Who's going:
Soldiers from 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, as well as enablers from several other units.
When and why: August for Garuda Shield and various mil-to-mil engagements and cultural exercises as part of the Army's regionally-aligned forces concept. As long as Pathways rotations continue to take place, expect additional opportunities to spend time in Indonesia. This will be the second time Garuda Shield is included in a Pathways rotation.
About the area: Indonesia is the world's third most populous democracy and largest Muslim-majority state, according to the CIA World Factbook. Issues facing the country include alleviating poverty, improving education, preventing terrorism, and stemming corruption.
Located in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is an archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
It is tropical, with hot and humid conditions year-round.
The country is made up of mostly coastal lowlands.
Activities: The Bali Botanic Garden, established in 1959, covers more than 380 acres on the lower slopes of Gunung Pohen, according to Lonely Planet. Pasar Badung is Bali's largest food market, and Sukawati Market is a major source for flowers, baskets, fruit, and souvenirs. Lonely Planet also recommends Gunung Kawi, one of Bali's oldest and largest ancient monuments. It consists of 10 shrines cut out of the rock face.
Watch out for: Personal and snatch-and-grab robberies, which are the most common type of crime, according to the State Department's Bureau of Diplomatic Security. Visitors also should be wary of disreputable or freelance taxis, where drivers are known to take passengers to remote areas to rob them. Pickpocketing and credit card fraud also are common concerns.
Bring back some: Sarongs and udeng, which is a traditional Balinese headband. Indonesia also is known for its rich gold and silver songket, which are embroidered pieces used at traditional weddings and special events, according to the country's tourism website.
Michelle Tan is the editor of Army Times and Air Force Times. She has covered the military for Military Times since 2005, and has embedded with U.S. troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Haiti, Gabon and the Horn of Africa.
