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Population: 1.2 million
Currency: Rupiah
Country and city code: +62, +751 (Padang), +752 (Bukittinggi)
Tourist Info: Indonesia Culture and Tourism
email: pusdatin@budpar.go.id
website: www.budpar.go.id
 Indonesian fabrics
MUST SEE
Adityawarman Museum – Built in the old style of a traditional Minangkabau house, this Padang museum houses history. It is the perfect introduction to the local region, showcasing items used by the Minangkabau and other ethnic groups for their daily life.
Siberut Island – Catch a surf trip to this island in the Mentawai island chain, which is home to the best surfi ng in Indonesia and the third best in the world. Even non-surfers will enjoy the blue waters and unspoiled beaches. Join a tour to see the indigenous tribes on the island, who live in relative isolation.
Gunung Merapi – Making a night-time ascent up this live volcano is an unbeatable experience. Local guides lead treks that begin around 11pm and reach the summit in about eight hours, just in time for spectacular sunrise views. Or take a four-wheel drive vehicle up to 1,650 metres above sea level and continue on a three- to four-hour climb from there.
SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Pasar Raya – This central market sells fresh food and fabrics for locals, to souvenirs and snacks for tourists. Go during mid-morning, as the buzz starts to build up. A busy maze of alleys between hawker carts, bargaining is an must.
Ramayana Shopping Centre (Jalan Pemuda) – Escape the heat here while checking out what the locals are buying. The four-storey building houses the Ramayana department store and a variety of local stores, especially street fashion for youth.
Satu Karia – Located in the crafters’ village of Pandai Sikek in the Bukittinggi highlands, this shop carries a range of traditional woven products. The fabrics are made in the adjoining workshop and tailored into exquisite Indonesian costumes. The shop also carries lace products, handbags, shoes and little knick-knacks.
BEST BITES
Simpang Raya (Jalan Bundo Kanduang 3-5, tel: +62 (751) 27300)
There are countless nasi padang restaurants in Padang and this one’s conveniently located around the corner from the Matahari Shopping Centre. Instead of placing an order, the staff will bring a bit of everything, about 15 to 20 dishes in all. You only pay for what you’ve eaten after you are done. Other noodle or fried rice dishes can also be ordered. A typical meal costs RP20,000-30,000 (SGD3.50-5.40) per person.
Bedudal Cafe (A Yani Street 95/105, tel: +62 (752) 31533)
A very cosy backpackers’ hangout, Bedudal Cafe serves both Western and Indonesian fare – all for less than RP20,000 (SGD3.50) per item. Portions are generous, the service is friendly, and staff will offer good travel tips.
Lubuk Idai (Jalan Raya Bypass, tel: +62 (752) 626055)
Popular with locals for its chicken and grilled fi sh. Served with nasi putih (white rice) and vegetable nasi padang dishes, both specialities are tender and generously spicy. A meal costs RP20,000-30,000 (SGD3.50-5.40) per person.
BY NIGHT
Minangkabau cultural performances – Fancy a spirited dance or a little martial arts? Check out a night performance of traditional Minangkabau music and dance. There are shows almost every night in the town of Bukittinggi. More adventurous numbers, like those performed by the Sakato Group, include pencak silat (martial arts), skillfully executed by barefoot performers on broken plates.
FUN FACT
West Sumatra’s Minangkabau people make up the world’s largest matrilineal society. After marriage, a man leaves his mother’s home to join his wife’s family. Kids take on their mum’s family name.
 Payakumbuh & Harau Valley
SLEEPOVER
Hotel Batang Arau (Jalan Batang Arau 33)
This boutique hotel by the old harbour is housed in a restored 1908 building, and offers six charming suites by the waterfront, some with stained glass windows. The restaurant is a popular hangout for travellers. The hotel also coordinates surfi ng and dive trips. Room rates start from RP350,000 (SGD62.60) for a single and RP450,000 (SGD80.50) for a double.
Hotel Bumi Minang (Jalan Bundo Kandung 20-28)
The only four-star hotel in Padang, this hotel has been recently renovated and offers spacious rooms with a lovely beach view. Its convenient central location makes it popular with both business and holiday travellers. Room rates start from RP738,100 (SGD132).
Novotel Coralia Bukittinggi (Jalan Laras Datuk Bandaro)
Located in the heart of mountain town, this hotel offers spectacular views of the mountains and valleys in the vicinity. The architecture is a beautiful blend of Minangkabau and Moorish features, including a naturally ventilated lobby where the ceiling reaches four storeys high. The hotel is popular with families. Room rates start from RP970,000 (SGD173.50).
* FOR EXCLUSIVE DEALS, BOOK HOTELS THROUGH www.TIGERAIRWAYS.COM
ILLUSTRATION: LENG
BY YU-MEI BALASINGAMCHOW
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