The Climb to Dalil Waterfall in Pangkal Pinang, Bangka Belitung islands

This group of outdoor buddies from Pangkal Pinang, mostly couchsur fers, had a plan to go to this newly opened waterfall in the Dalil Village and just right in time to my arrival, I was invited to join.

This waterfall is located about 30kms outside of the city of Pangkal Pinang en route to Mentok just before reaching the Desa Kelapa.

I was picked up from my hostel about 7 in the morning, and all of us met in the junction from Sungai Liat where others will be coming from. We went through a palm plantation with slippery clay dirt road. At about 8:30 we were in the jump off point in the village.

We managed to drive the motorbike all the way to the first river just before a paddy and the foot of the hill. Some others, as we see on the way down, managed to bring it inside the forest even, right on the foothill. 

It was a short less than 1 hour trek all in all. There are several waterfalls, first one being scenic facing it, and the next one, being the more inviting pool with a shade overlooking the land below. 

From there, there are several more other waterfalls, with some having deeper pools than the rest. We, along with our guides, tried tracing it up but a lot in the path is still wild, so we decided to come back. 

The only way to get to this waterfall is by motorbike. If there is no chance, take the public bus and get off at the highway in Desa Dalil. From there, probably, ask around for someone who can service you to the jumpoff. If coming from Mentok, the bus fare shall be around 30, and from Pangkal Pinang, it shall between 10-15. 

This group of outdoor buddies from Pangkal Pinang, mostly couchsur fers, had a plan to go to this newly opened waterfall in the Dalil Village and just right in time to my arrival, I was invited to join.

This waterfall is located about 30kms outside of the city of Pangkal Pinang en route to Mentok just before reaching the Desa Kelapa.

I was picked up from my hostel about 7 in the morning, and all of us met in the junction from Sungai Liat where others will be coming from. We went through a palm plantation with slippery clay dirt road. At about 8:30 we were in the jump off point in the village.

We managed to drive the motorbike all the way to the first river just before a paddy and the foot of the hill. Some others, as we see on the way down, managed to bring it inside the forest even, right on the foothill. 

It was a short less than 1 hour trek all in all. There are several waterfalls, first one being scenic facing it, and the next one, being the more inviting pool with a shade overlooking the land below. 

From there, there are several more other waterfalls, with some having deeper pools than the rest. We, along with our guides, tried tracing it up but a lot in the path is still wild, so we decided to come back. 

The only way to get to this waterfall is by motorbike. If there is no chance, take the public bus and get off at the highway in Desa Dalil. From there, probably, ask around for someone who can service you to the jumpoff. If coming from Mentok, the bus fare shall be around 30, and from Pangkal Pinang, it shall between 10-15. 

Read More »

That Bus ride from Pekanbaru to Jambi

From the city, we drove into the bus station in Pekanbaru to arrange for the travel to Jambi.

As expected, toutters have come and won’t leave me and my friend alone to make a decision.  There were a number of bus company booths but no one person in them. The toutters would even take you inside these booths, and show you the cost of the tickets just to get you comfortable dealing with them.

The cost of the travel was minimum 200, but later, we were able to settle for IDR170,000 to Jambi. This bus is with toilet (and 150,000 for no toilet). From there, my friend dropped me to the booking office of the company where they said we will depart from at 5pm.

The bus arrived at about 4:15pm; It was a 3 x 2 bus that was filled up because of the holidays. I was surprised somehow that we are moving even ahead of schedule. Yet, from that point though and up to the next 2 hours, we were just going round and round the city, with unlimited waiting on some stops. At about 7pm, we were back in the same office where we took the bus.

From that time though, it was a continuous drive. Everyone in the bus was asleep such that inasmuch as i’d like to use the toilet which I hope i’d have the convenience with in the additional money that I paid for my ticket, I don’t have the guts to wake up my seatmate just for me to pee. Also, my seat was about 7 rows away from the toilet, but the stink of the toilet was strong until that point. 

I was so hungry and we did not have any stop until 12mn just almost near the boundary of Riau and Jambi. Gladly, there was a warung in front of the stop that seemed to be open 24 hours and I did not have to pay for the junked prices of the appointed bus stops.

It was about 7am when we got to the bus terminal in Jambi.

This is my experience with PO Mandala Bus Company.

In Summary, take the bus from the bus station, make sure to have a seat number, and probably a little bit away from the toilet, and next to the aisle. Or better yet, fly.

From the city, we drove into the bus station in Pekanbaru to arrange for the travel to Jambi.

As expected, toutters have come and won’t leave me and my friend alone to make a decision.  There were a number of bus company booths but no one person in them. The toutters would even take you inside these booths, and show you the cost of the tickets just to get you comfortable dealing with them.

The cost of the travel was minimum 200, but later, we were able to settle for IDR170,000 to Jambi. This bus is with toilet (and 150,000 for no toilet). From there, my friend dropped me to the booking office of the company where they said we will depart from at 5pm.

The bus arrived at about 4:15pm; It was a 3 x 2 bus that was filled up because of the holidays. I was surprised somehow that we are moving even ahead of schedule. Yet, from that point though and up to the next 2 hours, we were just going round and round the city, with unlimited waiting on some stops. At about 7pm, we were back in the same office where we took the bus.

From that time though, it was a continuous drive. Everyone in the bus was asleep such that inasmuch as i’d like to use the toilet which I hope i’d have the convenience with in the additional money that I paid for my ticket, I don’t have the guts to wake up my seatmate just for me to pee. Also, my seat was about 7 rows away from the toilet, but the stink of the toilet was strong until that point. 

I was so hungry and we did not have any stop until 12mn just almost near the boundary of Riau and Jambi. Gladly, there was a warung in front of the stop that seemed to be open 24 hours and I did not have to pay for the junked prices of the appointed bus stops.

It was about 7am when we got to the bus terminal in Jambi.

This is my experience with PO Mandala Bus Company.

In Summary, take the bus from the bus station, make sure to have a seat number, and probably a little bit away from the toilet, and next to the aisle. Or better yet, fly.

Read More »

Indonesia Travel Opportunity: The Darmasiswa Scholarship

My first visit to Indonesia last year (during my wandering around Southeast Asia), Lombok, Bali, and some parts of Java got me hooked into this country's landscape. Then, I told my local friend I want to come back to Indonesia, but hopefully not for just 1 month as it is expensive to go in and out of the country. Then, he said, I should look into the Darmasiswa Scholarship.

The Darmasiswa Scholarship is a 1 year program offered by the Indonesian Government to citizens of countries which the country has diplomatic relations with (though this is almost all countries). Aside from being an opportunity to travel this country, you are paid (by means of ~$140 or exactly 2 Million Rupiahs allowance every month) to learn Bahasa Indonesia, Arts, Culinary, Traditional Medicine, Tourism and even IT. A great opportunity for Nomads wannabe, those who'd like to take a break from work or school (gap year), or just plain want to be and learn Indonesia.

Is the money enough? Well, first, the ID government will shoulder the transportation from Jakarta to the city of the University. From your country to Indonesia, and then back to your country, you will have to provide on your own.

For the allowance, this is more than enough for your daily expenses of going in and out of the classes, and occasional trips on the weekends. It really depends on your lifestyle. Some of my classmates in my university are even able to save half. It depends too on your city.

For accomodation, you may opt to stay in the University Dorms for the cheap. However, university dorms may have stricter guidelines, and sometimes the university is not entirely in the center of the city, and that, transportation almost everywhere in Indonesia after 9pm, is very hard, if not expensive (taxi).

Apart from the discourse, You can choose from a list of Universities around the country. In case you are not accepted in your chosen program and university, check the tickbox which says you will consider other universities which may be able to accomodate you.

Most people, and I deem a lot are actually those into travelling Indonesia, either more or besides studying, chooses Java, more specifically Bali and Jogja. Hence, competition (for slot) in this side is a little stiff.

Cost of Living in the city should be one thing to consider when choosing the University. Each city will have a different cost compared to the other. West Java for instance will be a lot cheaper than Bali. Consider your interests as well. If you are a party goer, and needs party once in a while, perhaps, Java is your best bet. If you want serenity, perhaps Sumatra.

For those who'd like a very very quiet space (no parties, very timid nightlife, and pretty much conservative environment and people, but amazing landscape, choose West Sumatra, UNAND in Padang, where I am. Food is very spicy here, so try to consider that. Imagine your breakfast, fried rice is actually fried chilli's with rice.

In choosing Sumatra though, and probably Kalimantan, and some parts of Java, consider that annually, there is a problem on forest fires which may hit your city.

For 2016/2017, some of the requirements have changed compared to that of 2015/2016. The requirement of being a student, and also not being more than 30 years old. For our batch, I have seen even seniors in the program, for some reason I am not sure. I suggest consulting the embassy in your country about it.

Note that for the entirety of the program, you may be allowed to go out of the country only 1 time. Succeeding time, you will have to process an exit/entry permit on your own, and at your own cost.

There are several holidays in Indonesia too, and December breaks depend on the University that you will go to. In UNAND Padang, we have more than a month from December to January, which I am usiing right now to explore Indonesia. After a month of landtrips from Padang, West Sumatra, I am now finally in Cilegong, West Java. YES! Sumatra alone is so biggg!

In case you are not available to arrive at the opening ceremonies, or the first few weeks of classes, you may later talk to your provider, University International Office secretariat, about it. We have one student arrive almost a month after.

Exact details about the program are in their site.

results come out a little, perhaps a week, after published date... be patient.

In your application, you will be asked about what you intend to use your knowledge of Indonesia for. I thought this made a big factor in my application.

In my case, which I really meant, I wanted to work for the welfare of illegal migrants (Indonesians and Malaysians in South PH, and Pinoys in Sulawesi and Borneo). Other than this, i made mention of the need for collaboration and familiarity because of Asean Integration. Don't copy mine though; have one on your own and mean it. Your sincerity may be looked into.

Additonal Tips for Pinoys based on my application:

It took me several months before I managed to get the correct details of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila, until I gave up sending emails to addresses and phone numbers that don't work. Then, a friend later found out I was interested in taking the program, and connected me to his friend who works in the embassy. It was already a few days past the deadline, but after a phonecall, I was given the chance to submit, which I managed to do within 1 day.

Applications are to be submitted by paper. In my case, as I am outside Manila, I shipped, LBC, my documents for next day delivery, just to make it on time.

contact details for Indonesian Embassy:

Gotty Simbolon
Coordinator Office of Education and Culture AttacheEmbassy of the Republic of Indonesia
Manila, Philippines
Phone +63 2 8925061 to 68 Loc 123
edu_attache_manila@yahoo.com and jou.simbolon@gmail.com

For Health Certification, please go to a doctor and seek certification fit for travel and study. Get as much recommendation as possible, from previous boss, from professor, etc.

No need for IELTS Certification. It is but known that we speak English, so that's negligible.

For familiarity with Indonesian language, we are more than familiar. A lot of the words are the same, and you will be surprised that a lot of compound words, which root base don't make meaning in Tagalog, actually has individual meanings in Bahasa Indonesia but derived compound word is not in use in Bahasa Indonesia. E.g. Dalamhati... Dalam (inside) Hati (heart or liver). Tanghali... Tengah (middle) hari (day).
Other than this, a lot of words are the same except for the sound, mostly "R"s changed to softer sounding "L"s. So, no need to worry about the requirement of being familiar with Bahasa. You are born familiar with it. Just go over the basics on google. 

Filipino participants at the opening ceremony in Jakarta 2015-2016 Darmasiswa program

Yeah, there are countries with as much as 40 participants, and to think that this programs started for ASEAN, how could we only have 3 here. lol... hence, I wrote this article. Not so much of us know about this, and rather than getting ourselves familiar with countries of the west, why not our neighbors and blood relatives?

You will be surprised as to how much familiar things are, culture, food, etc, and some people won't even believe you are not Indonesian, to a point that they will ask you for IDs if you tell them you are Pinoy.



Then remember, upon your stay in Indonesia, try to think of something to give back what the Indonesian government has granted you over some of its citizens who are working hard to earn a living.

Darmasiswa UNAND 2015/16 participants fund raising for an orphanage in Padang

Visit the Darmasiswa site.

My first visit to Indonesia last year (during my wandering around Southeast Asia), Lombok, Bali, and some parts of Java got me hooked into this country's landscape. Then, I told my local friend I want to come back to Indonesia, but hopefully not for just 1 month as it is expensive to go in and out of the country. Then, he said, I should look into the Darmasiswa Scholarship.

The Darmasiswa Scholarship is a 1 year program offered by the Indonesian Government to citizens of countries which the country has diplomatic relations with (though this is almost all countries). Aside from being an opportunity to travel this country, you are paid (by means of ~$140 or exactly 2 Million Rupiahs allowance every month) to learn Bahasa Indonesia, Arts, Culinary, Traditional Medicine, Tourism and even IT. A great opportunity for Nomads wannabe, those who'd like to take a break from work or school (gap year), or just plain want to be and learn Indonesia.

Is the money enough? Well, first, the ID government will shoulder the transportation from Jakarta to the city of the University. From your country to Indonesia, and then back to your country, you will have to provide on your own.

For the allowance, this is more than enough for your daily expenses of going in and out of the classes, and occasional trips on the weekends. It really depends on your lifestyle. Some of my classmates in my university are even able to save half. It depends too on your city.

For accomodation, you may opt to stay in the University Dorms for the cheap. However, university dorms may have stricter guidelines, and sometimes the university is not entirely in the center of the city, and that, transportation almost everywhere in Indonesia after 9pm, is very hard, if not expensive (taxi).

Apart from the discourse, You can choose from a list of Universities around the country. In case you are not accepted in your chosen program and university, check the tickbox which says you will consider other universities which may be able to accomodate you.

Most people, and I deem a lot are actually those into travelling Indonesia, either more or besides studying, chooses Java, more specifically Bali and Jogja. Hence, competition (for slot) in this side is a little stiff.

Cost of Living in the city should be one thing to consider when choosing the University. Each city will have a different cost compared to the other. West Java for instance will be a lot cheaper than Bali. Consider your interests as well. If you are a party goer, and needs party once in a while, perhaps, Java is your best bet. If you want serenity, perhaps Sumatra.

For those who'd like a very very quiet space (no parties, very timid nightlife, and pretty much conservative environment and people, but amazing landscape, choose West Sumatra, UNAND in Padang, where I am. Food is very spicy here, so try to consider that. Imagine your breakfast, fried rice is actually fried chilli's with rice.

In choosing Sumatra though, and probably Kalimantan, and some parts of Java, consider that annually, there is a problem on forest fires which may hit your city.

For 2016/2017, some of the requirements have changed compared to that of 2015/2016. The requirement of being a student, and also not being more than 30 years old. For our batch, I have seen even seniors in the program, for some reason I am not sure. I suggest consulting the embassy in your country about it.

Note that for the entirety of the program, you may be allowed to go out of the country only 1 time. Succeeding time, you will have to process an exit/entry permit on your own, and at your own cost.

There are several holidays in Indonesia too, and December breaks depend on the University that you will go to. In UNAND Padang, we have more than a month from December to January, which I am usiing right now to explore Indonesia. After a month of landtrips from Padang, West Sumatra, I am now finally in Cilegong, West Java. YES! Sumatra alone is so biggg!

In case you are not available to arrive at the opening ceremonies, or the first few weeks of classes, you may later talk to your provider, University International Office secretariat, about it. We have one student arrive almost a month after.

Exact details about the program are in their site.

results come out a little, perhaps a week, after published date... be patient.

In your application, you will be asked about what you intend to use your knowledge of Indonesia for. I thought this made a big factor in my application.

In my case, which I really meant, I wanted to work for the welfare of illegal migrants (Indonesians and Malaysians in South PH, and Pinoys in Sulawesi and Borneo). Other than this, i made mention of the need for collaboration and familiarity because of Asean Integration. Don't copy mine though; have one on your own and mean it. Your sincerity may be looked into.

Additonal Tips for Pinoys based on my application:

It took me several months before I managed to get the correct details of the Indonesian Embassy in Manila, until I gave up sending emails to addresses and phone numbers that don't work. Then, a friend later found out I was interested in taking the program, and connected me to his friend who works in the embassy. It was already a few days past the deadline, but after a phonecall, I was given the chance to submit, which I managed to do within 1 day.

Applications are to be submitted by paper. In my case, as I am outside Manila, I shipped, LBC, my documents for next day delivery, just to make it on time.

contact details for Indonesian Embassy:

Gotty Simbolon
Coordinator Office of Education and Culture AttacheEmbassy of the Republic of Indonesia
Manila, Philippines
Phone +63 2 8925061 to 68 Loc 123
edu_attache_manila@yahoo.com and jou.simbolon@gmail.com

For Health Certification, please go to a doctor and seek certification fit for travel and study. Get as much recommendation as possible, from previous boss, from professor, etc.

No need for IELTS Certification. It is but known that we speak English, so that's negligible.

For familiarity with Indonesian language, we are more than familiar. A lot of the words are the same, and you will be surprised that a lot of compound words, which root base don't make meaning in Tagalog, actually has individual meanings in Bahasa Indonesia but derived compound word is not in use in Bahasa Indonesia. E.g. Dalamhati... Dalam (inside) Hati (heart or liver). Tanghali... Tengah (middle) hari (day).
Other than this, a lot of words are the same except for the sound, mostly "R"s changed to softer sounding "L"s. So, no need to worry about the requirement of being familiar with Bahasa. You are born familiar with it. Just go over the basics on google. 

Filipino participants at the opening ceremony in Jakarta 2015-2016 Darmasiswa program

Yeah, there are countries with as much as 40 participants, and to think that this programs started for ASEAN, how could we only have 3 here. lol... hence, I wrote this article. Not so much of us know about this, and rather than getting ourselves familiar with countries of the west, why not our neighbors and blood relatives?

You will be surprised as to how much familiar things are, culture, food, etc, and some people won't even believe you are not Indonesian, to a point that they will ask you for IDs if you tell them you are Pinoy.



Then remember, upon your stay in Indonesia, try to think of something to give back what the Indonesian government has granted you over some of its citizens who are working hard to earn a living.

Darmasiswa UNAND 2015/16 participants fund raising for an orphanage in Padang

Visit the Darmasiswa site.

Read More »

Christmas in Panti Jompo Budi Luhur (Home for the Aged) in Jambi

My initial plan for Christmas this year was actually to spend it with friends in Singapore. However, even after 4 months, we could not get a fixed answer as to when we are getting our KITAs (1 year Student Visa) from Immigration.

I have already spent a week on holiday, and I was feeling how much time I am losing rotting inside the dormitory in Kampus. So, even if that we already had a good sign that we are finally getting our Kitas in a few days, i decided to go ahead. The other thing that I thought was that I came to Indonesia to see it, hence i took this scholarship, and I better use the time in my scholarship visa to do as planned.

Nevertheless, I did not want to have an extraordinarily casual Christmas. Gladly, my couchsurfing host in Jambi know about the orphanages and homes for the aged around town.

I chose the home for the aged since we have just recently done a feeding session in an orphanage in Padang. Plus, I have been missing my grandma, and I thought that will help out a bit.

The morning after my arrival, Laser, my couchsurfing host's staff in his English Tutorial class accompanied me to the home for the aged. We were escorted to the kitchen and was asked to arrange with the kitchen head.

In fact, they have a steady menu of food to cook. I asked them though if it would be ok to serve something not the usual, and said it would be better. The seniors who were there asked for shrimps. When we asked the kitchen head, fortunately, it was manageable.

The next day, I came back early to help them a bit to prepare. Yet, the staff must have been so acquianted with their task already that I almost did not do anything.d enough not to be able to walk the distance anymore to the kitchen.

Each has his own room in a house of 5 rooms. Others, the stronger one, get the food for their peers, while some staff had to personally deliver the food to some others.

The seniors began coming around 11am, as I was told. There is no single place for them to eat lunch altogether, and also that some are age d enough not to be able to walk the distance anymore to the kitchen.

 Have I had an institution like this, I would no doubt hire these 2 lady staffs. There was obviously more than just work in these people that keeping them in their job (later to find out that they are not even regular employees but as rather casuals in the institution even after several years of service). 

Thanks to friends Julie Tinio and Major Cruz for sharing in the expenses. We had an excess and so We bought books to be donated to a library in a remote village in Jambi.

My initial plan for Christmas this year was actually to spend it with friends in Singapore. However, even after 4 months, we could not get a fixed answer as to when we are getting our KITAs (1 year Student Visa) from Immigration.

I have already spent a week on holiday, and I was feeling how much time I am losing rotting inside the dormitory in Kampus. So, even if that we already had a good sign that we are finally getting our Kitas in a few days, i decided to go ahead. The other thing that I thought was that I came to Indonesia to see it, hence i took this scholarship, and I better use the time in my scholarship visa to do as planned.

Nevertheless, I did not want to have an extraordinarily casual Christmas. Gladly, my couchsurfing host in Jambi know about the orphanages and homes for the aged around town.

I chose the home for the aged since we have just recently done a feeding session in an orphanage in Padang. Plus, I have been missing my grandma, and I thought that will help out a bit.

The morning after my arrival, Laser, my couchsurfing host's staff in his English Tutorial class accompanied me to the home for the aged. We were escorted to the kitchen and was asked to arrange with the kitchen head.

In fact, they have a steady menu of food to cook. I asked them though if it would be ok to serve something not the usual, and said it would be better. The seniors who were there asked for shrimps. When we asked the kitchen head, fortunately, it was manageable.

The next day, I came back early to help them a bit to prepare. Yet, the staff must have been so acquianted with their task already that I almost did not do anything.d enough not to be able to walk the distance anymore to the kitchen.

Each has his own room in a house of 5 rooms. Others, the stronger one, get the food for their peers, while some staff had to personally deliver the food to some others.

The seniors began coming around 11am, as I was told. There is no single place for them to eat lunch altogether, and also that some are age d enough not to be able to walk the distance anymore to the kitchen.

 Have I had an institution like this, I would no doubt hire these 2 lady staffs. There was obviously more than just work in these people that keeping them in their job (later to find out that they are not even regular employees but as rather casuals in the institution even after several years of service). 

Thanks to friends Julie Tinio and Major Cruz for sharing in the expenses. We had an excess and so We bought books to be donated to a library in a remote village in Jambi.

Read More »

Pushing to Jump start a Taxi in Pekanbaru

The most memorable thing that happened in Riau: Today, i strolled around the city. I let myself rot in a resto around Jalan Sudirman. It was a comfortable, breezy, cozy and cheap restaurant by that. 

By the time I was about to go home (9pm) buses are off, and so as angkots. There are ojeks (motor taxis) who ask for the same rate as almost the taxi. Plus, with the offered discount on the GrabTaxi Indonesia app, it will be probably less.

Then i thought, if i'll have to take the cab anyway, i might as well take some walk around the city until late and tired, and take the taxi from that point where it will be closer and cheaper. 

After some 7kms walking continously in Jalan Sudirman, a taxi driver called my attention. His car need a push, and he has been attempting to push it lone, but wont work. Bapa calls me for help.

Adu! While he was comfortably but humbly embarrased sittin and steering in the driver's seat, I was pushing a car in the middle of the night, at a big highway. Ya'allaahhh! 

I loved it really! Strange, awkward bus certainly memorable travel moment. 

The most memorable thing that happened in Riau: Today, i strolled around the city. I let myself rot in a resto around Jalan Sudirman. It was a comfortable, breezy, cozy and cheap restaurant by that. 

By the time I was about to go home (9pm) buses are off, and so as angkots. There are ojeks (motor taxis) who ask for the same rate as almost the taxi. Plus, with the offered discount on the GrabTaxi Indonesia app, it will be probably less.

Then i thought, if i'll have to take the cab anyway, i might as well take some walk around the city until late and tired, and take the taxi from that point where it will be closer and cheaper. 

After some 7kms walking continously in Jalan Sudirman, a taxi driver called my attention. His car need a push, and he has been attempting to push it lone, but wont work. Bapa calls me for help.

Adu! While he was comfortably but humbly embarrased sittin and steering in the driver's seat, I was pushing a car in the middle of the night, at a big highway. Ya'allaahhh! 

I loved it really! Strange, awkward bus certainly memorable travel moment. 

Read More »

Malamang celebration in West Sumatra, Indonesia

I am not sure exactly what this celebration is, nor have i ever heard it before.

A friend who joined us in the recent Orphanage visit invited us to as she said as village festival in her hometown.

At first, i thought it was just about some dining, so was not really that keen in attending. Yet, their hometown in Pariaman is close to a jail which I have for long wanted to visit. Hence, I said yes under the assumption that I'll get to visit the jail too if I go.

We took the train from Padang. It left exactly on time at 7:15. After about an hour, we arrived in her hometown.

Kereta Api station in Paoeh Kambar, Pariaman

The women in her family have been midway cooking their malamang. As they said, they have started preparing it at 5:30am, and almost every household is doing the same. These lamang, they said, are not for personal consumption, and normally, this is not even an event where they invite people. They are preparing this for their relatives from other villages.

In the afternoon, we were brought to the mosque. Inside the mosque are plenty of stands, all topped with (several) cakes, fruits, chips, crackers, candies, and all other things. Our friend said, newly weds of the village have to setup and fill a stand with food, which, at about past 5 in the afternoon, everyone in the village will come together to consume. Unfortunately, we could not make it to the time of the ritual/festival as the train back to padang leaves before 5. :-(

I am not sure exactly what this celebration is, nor have i ever heard it before.

A friend who joined us in the recent Orphanage visit invited us to as she said as village festival in her hometown.

At first, i thought it was just about some dining, so was not really that keen in attending. Yet, their hometown in Pariaman is close to a jail which I have for long wanted to visit. Hence, I said yes under the assumption that I'll get to visit the jail too if I go.

We took the train from Padang. It left exactly on time at 7:15. After about an hour, we arrived in her hometown.

Kereta Api station in Paoeh Kambar, Pariaman

The women in her family have been midway cooking their malamang. As they said, they have started preparing it at 5:30am, and almost every household is doing the same. These lamang, they said, are not for personal consumption, and normally, this is not even an event where they invite people. They are preparing this for their relatives from other villages.

In the afternoon, we were brought to the mosque. Inside the mosque are plenty of stands, all topped with (several) cakes, fruits, chips, crackers, candies, and all other things. Our friend said, newly weds of the village have to setup and fill a stand with food, which, at about past 5 in the afternoon, everyone in the village will come together to consume. Unfortunately, we could not make it to the time of the ritual/festival as the train back to padang leaves before 5. :-(

Read More »

Harau Valley, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra, Indonesia: I wish i came earlier

It's been 3 weeks since I have seen a post on harau valley, and since then, I have made several attempts to visit the valley. Yet, my biological clock and the weather has not permitted me.

Nevertheless, I made it there. It was a butt aching 5 hour bus ride from Padang, to Padang Panjang, to Bukittinggi, to Payakumbuh, and finaly to Silamakan - the stop for harau valley.

From silamakan, it was a becak ride away to harau valley.

Before even getting to the valley itself, you could just fall in love with the place with numerous waterfalls visible altogether from afar.

I have made a booking with Abde Guesthouse and told our becak driver to get us there without me knowing exactly where it is.

From the main road, we could see a big waterfall, and indeed, as said on the blogs I've read, the homestay was just next to the waterfall.

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Upon arrival, I have regret I can only stay 3 days max. Behind is a big waterfall with the sound of the waterdrop infinitely through day and night, and in front of our cottage is a wide ricefield. All you can hear are chicken, cows, goats, bird and the water.

There are trekking and other activities offered in the valley, but we were not as eager as much as the nature has called us to just relax. The moment where you don't regret being lazy and numb.

As I was told, there are about 10 waterfalls around the valley. The following day, somehow, we managed to visit yet another waterfall. It was about 20 minutes away from Abde's Guesthouse, but after that, we just went back again to bed. As for the rest, I'll just get back for them.

Fare from Padang to Sarilamak was 30,000 Rupiahs while on the way back I was charged only 25,000 rupiahs. Becak from Simpang (Intersection in Sarilamak) to Abde's Guesthouse was 10,000.00. There was no toilet stop in the whole 5 hours, so careful about drinkng too much fluids before taking the bus. Bring food as you will starve to death in the bus ride.

There are warungs within a 5 minute walk from Abde's guesthouse at standard prices around 12,000 rupiah a meal. Yes there is electricity, and Telkomsel Signal was ok though not as strong as the cities.


Contact Abdi’s homestay: +62085263781842.

It's been 3 weeks since I have seen a post on harau valley, and since then, I have made several attempts to visit the valley. Yet, my biological clock and the weather has not permitted me.

Nevertheless, I made it there. It was a butt aching 5 hour bus ride from Padang, to Padang Panjang, to Bukittinggi, to Payakumbuh, and finaly to Silamakan - the stop for harau valley.

From silamakan, it was a becak ride away to harau valley.

Before even getting to the valley itself, you could just fall in love with the place with numerous waterfalls visible altogether from afar.

I have made a booking with Abde Guesthouse and told our becak driver to get us there without me knowing exactly where it is.

From the main road, we could see a big waterfall, and indeed, as said on the blogs I've read, the homestay was just next to the waterfall.

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Abde's Guesthouse in Harau Valley, Limah Pulu Kota, Payakumbuh, West Sumatra

Upon arrival, I have regret I can only stay 3 days max. Behind is a big waterfall with the sound of the waterdrop infinitely through day and night, and in front of our cottage is a wide ricefield. All you can hear are chicken, cows, goats, bird and the water.

There are trekking and other activities offered in the valley, but we were not as eager as much as the nature has called us to just relax. The moment where you don't regret being lazy and numb.

As I was told, there are about 10 waterfalls around the valley. The following day, somehow, we managed to visit yet another waterfall. It was about 20 minutes away from Abde's Guesthouse, but after that, we just went back again to bed. As for the rest, I'll just get back for them.

Fare from Padang to Sarilamak was 30,000 Rupiahs while on the way back I was charged only 25,000 rupiahs. Becak from Simpang (Intersection in Sarilamak) to Abde's Guesthouse was 10,000.00. There was no toilet stop in the whole 5 hours, so careful about drinkng too much fluids before taking the bus. Bring food as you will starve to death in the bus ride.

There are warungs within a 5 minute walk from Abde's guesthouse at standard prices around 12,000 rupiah a meal. Yes there is electricity, and Telkomsel Signal was ok though not as strong as the cities.


Contact Abdi’s homestay: +62085263781842.

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Cerebral Palsy Patient in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur needs help

A daughter of farmers who could only do so much, this 24 year old girl from Purok 2, San Marcos, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur needs attention. She contracted Cerebral Palsy 2 years ago and a friend's recent visit to Agusan, the family and concerned locals asked if we can help them source a wheelchair for the girl. Yet, we are not sure if she can use one. We have consulted a Cerebral Palsy NGO to check this, but still awaiting answer. Meanwhile, we also thought it's probably better to get her checked by a doctor as well, and take recommendations.

Right now, we are looking for anyone who can probably help us get her to and know a doctor nearby. 

Please let us know if you have any referral. 

update 01 December 2015
After some consultation with a few doctor friends, it seems a bed is more of what she needs rather than a wheelchair. Meantime, after some questions raised to some of her caretakers, it seems she has not been properly screened by a medical professional.

At the moment, we are trying to source a bed for her from local manufacturers, and if anyone knows a furniture shop with something similar to the picture below, please let me know.

Also, i am trying to see if any nurse or physical therapist around can visit her to check. We will appreciate volunteers, but if needed to be paid, let me know. If needed, as per recommendation from the nurse, we can arrange to bring her to a specialist.

picture taken online from a search of reclinable beds

Update January 22, 2016.
There was a friend from UAE who read the post and have pledged for the bed. We have been aiming to get it to her by christmas, but unfortunately, we were unable to find someone residing in the area to help us out. Then, we decided to advance the mattress and some clothes which we were able to deliver before new year.

As of this day though, brgy councilor from the area has helped source the bed and awaiting advice for the delivery. 

update as of January 29, 2016
the bed frame was finally delivered and exactly as requested. Thanks to the brgy Councilor Analyn who has helped us find a maker who would both custom make and deliver the bed. It was a lot of posting, a lot of chat to a lot of people, before finally getting to what we wanted for Rosemarie.

Again, thanks to the friend in Dubai, Mam Rowena Bulaon,a nd Councilor Analyn for all the help.

A daughter of farmers who could only do so much, this 24 year old girl from Purok 2, San Marcos, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur needs attention. She contracted Cerebral Palsy 2 years ago and a friend's recent visit to Agusan, the family and concerned locals asked if we can help them source a wheelchair for the girl. Yet, we are not sure if she can use one. We have consulted a Cerebral Palsy NGO to check this, but still awaiting answer. Meanwhile, we also thought it's probably better to get her checked by a doctor as well, and take recommendations.

Right now, we are looking for anyone who can probably help us get her to and know a doctor nearby. 

Please let us know if you have any referral. 

update 01 December 2015
After some consultation with a few doctor friends, it seems a bed is more of what she needs rather than a wheelchair. Meantime, after some questions raised to some of her caretakers, it seems she has not been properly screened by a medical professional.

At the moment, we are trying to source a bed for her from local manufacturers, and if anyone knows a furniture shop with something similar to the picture below, please let me know.

Also, i am trying to see if any nurse or physical therapist around can visit her to check. We will appreciate volunteers, but if needed to be paid, let me know. If needed, as per recommendation from the nurse, we can arrange to bring her to a specialist.

picture taken online from a search of reclinable beds

Update January 22, 2016.
There was a friend from UAE who read the post and have pledged for the bed. We have been aiming to get it to her by christmas, but unfortunately, we were unable to find someone residing in the area to help us out. Then, we decided to advance the mattress and some clothes which we were able to deliver before new year.

As of this day though, brgy councilor from the area has helped source the bed and awaiting advice for the delivery. 

update as of January 29, 2016
the bed frame was finally delivered and exactly as requested. Thanks to the brgy Councilor Analyn who has helped us find a maker who would both custom make and deliver the bed. It was a lot of posting, a lot of chat to a lot of people, before finally getting to what we wanted for Rosemarie.

Again, thanks to the friend in Dubai, Mam Rowena Bulaon,a nd Councilor Analyn for all the help.

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Surfing in Pantai Air Manis (beach) in Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia

There are a few places available for surfers in Padang, but if you are a traveller, you’re probably heading to Pantai Air Manis (about 10Kms south of the city).

There are several ways to get to pantai air manis. See this post for details.

Entry to Air Manis is 5,000 rupiahs (pls don’t forget to ask for ticket upon payment just to be sure that the money goes to the local community indeed). For those coming with a motorbike, they charge an additional 5,000 rupiahs for parking irregardless of where you park inside the beach.

At the beach there are several warungs that serve food (same usual food as in the streets: nasi, mie goreng, etc) at prices just about the city prices. I normally stay at Ade’s Guest House (3^rd to the right from the entry in Malinkundang; contact no is +62 821 70017779; pls tell him you got the number from Ian, the Filipino).

Surfboard rental is 20,000 rupiahs per day. Most of the surfboards on rental are fish boards. For beginners, I’ve only seen, so far, probably only 3 long boards total in the whole beach; 2 soft tops and 1 hard top (and hardly functional too because of too much cracks).

There are also rooms on rental at P140,000 inclusive of breakfast at Ade’s guest house. Room is ok for the price.

I rarely see instructors at the beach. Besides, just keep calm and attempt to talk to the local players, and they will be willing to show you the do’s and don’ts. Just be patient with the communication though as they rarely speak english. Always end every statement with a smile.

Best time to surf is in the morning, and then from 3pm to sun down (usually 6pm). If possible, visit on weekdays, and avoid weekends especially on sundays. I would say half of the population of padang might be in this beach on this day, half of which are probably taking endless selfies, and young boys aged 5 driving 4x4s ATVs on their own. 

There are a few places available for surfers in Padang, but if you are a traveller, you’re probably heading to Pantai Air Manis (about 10Kms south of the city).

There are several ways to get to pantai air manis. See this post for details.

Entry to Air Manis is 5,000 rupiahs (pls don’t forget to ask for ticket upon payment just to be sure that the money goes to the local community indeed). For those coming with a motorbike, they charge an additional 5,000 rupiahs for parking irregardless of where you park inside the beach.

At the beach there are several warungs that serve food (same usual food as in the streets: nasi, mie goreng, etc) at prices just about the city prices. I normally stay at Ade’s Guest House (3^rd to the right from the entry in Malinkundang; contact no is +62 821 70017779; pls tell him you got the number from Ian, the Filipino).

Surfboard rental is 20,000 rupiahs per day. Most of the surfboards on rental are fish boards. For beginners, I’ve only seen, so far, probably only 3 long boards total in the whole beach; 2 soft tops and 1 hard top (and hardly functional too because of too much cracks).

There are also rooms on rental at P140,000 inclusive of breakfast at Ade’s guest house. Room is ok for the price.

I rarely see instructors at the beach. Besides, just keep calm and attempt to talk to the local players, and they will be willing to show you the do’s and don’ts. Just be patient with the communication though as they rarely speak english. Always end every statement with a smile.

Best time to surf is in the morning, and then from 3pm to sun down (usually 6pm). If possible, visit on weekdays, and avoid weekends especially on sundays. I would say half of the population of padang might be in this beach on this day, half of which are probably taking endless selfies, and young boys aged 5 driving 4x4s ATVs on their own. 

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How to go to Pantai Air Manis (surf beach) in Padang, West Sumatra,Indonesia

Most of the travellers I see in the beach have gone through a taxi, and as most local around have a motorbike and would most likely go to the beach with their family on a private transport, it is rare to find people who knows exactly how to commute to pantai air manis.

Nevertheless, if travelling with around 4 or more people, it might be worth it to take a cab instead to Air Manis. The rate should be between 50-60,000 rupiah though most cabs would normally ask a contract for 100,000 rupiahs. Should you decide to travel by cab indeed, take the Blue Bird taxi and get the driver to agree on meter. Then again, keep your eyes on the meter as there was also an instance where the driver himself offered the meter, but along the way, on the steep slopes, reset his meter and was asking for 100,000 when we arrived. We gave him 70K and just left.

There are also angkots (tiny public bus) from the city center (a terminal behind the old Balai Kota in Pasar Raya). These angkots are numbered 402 and goes on the following schedule:

Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 6:30am, 8:00am, 9:00am, and 1:30pm. During fridays: 7:30, 9:30 and 1:30. There are also occasions when there is an additional angkot after this time, though rarely.

The fare from Pasar Raya to Pantai Air Manis is only 6,000 rupiah. There are 2 gates, but the driver will most likely drop you to the Malinkundang gate which is the entry to the surf shops.

In case you can’t make it to this schedule, you may take a blue angkot from Pasar Raya (in front of the old Balai Kota) and ask to be dropped in Mata Air. Fare to this junction is 4,000 rupiahs. From the junction, there will be Ojeks (motor taxis) to Pantai Air Manis. Fare in the Ojek is 15,000 rupiahs (don’t be fooled into paying 20,000). The road to the beach is pretty steep so keep your baggage minimal.

You may contact the ff Ojek driver in any case: 0853 42648402 (hardly speak english); Taufik (0819 4777 2336) a young kid (probably speak a few drops of english) who often takes me back to Mata Air. Once you are ready to leave the beach, give them a call so they can pick you up from your location. In case you look for an Ojek outside, it could be a challenge after 5pm, if not that they ask double. Taufik agrees on 15,000 to Mata Air. From Mata Air, same thing, there will be blue angkots that go back to Pasar Raya.

There are times when at 5pm, i catch an angkot back to Pasar Raya but this is rare. Besides, this time is the peak of the wave, so most likely, you will end up taking the Ojek. There is also an access from the Sitti Nurbaya bridge, but this is an extremely narrow, and even steeper road.

see here for other info about surfing in Pantai Air Manis

Most of the travellers I see in the beach have gone through a taxi, and as most local around have a motorbike and would most likely go to the beach with their family on a private transport, it is rare to find people who knows exactly how to commute to pantai air manis.

Nevertheless, if travelling with around 4 or more people, it might be worth it to take a cab instead to Air Manis. The rate should be between 50-60,000 rupiah though most cabs would normally ask a contract for 100,000 rupiahs. Should you decide to travel by cab indeed, take the Blue Bird taxi and get the driver to agree on meter. Then again, keep your eyes on the meter as there was also an instance where the driver himself offered the meter, but along the way, on the steep slopes, reset his meter and was asking for 100,000 when we arrived. We gave him 70K and just left.

There are also angkots (tiny public bus) from the city center (a terminal behind the old Balai Kota in Pasar Raya). These angkots are numbered 402 and goes on the following schedule:

Monday to Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 6:30am, 8:00am, 9:00am, and 1:30pm. During fridays: 7:30, 9:30 and 1:30. There are also occasions when there is an additional angkot after this time, though rarely.

The fare from Pasar Raya to Pantai Air Manis is only 6,000 rupiah. There are 2 gates, but the driver will most likely drop you to the Malinkundang gate which is the entry to the surf shops.

In case you can’t make it to this schedule, you may take a blue angkot from Pasar Raya (in front of the old Balai Kota) and ask to be dropped in Mata Air. Fare to this junction is 4,000 rupiahs. From the junction, there will be Ojeks (motor taxis) to Pantai Air Manis. Fare in the Ojek is 15,000 rupiahs (don’t be fooled into paying 20,000). The road to the beach is pretty steep so keep your baggage minimal.

You may contact the ff Ojek driver in any case: 0853 42648402 (hardly speak english); Taufik (0819 4777 2336) a young kid (probably speak a few drops of english) who often takes me back to Mata Air. Once you are ready to leave the beach, give them a call so they can pick you up from your location. In case you look for an Ojek outside, it could be a challenge after 5pm, if not that they ask double. Taufik agrees on 15,000 to Mata Air. From Mata Air, same thing, there will be blue angkots that go back to Pasar Raya.

There are times when at 5pm, i catch an angkot back to Pasar Raya but this is rare. Besides, this time is the peak of the wave, so most likely, you will end up taking the Ojek. There is also an access from the Sitti Nurbaya bridge, but this is an extremely narrow, and even steeper road.

see here for other info about surfing in Pantai Air Manis

Read More »