October 25, 2024:Taking the Woosh Train to Bandung
After breakfast, we took a taxi to the station for our ride on the high-speed Woosh train to Bandung. We had lunch at Starbucks at the station and then realized we’d accidentally booked tickets for yesterday’s train! Instead of the 1 PM train, we finally got on the 2 PM, but at last, we could whoosh our way out of Jakarta!
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| The Woosh train was honestly “whooshazing” – super fast and comfortable! |
It was first time traveling with a high speed train. With 350km/h we were in Bandung in 40 minutes. The Grab from the train station to the hotel took longer.
Arriving in Bandung, another super busy city, we quickly checked out our hotel’s infinity pool and gym. Then we braved an urban jungle of chaotic crossings to reach our dinner spot, ‘The Hummingbird,’ for a well-deserved meal.
October 26, 2024: First day trip South of Bandung
Today, we had our first real day trip of the holiday! We set the alarm for 6:45, as we were being picked up early by our driver. Our first stop was at an old Dutch railway bridge, which you can walk across – a unique piece of history!
We then continued, stopping by rice fields to learn about how rice and bamboo are processed.
Our driver didn't speak English, but he cheerfully repeated, "Stop - Picture!" at each scenic spot. He stopped to show us where rice is harvested, processed, and the bamboo makers were at work. We followed him into local homes, where everyone carried on with their daily routines, undisturbed by our presence.
Our first major destination was Kawah Putih, an impressive (and smelly) volcanic crater.
Next, we drove through beautiful tea plantations on our way to the Cibuni Rengganis Crater, a hot spring with a toxic look. Here, we crossed a long, wobbly bridge – quite an adventure!
We enjoyed a lovely lunch at a local restaurant and later followed our guide’s suggestion to visit another spot. We ordered drinks out of courtesy, but due to the swarm of flies, we didn’t drink them.
Back at the hotel, we had a refreshing dip in the infinity pool and ended the evening with a delicious dinner at Braga Art Cafe.
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| Burgers with Indonesian twist: rendang beef and satay |
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| Colenak - fermented cassava (called peuyeum) that’s grilled until slightly caramelized and served with a sweet topping made of melted palm sugar and grated coconut. |
October 27, 2024: A relaxing day in hot springs resort
We started the day with a delicious breakfast at Braga Permai, followed by coffee at the adorable café WIKIKOFFIE. The young lady who served us called Mark “very handsome” and Madalina “very beautiful”!
Walking back to the hotel, we realized we were finally fully adjusted to Indonesia’s bustling energy, warmth, and everything in between. Later, we were picked up and brought to our resort, “Gracia Spa,” a fantastic place with warm springs and small waterfalls to swim in—perfect for relaxing!
In the afternoon and evening, we mostly booked upcoming hotels and planned ahead while enjoying the warm water and waterfalls. Absolutely wonderful here!
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| Trying local food at the resort |
October 28, 2024: Last day at Gracia Spa
This morning, the reception called us at 7:30, which we of course ignored. When they called back an hour later, we answered and were asked if we wanted breakfast in our room. Naturally, we said yes, and it was delicious!
Afterward, we went back to the waterfall, where I got absorbed in photographing it and experimenting with settings.
Then, Mark and I took turns napping and reading. Later, we went to a local restaurant to try an authentic Indonesian dish, which was partly enjoyable!
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| The menu is partially in English and we never know what we will get when ordering a traditional dish |
We finished the day with another round in the thermal baths. This place is nice during the day, but at night, it really comes alive. It’s been amazing here! Tomorrow, off to our next spot.
M&M
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