Understand

Belitung, a hidden gem in Southeast Asia, is an island with a fascinating history and breathtaking natural beauty. Despite being known for its tin mines, Belitung boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the region. Imagine pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a mesmerizing display of offshore islands. If you're a fan of snorkeling, you'll be amazed by the underwater wonders here. Leebong Island, Tanjung Kelayang, and Tanjung Tinggi are just some of the world-class beaches you can explore on Belitung. Unlike other popular beaches, these spots remain tranquil and serene, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds. You can also embark on island tours to discover the smaller uninhabited islands, each with its own unique charm – from coconut plantations fringed by white sand to elaborate granite rock formations and sandbars as fine as powdered sugar. While some of these islands may be too far to swim to, colorful local fishing boats are available to take you on a memorable island-hopping adventure. Belitung has yet to be fully discovered by mainstream tourism, and this adds to its allure. The internationally acclaimed novels "Laskar Pelangi" (Rainbow Troops) and its sequel, "The Dreamer," have put Belitung on the map of global tourism. However, resorts and large-scale developments have not taken over the island, allowing it to retain its idyllic charm. The best time to visit Belitung is during the dry season from April to October. However, be prepared for some wind and choppy waters. Alternatively, the rainy season from November to March offers calmer waters, although rain showers are common in the afternoons. Leebong Island, surrounded by larger islands and the mainland, offers excellent conditions for water activities throughout the year. If you're planning a trip to Belitung, it's recommended to avoid the school holidays in June and July, as they tend to attract local tourists from other parts of Indonesia. Weekends can also be busy, with large Indonesian tour groups visiting from Jakarta. Moreover, Belitung hosts interesting annual cultural festivals, including the Tour dBelitung, a 300km bike race held every December, and an outrigger sailboat race with a sand statue competition, taking place in October/November at Burung Mandi Beach. Belitung is a paradise waiting to be explored, offering a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural authenticity, and a sense of adventure that will leave you in awe. (Website: [a class="external autonumber" href="http://www.tourdbelitung.com/index.php" target="_blank"]Tour dBelitung[/a]) (Address: Belitung, Southeast Asia)

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Nasi Goreng is a popular Indonesian dish, which literally translates to 'fried rice'. It is typically made with a blend of white and fried rice, accompanied by a variety of ingredients including eggs, chicken, shrimp, or beef, along with vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green onions. Seasoned with soy sauce, salt, and sometimes chili, Nasi Goreng offers a savory taste and can be found throughout Indonesia as a staple meal.

Sate is a diverse category of dishes found across Southeast Asia, but it holds a special place in Indonesian cuisine. Made of seasoned, skewered, and grilled meats, Sate can feature various types of protein, including chicken, beef, goat, or even offal. These skewers are traditionally served with a spicy peanut sauce and often accompanied by rice or other side dishes. Sate is a favorite street food in Indonesia and caters to both those who prefer meat or vegetarian options.

Rendang is a traditional Indonesian beef curry that is slow-cooked to achieve a tender and succulent texture. The meat is cooked in coconut milk, causing it to absorb the spices and become infused with their flavors. Rendang typically features a combination of spices like lemongrass, galangal, turmeric, and chilies, alongside other regional variations. This hearty, flavorful dish is often served over rice and enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing