Untouched Indonesia

Indonesia consists of more than 17,000 islands and is poetically referred to as the “Equatorial Emerald” thanks to its lush tropical rainforest and geographic position along the equator. Alongside exotic greenery, the country offers visitors world-class examples of everything from beaches and volcanoes to temples and museums, so it’s not surprising that 11.68 million people visited Indonesia in 2023, according to Statista. 

ACS and time designer James Wallman have worked together to formulate a travel itinerary that enables you to see the best that Indonesia has to offer, taking you to largely undeveloped places inaccessible by scheduled services to avoid the large resorts and tourist crowds you might find in better-known destinations. In his book Time And How To Spend It: The 7 Rules for Richer, Happier Days, James explains how positive experiences are key to enduring, sustainable happiness. James’ STORIES framework aims to help people decide which experiences are worth spending time on and this Indonesian itinerary reflects his ethos. The experience includes up-close encounters with the incredible native species that call these islands home – including a new species of gecko and the endangered yellow-crested cockatoo – plus the chance to view some spectacular and unique scenery, and take a deep dive into the islands’ history and traditions. 

There’s also the opportunity to give back to this special place and make a real impact by volunteering for a beach clean-up to help remove litter from Indonesia’s oceans and beaches.

Day 1: Banten

Your Indonesian discovery begins in Banten on Java’s western coast. Trek three to four hours to Baduy Dalam and experience the everyday life of the elusive Baduy people, who refuse electricity, technology and money. April is the best time to take this trip, so you can see the start of the tribe’s annual pilgrimage to the town hall as part of the Seba ritual. This traditional ceremony represents the tribe’s commitment to preserving the area’s values, ancestral heritage and natural environment. 

Stay: The Langham Jakarta, pictured left, an opulent 65-storey hotel located within easy reach of high-end shopping and entertainment.

Day 2: Komodo

The next day, a private charter takes you from Jakarta to the island of Komodo where you can experience dramatic volcanic hills, verdant forests and secluded beaches. You can spend the afternoon swimming in pristine waters and spotting brightly coloured fish, sea turtles and manta rays.

Stay: Komodo Resort on Sebayur Island, where you can step straight onto the beach from your bamboo bungalow and the on-site dive centre can help you discover the rich marine life.

Days 3-4: Kelimutu

On the first day in this region, head to the UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park, the only place on earth where Komodo dragons still live in the wild. Search for the majestic reptiles on a guided hike with a knowledgeable ranger and enjoy the privilege of seeing them in their natural environment. In the afternoon, fly by helicopter to Flores National Park on Flores Island. 

On your second day, enjoy a free day to unwind at the hotel before a sunset hike up Mount Kelimutu, a volcano with three crater lakes at its summit. The lakes are famous for constantly changing colour due to fluctuating oxidation and mineral levels, so you never know what you’ll find at the top. 

Stay: Flores Passport House, a boutique bed-and-breakfast with stunning vistas, an outdoor swimming pool and authentic local cuisine.

Days 5-9: East Timor

Fly by private charter to East Timor, a largely undeveloped former Portuguese colony. You’ll feel like you’ve got this tranquil place almost to yourself as you explore the mountain forests and go whale-spotting offshore.

On the second day in East Timor, head out after breakfast for a day at One Dollar Beach, an undisturbed white-sand idyll. The clear waters offshore lead to pristine coral reefs, where tropical fish, sea turtles and other exotic marine life can be spotted. You might even find yourself swimming with dolphins.

On your third day, take a sunrise hike up East Timor’s highest peak, Mount Ramelau. Its summit is a site of religious and cultural significance, with a statue of the Virgin Mary drawing Christian pilgrims from around the world. Set off under the stars, spotting constellations while ascending to 2,986 metres. As the sun rises, take in sweeping views over the rugged landscape of forest-cloaked mountains and the coastline beyond. Later, visit the sacred totem houses – called Uma Lulik – of the indigenous Fatakulu people. These traditional homes on stilts are made from local timber, bamboo and twine, and they’re believed to connect residents to the spirits of their ancestors.

The next day, visit Atauro Island in the famous Coral Triangle. Here, you’ll find one of the world’s most biodiverse reefs where you can go diving and search for dolphins, whales, sharks, turtles, crabs and dugongs. You can also have a go at spearfishing, guided by local experts, and, if you’re successful, you can enjoy cooking your catch before dining with your hosts.

The last day in East Timor begins with a trip to Lake Ira Lalaro, a freshwater oasis with flat grassland on the north shore, swamps on the south shore and trees emerging from the water. The lake attracts migratory and resident water birds, and is also home to crocodiles. In the afternoon, visit the historic Venilale Tunnels, which were dug by the Japanese during the Second World War. 

Stay: Hilton Dili Palm Springs, a sleek high-end hotel with a spa, rooftop pool and rooftop bar, close to Cristo Rei and Tais Market.

Days 10-11: Gili Air Island

Fly by private charter to Bali before boarding a private boat to Gili Air Island off Lombok’s northwest coast. Spend the day roaming pristine tropical beaches and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.

On your second day on the island, head to the beach to volunteer at a weekly clean-up run by the Gili Shark Conservation. This is your opportunity to give back to the local community and spend meaningful time helping this incredible destination to thrive. The afternoon is free for relaxation back at the hotel, with the chance to enjoy an in-villa massage, private yoga lesson, flower bath or sunset cruise. 

Stay: Villa Tokay, a private villa escape nestled between white sands and lush foliage. Each of the four fully-staffed luxury villas comes with its own private plunge pool moments from
the beach.

Days 12-13: Bali

Rise early for a private boat charter back to mainland Bali to learn about Balinese mud wrestling, called mepantigan. This martial art combines elements of taekwondo, silat, capoeira, kickboxing and judo with traditional Balinese music, dance and costumes. 

On the final day of your trip, join a local family as they worship sun god Dewa Surya at sunrise and sunset, giving a rare insight into the day-to-day life of Balinese Hindus. After bidding your hosts goodbye, it’s time to board a private charter back home.

Stay: Amori Villas, a boutique yoga and wellness retreat.

“This itinerary is full of special moments, from getting a glimpse of the Baduy people’s way of life to spotting Komodo dragons and taking in some spectacular scenery – all these experiences align with the STORIES framework,” comments James. “Perhaps most valuable is the time spent volunteering with the Gili Shark Conservation; a meaningful activity that will enhance all the others.”

Not only does the use of private jets save 25 hours of travel time when compared to a similar trip on commercial scheduled flights, but it means travelling on a schedule that’s tailored to you, making the most of your time. One thing’s for sure: discovering untouched Indonesia on this trip is two weeks very well spent.

The STORIES framework

James suggests using the below checklist when you’re trying to determine whether an activity is worth doing.

Story: a valuable and worthwhile experience is something that will add to your life story and create a treasured memory.

Transformation: experiences that further your personal development, helping you to lead a more fulfilling life.

Outside and offline: the most worthwhile activities take place outside in nature and away from your phone or computer.

Relationships: studies have shown that loneliness is deadlier than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Connecting with people is key to sustained happiness.

Intensity: do things that are challenging and worthwhile.

Extraordinary: activities with ‘peak experiences’ will be more memorable as they offer something out of the ordinary. 

Status and significance: status comes from education and accumulating wealth, and can play a considerable part in your happiness levels, but it’s important to do significant things with whatever that status unlocks. James explains: “Status when you’re successful but on your own isn’t meaningful – it’s about giving back into the community.”

Image Credit: GETTY