So last year 2012 I had so much traveling so much work I was in Europe for a month and a half over the summer cum WORK trip and 3 words to sum up all - IT'S BEEN AMAZING. Mere words could describe how much experience i had and so much memorable moments which was definitely a lifetime experience which i will share with you one day.
But First, I would like to share with you my experience to Semarang, a trip I never expected ended up so much fun and so much to learnt about Thanks to AIRASIA - for sponsoring me. (Yes, I do get paid just to travel,Hehe) to some of the destination that you would never thought it exist but you would be surprised coz it gave me a lot of FIRST TIME.
So digging in right away, after the 17 hours flight from Europe back to Asia, only less than 20 hours of rest (jetlag,unpack and repack), I hopped into another jetplane yet again for my AIRASIA - SEMARANG experience. We were a team of 3(a writer,photographer and me) all excited for another adventure.
It took us only less than 2.30 hours to reach Semarang - the #8 busiest city in Indonesia, note that Indonesia is such a huge country with 243 million population. Greeted warmly by the Tour guide specially arranged from AirAsia upon arrival, we are on our tour for the first sightseeing Already! Speaking of speedy and efficiency.
Sam Poh Kong
Our first stop arrived at Semarang oldest Chinese temple, Sam Poh Kong. It's foundation were set when Chinese Muslim Explorer Admiral Zheng He arrived in Semarang. It's remarkable relic of the early influences on the chinese cultural influence on Java*****Noted, back then they were more Chineses in Java thus a lot of architecture and history evolve Chinese Mulim influences. Besides, we've been told China has the most number of muslim around the World. How intrigued.
1000 doors/Monument/Morques
Then we moved on to Semarang's landmark - Lawang Sewu which means "Thousand Door" in Javanese. The name derived from the numerous number of doors and arcs of the building. It was one of the headquarter during the World War II Followed by the Youth Monument - which is near to the "Thousand Doors" to commemorate the city's fight for independence and those who lost their lives during the five-day between Indonesian freedom fighters and Japanese forces during World war II in October 1945.
Another sightseeing we did for the day (4th sightseeing)
It was fun and exciting arriving upon the new city and looking forward to what to be unfold. Riding along Semarang is yet realizing it is quite a busy city it becomes apparent almost as soon as we leave the airport the that Semarang's no sleepy cowboy town; it's just as bustling as Jakarta.
Balembang Gallery resort.
Other highlights of our 1st day trip is the Balembang Gallery resort. It's a traditional Indonesian style resort first time! Balembang Gallery resort boast with traditional huts, with beautiful heritage-inspired furnishing and a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains. Everywhere you go, is surrounded by traditional statue, scenery or with their ancient heritage touch. It was a really beautiful place to be till I can't help to have a photoshoot there. Hehe *smiling*
The Restaurant
the serene open park
Living hall outside my room
Just love this
Love
The Ambience
Their tradition household and oldies in the 1940s/50's
Everything so beautiful like a picture
Kampung Laut
Towards the end of the night, we went to Kampung Laut Restaurant which is not only known for good food, but also fared for its idyllic setting. We ordered helluva food for 3, satisfaction guaranteed. It’s a ideal for a romantic candlelight dinner in a rustic hut, accompanied by a cool sea breeaze. I had an amazing time chowing down Indonesian food.
First night in Semarang with a serene nice view
My first day sum up to be a great day yet full of surprises. The Chinese Muslim influences in Java, learning little bit of history, great atmosphere, good food. Thanks to AirAsia, connecting us to a lot more destination. That’s what travelling I love about. Connecting lives, connecting people.
Day #2- Follow for more
Xoxo
Love & Bless.
d.
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