When you think of exotic beaches, rich culture, ancient temples, and mouthwatering cuisine, there’s a good chance Indonesia comes to mind. But how popular is Indonesia really in your country? Whether you’re in the U.S., the U.K., Australia, India, or anywhere else in the world, this Southeast Asian archipelago is steadily becoming a favorite travel and cultural destination for millions.
In this blog post, we’re diving into Indonesia’s growing global popularity, why it’s becoming a hot topic in travel and lifestyle circles, and how different countries are embracing what Indonesia has to offer.
What Makes Indonesia So Appealing?
Let’s start with the basics: why is everyone suddenly talking about Indonesia?
1. Natural Beauty
Indonesia is made up of over 17,000 islands. That’s right—17,000! From the stunning beaches of Bali and the lush jungles of Sumatra to the iconic volcanoes of Java and the underwater wonders of Raja Ampat, the country is a paradise for nature lovers.
2. Cultural Diversity
Indonesia is home to more than 300 ethnic groups and over 700 languages. Each region has its own traditions, clothing, music, food, and customs. That means every visit offers something new and unique.
3. Affordability
Compared to many Western countries, traveling to Indonesia is affordable. Food, accommodation, and experiences can be incredibly budget-friendly, making it ideal for backpackers and luxury travelers alike.
How Popular Is Indonesia in the United States?
In the U.S., Indonesia may not be as widely known as some European destinations, but it’s quickly gaining traction.
Travel Interest
According to Google Trends, searches for “Bali travel” and “things to do in Indonesia” have seen a noticeable increase among American users in recent years. Influencers and travel bloggers frequently feature Indonesia, especially Bali, as a dream vacation destination.
Cultural Presence
Indonesian cuisine is also making waves in cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York. Restaurants serving rendang, nasi goreng, and satay are becoming more popular, and food festivals often feature Indonesian dishes.
Indonesia in Australia: A Neighborly Favorite
Australians have long loved Indonesia, particularly Bali. It’s close (just a few hours away by flight), cheap, and offers sun-soaked holidays with friendly locals and delicious food.
Frequent Travel
Before the pandemic, over 1.2 million Australians visited Indonesia annually. Bali alone was sometimes jokingly referred to as “Australia’s unofficial state.”
Cultural Events
Australian cities often host Indonesia-themed events and markets, celebrating everything from Batik art to gamelan music. The Indonesian consulate in Sydney and Melbourne actively promotes cultural exchange programs and language learning.
The India–Indonesia Connection
India and Indonesia enjoy strong historical and cultural ties that date back centuries.
Shared History and Culture
Hinduism and Buddhism have played a significant role in both nations’ history. Temples like Prambanan and Borobudur in Indonesia mirror Indian architecture. Indian epics like the Ramayana are part of traditional performances in Javanese culture.
Tourism Growth
Bali is incredibly popular among Indian travelers for weddings, honeymoons, and family vacations. The Indonesian Tourism Board has targeted India as a key market, with roadshows, travel expos, and special flight deals.
Business and Education
Trade relations between the two countries are thriving. Additionally, many Indian students are choosing to study in Indonesia, particularly in medical and cultural programs.
Europe and the Rise of Indonesian Influence
Countries across Europe are also discovering the charm of Indonesia.
Netherlands
Due to colonial history, Indonesia has a strong presence in Dutch culture. Indonesian food is extremely popular, and dishes like “rijsttafel” (a Dutch take on Indonesian cuisine) are commonly served in restaurants. Cultural festivals featuring Indonesian dance, food, and art are widely attended.
U.K. and Germany
Travel bloggers and YouTubers from the U.K. and Germany frequently showcase Indonesia’s islands. Interest in eco-tourism and spiritual retreats has made Bali and Ubud particularly trendy.
How Does Social Media Affect Indonesia’s Popularity?
Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have played a massive role in boosting Indonesia’s visibility.
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Instagram: Hashtags like #Bali, #WonderfulIndonesia, and #ExploreIndonesia feature millions of photos showcasing turquoise beaches, jungle treks, and ornate temples.
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YouTube: Travel vloggers often feature their experiences island-hopping, trying street food, or participating in local ceremonies.
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TikTok: Quick clips of hidden waterfalls, traditional dances, or street vendors cooking satay often go viral, reaching millions of users globally.
Thanks to these platforms, even lesser-known places like Flores, Gili Islands, and Komodo are now on travelers’ radar.
Indonesian Food: A Global Favorite
Food is often the gateway to loving a new culture—and Indonesia delivers on this front.
Dishes Gaining Popularity
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Rendang: A rich, slow-cooked beef dish that’s even been voted as one of the world’s best.
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Nasi Goreng: Fried rice with bold flavors, often served with egg and crackers.
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Satay: Grilled skewers with spicy peanut sauce, loved worldwide.
Indonesian restaurants and food trucks are popping up in more cities across the globe. Indonesian chefs are even gaining Michelin recognition!
Language and Education
Interest in learning Bahasa Indonesia is growing. Universities in countries like Australia, the Netherlands, and the U.S. now offer Bahasa Indonesia courses. Language apps like Duolingo have added the language to their rosters, reflecting growing global interest.
Indonesian Arts and Festivals Abroad
Indonesian cultural performances are regularly hosted by embassies, consulates, and cultural organizations.
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Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) has been performed in countries from the U.S. to Germany.
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Gamelan orchestras have fan followings in places like the U.K. and Canada.
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Batik workshops are offered in art schools across Asia and Europe.
These activities not only attract art lovers but also help the younger generation appreciate Indonesian culture.
Why Should More People Know About Indonesia?
Despite all this growing exposure, Indonesia is still underrepresented in global media compared to other Asian giants like China, Japan, or Thailand.
Here’s why more people should know about Indonesia:
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It’s the world’s fourth most populous country.
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It has the largest Muslim population in the world.
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It is a G20 economy with growing global influence.
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It offers incredible biodiversity—second only to Brazil in terms of flora and fauna.
Final Thoughts
So, how popular is Indonesia in your country? Chances are, it’s becoming more and more familiar—whether through travel shows, food, music, or cultural events. And with its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality, Indonesia is destined to become even more beloved globally in the coming years.
If you haven’t experienced what Indonesia has to offer, it might just be time to put it at the top of your bucket list. Whether it’s a spiritual escape in Ubud, an adventure through Java, or just a delicious bowl of nasi goreng, Indonesia has something for everyone.
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