Positioned on the Equator, across a region of immense volcanic activity, Indonesia has some 400 volcanoes within its borders, with at least 90 still active in some way.

 

Many of the islands here are still uninhabited, with the larger islands of Java, Kalimantan (Borneo), Irian Jaya (Papua), Sumatra and Sulawesi home to most of the population base.

 

Once dominated by the military, recent democratic reforms included two highly successful national elections to Parliament, and the direct election of the current President.

 

Some citizens in the outer-reaches of the country still demand more freedom, and that struggle continues today within the democratic process, and not on the battlefields of the past. Note that the East Timor cry for independence was one of the positive results of reform.

 

This tropical country and its many islands are one of the most stunning destinations on our planet, but recent (though isolated) terrorism attacks in Bali and other areas of the country have certainly stifled some of the country's tourism.

 

In addition, the major Tsunami of December, 2004, severely damaged most of the northern reaches of Sumatra, and there's still an apprehensive feeling in the air for both residents and visitors alike.