The latest edition of my ‘A Weekend Away … ’ series focuses on the Indonesian city of Bandung. While Scott and I haven’t made it there ourselves just yet, we have just completed our research and I am happy to say that we definitely know how we will be spending a weekend away there once we do finally make it.
Who knows, maybe we will make Bandung a part of our Asian honeymoon in 2017? It’s definitely possible, but in the meantime though, here’s some tips on how to best spend a weekend in Bandung for all you readers heading that way.
Friday Morning
Arriving in Bandung is sure to be a breathtaking experience, as the sight of the city’s skyline ringed by mountains upon your plane’s descent is legendary throughout Indonesia. After you’ve caught your breath and picked up your luggage, it’s time to head straight to factory outlet stores and find some breathtaking deals, because after all, you’ve got to look sharp on holiday.
Tip: While the city is awash in outlets, the Heritage Outlets are consistently rated the most popular by locals and tourists alike.
Friday Afternoon
It’s time to drop those shopping bags and check in your hotel, and if you’re like us, you’ll probably have discovered your hotel from Traveloka, the best source for sorting accommodation in Indonesia.
Tip: The city of Bandung is full of wonderful weekend digs, but Dusun Bambu Family Leisure Park might just be our favorite, as it seamlessly blends the jungle with the city in the form of stylish thatched-roof chalets and glamorous camping tents, some connected by cool canopy-style walks.
Friday Night
Any reader of this site knows that we take our food seriously, so tonight will be all about getting some authentic Indonesian food. You can eat a fine meal at the hotel or you could do like the locals do and feast on Bakso Tahu (steamed meat with lime, paste of peanut and soy sauce, sometimes served with tofu) at Siomay Pak Lili or Martabak (a favorite from our time in Malaysia in 2012) sold on the street.
Saturday Morning
Saturday morning is all about taking in some of the sights around town, with a self-guided walking tour of the fine Dutch architecture very high on the list. We always have a soft spot for Dutch buildings as we lived in Amsterdam for two years, but I think seeing these buildings will really bring the history of the city to light for any visitor.
Saturday Afternoon
It’s time to get out of the city to the surrounding hills, and while you could go for a trip to the world famous Tangkuban Perahu volcano or the mysterious crater lake of Kawah Putih, we love the idea of visiting a local tea plantation. The Malabar Plantation is one of the finest in the region, and if you’re lucky, you’ll also be able to stop at a nearby strawberry farm for a refreshing smoothie or snack.
Saturday Night
It’s time for another meal of course, and while I love street and cafe food as much as the next person, it’s time to splash out, because after all, you leave in the morning. There’s nothing better on holiday than a restaurant with a view, and the Valley Bistro, truly lives up to its name with sweeping views of the city and mountains, and a menu of absolutely delectable international food.
Sunday
Sadly, it’s time to leave but if you’re on top of your game, you may be able to sneak in a trip to the world famous Geology Museum, or perhaps one last run to the shopping outlets. Don’t be too sad about leaving though, because if you’re like most visitors, you’ll be back to Bandung soon.
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