50 Essential Indonesian Phrases for Travelers

The most useful phrases for travelers to Indonesia are: "Selamat pagi" (Good morning), "Terima kasih" (Thank you), "Berapa harganya?" (How much?), "Tolong" (Please/help), "Maaf" (Sorry), "Tidak pedas" (Not spicy), "Pakai argo, ya" (Use the meter, to taxi drivers), and "Boleh kurang?" (Can it be cheaper?) for haggling.

No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas of Bali (Ubud, Seminyak, Canggu, Kuta). However, learning even 10 basic Indonesian phrases dramatically improves the quality of your interactions with locals — prices tend to be fairer, smiles are warmer, and you gain access to places tourists rarely see.

"Thank you" is "terima kasih" (pronounced tuh-REE-mah KA-see). For "thank you very much", say "terima kasih banyak". The response meaning "you're welcome" is "sama-sama" (same-same) or "kembali".

Haggling (tawar-menawar) is expected in traditional markets, street stalls, and with some street vendors. It is NOT expected in shops with fixed prices, restaurants, malls, or modern stores. Start at around 40% of the asking price and meet around 60-70%. Keep a friendly tone throughout — it's a social ritual, not an argument.

Greetings change by time of day: "Selamat pagi" (morning until 11am), "Selamat siang" (11am-3pm), "Selamat sore" (3pm-6pm), "Selamat malam" (evening/night). For general introductions, "Halo" (hello) and "Apa kabar?" (How are you?) also work in any situation.