Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelago state, with its jewel bright islands dotting the blue of the Indian ocean. The western most island is Sumatra – with its stretches of dense rainforest and numerous volcanoes. The island has historically been on the trade route between east, central and south east Asia – resulting in a diversity of cultures and religious faiths that have influenced the art and craft significantly. The region is famous for its houses with upward slanting roofs resembling the horns of water buffalo or “Kabau”. The Minangkabau (literally victorious bull) tribal people lend colour to the region, with their traditional costumes, expert embroidery, wood craft, leather craft, etc.
Bukittinggi is a hill station with pleasant temperature year round. The road from the airport passes through sections of mountains with thick tree cover – with rivers flowing through the gorges. The active Marapi volcano with clouds at its peak is a spectacular backdrop to the city. On the way to Padang, the road winds through some visual delights of verdant rice paddies, water buffaloes at work and local farmers with the conical hat on their heads.
One word of advice – the Padang food is renowned for being spicy – its delicious, but very very hot!! You will be surprised how plates full of food are brought to your table for inspection – and you are allowed to choose and eat, and later pay for only what you have eaten! So give the local food a go when you are there.