Manado travel guide and discussion

Bunaken Island or National Park in Sulawesi is among the premier dive locations of Indonesia. With over three hundred types of fish it is one of the healthiest underwater ecosystems. The variety of hard and soft corals is astounding! To get there involves a flight to Manado International Airport and then a short boat trip over to Bunaken Island. I opted to spend the night in Manado at the Ibis Manado City Center. I wanted to get some supplies before going over to Bunaken because I had heard it is a bit rustic. The next day we organized a boat and headed over and by the afternoon we had dropped off the bags had lunch and were on the resorts boat headed out for snorkeling. The divers were going to Turtle city and we just wanted a relaxing afternoon on the boat with a bit of easy swimming. once we arrived and got into the water I regretted this decision. The water or especially the walls of the reef were filled with large turtles everywhere. I wanted to be diving deeper and swimming through them, under and around but the above was ok for the first day. The next four days we went diving twice a day and always to a new dive site. Everyday there was usually a mix of divers and snorkelers on the boat. Some of the different fishes I saw were different small and large rays, white & black tipped reef sharks, green & hawkbill turtles, many varieties of eels, napoleon fish, huge trevally, bumphead parrot fish, water snakes, trigger fish, angelfish, scorpion fish, leaf fish, colorful nudibranch, flat worms and dugong. The amount of hard corals was impressive too because there were soo many! This small island is totally surrounded by a reef and is an absolute treasure! I advise you to go soon before it gets known. This is the original island paradise and I really enjoyed the reefs and their abundant underwater life! #travel2026 #couplestrip #tripfeatured #naturalwonders #tripmoments #islandlife #indonesia #sulawesi #manado #bunaken

Manado’s hallmark: Malalayang Beach 🌅⛲ — a quick coastal escape packed with all the chill vibes! If you’re after beautiful seaside evenings and city simplicity (with a dash of cute local energy), you’re gonna love what Malalayang has to offer. Malalayang Beach open daily, free entry. This isn’t your typical tourist trap: Malalayang Beach is all about easy, relaxed atmosphere. With locals hanging out, evening breeze, and views that feel both peaceful and vibrant, it’s the perfect place to wind down after a city stroll. Grab a seat on the shoreline or one of coffee trucks nearby, and watch the sunset, have some drink and snack. The vibe here is charmingly simple; don’t expect fancy facilities — just pure coastal beauty! #ManadoTrip #MalalayangBeach #IndonesiaTravel #CoastalVibes

#arrivalguide Planning a journey to one of the world's most pristine marine paradises can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down makes the route clear. Here is the step-by-step guide to getting to Raja Ampat: Step 1: Fly to Indonesia's Main Airports Best Gateways: Jakarta (CGK), Bali (DPS), Makassar (UPG), and Manado (MDC). Step 2: Domestic Flight to Sorong Direct Flights: Available from Jakarta, Bali, Makassar, and Manado to Sorong. Pro Tip: Prefer night flights so you can catch the morning ferry without needing to spend an extra night in Sorong. Step 3: Take a Ferry to Waisai Schedule: Public ferries run daily from Sorong at 9:00 or 14:00. Note that ferry timetables are regularly updated and modified without prior notice. Ticket Prices: Standard tickets cost 125K IDR, while VIP tickets cost 250K IDR. Step 4: Take a Speedboat to Your Island Once you arrive in Waisai and pay the entry fee at the harbour office, your resort or host will pick you up by speedboat to take you directly to your first island. Welcome to paradise! #RajaAmpat #TravelGuide #IndonesiaTravel #Wanderlust #ExploreIndonesia #IslandParadise

Day 1 — Manado food crawl Dive into Manadonese cuisine and those fiery sambals. Top picks in my video: Kelapa 17, Warung Boke, and Bakar Rica. Getting to Bunaken On Day 2, depart via Bahowo Port — the boat ride is shorter than from Manado Port, so it’s kinder if you get seasick. How long to stay Minimum 3 days in Bunaken. One–two days isn’t enough for the reefs and marine life. Where we stayed MC Bunaken Stay — strategic spot near the jetty with cozy Bali vibes (see the video). Friendly service and 3 tasty meals daily (perfect between dives). Heads-up: occasional island-wide power outages (not the homestay’s fault). What to do Snorkel vibrant reefs (and turtles!), dolphin watching, fishing, get your diving license, then go for fun dives. Practical tips Bring reef-safe sunscreen, seasickness meds, and your personal medicines. Pharmacies are easy to find in Manado (but many close on Sundays); I didn’t see a pharmacy on Bunaken. Also pack a dry bag and small cash. Morning seas are usually calmer for boat trips. #Bunaken #Manado #Indonesia #TravelTips #Snorkeling #Diving #SeasickFriendly #TravelMoments

I just returned from a trip to Manado, Indonesia, a city full of surprises, gently embraced by the sea. Now, I'm sharing this super practical travel guide with you, so you can easily navigate Manado too! Preparation For documents, don't forget your passport and visa. Taking care of these in advance will save you worry and effort. Pack mainly light and breathable summer clothes. Manado is warm year-round, but it can be a bit cool in the evenings or when you're out at sea, so bring a light jacket. Sunscreen is absolutely essential. High SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are all must-haves, otherwise you'll easily get sunburned. Transportation Guide Arriving in Manado usually means flying into Sam Ratulangi International Airport. From the airport to the city center, you can choose to take a taxi or contact your hotel in advance to arrange a transfer. Within the city, chartering a car is more convenient and flexible, allowing you to stop at any attraction that catches your eye. There's also local public transportation, like buses and motorcycle taxis, but these can be a bit complicated for tourists. Must-See Attractions · Bunaken National Marine Park: The underwater world here is absolutely stunning! The water is crystal clear, with colorful coral reefs and lively tropical fish everywhere. Snorkeling offers amazing underwater views, and if you go scuba diving, it's like entering a magical blue fairy tale world. · Mount Lokon: Thrill-seekers and adventurers shouldn't miss this. Climbing Mount Lokon, you can admire the spectacular volcanic landscape and beautiful natural scenery. Reaching the summit and overlooking the scenery below gives you an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. But pay attention to safety and it's best to go with a professional guide. · Manado View Point: This is the perfect spot to enjoy the cityscape and seascape of Manado. Come at dusk, as the setting sun paints the sky orange-red, and the city is veiled in a golden gauze in the afterglow. It's breathtakingly beautiful. Food Recommendations · Indonesian Satay: Manado's satay skewers are grilled just right, and paired with a special sauce, each bite is super satisfying. · Seafood Feast: As a coastal city, seafood is a must-try. Freshly caught fish, shrimp, and crab are prepared in various ways, and every bite is bursting with the fresh sweetness of the sea. Accommodation Choices If you want to be close to the beach and enjoy the sun and sand at any time, you can choose a beachfront resort with beautiful surroundings and complete facilities. If you want to experience local life, homestays in the city center are a good choice, allowing you to experience the local customs. Manado is truly a hidden gem for travel, with both charming natural scenery and unique cuisine. Follow this guide, and I believe you too can have a wonderful time in Manado! Pack your bags and set off!

Manado is known as one of the world's diving paradises. Here, you can see many sea turtles, octopuses, sharks, and coral reefs. Manado, also known as "Manado," is the capital of North Sulawesi Province in Indonesia. It is located at the northern tip of Sulawesi Island, facing the Sulawesi Sea, and surrounded by mountains. It is famous for its beautiful scenery of "half volcano, half sea." It is also the filming location for the female lead's heartbreak healing in "The Ex-File 3: The Return of the Exes," Bunaken, Siladen, and the third largest Jesus statue in the world. 🚗 It is called the "God's Fish Tank" for a reason, as it is certified as one of the world's best diving spots by the "World's Top Five Diving Organizations." The underwater cliff is truly breathtaking. 🚗 Besides "diving," "city | island | exploration tours," each activity is tailor-made for vacation, and they are all very fun. 🚗 Manado Jesus Blessing Monument A must-visit for those traveling to Manado! It is a landmark sculpture in Manado! The world's unique flying Jesus statue, with a slope of 20 degrees, a height of 50 meters, and a statue supported by a 20-meter-high pedestal. 🚗 Dolphin Bay 🐬 The place where Lin Jia went alone after breaking up in "The Ex-File 3." 🚗 Activities Scuba diving and snorkeling are super fun! 🚗 Food Seafood and mantis shrimp as thick as an arm

Manado is located at north of Sulawesi. The hotel that I stayed is located at Kawasan Megamas along the coast. Looking out from the window is the Celebes sea. You can see sunset from the hotel. The hotel is clean and the staff is friendly and helpful. Morning breakfast provided by the hotel with a range of local and western food. Shopping malls and food stalls are around the vicinity. There are few foreign and local banks you can find around these areas. Surrounding you can go snorkeling, scuba diving and trekking in Manado. Nice and relax place to hideaway.

Welcome to Manado (also known as Wan Lao), North Sulawesi, Indonesia, a place full of natural beauty and cultural charm. On this trip, we especially recommend the Novotel Manado Golf Resort as your perfect starting point for exploring the city. This hotel not only enjoys a prime location, but also combines luxury and ocean views, making it ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers. 🏨【Homestay Address】 Novotel Manado Golf Resort Address: Manado, North Sulawesi, Indonesia. 🌆【Decoration Style】 Novotel Manado Golf Resort is known for its modern and elegant decoration style. The interior design of the hotel retains traditional Indonesian elements while incorporating a modern and stylish feel. The spacious and bright rooms, especially the sea view rooms, offer direct views of the magnificent coastline, allowing you to enjoy the sea breeze in a comfortable environment. ⛺【Activities】 Golf Course: The hotel has a standard golf course, a paradise for golf lovers. Swimming Pool: Multiple outdoor swimming pools are located throughout the hotel, especially the sea view pool, allowing you to enjoy the stunning ocean views while swimming. SPA Center: Professional massage and SPA services are available to help you relax and rejuvenate. Children's Playground: There is a dedicated children's play area with various entertainment facilities, allowing children to enjoy a fun-filled vacation. 🍩【Restaurant Features】 Wisata Bahari Seafood Restaurant: As one of the must-visit restaurants in Manado, Wisata Bahari Seafood Restaurant is famous for its fresh seafood and stunning sunset views. The restaurant is located by the sea, allowing you to enjoy the magnificent sunset while savoring delicious food. Recommended dishes: Mantis shrimp (classic salt and pepper flavor), fish mouth soup, lobster (although good value for money, not a must-try, crab is more cost-effective and fresh), water spinach, etc. Environment: The restaurant has an elegant and relaxed atmosphere, suitable for various gatherings and celebrations. Cost: The price is moderate, with an average consumption of around RMB 200-300 per person, depending on the order. 👩【Restaurant Service】 The staff at Wisata Bahari Seafood Restaurant are friendly and attentive, providing excellent service. The restaurant accepts various payment methods, including WeChat Pay, making your dining experience more convenient. 💴【Average Consumption】 The average consumption at Wisata Bahari Seafood Restaurant is around RMB 200-300 per person, and the specific price may vary depending on the dishes and quantity you order. 🛬【Local Must-See】 Soekarno Bridge: As a landmark of Manado, this bridge connects the two major cities of Surabaya and Madura. The spectacular views and unique motorcycle culture on the bridge will surely impress you. Bunaken National Marine Park: As a world-class diving destination, Bunaken National Marine Park boasts a wealth of marine life and diverse dive sites, making it a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Christ the King Statue: The 30-meter-high Christ the King Statue is another iconic landmark of Manado, symbolizing Jesus' blessing on the local people. 👉【Itinerary】 Day 1: Check in to Novotel Manado Golf Resort, visit Soekarno Bridge in the afternoon and experience the local motorcycle culture, enjoy a seafood feast at Wisata Bahari Seafood Restaurant in the evening. Day 2: Go diving at Bunaken National Marine Park, explore the mysteries of the underwater world, return to the hotel for a relaxing SPA in the evening. Day 3: Visit the Christ the King Statue, then head to Wanhing Palace and Rainbow Village to experience the local culture and customs, spend a leisurely evening at the hotel's golf course or poolside. 🧡【Before You Go】 Travel adapter: Manado's sockets are different from those in China, so you need to prepare a travel adapter. Sunscreen: Manado has strong sunshine, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and other sun protection items. Swimming gear: Travelers planning to dive or swim should bring their own swimsuits, goggles, and other equipment. ⛲【Tips】 When trying local cuisine, you might want to try several seafood dishes, especially mantis shrimp and crab, which are fresh and delicious. When visiting Soekarno Bridge, pay attention to safety, especially when taking photos, do not get too close to the edge of the road. Please follow the instructor's instructions before diving to ensure safety. I hope this guide will make your Manado trip more enjoyable and memorable!

Sam Ratulangi International Airport is the main airport in Manado, North Sulawesi. It serves domestic and international flight from Singapore, China, etc. Many free duty shop and restaurant in this airport It recommend to get here using grab or gojek car. The nearest hotel from this airport are Novotel Hotel and Sutan Raja Hotel. #airport #manado

location: Bunaken Island, Manado, Sulawesi we snorkelled at one of the world's famous marine park with over 3000 species and 300 corals waiting to be seen and explored. we did not plan on snorkeling actually because our initial plan was just to go to the beach and swim but since it was low tide when we arrived, we just went for snorkeling! Even if we're not ready, diving stalls at Bunaken island are geared with wet suits, paddles, dive fins and snorkels which you can rent at reasonable prices. The rent also comes with underwater pictures of you and Nemo!(if you're luck to find him!) How do you get to Bunaken island? The island of Bunaken is easily reached from Manado by motorized.Because we were a huge group, we rented out the entire boat. Ferries from Manado to Bunaken leave daily around 02:00 PM.

I live in Cilegon with my family. We went to Bandung on last School holiday with my parents, brother and sister. We took our car and drove there. I booked a hotel with three rooms. We planned to travel around Bandung to different tourism attractions. We went shopping in malls, sightseeing at parks, lakes and other interesting places. We spend three days from Friday to Sunday. The weather was nice and we had a lot of fun. I enjoyed the nice traditional food and drinks. I bought several snacks from Bandung and took many pictures there. We went home in the afternoon with great feeling. #themepark#zoo#nationalpark#lakes#beaches

The best hotel I’ve ever been privileged enough to stay at. Gorgeous building, and it only gets more breathtaking when you walk in. High quality rooms (there was even a tv by the shower), and high quality service. Also, they are one of few hotels that allow people under 21 to book a reservation. Overall, I had a great experience with the Novotel Manado; staff was incredibly helpful, and the amenities were great. The room was wonderful, clean, and perfect to celebrate a birthday weekend. I have stayed at dozen of hotels in Manado. This was on the top of the list of best stays/experiences ever. Staff was very hospitable and there for every need of mine. Thank you so much. #holidayhotel #hotel #hoteldeals #hotelcation #hotelexperience #hotelview #villa #villas #goodplace #choicehomestay #goodhotel #seasidephotoguide#beautifulhotel

Unlike some of the posts I’ve read in other places, I found the Grand Luley Manado to be clean, inviting and downright classic! The staff was very friendly and consistently making sure I was comfortable. I will definitely stay there when I come back! The hotel was wonderful. It was even better than expected. The price was amazing. There were great restaurants within walking distance. Would definitely stay there again. The staff at the Grand Luley Manado in downtown Manado were fantastic. Great attitude. Helpful, and always available. The bed was super comfy. I will always stay at this location when traveling to or through Manado. #holidayhotel #hotel #hoteldeals #hotelcation #hotelexperience #hotelview #villa #villas #goodplace #choicehomestay #goodhotel #familytravel#beautifulhotel#hoteldeals

The picture clearly says that next in our list is among the most beautiful places and a famous tourist place in Indonesia. Bunaken Sea Park located in the northern stretch of Sulawesi island is rich in marine flora and fauna. The sight of numerous exotic and endangered fish species present in the crystal clear water has increased the tourist density of the area. Tips: The best time to visit the marine park is from July to August. You should plan your trip around these months. Things to do: Snorkeling and diving stick to them. They are the best ways to discover the glamorous and unusual aquatic life of the Bunaken Sea Park. Best places to stay: Siladen Resort, Living Colours Dive Resort, and The Village Bunaken. Besides, there are plenty of homestay options for backpackers. Tourist Attractions: Bunaken, Siladen Island, Manadotua Island, Mount Tampa Places To East: Nelson Bunaken, Arto Moro Bunaken, Coral View Dive Resort Best Time To Visit: March - October How To Reach: To reach the park you will firstly need to make your way to Manado. It is the second-largest city of Sulawesi after Makassar and it is located about 50 minutes away by boat from Bunaken Island. So to arrive in Manado, the best way is to get a plane from Jakarta, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Bali. #naturalwonders#scubadiving#nationalpark#beaches

Indonesia has many marine parks with beautiful views, one of which is the Bunaken Marine Park located in North Sulawesi Province. This park itself is a conservation area for coral reefs and other marine biota with an area of ​​890.65 km which is used as a tourist spot and is open to the public. Because it is located in the coral triangle, here we will find 390 species of coral reefs and 90 types of fish, reptiles, mammals, and mollusks. All the underwater beauty can be enjoyed by snorkeling. today, Bunaken Marine Park is a mainstay tourist destination that should not be missed when visiting Manado. A little advice if you want to visit here, come around May to August in those months the sea water is very clear and the temperature is warm. #triplocal #themeparks#nationalpark#lakes#beaches#infinitypool

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping - #infinitypool

This Indonesian Manado tour is summed up in four words: Going to the sea After reading the underwater world, then look at the sky in the world 600m paraglider from Running on the mountain to take off to soar in the air, enjoy the feeling of freedom like the various challenges of self-project ~ This trip without work is really cool ~ Indonesia The diving test tour is perfect! Looking for the next dive trip~ 600m paragliding cost: 750rmb cost includes hotel transfer, special mobile phone selfie stick, you can shoot videos and photos with your mobile phone ~ Flight time is about 15~20 minutes, depending on the wind~

Meet the Bunaken dolphins in a water! ! Manado diving first stop! The only thing you have to do at the beach is diving. This time it is recommended to take a diving spot, Bunaken Island, which can be reached by boat from Manado. It is said to be called the island where divers must punch. Diving point. Why do you say that this is a place to punch in? I think it is because the scenery here has not been destroyed. Every time I dive here, I can meet the turtle once and interact with the "mermaid". . If you come here to dive, I personally suggest that you can set your accommodation at Manado. There are a lot of resorts to choose from, because the facilities on the island feel very perfect, if you say the shortcomings, There is really nothing to eat except seafood. Go to Bunaken, you can go back and forth in one day. We are going to take a boat at the pier at about 9:00 in the morning and return at around 3 pm. Of course, this means that if you have a diving certificate, you can go straight. Diving arrangements, and there is no diving card here! ~ By the way, the diving certificate here takes about 3 days. If you are going to test OW, you must contact the dive shop in advance so that you can leave a lot of unnecessary trouble. But personally, this is a paradise for divers. If you don't have a diving certificate, don't plan to travel to the island for a while, you can't dive, you can't interact. The last important reason for punching Bunaken is that if you are lucky enough to meet the whales~~A lot of people are proud of this, as to whether they can meet, and they will stay beautiful after meeting. Photo? Then you can only watch your luck. Finally, attach my underwater world, just drop me here, let me lie on this riverbed and enjoy the scenery, I don't want to go back!

This was our third trip to this stunning paradise. As always, we were warmly greeted at Manado airport by familiar faces from the front office. Lydia promptly escorted us to our awaiting air-conditioned vehicle, where refreshing cool towels and chilled water in reusable thermos flasks immediately set the vacation mood. A short drive to the Marina followed, and from there, we boarded a lovely boat where the warm welcoming team ferried us seamlessly to the resort. The entire transfer process was stress-free and impeccably organized. The resort remains as beautiful as ever. Its meticulously maintained garden and breathtaking infinity pool create a serene ambiance. Our spacious cottage offered unobstructed panoramic sea views, and every amenity one would expect from a five-star resort—and more—was thoughtfully provided. Any request we had was efficiently handled via a dedicated 'WhatsApp hotline.' Perched with a stunning view, the restaurant impressed us yet again, offering a delightful mix of local and western cuisines. The food was consistently excellent, as we’ve experienced on our previous visits. A feature I particularly appreciated was the option to order smaller portion sizes, allowing me to sample a wider variety of dishes. I recommend trying the daily cocktail special, though I was completely won over by their Lychee Martini. Gousti, the F&B manager, and his efficient team ensured our comfort and made us feel truly at home. The dive center deserves a special mention for its exceptional service. They accommodated all our planning needs, tailoring dive packages to our preferences, whether technical or recreational. Bunaken Oasis elevates luxury diving to an art form—post-dive warm towels, fresh fruit, and hot drinks are a standard treat. With a low dive guide-to-guest ratio and uncrowded boats, everything ran smoothly. The Bunaken Marine Park itself is a paradise for underwater photographers. This year, we were fortunate to meet Jacob, a resident award-winning professional photographer, whose knowledge, humor, and enthusiasm added immense value to our experience. We also opted for some dive coaching sessions during this visit, which proved to be excellent. Special thanks to Dive Manager Pete and Mei, our patient and professional instructors, for their top-notch guidance and for making us better divers. Lastly, we cannot thank enough Simon and Kelly, the incredible general managers and the heart and soul of Bunaken Oasis. Their leadership and dedication to creating memorable guest experiences have made every vacation here an absolute dream. We are already counting down the days until we return next year!

Statue of Jesus Blessing Manado City

Overall, it was very good. We, as students from SMK Negeri 1 Manado, conducted an industrial visit to this hotel and were warmly welcomed. From the moment we entered until the moment we left, the staff left a very positive impression on us. The service was truly excellent. Hopefully, Aryaduta Hotel will continue to perform its duties well and in line with hotel SOPs. 😊

Confused about Southeast Asian islands? One guide covers it all👇 Hit-or-miss list of popular islands in 6 countries. Which one are you heading to? · 🇹🇭 Thailand | Top-tier + hidden gems, all covered 🌴 Phuket: Lively night markets, bars, and beaches 🌴 Koh Samui: Coconut groves, top choice for couples and families 🌴 Similan Islands: Jelly-like water + coral reefs 🌴 Krabi/Koh Lipe: Karst landscapes + white sand beaches 🌴 Pattaya: Nightlife + water activities 🌴 Sihanoukville (Koh Samet/Koh Chang): Off-the-beaten-path, slow travel · 🇻🇳 Vietnam | High value-for-money islands 🌴 Nha Trang: Mud baths + night markets 🌴 Da Nang: Hoi An Ancient Town + Ba Na Hills 🌴 Phu Quoc: White sand beaches + visa-free, great for families · 🇲🇾 Malaysia | Diving + slow living 🌴 Penang: Old streets + murals 🌴 Langkawi: Duty-free + island hopping + Sky Bridge 🌴 Redang/Perhentian/Lang Tengah: East Coast classics 🌴 Tioman: Hidden gem for diving, uncrowded and beautiful 🌴 Kota Kinabalu: Sunsets + mangroves + Mount Kinabalu 🌴 Semporna: World-class diving paradise, Sipadan + Mataking · 🇵🇭 Philippines | White sand beaches + diving 🌴 Boracay: World's finest white sand beaches 🌴 Bohol: Diving + Chocolate Hills 🌴 Cebu: Moalboal sardines + Oslob whale sharks 🌴 Palawan (El Nido/Coron): Hidden lagoons + shipwrecks 🌴 Dumaguete: Diving paradise, Sumilon + Siquijor 🌴 Siargao: Trendy surfing, slow pace · 🇮🇩 Indonesia | Top-tier vacation spots 🌴 Bali: Surfing + rice terraces + temples + spa 🌴 Nusa Penida/Nusa Lembongan: Cliffside ocean views + jelly-like water 🌴 Lombok: Bali "alternative," volcano trekking 🌴 Komodo: Komodo dragons + pink sand beaches 🌴 Manado: Bunaken coral reefs are stunning 🌴 Bintan: Singapore's "backyard," high-end vacation · 🇸🇬 Singapore | Southeast Asia hub 🌴 Sentosa: Clean, tidy + Marina Bay · 🇰🇭 Cambodia | New hidden gems 🌴 Sihanoukville: Koh Rong islands are uncrowded and tranquil Perfect for a quiet vacation + near-shore island hopping · The complete list of islands in 7 Southeast Asian countries is right here Save this to browse at your leisure. Which one are you heading to?👇

A place with an ocean you'd want to dive into every single day.

Want to take the kids abroad to cool off in July or August but worried about the crowds everywhere? Bali is packed, Angkor Wat has two-hour lines, Boracay is shoulder-to-shoulder, and Nha Trang is swarming with people. I've found 4 truly hidden gems! Snorkel in volcanic lakes to see sea turtles, explore ancient jungle temples, splash in crystal-clear "jelly" seas and natural tide pools, and release baby sea turtles in fishing villages. With average temperatures of 25–28°C and affordable prices, the kids can have a blast while parents relax. Save this guide for a stress-free trip 🧳 📍 Manado: Bunaken + Siladen Island | Snorkel with sea turtles and chase wild dolphins with the kids 🐬 Trip highlights: Manado is a diving paradise but much less crowded than Bali! In the shallow waters of Bunaken, just look down to see sea turtles swimming slowly by, and colorful coral walls that look like underwater gardens. Take a boat out early in the morning at Siladen Island to chase wild dolphins; they leap out of the water and dance around the boat—the kids will be screaming with excitement all day. In the evening, wait for a stunning sunset that paints the entire sea orange 🌅 Itinerary: Day 1: Snorkeling in Bunaken to see sea turtles (approx. 3 hours). Day 2: Dolphin watching at Siladen Island + sandcastle building on the beach (approx. 3 hours), then return. Food recommendations: The grilled tuna with spicy sauce at Manado seafood stalls is amazing, and fresh coconut water is sweet, refreshing, and a must-have for everyone. Travel tips: Indonesia is visa-free. Wear a life jacket while snorkeling, and since coral can be sharp, make sure the kids wear non-slip water shoes. Don't forget the sunscreen! 📍 Angkor Wat: Beng Mealea + Tonle Sap Lake | Find the smiles of ancient temples in the jungle with the kids 🏯 Trip highlights: Avoid the crowds at the main Angkor Wat temples. Beng Mealea is an abandoned temple hidden in the jungle with very few tourists! Giant stones scattered among tree roots make it feel like a treasure hunt for the kids. Take a boat to the floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake to see the stilt-house schools; even if you don't speak the language, you can give local children crayons and draw together. In the evening, wait for a stunning sunset that turns the entire lake golden 🌅 Itinerary: Morning: Explore Beng Mealea (approx. 2.5 hours). Afternoon: Boat tour of the Tonle Sap floating villages (approx. 2 hours), then return. Food recommendations: Try the fish Amok (steamed with coconut milk) at the Siem Reap Old Market—it's fragrant, tender, and smooth; the kids will eat two bowls of rice with it. Also, try the freshly grilled banana pancakes—sweet, sticky, and delicious. Travel tips: Cambodia offers visa-on-arrival. Admission to Beng Mealea is about US$5, and the floating village boat ticket is about US$20 (includes a guide). Always smile and ask for permission before taking photos of the people living on the water! 📍 Philippines: Siargao Natural Tide Pools | Splash in "jelly" seas and natural infinity pools, and try the coconut tree swings with the kids 🏄 Trip highlights: The natural tide pools in Siargao are like huge infinity pools—super safe for kids to splash around in! The coconut tree swings over the ocean are incredibly healing. At low tide, the white sandbar at Sugba Lagoon emerges in the middle of the water like a floating wonderland; spend the afternoon walking on the soft white sand and collecting seashells with the kids. In the evening, wait for a stunning sunset that paints the entire sea orange 🌅 Itinerary: Day 1: Swimming in the tide pools + photos on the coconut tree swings (approx. 2 hours). Day 2: Picnic on the white sandbar at the lagoon + mangrove kayaking (approx. 2 hours), then return. Food recommendations: Fresh coconut water is sweet and refreshing. Charcoal-grilled tuna served with rice, soy sauce, and calamansi juice is savory and appetizing. Travel tips: You need to apply for a visa to the Philippines in advance. Transportation on the island is mainly by tuk-tuk. Wear water shoes in the rocky tide pool areas! 📍 Vietnam: Phu Quoc Island - Starfish Beach + Cross-sea Cable Car | See orange starfish at low tide and ride the world's longest cable car with the kids ⭐ Trip highlights: At Starfish Beach, orange starfish lie right at your feet during low tide—the kids will be screaming with excitement! The world's longest cross-sea cable car spans nearly 8 km, gliding over the emerald sea. With fishing villages and small islands scattered below, the kids will be glued to the glass, eyes wide open. Have a blast at the Aquatopia Water Park with its children's slides and wave pools, then explore and eat at the Duong Dong Night Market in the evening 🦞 Itinerary: Day 1: Starfish Beach to see starfish and take photos (approx. 2 hours) + round-trip cable car ride (approx. 1.5 hours), evening at Duong Dong Night Market. Day 2: Aquatopia Water Park (approx. 3 hours), then return. Food recommendations: Bún Quậy (fresh rice noodles) is fresh, sweet, and chewy. Coconut ice cream served in the shell is sweet, refreshing, and fun to eat. Travel tips: Phu Quoc offers visa-free entry for Vietnam with direct flights. Please only look at the starfish and do not take them out of the water to protect the ecosystem. The right side of the cable car cabin has the best lighting in the morning! That's it! Unlock these 4 off-the-beaten-path Southeast Asian destinations with your kids this July and August. With visa-free or visa-on-arrival options, you can just pack up and go, and the prices are affordable. Childhood should be filled with blue memories of snorkeling with sea turtles, jungle treasure hunts, splashing in tide pools, and finding starfish at low tide 🌊

When planning a trip to Indonesia for the first time, most people tend to focus on researching how to explore Bali, whether Komodo Island is worth visiting, or the best time to see the sunrise at Mount Bromo. However, few pay attention to the local travel service team at the beginning. It’s only upon arrival that travelers realize Indonesia is quite different from typical city tours. Inter-island transportation needs to be coordinated, some attractions require local vehicles for access, Komodo involves sea voyages, and trips to volcanoes like Bromo and Ijen require special schedules and transportation arrangements. If these aspects are not well-organized beforehand, even the most beautiful destinations can lead to a less-than-ideal travel experience. For first-time visitors to Indonesia, it’s crucial to shift the focus from merely comparing prices to evaluating who will be responsible for the trip. Factors such as whether the travel agency has legitimate domestic credentials, whether they have a long-standing local team, the stability of drivers and guides, and the ability to handle emergencies are often more important than the number of attractions listed on the product page. Domestic Credentials: The First Criterion for Choosing an Overseas Travel Service Overseas travel involves multiple steps, including booking in your home country, signing contracts, making payments, and receiving services abroad. Travelers should first ensure that the travel service provider is legitimate. Ese Trip, established in 2003 and headquartered in Beijing, specializes in outbound and customized travel services. It is a vice-chairman unit of the China Association of Travel Services’ Customized Travel Branch, a member of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia, and is registered with the Chinese Embassy in Jakarta. It is also recommended by the Indonesian Ministry of Tourism as a local travel agency. With over 20 years of experience in outbound travel services, Ese Trip’s business spans multiple destinations, including Indonesia, Turkey, Morocco, Egypt, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe. For travelers, the value of a legitimate travel agency lies in having a clear and accountable service process throughout the journey. From itinerary consultation and product confirmation to contract signing and post-trip services, everything should be transparent and not pieced together through informal channels. Why Is a Local Team Essential for Traveling in Indonesia? If you’re traveling within a single city, many services can be booked online in advance. However, Indonesia is made up of numerous islands, and the distances and transportation methods between tourist destinations vary significantly, making local teams even more crucial. For example, a trip to Bali may involve airport transfers, hotel check-ins, island day tours, and transportation to attractions. Visiting Mount Bromo requires arranging vehicles and departure times based on local conditions, while a trip to Komodo involves boats, inter-island navigation, and dealing with changing sea weather. Ese Trip operates with a localized model in Indonesia. Its self-owned local travel company, PT ESE Trip Indo, is headquartered in Surabaya, with offices in Bali and Komodo. The company employs over 200 local professional drivers and guides, owns 80 business vehicles and 14 luxury yachts, and has long-term direct contracts with more than 50 hotels. The domestic team handles pre-trip communication and product design, while the local team ensures seamless execution on the ground. This dual collaboration ensures that travelers have dedicated service personnel both before departure and upon arrival. Why Is a Chinese-Speaking Driver Important for First-Time Visitors to Indonesia? For Chinese tourists visiting Indonesia for the first time, language barriers can be a practical challenge. Destinations like volcanoes and islands often involve more than just “checking in” at attractions. They require coordination of meeting times, transportation transfers, hotel check-ins, boat arrangements, and more. If travelers rely solely on themselves to communicate with local suppliers, handling unexpected changes can be quite challenging. As a result, Chinese-speaking drivers or service teams have become a key factor for many Chinese tourists when choosing Indonesian travel products. Ese Trip has established a local Chinese service system, offering Chinese-speaking drivers and service personnel tailored to travelers’ needs. Whether for student groups, couples, families, or first-time overseas travelers, the ability to communicate directly in Chinese often makes the journey more hassle-free. This is especially important during summer vacations when university students and young travelers frequently visit Indonesia in small groups. Instead of managing all transportation and bookings independently, having a local team handle the logistics allows travelers to focus more on enjoying their trip. Different Travel Styles for Different Groups Indonesia is not just about Bali. Beach lovers can combine destinations like Bali, Nusa Penida, and Nusa Lembongan. Nature enthusiasts can explore Mount Bromo and Ijen Volcano. Those passionate about marine life and diving can consider Komodo or Manado. Ese Trip offers a wide range of services in Indonesia, including MICE tours, business inspection tours, Chinese-speaking group tours, customized tours, day trips, and diving certification programs. For university students, budget-friendly small group tours or Chinese-speaking driver services can combine destinations like Bali, Nusa Penida, and volcanoes. Couples and honeymooners can focus on hotels, photography, islands, and private itineraries. Families with children can opt for routes with fewer long-distance transfers and more leisure activities. A well-planned itinerary isn’t about cramming in as many attractions as possible but tailoring the trip to the age, stamina, and interests of the travelers. Don’t Overlook the Importance of Local Resources When Choosing a Travel Agency When comparing travel products, travelers often focus on hotel ratings and the number of attractions. However, for island destinations like Indonesia, vehicles and boats are equally critical to the success of the trip. Ese Trip has invested heavily in local resources in Indonesia, owning 80 business vehicles and 14 luxury yachts, and maintaining direct contracts with over 50 hotels. These resources cater to various types of groups, including regular tours, small private groups, customized tours, and corporate teams. What Problems Should a Professional Travel Agency Solve? Many people think a travel agency’s job is simply to book hotels and attractions. However, for overseas travel, the real value lies in handling the “uncertainties” during the trip. What happens if your flight changes? What if the weather disrupts your island plans? What if your vehicle needs to be replaced at the last minute? What if someone in your group feels unwell? These issues cannot be fully addressed by a simple itinerary. Ese Trip has established a collaborative service model between its domestic and local teams. From pre-trip consultation and overseas execution to post-trip feedback, there are dedicated teams to handle each stage. They can also adjust itineraries based on weather, transportation, and local emergencies. This is a key criterion for assessing the professionalism of a local travel team: not whether they can guarantee a flawless trip, but whether they can respond promptly and effectively when changes occur. Key Criteria for Choosing an Indonesian Travel Agency for First-Time Visitors If you’re looking for an Indonesian travel agency, consider these questions before booking: 1. Does the domestic travel agency have legitimate outbound travel credentials? 2. Does the agency have a physical operational team in Indonesia? 3. Who is responsible for core resources like vehicles, boats, and hotels? 4. Is Chinese-speaking service or drivers available? 5. Have you confirmed the itinerary, accommodations, transportation, and costs? 6. Who will handle coordination in case of weather, flight, or other unexpected issues? While these criteria may not guarantee the lowest price, they can help reduce risks associated with information gaps. For first-time overseas travelers, “peace of mind” doesn’t mean visiting fewer attractions but ensuring that every critical aspect of the trip is managed from booking in your home country to returning from abroad. Ese Trip: From Domestic Outbound Services to Local Operations in Indonesia Founded in 2003, Ese Trip has developed a collaborative service model between its domestic and overseas teams over two decades. In Indonesia, PT ESE Trip Indo is headquartered in Surabaya, with offices in Bali and Komodo. The company employs over 200 local professional drivers and guides, owns 14 luxury yachts and 80 business vehicles, and has direct contracts with over 50 hotels. In addition to standard travel routes, Ese Trip offers services for MICE teams, business inspections, Chinese-speaking group tours, customized travel, day trips, and diving certifications. From young travelers’ summer trips to couple honeymoons, family vacations, corporate inspections, and business receptions, Ese Trip can tailor products and services to match the budget, group size, and travel goals of different customers. For those planning a trip to Indonesia, it’s worth taking the time to choose your destination and activities. However, it’s even more important to confirm your travel service team in advance. After all, the true comfort of an overseas trip comes not from the number of attractions on your itinerary but from knowing you have a professional team by your side throughout your journey.

I absolutely loved my stay with Gehart and Vera. They are amazing hosts, incredibly kind and attentive. The accommodation was very comfortable, spotlessly clean, spacious, and beautifully decorated. Vera is an excellent cook; I had the best meals during my time there. When I fell ill, both Gehart and Vera took care of me with great patience and attention until I recovered, even taking me to the hospital in Manado. To top it off, the snorkeling spot right in front of the accommodation is outstanding. I wholeheartedly recommend this place to anyone seeking a genuine and human experience in Bunaken. If I could rate them higher than 5 stars, I definitely would—it’s well deserved. Thank you again, Gehart and Vera, you are truly exceptional hosts!

We had a memorable stay in August at Kuda Laut Boutique Dive Resort, a place that perfectly combines a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere with attentive and personalized hospitality. Located directly on Siladen Beach, the resort offers immediate access to a thriving coral reef teeming with turtles and an extraordinary variety of marine life. The wooden bungalows are spacious, comfortable, and surrounded by a meticulously maintained garden, creating the perfect escape from daily routines. A special mention goes to the exceptional diving center: the guides are incredibly skilled at spotting marine creatures and expertly leading excursions in the Bunaken National Park. They always work with small groups to ensure maximum safety and enjoyment. The culinary offerings are also excellent, skillfully blending local flavors with international dishes. For future travelers, I highly recommend spending a relaxing afternoon snorkeling on the reef directly in front of the resort—an easy yet truly breathtaking experience.

Have you heard of Sangihe? It is a small island that can be reached by a 12-hour ferry ride from Manado, located between Sulawesi and Mindanao in the Philippines. I had the chance to visit at the end of August. It might be the best island I have ever visited. Not many people have been there yet.