The most popular sports in Indonesia are badminton and football.

Traditional sports include sepak takraw, and bull racing in Madura.

Bali also made history and hosted the first ever Asian Beach Games in October 2008.

There are two discernible seasons in Indonesia: the dry season, which extends from June to October, and the rainy season, which lasts from November to March, both are hot.

The coastal regions, however, are often cool, and in the mountains the air is often chilly.

The climate of Indonesia is determined partly by its island structure and its position astride the Equator, which assure high, even temperatures.

In addition, its location between the two landmasses of Asia and Australia exposes it to seasonal patterns of precipitation brought by monsoon winds.

Muslim make up 86.1%, Protestant 5.7%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 1.8%, other or unspecified 3.4%

The most famous of Indonesia's islands is the exotic Bali, known for its captivating art and temples, but there are also untold natural and cultural wonders on the much larger islands of Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and in Irian Jaya.

The most dominant influences on Indonesian architecture have traditionally been Indian; however, Chinese, Arab, and European architectural influences have been significant.

Indonesian cuisine varies by region and is based on Chinese, European, Middle Eastern, and Indian precedents. Rice is the main staple food and is served with side dishes of meat and vegetables. Spices (notably chili), coconut milk, fish and chicken are fundamental ingredients.