Situated on Borneo's eastern shore, Balikpapan is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination that uniquely blends industrial progress with captivating natural elements. With average tropical temperatures of around 28°C (82°F) throughout the year and high humidity, this coastal gem shows visitors the brisk pace of Indonesia's growth while preserving its cultural authenticity.
Often referred to as the 'Oil City,' Balikpapan derives its wealth from its oil industry. However, it's more than just an industrial hub. The city is home to some of Borneo's purest beaches, sprawling mangrove forests, and a multitude of wildlife. Equally intriguing is the local culture, a rich mix of indigenous Dayak customs, Javanese influences, and the undercurrents of the modern urban lifestyle.
Balikpapan's charm is further augmented by its vibrant food culture, featuring fresh seafood delicacies prepared with traditional Indonesian spices. Be sure to savor the local kepiting soka (soft-shell crab), or the city's renowned pisang gapit (grilled banana with cheese). Nature lovers will appreciate the serene beauty of Kemala Beach's golden sand and the Margomulyo Mangrove Forest, a thriving hub of proboscis monkeys and multiple bird species.
Two must-have experiences in Balikpapan are a visit to the Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Center, offering a close-up view of these endangered animals, and a shopping trip to Plaza Balikpapan, the city's prime retail destination that encapsulates the local urban culture perfectly.
The city offers cool, air-conditioned buses that operate on the main routes. You can get a prepaid card from the primary stations. These buses run from 6 AM until 8 PM, with fares starting from Rp 4,000.
The airport is a mere 7km away from the city center. You can hire a prepaid taxi from the official counter (approximately Rp 100,000) or opt for Grab/Gojek. The commute is about 15-20 minutes long.
Indeed, Balikpapan is one of Indonesia's safest cities. Just practice ordinary precautions and remain alert, particularly during the night.
Between July and October, the weather is relatively drier. However, with the city receiving rainfall all year round, remember to pack accordingly.
English is largely comprehended in hotels, malls, and tourist hotspots, although knowing a few basic phrases in Indonesian could be helpful.
The local currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You can exchange currency at the airport or at authorized money changers in the major shopping malls. ATMs can be found virtually everywhere.
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