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This story is about traveling to 3 islands in 11 days, Java, Borneo and Sumatra with 8 people including me. Starting from December 2nd to December 11th, I call this group is traveling to 3 islands. The 8 people are Bang Mazlan Muhammad as a captain, Kak Aishah, Kak Amnah, Kak Anie, Mr Nick, Bang Virman, Kak Khairah and Decky.
The journey started from 2 locations, the first group from Singapore and myself from Yogyakarta. We agreed to meet on the island of Kalimantan, precisely at Banjar Baru Airport, Banjarmasin. Lucky me because there is a direct flight from Yogyakarta to Banjarmasin, while the group from Singapore had to transit first in Surabaya. After the flights that we each went through, finally we could meet at Banjar Baru Airport at 8 pm. A warm hug from traveling to 3 islands group began our journey after about 3 months of not seeing each other.
We immediately headed to the hotel by renting online transportation. After a very tiring but enjoyable trip we decided that night to have dinner at the hotel and rest. Previously Mr. Mazlan as a captain had prepared for us a tour to the traditional floating market in Lok Baintan Martapura, South Kalimantan.
Floting Market Lok Baintan Banjarmasin
In the morning around 5 am, our group traveling to 3 islands had already departed for the floating market on the river in Kalimantan. It took about 30 minutes from the hotel to the star point. Once again, Mr. Mazlan, as our captain, had prepared a boat for us to go to the floating market. The weather was very bright that morning, and we started to board the boat with great enthusiasm. I kept taking photos and videos during the trip, I was so happy because this trip was my first.
There were so many local houses on the side of the river, it seemed like the river was their yard. Along the way, we as traveling to 3 islands group also met many boats that were going to the floating market or other activities. After 30 minutes on the boat, we arrived at the floating market. We were all surprised by the local residents who tried to board the boat we were riding. They tried to sell their merchandise by approaching our boat which was still moving. Almost all the sellers in the floating market are local mothers. There is something unique about these women sellers, they offer their wares by reciting rhymes. It’s like a rhyme competition between the women sellers, to attract our attention to buy their wares.
Our guide and the driver of the boat we were on advised us to stay relaxed. After a while we looked around, we started to buy some of the food and drinks they offered. We as a traveling to 3 islands group even bought local Kalimantan fruits that I had never seen or tasted before. What was even more interesting was that we were invited to their boat to try how to row and join with other small boats.
Rowing a Boat
Wow,,it turns out that riding a small boat with a strong river current makes my heart beat faster. We have to adjust the balance between the rowing movement and the weight on the boat. After a while of rowing, finally I was able to adjust the movement that made the boat sway.
The Lok Baintan Floating Market, situated on the Martapura River, is a vibrant hub of activity where locals and tourists alike can experience a glimpse into Kalimantan’s rich cultural heritage. This traditional market has been operating for centuries, with vendors selling their wares from colorful wooden boats. Visitors can find a wide array of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, local snacks, and handmade crafts. The bustling atmosphere, coupled with the serene river setting, makes the Lok Baintan Floating Market a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Banjarmasin.
After being satisfied and happy enjoying the floating market and having tried various traditional foods and local fruits, we returned to the hotel for breakfast and prepared for the next trip.
After everyone was ready to continue the tour, we as traveling to 3 islands immediately headed to the Martapura natural stone Market. Martapura, located in Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan, is renowned for its vibrant gemstone market. This bustling market is a paradise for gem enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of precious and semi-precious stones.
Known as the “Intan Martapura” (Martapura Diamond) market, it has been a center for diamond trading and polishing since the mid-20th century. However, the market extends far beyond diamonds. Visitors can find an array of gemstones including rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and many more, often sourced from local mines.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply looking for a unique souvenir, the Martapura Gemstone Market is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kalimantan.
An Unexpected Reunion in Banjarmasin
I’d been leading my tour group through the bustling markets of Kalimantan for two days now. The heat was stifling, but the lush greenery and warm hospitality of the locals made it all worthwhile. We’d reached Banjarmasin, the capital of South Kalimantan, and were planning a traditional river cruise and visiting local sasirangan cloth.
I was too happy to express my feelings, I posted a status on Facebook. After a while, a message came into my phone that my brother actually lived in Banjarmasin. We also had plans to meet to relieve our longing. After I finished taking my group on a tour around the city of Banjarmasin, I rushed to meet my brother who has been waiting at the hotel and greeted me warmly. It really surprised me that there were 2 of my brothers who lived in Banjarmasin. Bayu and Agung were married and had children.
Bayu, a young man hailing from Bengkulu, had always dreamt of a bigger world. After completing his studies in Yogyakarta, the cultural heart of Java, he felt a pull towards the bustling city of Banjarmasin, on the island of Borneo. Bayu adapted quickly, finding a job in a teacher in high school that allowed him to explore his passion for sharing knowledge.
While Agung, a young man originally from padang, west sumatra, has long lived in banjarmasin and works as an HRD in a coal mining company. After chatting for a long time at the hotel, we spent the night having dinner at a grilled fish restaurant on the banks of the banjarbaru river.
Cultural Tour with Traveling to 3 Islands
Apart from visiting the floating market, Martapura diamond market. We as traveling to 3 islands also had the opportunity to visit the Sasirangan cloth home industry. Sasirangan is a traditional fabric from Banjarmasin, its renowned for intricate pattern and vibrant colors. The word Sasirangan itself comes from the process of making the fabric, which involves a technique called Tusuk jelujur or needle stitch.
Sasirangan motifs often depict elements of nature, such as flowers, plants, and animals, as well as geometric patterns. These motif often carry symbolic meanings whiting Banjarnese culture.
After visiting the Sasirangan cloth home industry, we also had the opportunity to try Banjar culinary specialties soto Banjar.
Soto Banjar is a traditional Indonesian soup original from Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. Known for rich and flavorful broth, Soto Banjar is typically made with chicken, various spices, and a hint of sweetness. The soup is often served with shredded chicken, ketupat (rice cake), vermicelli noodles, and various side dishes like perkedel (potato croquettes) and boiled eggs.
Palembang South Sumatra
The adventure of traveling to 3 islands moved to the city of Palembang, South Sumatra. Because we arrived in Palembang in the afternoon, we didn’t do any tours, we just relaxed in the swimming pool. The next day we visited the Sultan Mahmud Badaruddin Museum. It is housed in the former residence of the Dutch colonial resident of South Sumatra and showcases the rich history and culture of Palembang, particularly during the Sultanate period.
The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various fields such as archaeology, ethnology, numismatics, biology, and art. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about the region’s past, including its royal history, traditions, and way of life.
After visiting the museum, we moved to the place where typical Palembang weaving is made. Here we as traveling to 3 islands can see directly how thread is turned into beautiful woven fabrics with hight selling value. Songket Palembang is a traditional handwoven fabric from Palembang, Indonesia. Known as the “Queen of Fabrics,” this exquisite textile is renowned for intricate patterns and the use of gold or silver threads. The weaving process is labor intensive and time consuming, requiring skilled artisans to create the beautiful designs.
We as traveling to 3 islands also have opportunity to try local culinary, its pempek. It is made from a mixture of ground fish (usually tenggiri or gabus), tapioca flour, and various spices. The mixture is then formed into various shapes and boiled or deep-fried. Pempek is typically served with a sweet and sour sauce called cuko, made from a mixture of vinegar, palm sugar, chili, and garlic.
Belitung with Traveling to 3 Islands
The adventure of traveling to 3 islands continues to another city, that is Belitung. Belitung Island, also known as Belitong, is a beautiful island located off the east coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It’s a popular tourist destination, famous for its stunning beaches, unique granite rock formations, and rich cultural heritage.
Beaches in Belitung is blessed with numerous pristine beaches featuring soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and gentle waves. Some of the most famous beaches include Tanjung Tinggi, Lintang, and Tanjung Kelayang.
Granite Rocks in The island is renowned for distinctive granite boulders, which have been shaped over millions of years by natural forces. These unique rock formations offer breathtaking views and are a popular spot for photography.
Underwater World in Belitung’s marine life is equally impressive. The waters surrounding the island are teeming with colorful coral reefs, diverse fish species, and other marine creatures, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Snorkeling in Belitung
Since we have explored the islands in Belitung, we as traveling to 3 islands also did some snorkeling in several places. With the crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and stunning natural beauty, Belitung offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, you’re sure to be amazed by the underwater world that awaits you. There is any several favorite snorkeling spots in Belitung.
Pulau Lengkuas : This small island is home to a lighthouse and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities around its shores. The clear waters and diverse marine life make it a popular choice among snorkelers.
Pulau Kepayang : Known for its pristine beaches and calm waters, Pulau Kepayang is another great spot for snorkeling. The coral reefs here are teeming with life, including colorful fish and sea turtles.
Perairan Pulau Batu Garuda : This area is famous for its rich biodiversity and stunning underwater scenery. Snorkelers can encounter a variety of marine life, such as sharks, rays, and barracudas.
Perairan Pantai Tanjung Tinggi : This iconic beach, famous for its granite boulders, also offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. The underwater world here is equally as stunning as the above-water scenery.
Perairan Pulau Pasir : This small sandbank is a great place to spot sea turtles and other marine creatures. The calm waters and shallow depths make it ideal for beginners.
Laskar Pelangi with Traveling to 3 Islands
Nestled in the heart of Belitung Island, Indonesia, lies the humble Laskar Pelangi School. This simple yet iconic school building has become a powerful symbol of resilience, education, and the enduring spirit of its students. Inspired by the best-selling novel and subsequent film of the same name, the school has captured the hearts of people worldwide.
The school’s physical structure is unassuming, featuring wooden posts, plank walls, and a corrugated metal roof. Its modest appearance belies the extraordinary stories that have unfolded within its walls. The classrooms are basic, but they have served as the launching pad for countless dreams and aspirations.
Laskar Pelangi School is more than just a place of learning; it is a testament to the power of education to transform lives. The school’s students, many of whom come from impoverished backgrounds, have overcome numerous challenges to pursue their education. Their determination and perseverance have inspired millions. The adventure of traveling to 3 islands continue to the island of Java.
Bandung Paris Van Java
After we landed at Soekarno Hatta Airport in Jakarta, we continued our journey to Bandung using the Whoos fast train. This was my first experience riding a fast train in Indonesia. The average speed of this train is around 350 km / hour and it takes 30 minutes to travel from Jakarta to Bandung. Even though it is going at high speed, it is still comfortable.
Whoosh is expected to revolutionize transportation in Indonesia, reducing travel time, boosting economic growth, and enhancing connectivity between the two cities. It is a significant milestone in Indonesia’s infrastructure development and a symbol of the country’s commitment to modern transportation.
After arriving at Padalarang train station, we change to an inner city train so we could go straight to Bandung city. It only took 20 minutes to arrive I Bandung city and we as traveling to 3 islands went straight to the hotel for rest.
City Tour Bandung
This time the place to stay is a different from the previous accommodation. we as traveling to 3 islands stayed in the Crater area, north of Bandung city. Ciater is renowned for its natural hot springs. Located near the majestic Mount Tangkuban Perahu, this serene destination offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city life.
Natural Wonders and Relaxation
Ciater is primarily famous for its geothermal activity, which gives rise to numerous hot springs. These springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are often visited by locals and tourists alike seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The warm mineral-rich waters provide soothing relief to tired muscles and are said to have various health benefits.
After doing an adventure traveling to 3 islands, we also planned to soak in hot water in Ciater to relax and just enjoy the nature. Adventure in bandung this time not too many activities, the 2nd day in bandung we visited Saung Mang Udjo. Which is a famous angklung performance place in west java. Tour traveling to 3 islands ended in bandung city, after checking out from the hotel we continued our journey home. I went back to yogyakarta and Mr. Mazlan and others went back to Singapore. Very impressive this tour, I visited tourist attractions that I have never been to. This experience made me understand about brotherhood and traveling. Thank you very much Bang Mazlan and all. see you next time.
