Solo overview

Solo, which is also named Surakarta, is one of many cities in Indonesia that have benefitted from a recent boom in tourism and foreign investment. Because of its location on the central part of the island of Java, Solo was involved in much of the political unrest that took place in the 1960s and again in the late 1990s. Most of the tourist activity in Solo revolves around the Candi, or ancient temples that are found throughout the region. Unfortunately, Solo is now a bit notorious for housing radical Islamic extremists, so it is a good idea to check out the travel advisory before heading there, especially if you are Dutch or from the US. While terrorism may turn some away from the region, others just see it as part of the adventure and feel the natural and cultural beauty are worth the risk.