Jacque in Jakarta: A Trip to Yogyakarta

Last weekend my husband and I went to Yogyakarta to celebrate our first year of marriage. It was the first time we've really had a vacation since New Year, so it was much needed and much enjoyed. I only wish we could have stayed a few more days!

Yogyakarta (pronounced "Jogjakarta") is considered the cultural capital of Java, also spelled Jawa. Java is the world's most populous island, with 135 million people, and is home to sixty percent of the Indonesian population. In addition to Yogyakarta, called Jogja for short, Jakarta, Bandung and Surabaya are all cities located on the island of Java.

Mask at Kraton

While Jakarta has a population of over 10 million, Jogja is much smaller with just under 400,000 people. This was noticeable for us, since for the first time in nearly 10 months we didn't have to wear a mask while walking the streets. The main attraction of Jogja is the plethora of stores selling Batik, a special clothing design for Java. Javanese culture is apparent in Jogja, not only in the Batik, but also on the street signs, where the traditional Javanese script can be seen. We really only had one day to explore the shopping street of Marlioboro, named for Lord Marlborough, and see the exquisite Kraton, sultan's palace, but I think we were able to see enough to appreciate the uniqueness of Javanese culture.

Alexander is much taller than the Javanese people

At Kraton

Sun shining through

After exploring the streets of Jogja on the Saturday, we explored the surrounding area on the Sunday. Jogja is within striking distance to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The first one we saw was Borobudur. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world and was build over a thousand years ago. It has survived natural disasters and terrorist attacks. It's remarkably beautiful and serene, though the very steep climb can be dangerous. There was a forty percent chance of rain, but, luckily, the sun was shining on us on top of Borobudur temple.

At Borobudur Temple

                                                                                                                                 

Merapi Volcano ruins

Prambanan Temple

Once we left Borobudur, we stopped at Mendut temple, which has a statue of the Buddha sitting Western style with both feet on the ground. It was pretty impressive to see, but I didn't feel right taking pictures of it. Then we took a jeep ride through the ashes of Merapi volcano. Merapi is one of the most active volcanoes in the world and it last erupted on November 5, 2010. The lava flow was so hot that the ashes are still smoking three years later.





We ended our tour with a visit to Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple in Southeast Asia and second UNESCO site that day. Prambanan was built around the same time as Borobudur and was heavily affected by an earthquake a few years ago. However, as an UNESCO World Heritage Site, a lot of money is going into renovating the once magnificent temple. Even with the damage, it's a pretty awesome sight.

The trip was a truly awesome experience and I recommend Jogja to anyone wanting to travel to this area of the world. It's much more relaxing than Jakarta and you can experience a much more authentic culture. That being said, don't take a taxi from the airport. They will try their best to rip you off, especially if you look Western. Stick to the Transjogja bus system. It's only 0.30 USD and it will get you to most places you want to go. As for travel to the other sites, I can thoroughly recommend jogjajayatrans.com. Pak Wisnu is very friendly and has a high ability of English. You'll pay extra for getting into the sites and if you want a guided tour, but the cost of the driver is relatively inexpensive and the service is very good.

On a closing note, language is always important when travelling. Although English is a global language and most people have some level of English in touristy areas, it is always better to speak the native language. By speaking the language of the people you are dealing with, you will not only receive a further cultural understanding, but you will also receive a great amount of respect...you might even receive a discount.