Living in Medan, one of Indonesia’s most vibrant and diverse cities, for around a year was an experience I’ll never forget. When I first arrived, I didn’t know much about the city except that it was a major gateway to Lake Toba, but as the months passed, I came to love Medan for its energy, its people, and its rich blend of cultures.
One of the first things I realized was how important it was to learn Bahasa Indonesia to truly connect with people. In the beginning, I could only manage a few basic phrases like “Terima kasih” (thank you) or “Apa kabar?” (how are you?), but as time went on, I picked up more through daily conversations, local markets, and friendly corrections from those around me. Learning Bahasa helped me build deeper friendships and made me feel less like a visitor and more like a part of the community.
The people I met in Medan were incredibly warm and welcoming. I made great friends, both locals and fellow travelers, who made sure I experienced the city beyond just the tourist spots. We would hang out at roadside food stalls, go on spontaneous trips, and sometimes just chat for hours over Teh Tarik (pulled tea).
One of the highlights of my time there was visiting Lake Toba, the largest volcanic lake in the world. The natural beauty of the lake, surrounded by mountains and traditional Batak houses, was breathtaking. Spending a few days on Samosir Island—right in the middle of the lake—was like stepping into another world. The peaceful vibe, the cool air, and the stunning sunsets made it one of my favorite escapes from the buzz of the city.
Medan’s food scene was another unforgettable part of my journey. I still miss the spicy kick of Rendang, the rich flavors of Soto Medan, and the sweet layers of Bika Ambon cake. Trying local street foods like Nasi Padang and Martabak Manis quickly became a weekly ritual. And of course, no mention of Medan is complete without talking about the legendary Durian Ucok—whether you love it or hate it, it’s an experience every visitor has to try!
I also spent time exploring Medan’s cultural and religious landmarks. The Grand Mosque (Masjid Raya Al-Mashun) was particularly special. Its architecture was beautiful, and I remember spending quiet moments there, just absorbing the peaceful atmosphere. It’s one of those places where you can really feel the spirit of the city.
Surprisingly, Medan also had a small but lively Bollywood-loving community, and I found myself occasionally watching Indian films with local friends, bonding over the music and dramatic storylines. It was funny to see how Bollywood songs had made their way into Indonesian karaoke nights!
Looking back, my year in Medan was about more than just living in a new city—it was about stepping out of my comfort zone, embracing a different way of life, and making connections that I still treasure today. It taught me patience, openness, and the joy of simple things like sharing a meal or learning a new word in another language.
Medan might not always be the first city that comes to mind when people think of Indonesia, but for me, it will always hold a special place in my heart.
