South East Asian Trips

The largest city in Sumatra and also the capital city of North Sumatra province, the largest Islamic area of the country, Medan was officially founded on 1st July 1590. Located on the north of the province with a population of 2,000,000 it has a nearby harbour, Belawan, and the Polonia International Airport. Being a conservative city one needs to look at the way specially a women dresses.

Long known as the gateway to the wilds of northern Sumatra, Medan is capital of this largely Islamic area of the country. Be prepared to be stared at and possibly hassled if you're not dressed modestly and conservatively. Don't wear shorts, tank tops, or even "clingy" clothes, because the locals will be very offended. Skirts, t-shirts, and light cotton pants are your best bets. Batik patchwork pants are widely available, and cost about US$2 or $3. The tourist office is located at Jalan Ahmad Yani 107.

Location

Medan is the capital city of North Sumatra province on the island of Sumatra. It is located just inland from the port of Belawan.

Weather

Medan's coastal location makes for hot, humid weather year-round.

Transportation

Medan's international airport has connecting flights to Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang, and has air service to all major airports in Indonesia as well. You can also reach Medan by bus or train, or via boat through the port of Belawan. Travel within the city is best undertaken by bus, bemo, becak, or taxi. Be sure to agree on a fare before you embark; prices for foreigners are generally higher.

Places of Interest

Keep an eye out for unusual architecture, and be sure to visit Sultan's Palace, the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, and the Museum of North Sumatra.

Ex-pat Hangouts

Jalan Ahmad Yani, the same street on which you'll find the tourist office, has a few restaurants at which you'll find both ex-pats and good food; to start, check out Lyn's Restaurant and the Tip Top Restaurant. If you're aching for Western food, Medan also has two KFCs and a Pizza Hut. You'll find English-language newspapers at the Tiara Medan hotel book shop.