They say traveling broadens the mind, but it’s also true that many end up feeling like a fish out of water when traveling to a foreign country, being overwhelmed by cultures and food they are not accustomed to (for example, nasi Padang is shockingly impossible to find in most parts of the world).
Indonesians may also experience difficulties when traveling abroad, just like anybody else. For that reason, the Foreign Affairs Ministry recently launched a smartphone app called Smart Travel to assist Indonesian tourists abroad.
Safe Travel has a wide array of functions, including providing information such as accommodations, the locations of Indonesian embassies or consulates, and even where one might find restaurants serving Indonesian food where applicable.
Perhaps more importantly, the app allows users to report any emergencies to state representatives abroad. This function is not just limited to tourists, as Indonesians residing or studying abroad may also use the feature.
“This is proof that the nation is there for all, whether they are in [Indonesia] or in a foreign country,” said Foreign Affairs Minister Retno Marsudi, as quoted by Tribun yesterday.
Safe Travel is currently only available for Android devices. You can download the app here.
Reader Interactions