Sustainable Travel in Pekanbaru. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation

Environmental Care

Riau province holds protected areas like Tesso Nilo National Park for Sumatran elephants and tigers, facing deforestation threats.

Cultural Preservation

Pekanbaru actively works to maintain Malay culture through museums, heritage arts, and historical sites.

Economic Support

Support local businesses by choosing local restaurants, guesthouses, and shopping at traditional markets, directly benefiting the local economy.

Responsible Travel Practices

Embrace sustainable habits to lessen your environmental footprint and promote responsible tourism.

Waste & Water Management

Waste management and recycling practices in Pekanbaru face challenges. Minimizing your waste supports local efforts.

Sustainable Habits

Minimize waste, especially single-use plastics.
Be mindful of water usage and conserve where possible.
Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.
Think about buying carbon offsets for your flights.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Dedicated eco-friendly accommodations in Pekanbaru are limited. Seek properties with clear sustainable practices.

Finding Green Stays

Research properties that demonstrate energy efficiency and water reduction.
Look for responsible waste management endeavors in your chosen stay.
Support tour operators who prioritize nature conservation.
Explore eco-friendly accommodation options on Ecobnb.

Cultural Engagement

Engaging with cultural preservation efforts directly benefits local traditions. Respectful interactions deepen your travel experience.

Interactive Guidelines

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals.
Respect local privacy and avoid intrusive photography.
Observe quiet demeanor and dress codes at religious sites.

Economic Contribution

Your spending choices can have a positive economic impact on the local community. Support fair trade and ethical options.

Local Support

Purchase goods directly from local artisans and small businesses.
Inquire about the origin of products and their production methods.
Avoid supporting activities that exploit children or animals.
Donate through reputable local charities rather than giving directly to beggars.

Ethical Tourism Initiatives

Sustainable Gear

Support brands committed to sustainability, such as Patagonia, for outdoor gear.

Learn More

Conservation Support

Contribute to conservation efforts by visiting or buying things at The Rainforest Site.

Support Now

Your Impact Matters

Choose wisely and tread lightly.

Cultural hints & Etiquette

Dive into specific cultural guidelines to interact respectfully and meaningfully in Pekanbaru.

Dining Etiquette

Many meals are shared family-style.

Mealtime Traditions

Eat with your right hand, especially when food is served communal style.
Do not start eating until the host or eldest person begins.
Offer food and drink to others before serving yourself.
Keep conversation light and positive during meals.

Gestures & Body Language

Non-verbal cues are important in Indonesian culture. Awareness of these can prevent misunderstandings.

Silent Communication

Use your thumb to point instead of your index finger.
Avoid public displays of anger or frustration.
Showing affection to children is acceptable but avoid touching their heads.
Maintain eye contact during conversations, but prolonged direct eye contact can be powerful.

Social Conduct

General interactions in public and private settings often adhere to specific social norms.

Interpersonal Norms

Politeness and indirect communication are generally valued.
Always try to keep a calm and pleasant demeanor.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Keep your voice moderate in public places.

Sensitive Topics

Certain subjects are best avoided in conversation to act in a respectful manner interactions with locals.

Discussion Cautions

Avoid criticism of Islam or other religions.
Be cautious when discussing local politics.
Same-sex relationships are not widely accepted culturally; public displays are not advised.
Bargaining is common in markets, but do so politely and with a smile.

Traditional Dress & Arts

Pekanbaru's cultural richness includes traditional attire and artistic expressions.

Batik Fabric

A traditional Indonesian fabric featuring intricate patterns, often worn for formal events or daily wear.

Malay Traditional Clothing

Explore traditional Malay garments, reflecting the local heritage and customs.

Local Handicrafts

Handicrafts like songket weaving or wooden sculptures showcase regional artistry.

Cultural Immersion Tip

Engage with locals, learn a few Bahasa phrases, and participate in cultural events to truly experience Pekanbaru's heritage.

Financial & Postal Services

Information on managing your money and using postal services in Pekanbaru.

Money Exchange

Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) is the currency. Exchange foreign currency at banks or authorized money changers.

Currency Tips

Always count your money carefully after any transaction.
Avoid exchanging money with unauthorized individuals.
Keep small denominations for street food and markets.
Exchange a small amount at the airport, then seek better rates in the city.

ATM Access & Credit Cards

ATMs are widespread in banks, shopping malls, and convenience stores. Most accept international cards with Plus or Cirrus logos.

Payment Methods

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Use Cash machines in well-lit, secure locations.
Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.
Mobile payment apps are increasingly common among locals.

Tipping Practices

Tipping is not usual in Indonesia but is appreciated for good service, especially in tourist-oriented establishments.

Tipping Guide

Restaurants: A service charge (5-10%) is often included; otherwise, round up or leave a small amount.
Taxis: Round up the fare to the nearest convenient amount.
Hotel Staff: IDR 10,000-20,000 for porters or housekeepers.
Tour Guides/Drivers: At your discretion, based on level of service.

Postal Services

PT Pos Indonesia is the national postal service with offices in Pekanbaru for sending postcards or packages.

Sending Mail

Main post offices offer a wide variety of services.
Stamps can be purchased at post offices.
Shipping times for mail to other countries can vary.
Locate post office branches using online maps or asking locals.

Banking & ATMs

Important information regarding banking services and AVAILABILITY of cash machines.

Banking Hours

Typically Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM.

ATM Availability

Widely available in banks, shopping malls, and convenience stores, often 24/7.

International Cards

Most ATMs accept major international credit and debit cards.

Fraud Alert

Be cautious of unsolicited offers to exchange money on the street or at unofficial venues, as these could potentially lead to scams.

Financial Planning

Carry a mix of cash and cards, and have a backup plan in case your main card is lost or stolen.

Sustainable Travel in Pekanbaru