Part 3 of ‘World Theme Travel – Indonesian Mountain Travel’, ‘Jump to the West, Everywhere’ will be broadcast on EBS1 TV at 8:40 pm today (20th).
A trip to the mountains of Indonesia to discover hidden stories in every corner of Sumatra.
Sumatra, a HOT island with a hot breath.
A variety of cultures and special stories unfold in every corner of Sumatra, wherever you go.
Discover Indonesia’s hidden charms through the eyes of a geographer.
From a trip to see to a trip to feel! Meet a living Indonesia.
Banda Aceh, a city that was a major transit point for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. Your journey begins here, with traces of rich history and unique culture. What opens the journey is ‘Kopi terbalik’, the welcome drink of the Banda Aceh region! This coffee, enjoyed by Teuku Umar, the Indonesian national hero who resisted the Dutch, is, as its name suggests, drunk with the cup turned upside down. How to drink this ‘upside down coffee’ well?
Leave Banda Aceh and head to Nasi Island. A place where the emerald sea and clear sky shine. I dream of my own paradise on this small island that is little known to travelers. For some, the sea presents a heavenly sight, but for others, it is a place of struggle. Here, there are fishermen who jump into the sea with their bare bodies to catch octopuses. This sea was once used for fishing with explosives and the coral was destroyed. So now they only use fishing and harpoons to catch fish. Let’s meet the fishermen of Nasi Island, who coexist with the sea.
Now the journey leaves for Weh Island, located in the westernmost part of Indonesia. The island is famous for eco-tourism, including underwater diving and dolphin watching. This place, especially known as a hidden treasure among scuba divers, is still a resort area visited mainly by locals. Snorkel here and immerse yourself in the mysterious underwater world.
Now, we head to Sabang, the final destination of our journey, and stand in front of the Kilometer Nol Monument, which symbolizes the westernmost point of Indonesia. As we were greeting the locals who had just come here, they suddenly sang a song full of love for their country! Let’s feel what ‘0km (zero kilometer)’ in all directions means to Indonesian people.
Economy Queen Reporter Park Yu-mi Photo provided by EBS World Theme Travel
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How can travelers immerse themselves in the local culture while visiting Sumatra?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Travel Expert Park Yu-mi: Exploring Hidden Gems of Sumatra
Time.news Editor: Good evening, Park Yu-mi! Thank you for joining us today. Your new segment on Indonesian mountain travel sounds fascinating. Why did you choose Sumatra as the focus of this series?
Park Yu-mi: Thank you for having me! Sumatra is an incredible island that is often overlooked in favor of Bali or Java. It’s rich in diverse cultures and stunning landscapes, not to mention its historical significance. I wanted to showcase the island’s hidden gems and unique stories that deserve more attention.
Editor: Absolutely! I understand that your journey begins in Banda Aceh, which has a pivotal history. Can you tell us what makes this city so special for travelers?
Park Yu-mi: Banda Aceh is a gateway to understanding Indonesia’s rich cultural and religious history. It was a major transit point for Muslim pilgrims heading to Mecca. The city represents resilience and heritage, especially after the tragic tsunami that struck in 2004. It’s remarkable to see how the community has come together to rebuild and preserve its unique identity.
Editor: You mentioned the unique beverage ‘Kopi terbalik’ in your segment. What’s the story behind it, and why is it significant to the local culture?
Park Yu-mi: ‘Kopi terbalik’, or inverted coffee, has a fascinating backstory. It’s steeped in tradition, and the locals drink it in a unique way, often turning the cup upside down before enjoying it. This practice is linked to Teuku Umar, a national hero known for resisting Dutch colonial rule. Drinking this coffee is not just about the taste; it’s an experience that connects you to the local history and resilience of the community.
Editor: That sounds incredibly engaging! In your travels through Sumatra, what are some of the hidden charms you’ve encountered that travelers might not know about?
Park Yu-mi: Sumatra is brimming with hidden charms! From the lush landscapes of Bukit Lawang, where you can see orangutans in their natural habitat, to the stunning lake Toba, one of the largest volcanic lakes in the world. Each corner of Sumatra tells a different story. The local markets are also a treasure trove of culture, offering authentic crafts, spices, and the chance to connect with the warm, welcoming locals.
Editor: It sounds like your journey in Sumatra is both a visual and emotional experience. What do you hope viewers will take away from this travel series?
Park Yu-mi: I hope viewers come away with a greater appreciation for the diversity of Indonesia and the stories that shape its identity. Traveling is not just about the destination, but about the connections we make and the experiences we share. I want to inspire others to step off the beaten path and discover the beauty that lies beyond the well-trodden tourist spots.
Editor: Well said, Park Yu-mi! Your insights truly encapsulate the essence of travel. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us today, and we look forward to tuning in to your segment tonight!
Park Yu-mi: Thank you! I hope everyone enjoys the journey through Sumatra and feels inspired to explore the hidden treasures of our world.