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Medan: Exploring the Cultural and Natural Charm of Indonesia
Located in the province of North Sumatra, Medan is one of the largest cities in Indonesia, known for its unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. With its colonial-style buildings, chaotic street life, and bustling night markets, Medan is a city that never sleeps, and the perfect destination for those looking to experience the vibrant culture and natural wonders of the country. As a national geography journalist, I am excited to take you on a journey through the city, and provide you with the best recommendations and tips for your visit.
Scenery and Impressions
Upon arriving in Medan, visitors will be struck by the city’s stark contrast between the urban sprawl and the picturesque countryside that surrounds it. The city is situated on a plateau, with lush green forested hills in the background, and its downtown area boasts an eclectic mix of Dutch and Art Deco architecture. The rich cultural history of Medan is evident in its many landmarks and attractions, from the Sultan’s Palace to the various temples and mosques that dot the city. Nevertheless, the city also has its challenges such as traffic jams, poor air quality, and petty crimes.
Points of Interest and Reviews
Here are the 20 most popular points of interest in Medan, along with their addresses and websites, and top reviews from Yelp:
1. Lake Toba – Parapat, Lake Toba, North Sumatra
[Review] “Breathtaking scenery, crystal clear water, and an amazing natural wonder” – Mark L.
2. Marian Shrine of Annai Velangkanni – Jalan Sakura III, Marindal 2, Tanjung Selamat, Medan
[Review] “A beautiful church with a serene and peaceful atmosphere” – Samantha C.
3. Great Mosque of Medan – Jalan Sisingamangaraja, Medan City, North Sumatra
[Review] “An impressive mosque with stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings.” – Ahmad N.
4. Maimun Palace – Jalan Brigjend Katamso, No. 57, Medan
[Review] “A beautiful palace, rich in history and cultural heritage” – Mark R.
5. Rahmat International Wildlife Museum and Gallery – Jalan Sisingamangaraja, No.4, Sei Sikambing B, Medan
[Review] “An incredible collection of wildlife specimens from all over the world!” – Vanessa P.
6. Masjid Raya Al Mashun – Jalan Sei Batanghari, Medan Petisah, Medan
[Review] “A stunning mosque with stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere” – Ayesha R.
7. Vihara Gunung Timur – Jalan Gatot Subroto, Medan Selayang, Medan
[Review] “This temple is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience Medan’s rich cultural heritage and customs” – Kim C.
8. Sun Plaza – Jalan Zainul Arifin, Medan Baru, Medan
[Review] “A great place to watch movies, have a meal or simply shop till you drop.” – Michelle T.
9. Istana Maimun – Jalan Brigjen Katamso, No. 57, Medan Area, Medan
[Review] “A beautiful palace with a rich historical background” – Aryan H.
10. Hillpark Sibolangit – Jalan Raya Medan – Kabanjahe Km. 40, Desa Dolok Tinggi, Kec. Sibolangit
[Review] “A great place to spend time with family and friends, surrounded by the beauty of nature” – Ryan E.
11. Kampung Keling – Jalan Ahmad Yani, Medan Baru, Medan
[Review] “A great place to explore Medan’s diverse and fascinating cultural heritage” – Natasha D.
12. Medan Mall – Jalan Gatot Subroto 30, Medan Area, Medan
[Review] “A shopper’s paradise with a great variety of stores and restaurants” – Rick L.
13. Tjong A Fie Mansion – Jalan Jend. Ahmad Yani No. 105, Kesawan, Medan
[Review] “A beautifully restored mansion with a rich history and cultural heritage” – David S.
14. Hillpark Medan – Km. 13 Jalan Medan – Tebing Tinggi, Desa Pematang Banggur, Kec. Perbaungan
[Review] “A great place to spend a day in nature, surrounded by the beauty of Medan’s hills” – Eric O.
15. Istana Maimun – Jalan Brigjen Katamso, No. 57, Medan Area, Medan
[Review] “A beautifully restored palace, with a unique blend of Dutch and Malay architecture” – Sharon K.
16. Medan Grand Mosque – Jalan HM Jonhain Nasution No.3, Medan Maimun, Medan
[Review] “A serene and peaceful mosque, with a great view of the surrounding city” – David E.
17. Asam Kumbang Crocodile Bank – Jalan Asam Kumbang, Medan Selayang, Medan
[Review] “A must-visit place for lovers of animals and nature, with a great collection of crocodiles and other reptiles” – Adam W.
18. Medan Station – Jalan Stasiun Medan, Medan Baru, Medan
[Review] “A beautifully restored colonial-style train station, with great architecture and fascinating history” – Yolanda H.
19. Kampung Istana Maimun – Jalan Brigjen Katamso, No. 57, Medan
[Review] “A great place to experience Medan’s rich history and cultural heritage, and to meet friendly locals” – Claudia M.
20. Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni – Jalan Sakura III, Marindal 2, Tanjung Selamat, Medan
[Review] “A beautiful church with a peaceful and serene atmosphere, and great views of the city” – Monica J.
Hotels and Airbnb Listings
Here are the 10 most popular hotels and 10 most popular Airbnb listings in Medan, along with their details, price in US dollars, ratings and reviews:
Hotels:
1. Adimulia Hotel Medan – T: +62618578988; $72-$93/night; 4.6-rating based on 268 reviews
2. JW Marriott Hotel Medan – T: +626141291888; $93-$109/night; 4.5-rating based on 1608 reviews
3. Grand Mercure Medan Angkasa – T: +62614559777; $56-$82/night; 4.3-rating based on 2049 reviews
4. Santika Premiere Dyandra Hotel & Convention – T: +626178000000; $44-$59/night; 4.4-rating based on 1504 reviews
5. Aryaduta Medan – T: +62614521666; $61-$96/night; 4.2-rating based on 1141 reviews
6. Danau Toba Hotel International – T: +62614156969; $36-$46/night; 3.9-rating based on 515 reviews
7. Hotel Citi International Palang – T: +62614564680; $26-$31/night; 4.1-rating based on 322 reviews
8. Grand Aston City Hall Hotel & Serviced Residences – T: +6282261633333; $45-$55/night; 4.3-rating based on 167 reviews
9. Four Points by Sheraton Medan – T: +6281382729000; $57-$77/night; 4.3-rating based on 1278 reviews
10. Horison Sky Kualanamu – T: +62618333000; $33-$44/night; 4.2-rating based on 3290 reviews
Airbnb Listings:
1. Casa Camelia Medan – $11-$13/night; 4.78-rating based on 26 reviews
2. Lake Toba Villa – $113-$206/night; 4.87-rating based on 23 reviews
3. Amalia’s Place – $11-$13/night; 4.75-rating based on 12 reviews
4. Alyn’s Cozy Room – $10-$13/night; 4.9-rating based on 10 reviews
5. Studio Room on the Top Floor – $15-$18/night; 4.84-rating based on 19 reviews
6. Hermitage Garden Estate – $112-$146/night; 5.0-rating based on 5 reviews
7. Medan Paradise City View Suite – $22-$24/night; 4.72-rating based on 18 reviews
8. Toba Lake Side Villa – $113-$206/night; 4.85-rating based on 13 reviews
9. Abbie Guest House – $12-$17/night; 4.9-rating based on 7 reviews
10. GERALDiNE’S SHoP 2 – $17-$20/night; 4.9-rating based on 15 reviews
Recommendations for a 3-day Trip
For those looking to experience the best of Medan in just 3 days, here are my recommendations for places to go, food to try, and places to stay:
Day 1: Get up early and head out to Lake Toba, which is about 4 hours away from Medan. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters. On your way back, make a stop at the Asam Kumbang Crocodile Bank to see the collection of crocodiles and other reptiles. In the evening, head back to Medan and stay at Adimulia Hotel Medan.
Day 2: Start your day by visiting the Great Mosque of Medan, and then head to Maimun Palace and Tjong A Fie Mansion, to explore the rich cultural heritage of Medan. Enjoy a lunch of Bihun Bebek Sin Hie at Jalan Selat Panjang, and then head to the Marian Shrine of Annai Velangkanni, and enjoy sunset views from Graha Maria Annai Velangkanni. Stay at Casa Camelia Medan.
Day 3: Begin your day by heading to Vihara Gunung Timur and spend the morning exploring the temple, and then head to the Hillpark Sibolangit to spend time with family and friends, surrounded by the beauty of nature. In the evening, head to Santika Premiere Dyandra Hotel & Convention for a delicious dinner of Kepala Ikan Asam Padeh.
Medan is a unique destination in Indonesia, with its rich cultural heritage, and beautiful natural scenery. With a great mix of attractions, from architectural landmarks to natural wonders, the city offers an unforgettable experience for travelers of all ages, interests, and preferences. For these reasons, I rate Medan 8 out of 10 stars, and highly recommend it for those looking for an adventure.
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