Makassar Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Local Connectivity

Remain connected with local SIM cards and reliable internet access throughout Makassar.

SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

Mobile Providers: Telkomsel (best coverage), XL Axiata, Indosat Ooredoo.
Purchase: At airport or official stores. Passport needed for registration.
Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, malls.

Language & Translation

While Bahasa is official, English is spoken in tourist areas. Prepare for language barriers elsewhere.

Language Essentials

Indonesian is official; local languages Bugis & Makassar.
English: Spoken by hotel staff, some guides and restaurants.
Translation App: Google Translate (with offline Indonesian pack) is highly recommended.

Essential Phrases

Greetings & Requests

Hello/Hi: Halo
Thank you: Thank you
Please: Tolong (for help) / Silakan (for inviting)

Useful Travel Phrases

Additional phrases for common travel situations.

Everyday Interactions

Yes: Ya / No: Tidak
Excuse me: Permisi
How much?: Berapa? / I don't understand: Saya tidak mengerti

Connectivity & Support

Digital & Physical Tools

eSIMs: Consider Airalo for convenient digital connectivity.
Portable Wi-Fi: Solis Wi-Fi devices internet on the go.
Postal Services: Kantor Pos available for mail/packages.
Language Learning: Practice Indonesian with Rosetta Stone.

Airport & Emergency Services

Lounge Access: Enjoy airport lounges with Priority Pass.
Flight Compensation: Compensair assists with flight issues.
Translation apps: Use offline packs.
Emergency contact: Keep local emergency numbers handy.

Stay Connected

Ensure you have a reliable way to communicate. Local SIM cards or eSIM services are good options.

Business Hours & Schedules

Shopping & Dining

Malls and shops generally operate longer hours. Restaurants have typical lunch and dinner services.

Banking & ATMs

The operating hours of banks on weekdays, while ATMs are widely available for 24/7 access.

Government Offices

Government services typically operate on a standard Monday to Friday schedule.

Typical Operating Hours

General opening and closing times for various businesses in Makassar.

Hours Overview

Malls/Shops: 10:00 to 22:00, daily.
Banks: 08:00/09:00 to 15:00/16:00, Mon-Fri.
Restaurants: Lunch STARTING at 11:00-14:00, Dinner 18:00-22:00.

Holiday Impact

Religious and public holidays may impact business operations and travel. Plan accordingly.

Holidays & Closures

Eid-Fitr (Lebaran): Major Muslim holiday, many closures, heavy domestic travel.
Other Holidays: Eid-Adha, Christmas, New Year's Day, Independence Day.
Impact: Crowded transport, restricted services during holidays. Check calendars.

Seasonal & Special Closures

General Closures

Major attractions generally do not have seasonal closures.
Some small, family-run businesses might close over the main holidays.
Seasonal closures are not common for main tourist sites.

ATM Access

ATMs are available 24/7 in malls, convenience stores, and outside banks.
Ensure you have sufficient cash, especially when it comes to smaller vendors.
Most large establishments accept card payments.

Plan Ahead for Holidays

Always check the local holiday calendar in advance of your visit to anticipate potential closings and trip interruptions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engage with local culture respectfully.

Greeting & Attire

Soft handshakes are common. Dress modestly, especially at religious sites.

Respectful Conduct

Handshake: Soft handshake, often followed by touching one's chest.
Respect: Show respect to elders.
Attire: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, specifically for women at religious sites.

Dining & Photography

Use your right hand for eating. Always ask permission before photographing individuals.

Social Conduct

Dining: Use your right hand for eating. Avoid pointing with your foot.
Tipping: Not generally expected in local eateries.
Photography: Ask permission before photographing individuals, for kids especially. Be respectful at religious sites.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Be aware of what is considered impolite or culturally sensitive.

Things to Avoid

Head: Do not touch people's heads, as it is considered sacred.
Feet: Do not point with your feet at people or objects.
Criticism: Avoid public criticism of government or local culture.

Gender & LGBTQ+

Indonesia is a conservative society. Public displays of affection are generally not advised.

Social Sensitivities

Gender: Women traveling solo generally face no issues but should exercise standard caution.
LGBTQ+: Homosexuality is generally not openly discussed or widely accepted in conservative Indonesian society.
Public Displays: Avoid excessive public displays of affection.

Accessibility Limitations

Infrastructure Challenges

Infrastructure for mobility challenges is generally poor.
Sidewalks are often uneven, crowded, or non-existent.
Public transport (angkots, becaks) are not accessible.

Navigating Makassar

Ride-hailing cars (Grab/Gojek) may be the one best option, but lack specific accessibility features.
Newer malls/hotels may have ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms.
Specialized services for visually/hearing impaired are not widely available.

Further Cultural Understanding

Local Customs

Always receive or give items with your right hand.
Remove shoes when entering homes or mosques.
Offer a light bow or nod to elders.

Dining Etiquette

Wait to be seated or for a host's invitation to eat.
It is common to share dishes family-style.
A small 'thank you' (thank you) is enough when leaving.

Respectful Engagement

Embrace Makassar's culture with an open mind and respectful demeanor. Local hospitality is warm and appreciated.

Accessibility Considerations

Travelers with mobility challenges should plan carefully, as infrastructure can be limited.

Mobility Challenges

Navigating Makassar can be difficult due to uneven terrain and absence of specialized infrastructure.

Barriers

Bumpy pavements and limited pedestrian infrastructure.
Public transportation like angkots and becaks lack wheelchair accessibility.
Older buildings and sites may are without ramps or elevators.

Accessible Venues

Newer businesses and attractions have better accessibility.

Easier Access

Newer malls and hotels often include ramps and elevators.
Losari Beach promenade is relatively flat and accessible.
Accessible restrooms may be available in modern facilities.

Visual & Hearing Impairments

Specialized services for visually or hearing impaired visitors are not widely available.

Support Availability

Limited specialized infrastructure for visual impairments.
Limited specialized infrastructure for hearing impairments.
Consider personal assistants or guides for support.

Planning Resources

Specific local resources are limited. Broader guidance is suggested.

General Advice

Consult international disability travel institutions for recommendations on Southeast Asia.
Reach out at places to stay directly to request information on specific accessibility features.
Pre-arrange specialized transport if required.

Accessible Travel Tips

Detailed InquiryAlways contact venues directly to confirm accessibility.

Local HelpEngage local guides knowledgeable about accessible routes.

FlexibilityMaintain flexibility, as conditions could be different.

Backup PlansHave backup options for transport and activities.

First-aid SuppliesCarry any necessary personal first-aid supplies.

Emergency ContactsKeep a list of local emergency services.

Prioritize Your Comfort

Thorough research and direct communication with service providers before your trip can minimize challenges.

Makassar Travel Tips