Wales is a country in the United Kingdom, known for its stunning natural scenery, historic castles, and rich culture. For tourists from Indonesia, Wales offers an unforgettable experience.

If you are planning to vacation in Wales, there are several things that you need to know and prepare well in advance. Starting from Visa, terms and conditions, culture, and other things so that your vacation can run smoothly and without problems.

For Indonesian tourists who are planning to visit Wales, it is important to understand the applicable entry and exit procedures. Entering and leaving Wales requires careful preparation, especially for Indonesian tourists who must meet a number of important requirements.

As part of the United Kingdom, Wales follows the immigration rules and procedures that apply throughout the UK. The entry and exit process includes visa processing, compliance with customs regulations, and understanding the proper entry and exit procedures. This preparation is done to ensure that your trip runs smoothly and without obstacles, so that you can enjoy the beauty and richness of Wales culture without worry.

Read more: Exploring London : A Guide to Various Landmarks, Museums and More

As part of the United Kingdom, Wales has the same entry requirements as other countries in England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. For Indonesian citizens, here are some requirements that must be met:

1. Valid Passport

Every Indonesian tourist who wants to visit Wales must ensure that they have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the date of arrival. This provision is important to ensure that you will not experience immigration difficulties while in Wales or in other countries that you may visit.

In addition, make sure your passport is in good condition and there is no damage, such as torn pages or illegible information, because this can cause problems at the immigration checkpoint later.

2. Visa

Indonesian citizens are required to apply for a visa before traveling to Wales. This visa application process must be carried out carefully, because the visa not only allows you to enter Wales, but also allows you to explore the entire United Kingdom.

The most common type of visa for tourists is the Standard Visit Visa, with a stay of up to 6 months. The visa application process can be done by filling out an online form, paying the visa fee, collecting biometric data, and sending supporting documents.

It is important to start the visa application process well in advance of your planned departure to avoid delays or other problems that may arise.

3. Round Trip Ticket

Another important requirement that must be met is to have a round trip ticket or onward ticket to another country. This will be proof that you have a clear travel plan and do not intend to stay in Wales beyond the permitted time limit.

Immigration may ask you to show your travel ticket during inspection, so it is important to have it before departure. Also, make sure that the ticket you have is in accordance with the validity period of your visa. You can book flight tickets to Wales more easily with Traveloka, click the link below and get the best promo!

4. Proof of Accommodation

You must also prepare proof of accommodation reservations while in Wales. The proof can be in the form of a hotel reservation confirmation, hostel, or proof of address if you plan to stay with family or friends. This proof shows that you have a clear and guaranteed place to live while in Wales.

5. Travel Insurance

Although not required, it is highly recommended for every tourist to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency situations. This insurance will provide financial protection if you have an accident or illness while in Wales, or if unforeseen circumstances such as flight cancellation, lost luggage or the need for emergency evacuation occur.

Having travel insurance not only gives you peace of mind, it also shows that you are well prepared for any eventuality that may arise during your trip.

Indonesian tourists who want to visit Wales must apply for a UK visa, as Wales does not have its own visa system. Here are the types of visas that can be applied for:

When planning a holiday to Wales, it is important to understand and comply with the customs regulations imposed by the UK authorities. These regulations not only protect the local economy and national security but also ensure that your trip goes smoothly without any legal issues. Here are some important rules to know before entering Wales:

1. Duty Free Goods

Travelers entering Wales can bring in a number of duty free goods, including alcohol, tobacco, perfume and other gifts, with certain restrictions. For example, you are allowed to bring in up to 4 litres of wine, 1 litre of spirits with a strength of more than 22 per cent, or 2 litres of spirits with a strength of less than 22 per cent. For tobacco, you can bring in up to 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos.

It is important to note that these limits apply per adult, and if you are travelling with family or friends, these limits cannot be combined. These duty free goods must be used for personal use and must not be sold while in Wales.

2. Declaring Goods

If you are carrying goods that exceed the limits or require special permission, such as certain medicines, chemicals or electronic devices, you must declare them when you arrive in Wales. This is done through the red channel at customs.

If you fail to declare these goods, you could be fined or even have them confiscated by customs authorities. The declaration process is designed to protect Wales from smuggling and the import of illegal goods that could harm people or the environment.

3. Prohibited Goods

There are a number of goods that are strictly prohibited from being brought into the UK, including Wales. These include firearms, narcotics and certain wildlife products, such as ivory or the skin of protected animals. This also includes certain foods and plants that can carry diseases or pests.

If you are unsure whether the goods you are carrying fall into the prohibited categories, it is best to check with customs authorities before leaving.

Upon arrival in Wales, you will undergo a series of immigration procedures that apply at all international entry points, both at airports and ports. This process involves several important steps designed to ensure that all visitors entering the country meet legal and immigration requirements.

1. Immigration Process

After landing at the airport or arriving at the port, you will be directed to the immigration section where officers will check your passport and visa. Make sure your passport and visa are ready and in good condition, because officers may carry out a thorough check.

In addition to checking documents, sometimes immigration officers will also ask a few short questions regarding the purpose of your visit, length of stay, and proof of accommodation and return tickets. Answer these questions honestly and clearly to facilitate the immigration process.

2. Baggage Collection

After passing through immigration, the next step is to collect your baggage at the designated area. Make sure to keep a good eye on your belongings to avoid loss or theft. If you experience problems with your baggage, such as loss or damage, immediately report it to the officer in charge at the airport.

3. Exit the Airport or Port

Once the immigration and customs process is complete, you can continue your journey to your final destination in Wales. If you are using public transportation, such as buses, trains, or taxis, make sure you know the route you will take and the safe mode of transportation to use.

4. Preparation Before Leaving Wales

Before leaving Wales, make sure all travel documents are complete and stored safely, including passports, visas, and flight tickets. Remember that security checks at international airports can be time-consuming, especially during peak hours, so it is advisable to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight departure time.

Respecting local culture and customs is key to having a more meaningful experience when visiting Wales. The country is steeped in tradition, combining Celtic, Anglo-Saxon and modern influences, offering a unique and welcoming atmosphere for travellers. By understanding and practising proper etiquette, you show respect to the locals who are proud of their heritage.

Manners

The Welsh are known for their friendliness and humility, so it’s important to always be polite in your interactions, not just with locals but also with other travellers. Greetings such as “hello”, “good morning” or “bore da” (Welsh for “good morning”) are warmly received, and adding a smile to your greeting will reinforce the positive impression.

Punctuality

Being on time is a highly valued sign of respect in Wales. Whether you’re attending a formal meeting or making a reservation at a restaurant, arriving on time is considered polite and shows respect for others. In business culture, punctuality is also very important and can make a professional impression.

Language Use

While English is the main language in Wales, Welsh also plays an important role, especially in Welsh-speaking areas such as Gwynedd and Anglesey. Trying to say a few words in Welsh, such as “diolch” (thank you) or “croeso” (welcome), will be greatly appreciated by the locals. It also shows your interest in respecting their culture and national identity.

Tipping Culture

Tipping in Wales is not compulsory, but it is appreciated in places such as restaurants, especially if service is not included in the bill. It is generally considered polite to tip around 10-15 percent of the total bill. It is also common practice in hotels to tip the cleaners or porters.

Wales has a rich religious history, with Christianity as the dominant religion. The Church of Wales, part of the Anglican tradition, has been a major religious centre since the 16th century. However, church attendance is now declining, although it remains important for major celebrations such as Christmas and Easter.

In modern times, Wales has become increasingly religiously diverse, with growing Muslim, Hindu, Sikh and Buddhist communities, particularly in major cities such as Cardiff. In addition, ancient spiritual traditions, such as the Celtic reverence for nature, are still alive in some communities.

Less well-known are the major revivals of the early 20th century, the role of village chapels as community centres, and the spiritual roots of the Eisteddfod festival. Today, many Welsh people are agnostic, but they still honour their spiritual heritage, reflecting a blend of ancient traditions and modern life.

Local Customs

Wales has many unique local traditions, such as the celebration of St David’s Day, the patron saint of Wales, on March 1. Following or respecting these customs, including wearing daffodils or leeks as national symbols, can enrich your experience.

Additionally, music festivals and eisteddfods, a type of celebration of Welsh arts and culture) are important events that show how deeply the people of Wales love their arts and cultural heritage.

Read more: England Travel Guide

Wales is a relatively safe place to visit, but you should still be vigilant and take reasonable precautions to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

Although Wales generally has a stable political and economic situation, there are times when protests or demonstrations occur, especially in large cities such as London, England. Demonstrations are usually peaceful, but it is important to avoid affected areas and keep an eye on local news.

Also, although the crime rate in the UK is relatively low, cases of petty crime such as theft, fraud and pickpocketing are still common, especially in busy tourist areas.

As a visitor, you should be careful about your safety at night. Some areas of large cities can be less safe after dark, so it is advisable not to walk alone in quiet places. It is better to use safe public transport or a reliable taxi if you need to travel at night.

1. Personal Safety

Always take good care of your personal belongings. Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables, and always keep your passport, cash and credit cards in a safe place. If you are in crowded places, such as markets or train stations, be wary of pickpockets. It is better not to display valuables such as mobile phones or cameras in a conspicuous place.

2. Transport

Public transport in Wales, such as buses and trains, is generally safe and efficient. Make sure you always use official and licensed taxi services, especially when traveling at night. If you rent a car, make sure to always park the vehicle in a safe place and do not leave valuables in the car.

3. Travel Documents

Make sure you have backup copies of all important travel documents, such as passports, visas and flight tickets, and keep them separate from the originals. This will be very helpful if you lose the original documents while traveling.

4. Electronic Devices

Use electronic devices wisely, especially in public places. Avoid using mobile phones or laptops in unsafe or crowded places to reduce the risk of theft. If you must use electronic devices in public, be sure to remain vigilant and never leave them unattended.

5. Travel Insurance

It is recommended that you have travel insurance that includes medical and other emergency cover. This will not only provide financial protection but also give you peace of mind during your trip to Wales.

Before planning a trip to Wales, it is a good idea to have a health check to make sure you are in good health. Although there are no mandatory vaccination requirements to enter Wales, there are some health measures that are recommended to follow.

1. Personal Health Check

Before you leave, make sure you have a general health check. If you have any medical conditions, bring enough medication and make sure to bring the relevant doctor's prescription. This way, you don't have to buy any additional medication while in Wales.

2. Recommended Vaccinations

Although not mandatory, vaccinations against diseases such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B and tetanus are highly recommended, especially if you are planning to visit rural areas or do outdoor activities. These vaccinations can protect you from potential health risks during your trip.

3. International Health Insurance

Having international health insurance is highly recommended, especially if you are planning to stay in Wales for a longer period. Make sure the insurance covers the cost of treatment abroad and includes medical evacuation if necessary.

4. Medical Preparation

In addition to vaccinations, it is also important to bring a supply of personal medication, including anti-allergy medication, painkillers and medication for digestive disorders. If you need healthcare while in Wales, the UK's National Health Service (NHS) offers a reliable service, but having health insurance will speed up access and reduce costs.

While a holiday in Wales is fun, it’s always a good idea to stay alert. One of the most important things to do before you leave is to know the local emergency numbers. Here’s a complete guide to the emergency contacts you need to know when you’re in Wales:

General Emergency Numbers

Non-Emergency Health Services

Special Emergency Numbers

Although Wales is not a country in its own right, but rather part of the United Kingdom, the Indonesian Embassy in London remains the main point of contact for Indonesian citizens who need assistance in this region. Save the phone number of the Indonesian Embassy in London on your mobile phone at +44 20 7499 7661.

Read more: London Day Trips: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect 24 Hours in the City

Saat merencanakan liburan ke Wales, kamu perlu memahami iklim dan potensi bencana alam yang mungkin terjadi sangat penting agar kamu bisa mempersiapkan diri dengan baik. Hal yang bisa diketahui meliputi informasi tentang iklim di negara tujuan, jenis bencana alam yang mungkin terjadi, serta bagaimana masyarakat setempat menanggapi situasi darurat.

Wales is relatively rare in terms of severe natural disasters, but you should still be aware of the risks that can occur, including:

The climate in Wales tends to be cool and humid all year round, with moderate temperature variations. Here is the general climate you can expect in Wales:

With the right preparation and enough information, a trip to Wales can be a safe and enjoyable experience. This guide is designed to help travelers from Indonesia make the most of their visit to this country.

The UK government has a well-organized emergency preparedness system to deal with various types of natural disasters. Emergency services, such as the fire brigade, police and ambulance, are always ready to respond quickly in emergency situations.

In addition, the government has implemented an effective early warning system, which allows the public to receive up-to-date information about potential disasters, such as flooding, before they occur.

If you are in Wales or another part of the UK and are faced with an emergency situation due to a natural disaster, it is important to remain calm and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Make sure you know how to contact emergency services by dialing 999 or 112, and always have important contact information, including the address and telephone number of the Indonesian Embassy in London, handy.

Before traveling to Wales, it is advisable to monitor the weather forecast and local news to stay informed of the latest conditions. Make sure you bring appropriate clothing for the season, and always have an umbrella or raincoat handy in case of unexpected weather. If you are planning to stay in an area that is prone to flooding, make sure you know the location of temporary shelters or safe evacuation routes.

By understanding the climate conditions and potential natural disasters in Wales, and preparing yourself with the right steps, you will be able to enjoy your trip more safely and comfortably.