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Souvenir
Top 14 Gifts You Can Bring Home From Surabaya (That Are Not Only From Bu Rudy!)
Oleh-oleh is how Indonesians refer to gifts they can bring home. It translates to souvenirs. I will focus on food gifts in this article because I personally love telling stories of what I ate, whether from my hometown or during my travels in other parts of the world! The unbeatable sambal udang (or prawn sambal in English) made Bu Rudy famous outside Indonesia. But did you know that Bu Rudy isn't the only food gift brand you can buy (and finally, bring home) when you visit Surabaya? There are now many mouthwatering authentic Surabaya culinary products in West Surabaya that you can bring home, such as Coolagen. If you're wondering what other kinds of oleh-oleh, or top gifts you can bring home from Surabaya, scroll through this article for a yummy list!
Things To Do
9 Best Things To Do In And Around Probolinggo, Indonesia
Probolinggo is a port town in East Java, surrounded by mountains and the beach, where the locals mostly live through fishing. The highly fertile soil of Probolinggo makes the place known as a land rich in delicious fruit, too. But besides fish and fruit, the surrounding nature also makes the town a destination for great sights. You shouldn’t also forget its interesting culture, molded by its different ethnicities. If you’re looking for a place where the heights and the cool waters are available in one package, this is the best deal for you. There’s nothing to do but to just get on with it, start traveling and check out the best things to do in and around Probolinggo, Indonesia.
Places To Eat
15 Eateries You Must Try In Royal Plaza Surabaya's Food Boulevard (From A Surabayan)
Like any other successful group company, Pakuwon Group also has an affordable shopping mall brand. In Surabaya, the company's shopping mall is South Surabaya's Royal Plaza, also known as the "Mall For Everyone," which has been in operation since 2006. The official website notes that this "Mall For Everyone" attracts around 50,000 (or perhaps more) visitors on weekends and public holidays. Going by what I've seen, Food Boulevard, the dedicated space for contemporary foods, is the main reason for the large crowds. Food Boulevard offers a range of food and beverage products priced at around 20,000-25,000 IDR (1.24-1.55 USD). These make the area attractive to locals and tourists, plus the unique meals offered, like the black-colored churros and gasoline-hosed iced tea, are fun must-try foodie experiences! Continue reading to explore more eateries you must try in Royal Plaza Surabaya's Food Boulevard!
Things To Do
15 Activities You Can Do In Pakuwon Mall And Trade Center, Surabaya
Locals usually refer to Pakuwon Mall And Trade Center as Pakuwon Trace Center (PTC) even though it has two other areas—Pakuwon Mall (the most modernized and crowded area) and Pakuwon Mall HomePRO. The latter opened in 2020, three years after the massive Pakuwon Mall expansion. In 2003, there were only a few stores in the old PTC. Today, the expansion has brought many local and international tourists to the shopping mall. To help you differentiate, PTC areas are full of stores with budget products. It is great for tourists who want to save money. Meanwhile, Pakuwon Mall has many premium international stores. Additionally, some of the stores at Pakuwon Mall only receive cashless payments. Access to public transportation is quite simple, because "halte PTC" or "PTC bus stop" is all you need to say when you hop on Wirawiri, Suroboyo Bus, or Trans Semanggi. I love hunting for unique dine-in experiences when I go to luxurious mega-malls like this one! Sometimes, I join the crowds in playing the most interactive and immersive board games. If you'd like to know more about the activities you can do in Pakuwon Mall and Trade Center, continue reading!
Places To Eat
Top 14 Modern Eateries With Heritage Elements In Central Surabaya
Most tourists categorize North Surabaya, some parts of East Surabaya, and Central Surabaya as "Central Surabaya," even though these areas are different. This is because there are "heritage" elements throughout this region that help tourists see how the old Surabaya worked. Here, heritage usually refers to museums and other historical attractions in the area. But when talking about buildings, including eateries, this word also refers to the vintage exterior and interior design. These eateries have modern amenities while still retaining their heritage. Sometimes, the names of the dishes also bring back special memories when we visit these modern eating places in Central Surabaya. Saat Seduh Coffee has left the biggest impression on me. This cafe has elements of European colonialism that immerse you in the early 19th-century life in Soerabaja (Surabaya's old name). I also find it interesting that Xiang Rui Kopitiam, an iconic hotel, has also been transformed into a 24-hour food-court-style kopitiam that you can visit. If you'd like to learn more about these fabulous modern eateries with heritage elements in Central Surabaya, keep reading for my picks!
Things To Do
23 Must-Visit Historical Landmarks And Museums In Surabaya
Surabaya is known as the City of Heroes due to its importance in the Indonesian battle for independence. November 10, 1945, is the date on which Surabaya army forces successfully annihilated the enemy through much bloodshed. Today, Surabaya locals remember the date as "Heroes' Day" (Hari Pahlawan). Remembrance of this heroism can also be seen in Surabaya's historical museums and landmarks, such as in the name of its football stadium, Gelora 10 November Stadium. We can find many historical landmarks and museums in Surabaya that will refresh our minds about the city's history while we take selfies or hang out around the area. Most of them are in Central and North Surabaya, and some are located in East Surabaya. Surabaya has also been well known as a port city for a few centuries. The sea here is the most stunning when viewed at night. In some places, you can even enjoy the picturesque scene while remembering the city's history. If you're interested in exploring more of Surabaya's history, continue reading to know more about the 23 must-visit historical landmarks and museums in Surabaya.
Places To Eat
15 Vegan And Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants In Surabaya
Surabaya may be the second-largest city in Indonesia, but unlike Jakarta, the former capital, I find it challenging to locate vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Surabaya. The North Surabaya region, with its Depot Sehat near a Buddhist temple, is my saving grace and the most vegan-friendly area in Surabaya. That's why many of my recommendations are located there. However, North Surabaya isn't the only place to go, as other parts of the city also have excellent options. This includes Depot Vegetarian Surabaya in Central Surabaya, which is only a 600-m (1,968.50-ft) walk from the iconic Hotel Majapahit, and NUDE Bakery & Cafe x Frutamix or Lemoon Vegetarian in West Surabaya. If you're curious, keep reading as I've listed more vegan and vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Surabaya, below!
Shopping Malls
A Local's Guide To Mall Olympic Garden (MOG), Malang's Largest Shopping Mall
The number of contemporary shops inside Mall Olympic Garden (MOG) quickly surpasses that of other previously well-known Malang shopping malls, such as Matos. So, it's no wonder that MOG has become the largest shopping mall in Malang. Its direct connection to Gajayana football stadium, the first and oldest football stadium in Indonesia, puts MOG in an even more advantageous location. It's well connected to public transpote routs. Whenever I board a Malang bus and stop at Indomaret Banjarum a.k.a. Karanglo or Alfamart Kendedes, the Grab app always shows me a cost of only around 20,000 IDR (approximately 1.23 USD) to go to MOG's main entrance. You can expect everything to be colorful in MOG's fashion stores. Authentic Malang eateries can also be found everywhere here. You can even enjoy ready-to-eat meals and local snacks in Central Market's supermarket area! Want to learn more about the experiences you can expect in MOG? Continue reading for a local's guide to Mall Olympic Garden (MOG), Malang's largest shopping mall!
Things To Do
19 Activities You Can Do In BG Junction, Surabaya
BG Junction was an iconic shopping plaza and movie theater named Wijaya before fire damaged it in the 1990s. Fast forward to mid-2006, a private company in Indonesia rebuilt the theater and transformed it into BG Junction. While we can still go to a movie theater (CGV) in this mall, it now also has plenty of other attractions and shops to see and explore. The roaring dinosaur opposite the Funworld and food stall area is my favorite! Playing the "test your strength" game is also convenient in BG Junction, as you can do it in the fitness and game center. Keep reading to know more about other fun activities you can do in BG Junction, Surabaya!
5 Star Hotels
Relaxing Retreat At 5-Star Singhasari Resort, Kota Batu, Indonesia
Kota Batu, a city located on the slope of Mount Arjuna in the eastern part of the Indonesian island of Java (about a 3 hour-drive from Juanda International Airport in Surabaya), has long been a hideaway spot. This is true for people in its surrounding towns and cities in East Java, because Kota Batu is much cooler in temperature than neighboring destinations. Recently, it has become a popular local and international tourist destination. Over the last decade, many international-class amusement parks have been built in the area, such as Batu Secret Zoo, displaying animals in their habitats, and the Transport Museum, which displays old vehicles from around the world, making it popular among international tourists. Hotels thrive in this small city; however, a visitor may not expect a premium accommodation in Kota Batu. Singhasari Resort has numerous amenities, including a hot tub, tennis court, rooftop bar, and more, making it a premier luxury hotel. When combined with the staff's hospitality and mountainous surroundings, your stay the Singhasari Resort will be an enjoyable retreat.
Places To Eat
Food & Restaurant Guide In And Around JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya (A Surabayan's Top Picks!)
The 5-star JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya in Embong Malang, formerly Radio NIROM, a Dutch broadcasting company, is where "Indonesia Raya" (Indonesia's national anthem) first aired and angered the Dutch. It was later transformed into The Westin Hotel Surabaya in 1992 before being taken over by Marriott International in 2002 and becoming the JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya we know today. Pavilion Restaurant and Lobby Lounge are some of Marriott's signature restaurants. I love their buffet and cocktail selections; however, sometimes, I prefer more affordable alternatives. Fortunately, I can also venture outside to try the delicious local food stalls in the hotel's vicinity. One restaurant I would recommend is Rawon Setan, known for its legendary "devil's black soup" (where "rawon" means "black soup" and "setan" means "devil"). Continue reading my food & restaurant guide in and around JW Marriott Hotel Surabaya, to learn about all the best food options in the area!
Things To Do
10 Best Things To Do In Surabaya For City Wanderers
Surabaya, formerly the leading trade center in the age of the Javanese emperor, remains a shining business destination in Indonesia. Although some people still prioritize other capitals in East Java, the city, situated on the northern coast of Java, surprisingly has many enticing corners. With its sunny weather, Surabaya is indeed a must-visit spot before watching the sunrise in Penanjakan, Bromo, or hiking on Mount Ijen to marvel at the blue fire phenomenon. To satisfy your curiosity, you'd better check out all the 10 top things to do in this vibrant metropolis.
Places To Eat
Yummiest Places To Eat Around Tunjungan, Surabaya: 20 Recommendations From A Local
Tunjungan, located in the city of Surabaya, is a popular place for both tourists and locals to visit. Tourists love visiting the area because the Colonial-inspired buildings preserve Surabaya's history as the "City of Heroes." Most aesthetic cafes are also open late at night, contributing to the area's vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, the number of tourists in this area exceeds that of other parts of Surabaya, making it the liveliest and most tourist-friendly area in the city. Located in the heart of Surabaya, the Tunjungan area is home to a variety of hotels. It is also home to the historic Tunjungan Plaza shopping mall, which was established in 1986, the renowned 5-star Hotel Majapahit with its Indigo Restaurant, and the lively Tunjungan Romansa street music performances that take place at night. This central area of Surabaya also offers a blend of modern and vintage culinary delights, especially in the recently revitalized Pasar Tunjungan's Depot Juang 45, Drama Roastery, and other establishments. If you're here for the food, read on to discover the yummiest places to eat in and around Tunjungan, Surabaya!
Food To Try
14 Must-Buy Food Items From Pusat Oleh-Oleh Bu Rudy, Surabaya, As Recommended By A Local
If you've visited Surabaya for food shopping, you probably noticed posters everywhere of a senior Chinese-Indonesian woman with short and curly black hair and a lively smile. Underneath her image will be the words "Bu Rudy." The woman's name is Lanny Siswadi. It all began on July 2, 1995, when Bu Rudy's husband went shrimp fishing. Bu Rudy then sold the fried shrimp that she had cooked herself to her fellow gymnasium mates, and the rest is history. After its establishment, people raved about Bu Rudy's delicious prawn-based food items, which led her to establish Pusat Oleh-Oleh (abbreviated as Pusol) Bu Rudy in the Dharmahusada area of East Surabaya. She officially named this Pusol "Terlengkap, Terbesar & Termewah di Surabaya" ("Most Complete, Largest & Most Luxurious in Surabaya"). My favorite Bu Rudy products at Pusol include the sambal in jars and the famous udang goreng kering (fried shrimp). To discover yours, check out my recommendations of must-buy food items from Pusat Oleh-Oleh Bu Rudy, Surabaya.
Things To Do
Mount Penanggungan: A Mountain Full of Mysterious Hindu Structures
Mojokerto, located 50 km (31 miles) southeast of East Java's capital city of Surabaya, Indonesia, is a district covering more than 950 square kilometers (366 square miles) of both low-lying land and mountainous areas. There, in the low-lying area, lie the remnants of the capital city of an ancient kingdom Majapahit (located in Trowulan village), and that's the place where most tourists go when in Mojokerto. However, there is a big surprise waiting for you in another part of Mojokerto area! Just about 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of Trowulan there is Mount Penanggungan, and nobody has thought that this dormant mountain could store such a wonder! Many Hindu stone structures named 'candi' have been found almost everywhere on the mountain! After your Trowulan visit, why not hike the mountain?
Food To Try
10 Best Madurese Foods
Madura, just a few minutes away from the bustling Surabaya, might be known as the paradise of varied festivals such as Karapan Sapi (a traditional bull race), Suramadu, and Daol Combodug. Still, the island of salt famous for its Toroan waterfall and Arosbaya limestone hill is where you can delight in a wide variety of worth-tasting delicacies. Check out the best Madurese foods.
Things To Do
East Java Adventure: 6 Best Things To Do In Sidoarjo, Indonesia
South of Surabaya is the regency known as Sidoarjo. It’s a small town, and you can reach almost all of the restaurants and shopping areas from EF Sidoarjo School on foot. Rickshaws are available if you don’t want to walk around. Sidoarjo is no stranger when it comes to different types of attractions. From historical sites to theme parks, Sidoarjo is sure to give you an unforgettable sightseeing experience. From Surabaya, you can reach the regency easily thanks to the motorway. When you pass through the motorway by car or bus, you will arrive in Sidoarjo in about 30 minutes. So, if you’re still thinking about where to start, then let us assist you. Here are the six best things to do in this East Java gem. Let the exploring begin.
Food To Try
Top Food Items From Malang, Indonesia, You Should Buy On Your Next Visit: A Local's Recommendations
Malang is famous for its delicious green apple products, which are made fresh and are of excellent quality. Almost all Malang food oleh-oleh (gift) items are made from green apples! Additionally, products made with tempeh as the main ingredient are highly popular among tourists. The Sanan region of Malang is particularly renowned for its tempeh production, which is sold in various supermarkets throughout Malang on a consignment basis. The popularity of their tempeh products is such that they have even entered markets in other East Javanese areas! It's not just savory dishes either; even sweet desserts such as pies made from tempeh are available from non-Sanan small and medium enterprises. But that's not all! Malang's food gifts are not limited to green apples and tempeh products. Check out my recommended list of top food items from Malang, Indonesia, you should buy on your next visit.
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