Practical Information

PENGUMUMAN LELANG
KSP WAKATOBI

Visitor Information Center

There are three visitor information centers spread around Wakatobi (Wangi Wangi, Kaledupa and Tomia). They offer information about the best attractions to visit, transportation rental, dive operators and the best places to eat.

Electricity and Communication

In Wakatobi there can be power shortages, leaving you with only candle-or flashlight. This is common on the four islands of Wakatobi. Therefore it is recommended to organize the charging of your electronic devices.

Communication:

For your mobile phone it is recommended to use an Indonesian prepaid SIM. They are really affordable and you can easily refill your credit (or called ‘pulsa’) at many small shops (kiosk). There are several operators in Indonesia but the most reliable in Wakatobi is Telkomsel (Simpati and AS). In some areas of the islands you might not have either mobile reception or internet access at all.

Internet:

Mobile internet access only works reliably in Wangi-Wangi. On the other islands, depending on your phone (and sometimes also your luck), you might have troubles in getting even a decent connection. Also WiFi does not always work and only found in some spots in Wangi-Wangi Island or Tomia Island.

Where to Eat

Wangi Wangi Island

Wangi Wangi Island has by far the most rumah makan and warung (small restaurant) all with comparable quality. They are mostly concentrated in Wanci, where you can just drive your motorbike around town and pick the most appealing for your appetite.
Some of the favorites include:

Kaledupa Island

Kaledupa has few rumah makan and warung, but its homestays will amaze you with home-cooked tasty dishes featuring fresh fish, crab, shrimp and a nice choice of local vegetables. Before you set out on a day trip just ask them to prepare a lunch to go for you. The small warung on the island serve simple but tasty food.

Tomia Island

Most hotels in Tomia offer breakfast and you can also find some “rumah makan” on the island. However, it is recommended to order lunch and dinner at your hotel or homestay. In the evening you can also head to Lakota Beach where many small food stalls offer all kinds of local culinary treats, with a beautiful atmosphere and the beach serving as your dining background. Here you can find satay (meat on a skew-er) grilled on charcoal and pisang epe (grilled banana) for dessert, as well as a large choice of fish and other Indonesian meals.

Binongko Island

Binongko does not have any restaurants. Your homestay will cook meals whenever you desire, and will be happy to show you the absolutely fantastic traditional cuisine. If you want to go on a day-trip just ask for a packed lunch.

Money

There are three banks in Wakatobi which you can find on Wangi-Wangi Island in the town of Wanci: BNI, BRI and Danamon. BNI provides two ATMs in Wanci. With BNI you can access money with your VISA or MasterCard. The other bank BRI provides access for MasterCard. Only a few hotels and restaurants do accept a credit card payment. Therefore it is recommended to ask your hotel if it provides such a service before your arriving in Wakatobi. Also there are no Money Changer in Wakatobi. If you travel to the other islands make sure to bring enough cash with you, as the town of Wanci is the only place for you to get cash.

Etiquette

The people of Wakatobi are always friendly and smiling and will understand that you are from a foreign country with a different culture. But cultures can differ quite a lot so it is advised that you respect local customs to avoid any negative situations or embarrassment. Here are some things to keep in mind: