Indonesia’s beauty goes beyond its beaches — it’s in the people. Bahasa Indonesia is easy to learn, soft to hear, and comforting to speak.

The first phrase I learned was:

“Terima kasih.”
(Thank you.)

When I said it in Bali, the reaction was unforgettable. Locals smiled wider, their eyes brightened, and some even asked if I was learning their language.

In Ubud, a shop owner said:

“You speak Indonesian, very good!”

Even though I only said two words.

What touched me the most was how patient and friendly everyone was. Even when English wasn’t understood, people tried their best with gestures, smiles, and simple phrases.

Indonesia taught me that communication can be peaceful, calm, and full of warmth — even with few words.