Indonesia is the largest country in South East Asia, and also home to the world's 4th largest population (behind India, China, and the USA). Among all these thousands of islands, hundreds of cultures and languages find their home, this is truly one country where we can say that travel options are endless - Indonesia is a truly amazing place.
Where to start though, and how to pick what to do first? When there are SO many options and choices, how to decide in just 2 weeks the things that "need to be done to experience this country to the fullest?"
Looking back on all of my international trips, the answer is thankfully both clear and easy :) I always take home the best memories when I am hanging out with PEOPLE in their HOMES. Wherever people are simply existing, there is where I want to find my own trip and make my own experiences.
Whatever place is the most famous or most well-known in any country, I find myself avoiding that one from the start. Oppositely, whatever place is near enough to be available, but still far enough from a regular "tourist path" that it has a flavor all of its own, it is this type of place that will interest me the most.
Finally, for THIS trip to Indonesia my family and I decided on Berastagi (about 3-4 hours drive from Medan (or 6 in the pouring rain!!), even though it is only 60km away). Many travel ups and downs, we can tell more of the stories as the series goes along, I would like to say that although this town is not very flashy, probably rarely described as pretty, I found it to be perfect for getting a taste of "normal life on Sumatra," whatever that looks like away from guided tours and jungle treks.
The food here was delicious, VERY affordable, and it was a great chance to learn a bunch of stuff about this beautiful country of Indonesia. Wonderful and friendly people (amazing coffee!), I am proud to share this video of our lunch together today.
Take care, see you for the next video next week!
Love Joel
LOCATION:
I don't know why the restaurant is not showing up but, it is next door to this juice shop :)
**Its a large restaurant, with lots of customers, I can't believe they don't use G Maps...
maps.app.goo.gl/1JBs3xW9x4oqE...