Shopping in Indonesia

The extensive shopping opportunities in Indonesia are a good reason in itself to visit. Whether you are looking for furniture, fashion, antiques, art or jewellery, the archipelago is renowned for producing exquisitely crafted goods, many of which can be bought straight from the craftsman.

The island of Java is a good shopping base. Jakarta in particular has an array of mega, air-conditioned malls; jam packed with every international brand known to man.

The world's fashion capitals are well condensed into upscale shopping malls, compact with sharp Italian tailoring, romantic French ensembles and innovational Japanese labels. It is easy to get sidetracked by these shops but it would be a serious mistake not to become acquainted with some of the homegrown produce of Indonesia.

Some of the larger department stores would also have electronics, home appliances, bookstore, stationery, art supplies, Indonesian handicrafts, music and DVDs, a pharmacy, and supermarket. Department stores like Pasaraya Grande and Batik Keris are commodious for regular shopping plus Indonesian handicrafts. These two department stores consecrate entire floors or sections of the store to traditional handicrafts, clothing, and textiles and are therefore favorites of tourists and expatriates alike. While the local department stores like Matahari and Ramayana cater to the lower income population with an assortment of goods that are a step above the traditional market in quality.

Highly-skilled artisans produce painstakingly beautiful textiles, silver goods, dynamic ceramics and furniture pieces that are unique in style and of an admirable standard of quality. Perfect presents for loved ones or a well deserved treat for yourself. Shopping hours usually fall between 09:00-21:00.

Shopping in Bali

Virtually everybody comes to Bali to shop, and even if shopping wasn't the ultimate aim, you'll still end up with fascinating and irresistible buys. Bali shopping introduces you to a treasure trove of fine art and handicrafts, antique and semi-antique furniture, paintings, delicately carved jewellery, wood and stone carvings, masks, woven and dyed fabrics. Bargaining in markets, shops and art galleries, is normal practice and getting a good price depends largely on one's bargaining prowess.

As bargaining forms a large part of the Bali shopping fun, remember to bring along some cash - as not all places accept credit cards - and be good humoured. The best shops in Bali open late, usually 10:00 - 23:00. International labels, local boutique designers, plus skillful tailors and dressmakers all offer reliable 24-hour services. Shops selling similar items are normally grouped together to make comparing prices easy, and if the shop you're in doesn't have a particular colour or size, why, just pop over next door.

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