The country's first President, Dr Sukarno, had been a prominent figure in the independence movement since the 1920s. Jakarta nightclubs feature international singers and bands and are open until 0400 during weekends. Jakarta has over 40 cinemas and some English-language and subtitled films are shown. There are also casinos, and theatres providing cultural performances. Many of the larger hotels, particularly in Bali, put on dance shows accompanied by the uniquely Indonesian Gamelan Orchestras.
Indonesian puppets are world famous and shows for visitors are staged in various locations.
At small shops bartering might be necessary. 1000-2100 Monday to Saturday. Some shops open Sunday. There are a number of festivals which take place during the year, the dates of which often vary according to the Hindu or Buddhist calendars. Bali stages some magnificent festivals all year round.