to. Embrace this and be patient and understanding, especially with transportation or service.

Accessibility Information

Accessibility infrastructure in North Sulawesi is limited, requiring careful planning for travelers with specific needs.

Mobility Challenges

General infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited.

Infrastructure Details

Sidewalks are often uneven or non-existent; public buildings may lack ramps or elevators.
Newer, upscale hotels in Manado might have some accessible rooms, but confirm directly with the property.
Public transport (Angkots) is not adapted for accessibility.

Accessible Transport & Attractions

Many natural attractions involve challenging terrain; private transfers are often best.

Navigation Considerations

Many natural attractions involve uneven terrain or stairs. Some city landmarks may have difficult interior access.
Ride-sharing apps (Grab/Gojek) with cars might be feasible for getting around, but drivers might not assist.
Pre-arranged private transfers are recommended for reliable and comfortable transport.

Sensory Impairments & Resources

Visual or Hearing Impairments

Limited dedicated services for visual or hearing impairments.
It is advisable to travel with a companion or engage specialized tour operators.
Learning basic Indonesian phrases or carrying a phrasebook can aid communication.

Accessibility Information Resources

Specific local organizations focusing on accessible travel are scarce.
Contact hotels directly regarding their facilities and discuss specific needs with tour operators before booking.
Online travel forums for travelers with disabilities may offer practical advice.

Planning is

For a comfortable trip, plan accommodations and transportation thoroughly, specifically if mobility assistance is required.

Communication