Medan: Unlock the Charms of North Sumatra, Indonesia
Medan, a city in North Sumatra, Indonesia, is full of tropical charm and unique culture. If you're planning a unique overseas trip, Medan is definitely worth adding to your list. Here's a detailed travel guide to Medan to help you start an unforgettable journey. ✨
1. Climate and temperature 🌤️
Medan has a tropical rainforest climate, warm and humid all year round, with an average temperature of 25°C-27°C. There are no obvious seasons throughout the year, but the rainy season is from November to April, with relatively frequent rainfall; the dry season is from May to October, with plenty of sunshine, which is more suitable for travel. No matter when you go, remember to take sun and rain protection measures.
2. Tempting food 🍜
1. Satay: This is a representative Indonesian dish, which can be found everywhere in Medan. Tender meat skewers are grilled over charcoal, brushed with rich and sweet satay sauce, and served with special peanut sauce. The aroma is overflowing and unforgettable.
2. Gado-gado: Indonesian salad, made of fresh vegetables, tofu, and boiled eggs, drizzled with sweet peanut sauce, rich in taste, refreshing, and greasy.
3. Padang beef: As a traditional Indonesian dish, Padang beef is famous for its rich spice flavor and tender and juicy taste. The beef is stewed very soft and melts in your mouth. It is a perfect match with a bowl of fragrant rice.
4. Fried banana: A local specialty snack, bananas are wrapped in batter and fried until golden and crispy. The skin is sweet, and the inside is soft and glutinous. It is a delicious dessert that cannot be missed.
3. Beautiful scenery 🏞️
1. Ujung Kulon National Park: This is an ecological gem near Medan, with vast virgin forests, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. You can hike here to explore and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the tropical rainforest. You can also see various rare birds and wildlife and feel the magic and beauty of nature.
2. Sultan's Palace: The architectural style combines Malay, Dutch, and Chinese elements, with a gorgeous appearance and exquisite interior decoration. Here, you can learn about local history, culture, and royal traditions and appreciate precious cultural relics and artworks.
3. Lake Toba: The largest volcanic lake in the world, with clear blue water, surrounded by dense forests and spectacular volcanoes. You can stroll along the lake and enjoy the lake and mountains, or try various water activities, such as boating and swimming.
4. Yogyakarta Mosque: One of the most famous mosques in Medan, with a unique architectural style and exquisite interior decoration. Even if you are not a Muslim, you can visit during non-prayer times and feel the solemnity and sanctity of religion.
4. Precautions ⚠️
1. Religious etiquette: Indonesia is a multi-religious country, and most residents believe in Islam. When visiting religious sites, pay attention to dressing appropriately and respect local religious customs and beliefs.
2. Currency exchange: The legal currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian rupiah, which can be exchanged at airports, banks, and some exchange points in Medan. It is recommended to exchange at a regular exchange point to avoid exchange rate fraud.
3. Transportation: Medan's traffic is relatively congested. You can choose to take a taxi or take local public transportation, such as buses and motorcycles. When taking a taxi, pay attention to choosing a regular taxi company to avoid being ripped off.
4. Food safety: When tasting local food, pay attention to choosing restaurants and stalls with good hygiene conditions to avoid eating unclean food and causing gastrointestinal discomfort. At the same time, pay attention to drinking bottled water and avoid drinking raw water.
5. Language communication: The official language of Indonesia is Indonesian, but English is also widely used in some tourist attractions and commercial areas in Medan. If you don't understand Indonesian, you can communicate in English or download some translation software for emergencies.
Medan, a charming city, is waiting for you. Here, you can taste delicious food, enjoy magnificent scenery, and feel the unique cultural atmosphere. I believe this trip will leave you with unforgettable memories. Come and start your Medan trip. 🎊