Idul Fitri is drawing near. Many people have struggled to get tickets to go home by train, bus, ship or plane and some are still trying to find tickets. Traveling on public transport during this time can be uncomfortable, tiring and even dangerous. But these factors are overlooked, as spending Idul Fitri at home with the extended family is a year-long goal. The Jakarta Post talked to several people on going home for the holiday.

Astri, 16, has worked as a housemaid in Cawang, East Jakarta for the last two years. Her family lives in Kutoarjo, Central Java:

I waited in line for 7 hours, since 1 p.m., to get a ticket to travel home for Idul Fitri. But I don't mind.

Going home for the holiday is important because it is the only chance I have to meet my siblings who, like me, also work in other cities. I will feel guilty if I'm not at home.

Tugino, 46, is an employee of City Hall. He lives in Central Jakarta with wife and their three children. His parents live in Kebumen, Central Java:

I have purchased a bus ticket to my hometown for Nov. 23. But I will go by myself. My youngest child is only two years old, too young for the trip, so my wife will stay here with the children. The trip usually take eight hours, but, during the holiday season, it can take up to 10 hours to get there.

It will be just like the old days, when I lived at my parent's house and was surrounded by relatives, neighbors and friends.

Jaeni, is a taxi driver who lives in Jakarta. His wife and children live in Cirebon, West Java:

I will take a bus home to Cirebon, maybe three days before the Idul Fitri holiday.

I don't know whether I will bring gifts for my family or not, this depends on whether I have enough money. The company I work for has only given me a Rp 25,000 (US$3) bonus. The money is only enough for a one-way economy class bus ticket.

I will spend the whole vacation in Cirebon, visiting my parents and other relatives. I will go back to Jakarta one week or 10 days after Idul Fitri.

The Jakarta Post