Jakarta city guide: on a shoestring or on a splurge
Indonesia
Jakarta City Guide: on a shoestring or on a splurge
Jakarta might be the most disliked city of South East Asia. The moment you arrive in Jakarta you can’t really blame people for their need to escape this city as soon as possible. The traffic is horrendous, the city is huge and there are 20 million people in one city (in the whole of Holland we don’t even have that many people). So it’s busy, very busy. But never judge a book by its cover, because even Jakarta has some really nice things up its sleeve, ready for you to explore and enjoy. Since I got a weak spot for places that have a bad reputation, I think it’s time to shed some light on all the cool places in this massive city. Whether you just won the lottery or on a budget, Jakarta will entertain you for sure.
Jakarta on a splurge
Like any other Asian city, Jakarta can be a city to splurge. There are plenty of five-star hotels, expensive rooftop bars with killer views, and malls where you can max out your credit card by blinking twice. When this is what you’d like to do (who doesn’t right?) then here a few tips on where to spend your bucks. We are happy to help.
Hotel Indonesia Kempinski
First of all, check yourself into the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski. This dream of a hotel has everything you need for a great luxurious stay in Jakarta. We were very tempted not to leave the hotel at all, cause it doesn’t matter in which part of the hotel you are, it’s most likely you will get stuck. The beds are big and comfy, the restaurants serve up all the dishes you can think of, the spa is just divine, and the rooftop pool the ultimate relaxation spot to escape the busyness of the city. If you do feel like you have to get out of the hotel, then you’ll probably be happy to know that the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski is linked with its own entrance to the Grand Indonesia Mall.
Restaurant Social House
We stumbled upon this restaurant just by coincidence and got lured into it because of its good tunes. We were actually planning on having a quiet night and just wanted to grab a quick bite to eat when we ended up here. All plans overboard, a bottle of wine on the table, and a few hours later we were in full-on party mode. Great staff, beautiful people, good food, proper club tunes, and a fantastic vibe. This really is a cool place to start your night out on the town.
Kunstkring Paleis - Tugu Hotel
Never have I seen such a pretty bar. The Suzy Wong Bar at Kunstkring Paleis is just a feast for the eyes. With a mix of roaring twenties and Asia, this place feels like you just stepped into a movie. Great cocktails and great food as well with quite a few Dutch influences. For those who’d only like to splurge a little bit, they got Happy Hour from 3 pm till 7 pm on their cocktails.
Awan Lounge
Jakarta is becoming well known for its nightlife and bars these days, and not without reason. The city is bustling during daylight, but even more, after the sun has set. One of those places where the cocktails taste great, the vibes are steamy, and the views are stunning is the Awan Lounge, on top of the (also very stunning) Kosenda Hotel. A very cool place to meet up with people, enjoy the tunes, and have some drinks. Before you know it the sun already starts to rise again…
Jakarta on a shoestring
As easy as it is to break your travel funds in Jakarta, it’s most likely that spending a month’s salary on a weekend isn’t what most of us do when traveling around. Jakarta has a lot of activities that don’t cost a dime and great food options for those a bit more on a budget.
Sleeping on a budget
Sleeping on a shoestring will be hard in Jakarta unfortunately unless you don’t mind ending up at some really sketchy hostel. However, there are plenty of midrange options that are seriously really good. We stayed at the Juno Hotel which had a really good location being close to several nice neighborhoods. The rooms might not be the biggest, but everything you need is there. Plus, the beds are very, very comfy. They reminded me of my own, which is always a great sign while traveling. Do prepare for Asian breakfasts.
Batavia
You can’t have been to Jakarta and not have visited Batavia. This part of Jakarta has so much history with its colonial Dutch remnants and multiple museums. It’s the perfect place to give you some insight into what happened here over the years. History is not all that pretty in Indonesia with both the Dutch and the Japanese invading and visiting Batavia will make you understand more of the country. Visit the Bank Indonesia Museum and have lunch at Cafe Batavia. Do prepare to get interviewed by school kids in this area who want to practice their English and are just very curious in general.
Giyanti Coffee Roastery
Giyanti Coffee Roastery is such a fun place to have coffee and cake. They’re shining bright in both qualities with super friendly (and funny) baristas. Saturdays are booming business here, with locals of all age groups meeting up to catch up over coffee. It’s hard to choose where to sit here, cause every corner of this little cafe is nice!
Kopi Oey
This cute little cafe with pink walls, vintage advertising posters, and influences of a Chinese teahouse is worth a detour and a great low-budget option. It’s mostly locals having their food here any time of the day which gives it a really nice feel. The mie kepiting pontianak got me coming back twice for a cheap, quick, and delicious meal. They got some western dishes on the menu as well, but I would definitely suggest trying out their Indonesian dishes which are mouthwatering good (and very, very spicy from time to time).
Antique market at Jl Surabaya
And the treasure hunt is on… ready, steady, go! Find your way through the many stalls filled to the roof with historical gems, wayang puppets, Javanese masks, and Chinese pots and vases. If only we were flying out of here… I would load up a suitcase or three.
The ugly duckling
So this big ass city with its bad reputation turns out to be not that bad at all. It’s funny how I ended up having to make a selection of all the cool things to do in Jakarta because I would’ve flooded you with information (as far as I didn’t already). Who would’ve thought? Give this city a chance and enjoy its rich history, its great food, and absolutely fantastic nightlife. Even the ugly ducks can be very pretty if you take a good look…
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland ©
Pulau Weh: tropical island off the radar
Indonesia
Pulau Weh: Tropical island off the radar
Sumatra is one of those places that aren’t on the tourist radar just yet. There are travelers of course, but not that much at all. Whether you visit the jungle, the volcanos, or the paradise islands, chances are you won’t encounter many others. When you really wanna go off the radar, then plan a visit to Pulau Weh. A tropical island on the most Western tip of Indonesia. Most of its visitors are either Malaysian or locals from the mainland coming over for the weekends or holidays.
Why Pulau Weh?
But alright, more about Pulau Weh. Because why should you go all the way up north? Well, because you’ll find paradise. The beaches are white, the ocean is the brightest blue, the hills are lush, the palm trees are there in abundance, and the coconuts are ready. As long as you’re not here on holidays or weekends, it’s most likely you got it all to yourself. I gotta warn you, from here on you’ll get some serious palm tree spam.
Treetop huts with killer views
We checked ourselves into Treetop Guesthouse in Iboih, which were literally houses on poles overlooking nothing more but the Indian ocean. Accommodation is simple, but sufficient, with a big balcony with stunning views, and from time to time some random curious visitors (frogs, bugs, birds). Just down the stairs of our little treetop house, we had the most incredible snorkeling area with loads of fish all to ourselves. A morning swim for two to wake up, please?
Find your inner diver
The island is well known for its underwater world. Of course, you can spend your days snorkeling, but Pulau Weh is a diving mecca. With about 100 different exciting dive sites for all different levels, you can find whale sharks, manta rays, a zillion colorful fish, and plenty of coral. Due to the fact that the island isn’t like Koh Tao, the place is not overcrowded at all and neither is the ocean. If you’re looking for a diving company check out Lumba Lumba dive school in Gapang. They’re PADI certified and really have all the patience in the world to let you enjoy the underwater world.
Cruise around the island
How tempting it may sound to just stay and discover the underwater world of Pulau Weh, the upper water world got something good going on as well. Just rent a scooter and cruise around. You’ll find waterfalls, incredible viewpoints, little towns, and remote beaches.
One of those beaches is Long Beach where you’ll find the lovely Bixio Cafe. With tunes of The XX and Jamiroquai, hammocks in the trees on the beach, and only three bungalows this is your perfect paradise getaway. Pop by for some Italian comfort food, or settle down and get used to island life. Grab a book, crash in one of the hammocks, snorkel a bit, and let the day pass by while you become as lazy as a sloth. Globalization is a thing, and Bixio proves just that. Who would’ve thought to find the most delicious Italian food on this tiny island just off the coast of Sumatra? Pasta, gnocchi, and tiramisu are on the menu, and they rock it. Quite a welcome change after loads of nasi goreng.
Paradise with a cause
If you are looking for a bit more luxury than just little huts on the beach I can recommend you, Casa Nemo. This resort has beautiful bungalows each with those true paradise vistas. With delicious food (try out their pizzas), a relaxing spa, and a nearly private beach, this really is the place to unwind. There’s a thing to Casa Nemo that makes this place even more special. The owners started a project to create a safe haven for single moms and other people for which local life can be difficult. Casa Nemo is for them a place where they can truly be themselves, take off their hijab and talk about their life.
One of a kind island life on Pulau Weh
Pulau Weh is a unique island. Its tropical beaches, the little rural towns, the lush green rolling hills, and the amazing underwater world. If you are up for a bit of an adventure and beaches all to yourself, then check this beautiful island out! You are in for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Marthe
Ps. Keep in mind that Pulau Weh is part of the Banda district and therefore falls under Sharia law. Although they are milder towards tourists, alcohol is very hard to get, and swimming in bathing suits on some beaches prohibited. For women, it’s handy to bring a scarf along if you’re visiting public places, so you always got something to cover up a bit.
Best restaurants in Singapore: where to indulge
Singapore
Best restaurants in Singapore: Where to indulge
Foodie
There aren’t many things I do rather than eat. At my previous job, they used to call me the bin, since I would eat anything that was offered to me. Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, starter, main, or dessert, I’ll indulge in all. Although I do have a soft spot for desserts. So testing restaurants in Singapore sounds like the best idea in the world to me.
Food heaven
There are plenty of things to do in Singapore. And if there’s one thing they’re certainly good at it would be cooking up great food. Thanks to my food lover-partner-in-crime (we cook up complete Masterchef menus together if we get a chance) who did some field research before me, I got overly excited before even getting on that plane. Telling me Singapore is food heaven, kind of equals pure happiness to me. With so many cultural influences from all over Asia, you’d figure how many cuisines you’ll be able to find. Whether it’s street food, curries, dim sum, or haute cuisine, they make it and they make it very well. Schedule some serious time for discovering Singapore’s food scene. Or just eat five times a day instead of three, this worked really well for us! As long as you try out as many restaurants in Singapore…
China Town Food Street - China Town
If a street is literally called Food Street on the map, then you know you’re in the right place. Eat your way through this street trying out chili crab, Peking duck, dim sum, or, for the more adventurous among us, some crispy chicken feet or fish eyes. You can sit on long picnic tables and just hop from one hawker to another tasting the whole assortment of Chinese cuisine.
Din Tai Fung - Downtown
Din Tai Fung has multiple restaurants in Singapore and is ideal for lunch. This place is well known for its dim sum and not without reason. Nibble you’re way through the menu on various flavors of dim sum and definitely try out the Xiao Long Bao.
Sunday Folks - Holland Village
If you are a sweet tooth then Sunday Folks is your spot. They’re well known for their sundays in several original flavors like Chocolate Hazelnut, Miso Caramel, or Earl Grey Lavender. Get a waffle, some toppings, and a big pile of ice cream and you’ll be one happy camper. Their chocolate truffles are a must-try as well. We tried one and then had to stock up afterward, so be careful if you don’t wanna get hooked.
Ding Dong - Downtown
The area around Ding Dong has lots of nice restaurants with great food. There’s a bit of an expat-vibe around here, so a lot of different people looking like they just got out of their corporate office. The food at Ding Dong is Fusion, combining Asian with Western and South American influences. We had the scallop ceviche with mango here, which was finger-licking good. So were the duck breast and red snapper with curry. The plates were simply too small!
Katong Laksa - Katong
Katong Laksa might be looking like a typical franchise branch, but don’t let it fool you. The laksas here are delicious, full of flavor, and with loads of seafood. Try the chili crab pao as well and enjoy all of this with a Tiger beer on the pavement. One of the cheapest restaurants in Singapore that will still make you leave with a full belly.
Hong Kong Soya Chicken Noodle & Rice - China Town
A Michelin-star restaurant with only $3 dishes? Yes, it’s possible. Twice even actually. Although we haven’t tried out Hill st. Tai Hwa Pork Noodle who recently got a Michelin star as well for their $3 pork noodles, we did dive into Hong Kong Soya Chicken Noodle & Rice in China Town. It’s not the tiny little hawker one-man show anymore. It’s a proper business, reminding you slightly of Mcdonald’s. One guy spends a whole day chopping up chickens, girls taking orders faster than the wind (or even a self-payment kiosk), and the waiting time is probably a lot less if you got good timing. Queues might take up to hours, but we went there during lunchtime and had our food within 15 minutes. And delicious it was. Incredibly tender chicken (and very good pork ribs as well) with mouthwatering sauce. Mister Michelin was right. So queue up and indulge!
Ninethirty by Awfully Chocolate - Katong
There’s something between girls and chocolate. Well, if chocolate is what you love then Awfully chocolate bakery & cafe is your heaven. Smart as they are at Ninethirty, you walk past a counter full of chocolate goodies before you reach your table. By the time you sit down, you surely wanna have five desserts and return for breakfast the next day. To make it a little bit easier, try the chocolate s’more and the salted butterscotch brownie. They are to die for (drooling already?)!
Maxwell Hawker Food Center - Downtown
The perfect way of discovering Singapore’s food scene is by visiting one of the many hawker food centers. These covered market halls have many different food stands that cook you up cheap meals any time of the day. A great one to visit is the Maxwell Hawker Food center in CBD Singapore. Before you get completely overwhelmed by choices, stop by Tian Tian Chicken & Rice and definitely try the dumplings at Shanghai Tim Sum.
Hotel Indigo Katong Singapore - Katong
Since eating does make you sleepy, it’s good to know where you can crash down after bulking up. Hotel Indigo Katong Singapore is the perfect boutique-style hotel to stay at in the beautiful Katong neighborhood. Colorful rooms, with comfy beds, rain showers, and even you’re own foot treatment set for tired feet after a long day strolling around the city. Since we’re talking food here anyways, I have to mention their breakfasts as well. They got a huge breakfast buffet with anything you can think of and cook up great pancakes, french toast, and poached eggs with salmon. A few weeks later and I’m still thinking back about (and longing for) their breakfasts.
Restaurants in Singapore won't let you starve
One thing is for sure, you won’t starve in Singapore. Even the fussiest eaters will discover a great place to eat in this bustling city. Of course, there are many more great restaurants in Singapore to find, so feel free to share any suggestions with us. I’ll take any excuse to visit Singapore again and eat. Since I’ve done the sightseeing already, there’s even more time for eating this time. Bring it on…
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©
Bukit Lawang: The jungle of orangutans
Indonesia
Bukit Lawang: The jungle of orang-utans
One of my dreams was to see orangutans in the wild. There’s something so special about those beautiful animals which are so smart and so alike in their expressions. Did you know they share 97% of our genetic code? Incredible right? There are two places to do so in the world which are either Borneo, Malaysia, or Sumatra, Indonesia. As lucky as we are, we are traveling around both. However, we touched base in Sumatra first so that’s where we headed into the rainforest of Bukit Lawang to find these special creatures.
Bukit Lawang
Bukit Lawang (map) is a small jungle village where you can book tours ranging from day trips to multiple days and nights in the jungle. The village of Bukit Lawang is easy to stick around for a bit. Lounging in your hammock, tubing down the river, wandering through the little town. It’s a very laid-back place surrounded by the greens of the rainforest.
The rehabilitation program of Bukit Lawang
When you are on a mission of seeing wild orangutans I do have to say here that the orangutans in Bukit Lawang are used to people due to the fact that most of them got here through a rehabilitation program. Even though the program stopped ten years ago, the orangutans here are therefore semi-wild. If you really wanna see wild animals, you gotta go to Ketambe. The orangutans in Ketambe have never been in contact with humans, which makes the jungle experience more ‘real’, but also harder to spot them.
Jungle Trekkings
So off we went two days in the jungle on the lookout for orangutans and other animals that would cross our paths. Within half an hour we were sweating our asses off, climbing over rocks and branches, going up and down, and up again. It’s definitely not an easy Sunday morning stroll, but that just adds to the fun. Our guides couldn’t promise us orangutans, but we got very lucky and within the first hour we saw two already! Up in the trees, swinging from branch to branch, keeping an eye on us. Maybe I really sound like a girl here, but it almost made me cry. I thought it was such a unique experience and really had to pinch myself for actually seeing them in their natural habitat.
Back to nature
We saw many of them over those two days. Mamas with their babies who were discovering all the tricks of the jungle, teenagers really behaving like stubborn teenagers, and a very cheeky guy who tried to steal our lunch. It was both hilarious and mesmerizing. It was not just orangutans we saw. We saw Thomas leaf monkeys, macaques, many bugs, and some incredibly big lizards.
Jungle by night
Sleeping in the jungle was quite the experience as well. Don’t expect comfy mattresses or nice little huts. This was back to basics as much as you can. Sleeping in a tent on a mattress as thick as my fingernail, showering in the river, having breakfast and dinner in the open air. When you think the jungle is nice and calm, wait until the sun sets. There’s so much noise of crickets, monkeys, birds, frogs, and probably a lot of other animals I don’t even know. I was surprised by what all those animals can produce. Life in the jungle… So this is how Tarzan and Jane must have felt when they moved into the bush.
Which tour should you take?
When choosing a guide to take you into the jungle, make sure they have the protection of the forest on top of their priority list. We booked our tour through Junia’s Guesthouse in Bukit Lawang. Our guides Edi and Jojo grew up in the jungle knowing every sound, every movement, every bush. These guys really take the jungle seriously and I can highly recommend them. Another option would be Orangutan Experience. We heard some great stories about them and they too make sure your visit to the rainforest is sustainable.
Protect the wild
Some of the other guides feed the animals so you can get close to them or even touch them. How cool this may sound, it really is the worst. It is forbidden, but mostly this makes them only more aggressive (associating humans with food), ill, and less independent in the wild. With a big part of Indonesia being chopped for palm oil, I think we should do everything in our power to protect the few parts that are still intact. Don’t leave your footprint here in any way, as you will only spoil it and put those animals in danger. Please keep this in mind when visiting this beautiful place.
Jungle Book
This being said, there are still quite a few really good tour guides that will give you the experience of a lifetime. In my opinion, the orangutans are one of the coolest creatures in the world, and seeing them in their natural habitat was like a dream come true. The whole jungle trekking was truly amazing and we learned and saw so much. Just do your homework, respect nature, and enjoy this experience to the fullest.
Love,
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©
Simeulue Surf Lodges; a surfers' dream
Indonesia
Simeulue Surf Lodges: A surfer's dream
Simeulue… have you ever heard of it? I certainly didn’t, that’s for sure. This tropical island is just off the northeast coast of Sumatra and has waves rolling in from almost every corner. The only way of getting to Simeulue Surf Lodges is by jumping on a tiny plane from Medan. In general jumping into tiny planes brings you to great places, so I got a very good feeling about this one.
Simeulue is everything you imagine of a tropical island. Palmtrees swaying in the wind, the smell of the ocean in the air, and pristine white beaches with not a single soul on them. There are not many cars on the island, nor a lot of people, let alone tourists. This really is paradise.
Beach huts are my favorite
The moment we arrive at Simeulue Surf Lodges I go from overly excited to becoming a bit silent because of so much beauty. I think I’ve never seen a place like this. We have a little beach hut right in front of the bright blue ocean, with an open shower where you can hear the waves and the crickets as if they are showering with you. There’s a right-hander (Dylan’s right) right in front of the place, with maybe one or two locals on it on a busy day. This might be one of the best waves on the island, at your doorstep. Although accommodation is basic, everything you need is there. You will be spending most of your time in the water anyways.
Feeding time
During your stay at Simeulue Surf Lodges, you will be taken great care of. Jenny cooks up the most delicious meals, cakes, treats, and smoothies every single day. It really feels like you’re sitting at your mum’s kitchen table getting spoiled while she’s making sure you eat enough. All meals are included in your stay, so that’s one thing less to worry about.
Uncrowded surf breaks near Simeulue Surf Lodges
There are more surf retreats on Simeulue, but on this side of the island, there are only a few. This means hardly any other surfers on the breaks close to Simeulue Surf Lodges, in contrast to for example the famous break “the Peak”. And there are quite a few good breaks near Simeulue Surf Lodge. With year-round swells and only light winds blowing, you are in for a treat. Keep an eye on Alus Alus, One Thong, or Dylan’s right, which are the most popular waves on this part of the island. Be aware that almost all breaks on the island are for intermediates and advanced only. With reef breaks almost everywhere, bringing some booties and extra fins/leashes/boards are recommended. While staying at Simeulue Surf Lodges you get your own scooter which you can use during your entire stay with them to cruise around and discover new spots.
Paradise boat trips
If you aren’t satisfied yet on the paradise meter, then definitely book a boat trip to Teabags. This boat trip will take you out to one of the best breaks around Simeulue where you can get your barrel fix. Honestly, I don’t do barrels (yet), so for me, it was just watching the big boys, but it was spectacular indeed. Since you got the boat for the whole day, Teabags doesn’t have to be your only destination. We went off to Pulau Mincau, an uninhabited island with the bluest water and whitest sand I’ve ever seen. Have a stroll around, snorkel a bit, encounter some strange animals and maybe even surf here.
Home sweet home
It’s funny how easy you feel at home at Simeulue Surf Lodges. Cruising around on the island on our scooters, searching for waves. Locals waving and smiling at you, children incredibly curious and cheeky using the five English words they know. Hey Mister! Even for us girls. Coming home to delicious food, watching the sunset behind the palm trees while you’re sipping on your coconut in the swimming pool. There’s not a lot you need in life and Simeulue Surf Lodges proves just that. Palmtrees, waves, great food, and good company. Check, check, double-check. Go experience it yourself and enjoy all those little things.
Love,
Marthe
For more info on Simeulue Surf Lodges or bookings, check out their website.
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©
Singapore city guide: a melting pot in every way
Singapore
Singapore City Guide: A melting pot in every way
A country and a city in one, Singapore is a melting pot of people. With a huge population of Chinese, but also a lot of Malay, Indian, Indonesian and European people, this place is influenced by so many cultures. This translates into the architecture, the food, the way people dress, and the way people treat each other.
With so many ancient cultures fading in, it’s amazing to see how futuristic this city is as well. Public transport is incredibly well arranged, the buildings and skyscrapers are true pieces of art, the city is clean, and the people are absurdly friendly. Singapore could easily entertain you for a week, but even if you’re just flying through to other destinations it’s worth spending a few days in this bustling city. So tag along with us through the different neighborhoods and their different characters.
Katong neighborhood
Although maybe not as known as all the other neighborhoods of Singapore, this part is definitely a must-see or the ideal place to stay in the city. Right in between the airport and downtown this part of Singapore is scattered with nice restaurants and bars. The neighborhood is well known for its beautiful typical Peranakan shophouses which you can find all around Koon Seng Road. If you’re looking for a typical bite to eat, stop by at Katong Laksa. It’s quite straightforward, so only one choice of Laksa with shrimps (wouldn’t want it any other way) and about three choices of bao’s. Take a plastic seat on the pavement, enjoy your meal and watch all sorts of locals passing by.
Hotel Indigo Katong Singapore
If you’re looking for a place to stay, I can highly recommend Hotel Indigo Singapore Katong. It’s a beautiful boutique-style hotel with all the facilities you can wish for. Nice big and bright rooms full of color and a bathroom with quite the view. However, their rooftop pool and gym are the absolute winners here. I don’t know about you guys, but I seriously had to get adjusted to this 34 degrees all day, every day. Lounging at that pool with those incredible views was the perfect treat after a day strolling around the city.
Little India
The moment you enter Little India you’ll notice it. The smells, the sounds, the sights. It smells like curries everywhere, Bollywood songs play out of every single shop and the streets are filled with color. Little India is covered with beautiful Hindu temples that you can visit as long as you conform to the dressing standards (always carry a scarf with you, comes in very handy here!). Just walk around in the area and you’ll stumble upon quite a few colorful treasures. You’ll probably come across a lot of cool street art as well. Local artists have made plenty of murals influenced by their Indian roots. It really is a feast to walk around here with so much going on.
Arab Quarter
When visiting the Arab Quarter you gotta go to Haji Lane. This street (and the surrounding streets) is covered with street art while cute little cafes and shops fill the area. The contrast between the skyscrapers, the mosques, and the busy little streets in the Arab Quarter is pretty cool and so typical for Singapore.
China Town
Normally I’m not a huge fan of all the China Towns in the world, but this one is definitely a must-see. Go straight to Food Street and spend hours here just trying everything out. At the end of Food St., there’s the well-known Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice and Noodle “hawker”. Although not really a hawker anymore, this one-star Michelin restaurant serves you $3 meals that will make you drool. If you’re done with eating, have a walk around and visit the beautiful Buddha tooth relic temple or stroll around the market selling a lot of doubtful curios.
Downtown
Downtown Singapore is a city on its own. The immense skyscrapers with the most original architecture will blow your mind. I love how nature has been integrated into city life here, with entire walls of those skyscrapers being covered in lush greens. One of the masterpieces is the ION Orchid shopping mall. The entrance alone is impressive enough to pay this mall a visit. If you do wanna shop in Singapore this whole area is your mecca. Any brand you can think of has its shop here.
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands might be one of the most well-known landmarks of Singapore and not without reason. Not only is the hotel recognizable from almost any corner of the city due to its unique architecture, but also the swimming pool is one of a kind. Unfortunately, this is for hotel guests only who happen to pay a minimum of 285 bucks, but thanks to the hotel the “commoners” can have a taste of those stunning views as well. For only 20SGD including a drink, you can visit the bar on the roof and enjoy the incredible 360 views of Singapore. If the weather is nice, do this during sunset. I promise you it will blow you away!
One of a kind Singapore
There are not many cities like Singapore. I absolutely loved all the different influences from so many cultures around the world, blending in so perfectly. The kindness of people here was noteworthy, and so was the greenness of the city. Do expect to pay European prices or more, cause Singapore isn’t cheap like the other Southeast Asian countries. But even taken this into account, I gotta say, Singapore is a city you gotta visit at least once in your life. Be inspired and prepare for eating lots and lots of food!
Love,
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends & J. Roeland©
Essaouira city guide: surfing and shopping mecca
Morocco
The Essaouira City Guide: A surfing and shopping mecca
Apparently, Essaouira is a Moroccan city for beginners. The city has a beautiful medina with narrow little streets filled with color and craftsmanship. It has great food and plenty of bars and restaurants. It has all the charm (and maybe even more) you would imagine of Moroccan villages. All of that, but no madness! Sounds pretty good, right? No absolute madness doesn’t mean that a little guidance could be unwanted. So hereby a few must-see and do’s in and around Essaouira (map). May you fall in love too…
Get lost in the medina
There’s no way around it. You will get lost in the medina. But nothing wrong with that, because this maze is one exciting place to get lost in. The colors, the smells, the sights… it’s a feast for the senses. The food market is an attraction in itself. Packed with locals snooping around for the best dates, olives, veggies, or meats, you can just take a seat on the sidewalk and watch this play take place. It’s a beautiful sight during the midday prayer when all the shops close and all the men gather in front of the mosque to pray. Make sure to bring an extra suitcase, cause even the strongest person will succumb to all the treasures on the shelfs.
Visit the Essaouira fish market in the harbor
I know I said there was no madness, but maybe there is a little bit. Cause hey, we’re still in Morocco right? Early in the morning, the fish market is mental. Boats coming in and out of the harbor, people yelling to sell their best fish, and seagulls yelling even harder. Proper madness and I love it. This is the perfect place for lunch. Since behind the big boats, there are little restaurants selling their morning catch. Pick your seafood and they throw it on the grill… it really doesn’t get any fresher than that. Do put some closed shoes on!
Surfing in Essaouira
If you go to Essaouira and you’re done with shopping, go to the beach. The beginning of it might not be the prettiest, but the further you’ll go the better it gets. At the far end of the beach, there are a few surf schools if you’re up for a bit of action. The best one I can recommend is Bouj Sports. Book a lesson here with Yassine, who’s a great teacher of both surfing and kite surfing. How often do you find that?! (For those who have no idea what I’m talking about… there’s a little rivalry between the surfers and kiters). If the waves won’t work in Essaouira, there are a few other spots around. Try Moulay Bouzerktoun (beach break) or Sidi Kaouki (beach and reef break) or ask Yassine for his secret spot (I’m not allowed to tell you more…). All of those spots are very uncrowded!
If an afternoon of surfing fun isn’t enough for you and you’re interested in a week of surfing in Essaouira, check out our experience at Karma Surf Retreat.
Get pampered at a hammam
You can’t have been to Morocco and not have at least once experienced a hammam. This traditional Moroccan bathing house is comparable to a sauna, but it includes a washing and scrubbing ritual. For those who fully like to experience a proper hammam, go to one of the traditional ones outside the medina. These don’t necessarily cater to tourists, so be aware you are in for quite the experience (if you’re afraid of nudity, then maybe don’t take your chances). If it’s pure pampering you’re looking for then the hammam at Azur Spa is a gem!
Have sundowners at Taros
Lots of the riads will have beautiful rooftop terraces overlooking the medina or the Atlantic Ocean. However, one of the best spots in town to watch the sun go down with a drink in your hand is Taros. On weekends there’s live music, and the great mix of both locals and tourists makes this such a gem.
Eat your way around town
Spider crab gratin doesn’t that just sound heavenly?! You’ll find it at the restaurant La Table Madada. The restaurant looks absolutely beautiful in an old carob bean warehouse, the wine tastes great and the menu will make you drool. Madada is a bit more upscale, but if you’re up for a fancy night out, this place is definitely a highlight.
True Moroccan flavors
When you’re looking for something a bit more low-key, then Loft Cafe or La Licorne would be great options. At The Loft you’ll eat beautifully fresh fish and local products, one dish even better than the other. The guys working here are incredibly friendly and the place has such a nice relaxing vibe. Keep room for dessert, cause their saffron creme brulee can’t be missed! On the other end, La Licorne looks like a true 1001 night fairytale. The food here is amazing, whether you try the Tabouleh, the chickpea salad, or the Lamb Tajine. They really know how to prepare all those traditional Moroccan dishes. Definitely worth a try!
Sleep at Riad Dar Adul
When you are looking for a beautiful tranquil riad in the busyness of the medina then Dar Adul is your golden ticket. This colorful riad has charming unique rooms and a beautiful rooftop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Location wise this riad is ideal since you’re close to both the beachfront, the medina, and the many bars and restaurants around.
Easy Essaouira
Although Marrakech these days seems to become more popular and popular, Essaouira is a Moroccan city that shouldn’t be forgotten. Only a three-hour drive from Marrakech, they are easily combined for some Moroccan adventures. Enjoy the relaxed vibe in Essaouira with its incredibly friendly people, good restaurants, great shopping, and of course the playground of the ocean.
Love,
Marthe
Photos by: M. Barends©