Bandung

Bandung

Bandung is a cool, green enclave that still bears traces of its colonial past. The Dutch opened tea plantations in the area in the mid-19th century and over time, Bandung grew into a resort city with outstanding art deco architecture that makes the city such a visual pleasure.

It is a mere half-hour by plane from Jakarta and is a serene yet thriving foil to the frenetic Indonesian capital. Perched 768 metres above sea level, Bandung hums with an energy all its own. Stroll around town to take in the colonial-era buildings for which Bandung is famous.

Villa Isola is considered an art deco masterpiece. It was completed in 1932 and draws countless fans for its elegance and graceful curves. Hotel Preanger, built in 1929, and Bethel Church, built in 1925, are just a few of the other must-sees.

Bandung’s reputation as an outlet shopping haven is well earned. You’ll be spoilt for choice amid the excellent local handicrafts and brand-name bargains ranging from shoes and bags to clothes and accessories. Prices are unbeatable at the many denim stores, factory outlets and distros (distribution outlets). The nine-storey Pasar Baru Trade Centre has something for everyone, and tends to pack out on weekends with crowds of shoppers from Jakarta and Malaysia.

Shop around for hotel deals around Ramadan to improve your chances of getting the best rates. If you have children travelling with you, the Kampung Gajah theme park will likely score points with the younger set. Check out the buggy rides, bumper boats, horse rides and outdoor playground. When hunting for souvenirs, compare prices first among several stalls. You’ll get a better price if you buy more than half a dozen. In bazaars, open the bargaining “session” with a 60 per cent markdown from the initial price and stick to your own price ceiling.

Husein Sastranegara International Airport (Indonesian: Bandar Udara Internasional Husein Sastranegara) (IATA: BDO, ICAO: WICC) is an airport in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia. This fast-growing international airport is located about 5 km north-west from the city centre and 2.4 km from Bandung Central train station.

Things to do in Bandung

■ Embark on a gastronomic tour
■ Stroll around town to view colonial-era buildings
■ Shopping at Pasar Baru Trade Centre
■ Enjoy a traditional bamboo musical concert

Eat in Bandung

■ The Valley Cafe (Steaks)
■ Warung Daweung (Fried banana fritters with cheese)
■ Lutung Kasarung (Coconut roasted rice)
■ Burangrang (Betutu grilled chicken)
■ Cafe D’Pakar (Sweet bread toast and coffee)
■ Stone Cafe (Barbeque combo)

Stay in Bandung

■ Mercure Bandung Setiabudi
■ Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers
■ Padma Hotel Bandung
■ Park View Hotel Bandung
■ Banana Inn Hotel & Spa
■ Gino Feruci Braga Hotel