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- Asep Haryono | A Stroll Through Bandung: City of Flowers and Creativity - Powered by Blogger
Has anyone here been to Bandung? Are you currently studying or working there? Or maybe you’re planning a trip to Bandung, West Java, Indonesia?
The answers will surely vary, but let me share my own story at the opening of this article. I had a memorable experience when I visited Bandung in 2015 as part of the Indonesian delegation attending the International Youth Conference (IYC) from September 28 to October 1, 2015.
It’s been quite a while, but the memories remain fresh Bandung’s friendly people, its delicious culinary delights, and the city’s natural beauty are truly unforgettable. Although I only spent two days there (we stayed at the Savoy Homann Bidakara Hotel, Sejati at the time), I still cherish those moments. I’ve also included some photos in this article.
Standing at the fence that says "Tangkuban Perahu Mountain Nature Tourism Park - Bandung, West Java." Just to prove I've been to Bandung.
This photo was taken in October 2019.
If I had to choose between blending with locals or foreign tourists, I’d say I definitely enjoy spending time with visitors from other countries. When I arrived in the Puncak area, the first thing on the agenda was a meal. I was joined by a group of tourists from Romania. The lady on the far right in the photo is Roluca Voicu, whom I had a little crush on her during that dinner. LoL. The photo was taken back in October 2009.
If you ask Indonesians where they escape to when city life feels too heavy, chances are many will say: Bandung. Nestled in the highlands of West Java, Bandung has long been a weekend getaway for people from Jakarta and beyond. But this city isn’t just a short escape it’s a place where history, culture, and creativity blend beautifully. No wonder it’s known as the Kota Kembang, or “City of Flowers.”
Let’s take a stroll through Bandung together and see why this city continues to charm both locals and international travelers.
Read also - A Taste of History: Dining at Hotel Savoy Homann Bandung
A City That Breathes Easy
First thing you’ll notice in Bandung? The air. It’s cooler, fresher, and just feels easier to breathe compared to Jakarta’s heat. Sitting about 768 meters above sea level, the city is surrounded by green hills and volcanic mountains. Morning walks come with misty views, and evenings invite you to relax with a warm cup of tea.
But the real warmth comes from its people. Bandung residents are famously friendly and welcoming. Street vendors often greet you with a smile, and young locals are eager to share their city with visitors. Don’t be surprised if someone casually switches to English just to make you feel at home.
Where History Meets Hip
Walking around Bandung feels like flipping through a photo album. One page takes you to the past with colonial buildings and art deco architecture, especially along Jalan Braga. Once the hangout spot for Dutch elites, Braga is still alive today with cozy cafés, old bookstores, and colorful street art.
Turn another page and you’ll find yourself in the middle of Bandung’s creative buzz. This city is Indonesia’s fashion capital, with countless factory outlets and independent boutiques. Local designers love experimenting here, making Bandung a trendsetter for affordable yet stylish clothing. It’s a rare city where history and modern creativity live side by side and somehow, it works perfectly.
A Food Lover’s Playground
Now, let’s talk about food (because who can resist?). Bandung’s culinary scene is legendary. From traditional Sundanese dishes to quirky street snacks, the city never lets your taste buds get bored.
Want to eat like a local? Try nasi timbel, rice wrapped in banana leaves and served with fried chicken, tofu, and spicy sambal. If you’re more into snacks, batagor (fried fish dumplings with peanut sauce) is a must. And for dessert? Grab some pisang molen (crispy banana pastry) or colenak (fermented cassava with coconut sugar sauce).
Of course, Bandung is also famous for its café culture. Trendy coffee shops pop up everywhere some tucked into old houses, others perched on hillsides with sweeping views of tea plantations or twinkling city lights. Perfect spots to sip coffee, snap photos, and soak in the city’s creative vibe.
Nature Just Around the Corner
One of Bandung’s biggest charms is how close it is to nature. Drive a little north and you’ll reach Tangkuban Perahu, a volcanic crater wrapped in myths and legends. Head south and you’ll find Kawah Putih, a surreal turquoise crater lake that looks like it belongs on another planet.
Even inside the city, Bandung keeps nature close. Parks like Taman Balai Kota and Taman Film are popular with locals, while tree-lined streets remind you why the city earned the nickname “City of Flowers.”
A City of Young Minds and Bright Ideas
Bandung is more than just a pretty face it’s also a city of brains and creativity. With top universities like the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), the city is packed with young talents in art, design, and engineering. Their energy spills into everyday life, fueling startups, local brands, and cultural movements. In fact, UNESCO has recognized Bandung as part of its Creative Cities Network for design.
That mix of youthful innovation and cultural heritage is what keeps Bandung always fresh, always evolving.
Read also - Berwisata Ke Bandung Semakin Seru Bersama TRAVELOKA
Why Bandung Never Gets Old
So why does Bandung remain such a timeless destination? Maybe it’s the way history and modern life blend so effortlessly. Maybe it’s the mix of cool weather, friendly people, creative spirit, and delicious food. Or maybe it’s just the feeling you get when you stroll through its streets that sense of being in a city that’s always alive, always blooming.
For international travelers, Bandung is more than just another stop in Indonesia. It’s a city with stories to tell, flavors to share, and beauty to show. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Bandung has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
Hey my friends
“Planning a trip to Indonesia? Don’t miss Bandung a city where history, creativity, and nature come together. Share this story with fellow travelers and start adding Bandung to your bucket list!”.
The answers will surely vary, but let me share my own story at the opening of this article. I had a memorable experience when I visited Bandung in 2015 as part of the Indonesian delegation attending the International Youth Conference (IYC) from September 28 to October 1, 2015.
It’s been quite a while, but the memories remain fresh Bandung’s friendly people, its delicious culinary delights, and the city’s natural beauty are truly unforgettable. Although I only spent two days there (we stayed at the Savoy Homann Bidakara Hotel, Sejati at the time), I still cherish those moments. I’ve also included some photos in this article.
This photo was taken in October 2019.
If you ask Indonesians where they escape to when city life feels too heavy, chances are many will say: Bandung. Nestled in the highlands of West Java, Bandung has long been a weekend getaway for people from Jakarta and beyond. But this city isn’t just a short escape it’s a place where history, culture, and creativity blend beautifully. No wonder it’s known as the Kota Kembang, or “City of Flowers.”
Let’s take a stroll through Bandung together and see why this city continues to charm both locals and international travelers.
Read also - A Taste of History: Dining at Hotel Savoy Homann Bandung
A City That Breathes Easy
First thing you’ll notice in Bandung? The air. It’s cooler, fresher, and just feels easier to breathe compared to Jakarta’s heat. Sitting about 768 meters above sea level, the city is surrounded by green hills and volcanic mountains. Morning walks come with misty views, and evenings invite you to relax with a warm cup of tea.
But the real warmth comes from its people. Bandung residents are famously friendly and welcoming. Street vendors often greet you with a smile, and young locals are eager to share their city with visitors. Don’t be surprised if someone casually switches to English just to make you feel at home.
Where History Meets Hip
Walking around Bandung feels like flipping through a photo album. One page takes you to the past with colonial buildings and art deco architecture, especially along Jalan Braga. Once the hangout spot for Dutch elites, Braga is still alive today with cozy cafés, old bookstores, and colorful street art.
Turn another page and you’ll find yourself in the middle of Bandung’s creative buzz. This city is Indonesia’s fashion capital, with countless factory outlets and independent boutiques. Local designers love experimenting here, making Bandung a trendsetter for affordable yet stylish clothing. It’s a rare city where history and modern creativity live side by side and somehow, it works perfectly.
A Food Lover’s Playground
Now, let’s talk about food (because who can resist?). Bandung’s culinary scene is legendary. From traditional Sundanese dishes to quirky street snacks, the city never lets your taste buds get bored.
Want to eat like a local? Try nasi timbel, rice wrapped in banana leaves and served with fried chicken, tofu, and spicy sambal. If you’re more into snacks, batagor (fried fish dumplings with peanut sauce) is a must. And for dessert? Grab some pisang molen (crispy banana pastry) or colenak (fermented cassava with coconut sugar sauce).
Of course, Bandung is also famous for its café culture. Trendy coffee shops pop up everywhere some tucked into old houses, others perched on hillsides with sweeping views of tea plantations or twinkling city lights. Perfect spots to sip coffee, snap photos, and soak in the city’s creative vibe.
Nature Just Around the Corner
One of Bandung’s biggest charms is how close it is to nature. Drive a little north and you’ll reach Tangkuban Perahu, a volcanic crater wrapped in myths and legends. Head south and you’ll find Kawah Putih, a surreal turquoise crater lake that looks like it belongs on another planet.
Even inside the city, Bandung keeps nature close. Parks like Taman Balai Kota and Taman Film are popular with locals, while tree-lined streets remind you why the city earned the nickname “City of Flowers.”
A City of Young Minds and Bright Ideas
Bandung is more than just a pretty face it’s also a city of brains and creativity. With top universities like the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB), the city is packed with young talents in art, design, and engineering. Their energy spills into everyday life, fueling startups, local brands, and cultural movements. In fact, UNESCO has recognized Bandung as part of its Creative Cities Network for design.
That mix of youthful innovation and cultural heritage is what keeps Bandung always fresh, always evolving.
Read also - Berwisata Ke Bandung Semakin Seru Bersama TRAVELOKA
Why Bandung Never Gets Old
So why does Bandung remain such a timeless destination? Maybe it’s the way history and modern life blend so effortlessly. Maybe it’s the mix of cool weather, friendly people, creative spirit, and delicious food. Or maybe it’s just the feeling you get when you stroll through its streets that sense of being in a city that’s always alive, always blooming.
For international travelers, Bandung is more than just another stop in Indonesia. It’s a city with stories to tell, flavors to share, and beauty to show. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, Bandung has a way of staying with you long after you’ve left.
Hey my friends
“Planning a trip to Indonesia? Don’t miss Bandung a city where history, creativity, and nature come together. Share this story with fellow travelers and start adding Bandung to your bucket list!”.
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"
