— Surakarta and its warmth
Surakarta — also known as Solo — had never been on my list of cities where I wanted to live before.
I come from a small island somewhere in Sumatra, so I used to dream of living in a metropolitan city like Jakarta. I always thought I would end up living in a city with its glamourous, an always-busy city that that never sleeps, and offers everything we could need. That idea lingered in my mind until I finally arrived in Surakarta.
University brings me to live in Surakarta and after months of living here, my thoughts about living in a metropolitan city slowly began to shift. I started to feel comfortable living here.
Even though Surakarta is not a bustling city, it offers another side that has turned out to be interesting. I love how this city is not too crowded but still has a lively atmosphere.
Everything here is just perfect for me. This city never runs out of places to visit, and there’s always history and culture to learn about. It also has good public transportation with a wide range area — Batik Solo Trans (BST).
Another thing that stands out to me is the warmth of the people. The community spirit in Surakarta is strong; people are friendly and always willing to help. This sense of belonging and connection has made me feel more at home than I ever expected.
The city’s rich cultural heritage is one of its most captivating aspects. Everywhere you go, there’s a sense of history and tradition. From the majestic Surakarta Palace to the vibrant markets like Pasar Gede, the city is steeped in Javanese culture, which is both fascinating and comforting. There are also a lot of heritage museums to visit.
I’ve also fallen in love with the charm of Slamet Riyadi Street. A night ride on this road is somehow comforting. The city lights, the night culinary scene, the Ngarsopuro Night Market, all add to its appeal. In the morning, you can find a train going through the street, side by side with the traffic, and every Sunday morning, there’s a car-free day on this street. Everything about Slamet Riyadi Street is fascinating to remember.
The pace of life here is also something I’ve come to appreciate. It’s slower, more relaxed, and that’s allowed me to enjoy the little things I might have overlooked in a busier city. I love wandering through the streets, finding hidden gems like quaint cafes and local eateries that serve authentic Javanese cuisine.
I used to live in Sumatra, where the food is more savory, so the food here in Surakarta offers a new flavor experience for me; every dish tells a story and offers a taste of the local culture.
Overall, Surakarta has shown me that a city doesn’t have to be big or bustling to be interesting and fulfilling. It’s a place where life is rich in culture, community, and natural beauty, offering a unique and balanced lifestyle that I’ve come to cherish.
— Extra picts about Surakarta
