Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Why Do Foreigners Speak So Many Languages? - Powered by Blogger

I’ve always found this both funny and fascinating. I’ve watched many enutertaining YouTube videos like Just for Laughs: Gags, What Would You Do (WWYD), and Australian Border Force. These videos not only entertain me but also help me practice my English listening skills because I’m still on my English journey, by the way.

One hilarious video I recently watched was from BigDawsTV, titled “GOOGLE TRANSLATE GONE WRONG PRANK!!” It really made me laugh out loud. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend searching for it on YouTube. Just type the title in the search bar you won’t miss it!

This image taken from BigDawsTV Youtube Channel

But while watching it, something interesting popped into my head as an English learner: “Why are these foreigners able to speak so many different languages besides English?” They already speak English fluently so what motivates or enables them to speak French, Spanish, Arabic, or Chinese as well? That curiosity pushed me to dig deeper into the topic.

Why Foreigners Speak Multiple Languages
The more I researched and reflected, the more I realized that being multilingual isn’t just about being “smart.” There are actual reasons why some people learn foreign languages easily. It mostly comes down to environment, early exposure, necessity, and motivation.

In many countries especially in Europe and parts of Africa it’s normal for people to grow up speaking two or three languages. In places like Switzerland or Belgium, you’ll find children speaking French, German, Dutch, and English from a very young age. Their schools teach multiple languages, their neighbors speak different dialects, and crossing the border often means switching languages. It becomes a natural part of life.

Many of them also start early as kids which gives them a head start. Their brains absorb different sounds and structures more easily than adults do. And let’s not forget that many people are naturally curious and love learning languages just for fun, culture, or travel.

The Difference: Foreign Language vs. Second Language
This brings me to the terms “second language” and “foreign language”, which are often misunderstood. So what’s the difference?

• Learning English as a Second Language (ESL) means I am learning English in a country where it is spoken daily like the U.S., UK, Canada, or Australia. People in that situation are surrounded by English, so they need to use it to work, study, shop, or socialize. It becomes part of their daily survival.

• On the other hand, learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) means I am learning English in a country where it is not used every day like my country,Indonesia. That’s my case. I don’t use English at the market, at school, or while talking with neighbors. I have to actively seek out English by watching YouTube, reading, or writing blog posts like this one.

That’s what makes my journey different. I’m learning English as a foreign language, and I need to create opportunities to practice. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely rewarding.

This is me with the Collins COBUILD English Dictionary. I’ll share the background story of this dictionary in my next blog post. This photo was taken a few years ago at my home

My Language Learning Journey
So no, I didn’t grow up speaking five languages. But that’s okay. I’m proud to say I’m learning English step by step from Indonesia, on my own terms. Watching videos, reading articles, blogging, and engaging online all help me make progress.

Every new word I learn is a small victory. I might not be fluent in several languages (yet), but I enjoy the process. And for me, that’s what really matters.


Are you learning English like me where it’s not spoken around you every day?

Or are you living in a place where English is part of daily life?

I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment below, and feel free to share this post with fellow learners!

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Keseharian, Wisata Kuliner - Asep Haryono | My Honest Reaction to “POV. Solo Fine Dining at an Exclusive Restaurant” short video on Youtube - Powered by Blogger

The other day, I came across a TikTok video by a user named @AmericanTurk, who showed off his fancy solo dinner at a high-end restaurant in New York City. His video tittle “POV. Solo Fine Dining at an Exclusive Restaurant” What caught my attention wasn’t the food itself  though yes, it looked great but the price tag. He spent $300 (about 3.3 million Rupiah) for one meal… and he was dining alone.

As an Indonesian, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of mixed emotions watching that clip. My immediate thought? “That’s what most people in my country earn in a month.”

Yes, you read that right. The average monthly salary for many Indonesians is around $300 USD, sometimes even less. That amount can cover groceries, bills, school expenses, and daily needs for an entire family of three or more for weeks. So seeing someone spend it in less than an hour on a solo dinner felt... honestly, a bit crazy to me.

I’m not saying people shouldn’t enjoy their money. If you work hard and want to treat yourself, go for it. I respect that. But there’s something about flaunting it on social media especially in a world where so many people are struggling that just feels a little tone-deaf.

Was the video meant to inspire others? Or was it more about showing off a lifestyle that most people will never afford? It’s hard to tell. But one thing’s for sure it made me reflect deeply on the huge economic gap between different parts of the world.

In Indonesia, many families budget carefully each day just to make ends meet. Every rupiah matters. We compare prices, plan meals, and make sacrifices. So seeing someone casually drop millions of rupiah on a single meal and treat it like no big deal comes off as a little offensive and even disturbing.

I’m not here to judge the person in the video. Maybe he’s from a wealthy family. Maybe he saved up for that experience. That’s his right. But from a Southeast Asian point of view, I just want to say: $300 is a big deal here. It’s not something we throw around lightly. It's what many of us live on.

So if you’re a content creator out there sharing luxurious moments like this maybe think twice. Not everyone watching is from Manhattan. Some of us are from Pontianak, or Jakarta, or Surabaya. Some of us are watching from small homes, budgeting every meal, and wondering if we’ll have enough for next week.

Viewer discretion is advised. That’s all I’m saying.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Keseharian, Travelling - Asep Haryono | Things Foreign Tourists Always Ask About Indonesia - Powered by Blogger

As someone living in Indonesia and often chatting with people from around the world, I’ve noticed something fun: foreign tourists are really curious about my country. Whether they’re messaging me online or coming here for the first time, they often ask similar questions. Some of them are funny, others are thoughtful, and many show just how little the world really knows about Indonesia. So I thought why not write about it?

One of the most common things people say is, “So… Bali is Indonesia, right?” That one always makes me smile. Bali is indeed part of Indonesia, but it’s just one of over 17,000 islands! It’s kind of like saying Paris is the same as Europe. Bali is stunning, no doubt, but there are so many other beautiful places in Indonesia like Yogyakarta, Lombok, Labuan Bajo, and Raja Ampat. There’s a whole world to discover here beyond just Bali’s beaches and cafes.

Another question I get a lot is about language. “Do people speak English in Indonesia?” Well, the answer is yes sometimes. In touristy areas, sure, many locals speak basic English, especially those working in hospitality. But in more rural or everyday places, it’s mostly Bahasa Indonesia. Some even speak their own regional languages, like Javanese or Sundanese. Still, tourists who learn just a few local words like “terima kasih” (thank you) usually earn a big smile from locals.

Religion also comes up a lot. “Is Indonesia a Muslim country?” people ask. It’s true that Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world, but we’re not a religious state like Saudi Arabia. Indonesia officially recognizes six religions, and we live quite peacefully with each other. You’ll see mosques next to churches, Hindu temples, and even Buddhist monasteries. That’s one thing I really love about our country it’s so diverse.

I used to be a licensed tour guide in West Kalimantan for over 10 years. During that time, I guided many tourists, both in groups and individually. This photo was taken in April 2020  quite a while ago when I was guiding two tourists from different countries: Miss Jen (left) from Manila, the Philippines, and John (middle) from Canada. We took this photo together at Istana Kadriyah in Pontianak

And of course, there's the food question. Everyone wants to know what Indonesian food is like. I always say: spicy, flavorful, and full of surprises! Whether it’s nasi goreng, rendang, sate, or gado-gado, our dishes are packed with taste. But beware of sambal our chili sauce. It may look innocent, but it can light your mouth on fire if you’re not used to it!

When it comes to what to wear, tourists are often unsure. Can they wear shorts or bikinis? In places like Bali or beach resorts, that’s completely fine. But in smaller towns or religious sites, modest clothing is more appropriate. Indonesians are generally very polite, and they appreciate it when visitors respect local customs, even in small ways.

Safety is another big concern. Tourists often ask if Indonesia is safe, and I’d say yes, for the most part. As in any country, there are places where you should be careful, especially in busy city areas. But overall, Indonesians are warm, kind, and happy to help. Just use common sense watch your belongings, avoid political protests, and don’t wander around alone late at night.

People also wonder how we get around in such a big country. Well, we’ve got everything Grab and Gojek (like Uber), buses, ferries, and even low-cost domestic flights. In Jakarta, we have a growing MRT system, though traffic jams are still part of daily life. If you're visiting, just prepare for some delays and stay patient.

What I really wish people knew is that Indonesia is more than palm trees and volcanoes. It’s a living, breathing place full of stories, culture, humor, and heart. If you’re planning to visit, I hope you go beyond the tourist hotspots, talk to locals, and experience something real. And no we don’t ride elephants to school. That one still makes me laugh every time.

So, have you ever been to Indonesia?
Or maybe you’re planning a trip?
I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions.

Let’s chat in the comments!

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : Wisata Kuliner - Asep Haryono | What Happened to the Internet’s Most Dramatic Chef? Salt Bae: ? - Powered by Blogger

Remember when Salt Bae, real name Nusret Gökçe, was everywhere? Sprinkling salt like a magician, flexing in tight white tees, and slicing golden tomahawk steaks at your favorite celebrity’s table? Yeah, those days were wild. But if you’ve been wondering what happened to him lately, you’re not alone.

Here’s a quick update on the rise, stall, and pivot of Salt Bae and his restaurant empire.

Big Dreams in the U.S. But Not for Long
Salt Bae’s flashy Nusr-Et steakhouse chain once had a big presence in the United States. From Miami to Beverly Hills, his restaurants attracted influencers, football stars, and curious foodies. But in 2025, that all changed. Locations in Dallas, Las Vegas, and Beverly Hills all quietly shut down. As of now, only New York City and Miami are still open.

Why the sudden exit? Overpriced steaks (some over $200), stiff service charges, and mixed food reviews didn’t help. Customers started calling it overrated. One former diner even called the experience “insane” on Reddit and not in a good way

You may also read  Salt Bae - The Kardarshian Steak.


Dubai Still Rules
While his U.S. ventures took a hit, Salt Bae’s Dubai location is still going strong. He personally called it his most important and most profitable restaurant. Clearly, the Gulf region still loves the Salt Bae vibe gold steaks and all.

Shifting the Spotlight: Europe & the Middle East
Salt Bae isn’t giving up. He’s just switching lanes. His next big moves include Mexico City, Rome, Ibiza, and maybe even Monaco. He’s also eyeing spots in Saudi Arabia, including Jeddah, Mecca, and even NEOM, the futuristic mega-city. Interestingly, he recently shut down his Riyadh branch, but says even bigger plans are on the way in the Middle East.

Still Viral But Not Always in a Good Way
Salt Bae still pops up online but not always for steak-slinging. A viral video from Munich in 2025 showed him being escorted away from a Champions League celebration. Many thought he was kicked out of a party, but he denied it. He’s had a few PR hiccups like this over the past year, and it’s starting to chip away at the cool, smooth image he once had.

The Verdict?
So, is Salt Bae done? Not quite. He’s just shifting gears. The U.S. might have grown tired of his glittery gimmicks, but the Middle East and Europe still want more. Dubai remains his stronghold, and with 40 global locations in his sights, he’s far from giving up.

But let’s be honest the magic of that viral 2017 salt sprinkle has faded a bit. Whether or not he can reinvent himself beyond the meme remains to be seen

What do you think\

is Salt Bae still a culinary icon or just a faded meme?
Drop your thoughts in the comments and don’t forget to share this post if it made you hungry or nostalgic

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia

Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Human Trafficking Still at Large — Be Aware - Powered by Blogger

When we talk about human trafficking, especially cases involving organ harvesting, we’re entering one of the darkest and most disturbing realities in the modern world. While sex trafficking and forced labor are sadly common topics in the news, organ trafficking remains largely underground but it’s happening.

Several recent reports including those featured on YouTube and major online news platforms have exposed shocking stories where victims were not only trafficked for work but ended up being threatened with death or organ removal if they couldn’t pay ransoms. It sounds like a horror movie, but it's real.

This form of transnational trafficking usually begins with fake job offers. Victims are recruited online promised high-paying jobs in Thailand or Malaysia. But once they arrive, their passports are taken, and they’re sent to Cambodia instead, where they are locked in scam compounds and forced to work under threat. Most are made to commit cybercrimes, like online fraud or phishing scams, targeting people from around the world.

Here’s the darkest part: if they fail to meet quotas or their families can’t pay to rescue them, they are told to sell an organ often a kidney to pay their so-called "debt." Some survivors have spoken out, sharing that they received only a fraction of the money while the traffickers kept the rest. In several tragic cases, victims returned home dead and mutilated, their bodies missing vital organs.

One of the most heartbreaking cases is the story of Azwar (32), victim of Human Trafficking go viral on social media in Indonesia ,

Indonesia Study Case
One of the most heartbreaking cases is the story of Azwar (32), a resident of Dusun II, Bunut Village, Asahan Regency, North Sumatra. He dreamed of becoming a singer in Malaysia. In April 2025, he was recruited by a man named Hasan from Medan, who promised him a singing job with a salary of $800 USD. But instead of arriving in Malaysia, Azwar was trafficked to Cambodia and allegedly sold to a scam syndicate.

Trapped in one of these criminal centers, Azwar managed to send video messages and calls to his family, possibly hinting at the abuse he was enduring. Not long after, his family received the devastating news: Azwar had fallen from the third floor of a building. He died in terrible condition, and his death remains suspicious. Was it an accident? Suicide? Or was he killed?

Unfortunately, Azwar is not alone. His story echoes many others. Victims from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam are being funneled into underground scam networks run by syndicates based in China, Taiwan, or Myanmar, using Southeast Asia as their operations base.

While authorities from Indonesia, Thailand, and Cambodia have begun working with Interpol and ASEAN, these criminal networks move fast and many victims are still unaccounted for. We must stay alert, educate others, and expose these stories. Let Azwar’s tragedy be more than just a headline let it be a wake-up call for stronger protection, harsher punishment for traffickers, and more support for the victims.

What Can You Do?
If someone offers you or someone you know a job overseas that seems "too good to be true," double-check the details. Always go through official government channels and registered agencies. If you suspect a trafficking case whether in your neighborhood or online report it immediately to local authorities or trusted organizations like BP2MI, Komnas Perempuan, or your local police.

Share stories like Azwar’s. Many victims fall into traps simply because they didn’t know the risks. One post, one conversation, can make a difference.

Support the victims. If you can, donate or volunteer with NGOs helping survivors of trafficking. Every bit helps in their recovery. Let Azwar's story open our eyes. Let’s stop pretending this isn’t happening. Together, we can raise awareness, demand justice, and stop the cycle of modern slavery. \

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : International - Asep Haryono | 4th of July: A Celebration Beyond Borders - Powered by Blogger

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Today is the 4th of July the day Americans celebrate their independence from British rule back in 1776. It’s one of the biggest holidays in the United States, full of fireworks, backyard barbecues, red-white-and-blue decorations, parades, and loud music everywhere. But here I am, thousands of miles away in Indonesia, feeling excited too. You know why? Because this celebration isn’t just for Americans. The meaning behind it actually reaches far beyond their borders.

Its me whit the US flag as my background. How was it?

Let me tell you why.
At its heart, the 4th of July is about freedom, independence, and the power of unity. When the 13 original colonies in North America decided to break away from British control, they weren’t just making history for their own people  they were sending a message to the world. That message? People deserve a voice. They deserve to choose their own future. That idea has inspired many other countries since then, including mine.

Even though I’ve never been to the U.S., I’ve watched many Independence Day celebrations online. From big fireworks shows in New York City to the presidential speech in Washington, D.C., the whole country seems to come alive. There’s something about seeing people proudly wave their flags, sing their national anthem, and gather with their friends and family it feels very human, very warm, and very powerful.

But wha\t’s even more interesting is how people outside America also take part in the spirit of the day. You might see locals in other countries wearing American flag t-shirts, joining online discussions, or even hosting small American-themed gatherings just for fun. Businesses around the world also love to join in offering 4th of July sales or promoting U.S. brands. It's like the celebration has become a bit of a global thing!

Of course, there’s more to it than just fireworks and hot dogs. The 4th of July reminds us to look back and appreciate the struggles people went through for their freedom. It also invites us to think about how we can protect those values in our own communities. After all, freedom isn't something that should only belong to one country it’s a shared dream, and something we all should cherish and fight for, no matter where we live.

You  guys may also read "A Quick History Break And Fun Fact Of 4th Of July

As someone from Indonesia, I might not celebrate the 4th of July with a picnic or sparklers, but I do feel a connection. It reminds me of our own independence day on August 17th  the pride, the history, the hope for a better future. Different dates, same feelings.

So whether you're American or not, maybe today you can take a moment to reflect on what independence and freedom mean to you. You don’t need fireworks to celebrate that. Just appreciating the idea and remembering how far we’ve all come as nations that’s already something powerful.

Happy 4th of July to all my American friends out there  and to everyone around the globe who believes in freedom, equality, and unity.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : curahanhati - Asep Haryono | Dr. Marwan al‑Sultan, a Director of Gaza’s Indonesian Hospital along with his wife were killed by Israel Airstrike on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. - Powered by Blogger

As an Indonesian, my heart is heavy with grief today.

News has broken that Dr. Marwan al-Sultan, the Director of the Indonesian Hospital in Gaza, has been killed alongside his wife and family in an Israeli airstrike on July 2nd. The apartment where he lived was reduced to rubble. The man who helped save thousands of lives has now lost his own in a cruel and senseless act of violence.

Let that sink in for a moment.

 This isn’t just another name in the news. Dr. Marwan was the head of a hospital that bears our country’s name a symbol of Indonesian generosity, unity, and commitment to humanity. The Indonesian Hospital in Gaza is one of the few functioning medical centers in the war-torn strip, and for years, it has stood as a beacon of hope. Built with the contributions of Indonesian people and organizations, it is deeply tied to our nation's spirit of solidarity.

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Images from DawnNewsEnglish

To hear that its director was killed in his home while his family was by his side is absolutely heartbreaking.

And I have to say this clearly:

I condemn this brutal act by Israel.

How can a country that claims self-defense justify the murder of doctors, nurses, and civilians in their own homes? What threat did Dr. Marwan pose? What danger did his wife and children represent?

Gaza has been under siege for months, and while headlines often focus on political figures or military strikes, we forget about the real people the doctors, the children, the teachers, the journalists who are living, suffering, and dying through all of this.

This is personal for us Indonesians. We have always stood beside the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom and dignity. Our founding principles, Pancasila, call for justice, humanity, and independence for all. When an attack like this happens, it is not just a strike on Gaza it feels like an attack on something we, as a nation, helped build.

To the people of Gaza: We are with you. To the family of Dr. Marwan al-Sultan: We grieve with you. And to the government of Israel: You now have a problem with the people of Indonesia.

We will not be silent.

Let this tragedy strengthen our resolve to speak louder, act bolder, and support justice wherever it is being denied. From Jakarta to Jayapura, our hearts are with Gaza. From the mosques of Aceh to the cafes of Surabaya, we cry out: This is not okay.

Rest in peace, Dr. Marwan.

You were a hero in life and remain a symbol of hope in death.

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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"

Tag : International - Asep Haryono | A Quick History Break And Fun Fact Of 4th Of July - Powered by Blogger

Let’s rewind a bit. On July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies officially declared their independence from the British Empire by signing the Declaration of Independence, mostly written by Thomas Jefferson. The colonies were tired of being taxed and ruled by a king across the ocean King George III of England. They wanted to govern themselves and have a say in how things were run.

That’s how the United States of America was born. It wasn’t easy. There was a war, sacrifices, and plenty of struggles, but eventually, they won their freedom.
And guess who became the first U.S. President? None other than George Washington — the general who led American troops to victory during the Revolutionary War. He took office in 1789 and set the stage for every leader that came after him

U.S. Presidents: From Then to Now (With Years)
Just for fun — and for those who love trivia — here’s a lightning-fast list of all the U.S. Presidents from 1789 to now (2025), along with the years they served:

1. George Washington (1789–1797)
2. John Adams (1797–1801)
3. Thomas Jefferson (1801–1809)
4. James Madison (1809–1817)
5. James Monroe (1817–1825)
6. John Quincy Adams (1825–1829)
7. Andrew Jackson (1829–1837)
8. Martin Van Buren (1837–1841)
9. William Henry Harrison (1841) – only served 31 days!
10. John Tyler (1841–1845)
11. James K. Polk (1845–1849)
12. Zachary Taylor (1849–1850)
13. Millard Fillmore (1850–1853)
14. Franklin Pierce (1853–1857)
15. James Buchanan (1857–1861)
16. Abraham Lincoln (1861–1865) – famous for ending slavery
17. Andrew Johnson (1865–1869)
18. Ulysses S. Grant (1869–1877)
19. Rutherford B. Hayes (1877–1881) 20. James A. Garfield (1881)
21. Chester A. Arthur (1881–1885)
22. Grover Cleveland (1885–1889)
23. Benjamin Harrison (1889–1893)
24. Grover Cleveland again! (1893–1897)
25. William McKinley (1897–1901)
26. Theodore Roosevelt (1901–1909)
27. William H. Taft (1909–1913)
28. Woodrow Wilson (1913–1921)
29. Warren G. Harding (1921–1923)
30. Calvin Coolidge (1923–1929)
31. Herbert Hoover (1929–1933)
32. Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933–1945) – the only president who served 4 terms
33. Harry S. Truman (1945–1953)
34. Dwight D. Eisenhower (1953–1961)
35. John F. Kennedy (1961–1963)
36. Lyndon B. Johnson (1963–1969)
37. Richard Nixon (1969–1974)
38. Gerald Ford (1974–1977)
39. Jimmy Carter (1977–1981)
40. Ronald Reagan (1981–1989)
41. George H. W. Bush (1989–1993)
42. Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
43. George W. Bush (2001–2009) 44. Barack Obama (2009–2017)
45. Donald Trump (2017–2021)
46. Joe Biden (2021–present, as of 2025)

Fun Fact: U.S. Presidents on the Money!
Did you know that some of these famous presidents are also featured on U.S. dollar bills? Yup — you see their faces every time someone spends cash in America! Let’s check out who’s on what:

• $1 bill – George Washington The very first U.S. president, and the “Father of His Country.”

• $2 bill – Thomas Jefferson The main writer of the Declaration of Independence.

• $5 bill – Abraham Lincoln Known for ending slavery and leading during the Civil War.

• $20 bill – Andrew Jackson The 7th president, known for representing the common people.

• $50 bill – Ulysses S. Grant A Civil War general and the 18th president.

• $100 bill – Not a president! It’s Benjamin Franklin He was a Founding Father but never president. Still, he was super important in science, diplomacy, and writing.

Note: Not all U.S. notes have presidents. Some bills and coins feature other historic figures like Alexander Hamilton (on the $10 bill), who was the first Secretary of the Treasury — but also not a president.

So next time you see American money, remember those aren’t just faces, they’re history in your hands!
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A Message From Asep Haryono

 

"Thank you so much for your time here. I really appreciate your precious moment here as well.  Please leave any comment down below.  Let me hear from you.  Greetings from Indonesia"