Banks: 08.00 to 15.00, Monday to Friday; 08.00 to 13.00, Saturday
Post offices: 08.00 to 14.00, Monday to Thursday; 08.00 to 11.00, Friday; 08.00 to 13.00, Saturday
Government offices: 08.00 to 16.00, Monday to Friday
Business centres: 08.00 to 16.00, Monday to Friday; 08.00 to 14.00, Saturday
Shops: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Saturday

Nearby terrorist bombings in Bali during 2002, 2003 and 2004 shook travellers’ confidence, though tourism levels have since been restored to normal. It should be noted that Surabaya’s specific record is much safer. Above all, travellers bound for Indonesia may wish to check with their government’s travel advisory list before finalising travel plans. Also it’s wise to travel lightly, carefully guarding your valuables when travelling in crowded, touristy areas. Earthquakes are also relatively common in this part of the world.

240V, 50 hertz, round two-pin plugs

Much of the medical infrastructure throughout Indonesia is not up to Western standards. Generally, hospitals and clinics centrally located in Surabaya offer a reasonable level of care, while those found in Jakarta and Bali are better. Tourists are advised to avoid consuming tap water and unpeeled fresh produce. Those who plan to travel only in large cities will want to carry mosquito repellent to stave off malaria and dengue fever, while those travelling in rural settings may wish to consider anti-malarial medication.

Emergency services: 118

The national language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesian, while those involved with the tourism industry can speak and understand English. Furthermore, French and Dutch are spoken in certain areas.

The Indonesia rupiah (IDR) is the official currency of Indonesia. Some larger hotels accept payment in US dollars.

Visitors are permitted to import the following items free of duty: two litres of alcohol; 100 grams of tobacco (50 cigars or 200 cigarettes); and enough perfume for personal use. Customs officials will confiscate or otherwise forbid the import of items such as firearms, illegal drugs, fresh produce, materials printed in Chinese, pornography and currency exceeding Rp50,000. Computers and photography equipment must be declared.

Indonesian greetings consist of a simple handshake and a slight bow (usually with the hands placed over the heart). Age and seniority are important aspects of Indonesian culture, such that introductions are likely to start with the eldest (or otherwise most important) member of the party being introduced. Locals prefer to use the right hand for social commerce and daily interaction, as the left hand is considered unclean. Gifts are given and received with the right hand, then opened later when the gift-giver is no longer present.

Visa requirements are relatively loose for citizens of many Southeast Asian nations, with travel permits issued on arrival for many. However, regulations are more restrictive for citizens of Western nations. Nationals of the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, New Zealand, France, Germany, Italy and many other nations must purchase a visa on arrival, with periods of permitted stay ranging from 10 to 30 days.

Surabaya’s tourist information office is situated on Jalan Pemuda 118. East Java Government Tourism Service. Phone: +31 8531814 17