Lonely Planet Indonesia

The Indonesian archipelago is a string of jewels in the Coral Sea. A collection of over 13,000 islands comprise this incredible nation where spectacular beauty, abundant wildlife and a complex and diverse culture survive side by side. This new edition offers the most reliable travel information for independent, adventurous travelers.

From Antarctica to Zimbabwe, if you're going there chances are Lonely Planet has been there first. With a pithy and matter-of-fact writing style, these guides are guaranteed to calm the nerves of first-time world travelers, while still listing off-the-beaten-path finds sure to thrill even the most jaded globetrotters. Lonely Planet has been perfecting its guidebooks for nearly 30 years and as a result, has the experience and know-how similar to an older sibling's "been there" advice. The original backpacker's bible, the LP series has recently widened its reach. While still giving insights for the low-budget traveler, the books now list a wide range of accommodations and itineraries for those with less time than money.

Indonesia is a country of incredible natural diversity and beauty rivaled only by its cultural diversity and wonder. This guide will help you make the most of a short or long journey, with details on Indonesian culinary delicacies; places to stay, from beach huts to resorts; important information on national parks and trekking to out-of-the-way places; 200 maps; extensive transportation details; plus a special 24-page color guide to Indonesia's arts and crafts. Don't miss the surfing section--it's reputed to be "totally gnarly." --Kathryn True