So, how about exploring those vast arrays of islands? Don't just settle in capital cities; try to explore them. Check out the following guide if you want the greatest adventure.

• Java
  Being the home of the capital city, Jakarta, Java is the most populated island in Indonesia. You can easily settle in one of the big cities, including Jakarta, Surabaya, Bandung, and so on. Aside from them, there are also rural areas with vast forests, volcanic plateaus, and countryside. But is Java the ideal place to stay? Yes!
  
  
  
• Bali
  This small tropical paradise is the most tourist-friendly. You will find them the most fitting for the language, products, and lifestyle. You can visit Bali as a shoestring backpacker, a rich traveler, or a temporary resident—everything you like. But Bali is pretty strict with its rules regarding culture and religion! Be sure to show respect!
  
  
  
• Nusa Tenggara
  Nusa Tenggara has several unique tourist attractions, such as diving spots and red beaches. If you want to visit, consider Lombok. This is where luxury resorts, major activities, and unique places to visit are located. But if you want a more challenging exploration, check out Mount Rinjani and Gili Island.
  
  
  
• Sumatra
  Sumatra is known for its wildlife but also for the strict and conservative religion known as Sharia Law. It mostly applies to Aceh. The best chance for expatriates to enjoy Sumatra is either on vacation or working in the palm oil and mining businesses. If you want to settle in Sumatra with comfort, you might want to consider medium- to large-sized cities.
  
  
  
• Sulawesi
  Large parts of Sulawesi are unexplored and uncharted. Is it bad? The rough terrain can be the biggest hurdle for communication. But their cultures, wildlife, and forests are thriving. What to do in Sulawesi Visit the northern arm, where the famous Wakatobi and UNESCO Marine Biosphere Reserve are situated.
  
  
  
• Borneo
  Borneo, or Kalimantan, may be the biggest island in Indonesia, but most of it is untouched. Instead, this island is known for its biodiversity, including flora, fauna, oil, gas, and palm plantations. Go to Balikpapan. This is where major activities are available, including the best hospitality, nightlife, entertainment, and expats' roles.
  
  
  
• Maluku
  Maluku is the less-known island in Indonesia. But this is the ideal place for diving and historical adventures. For your information, Maluku is an archipelago where nutmeg, cloves, maces, and unique spices are found. It is also having a stunning undersea garden plus amazing mountains to conquer. Maluku Island can be a great place to enjoy a unique holiday.
  
  
  
• Papua
  Indonesia has a confusing land border of Papua with New Guinea. Locals will call their place Irian Jaya or Western New Guinea. This island is known for its natural wonders, including Lorentz National Park, Puncak Jaya, the largest gold mine in the world, and vast native tribes. But be careful! There are a lot of conflicts. Always mind your manner and don't wander around without any idea. This place can be dangerous.

Remember that those islands are the biggest and most populated islands in Indonesia. There are more that you can explore. But starting with the common islands will be helpful, especially if you are interested to settling in Indonesia. Anyway, be sure you know the culture and respect the locals. So, you can adapt to the new place.