Medan Hotels

It’s particularly worth stopping in Medan if you like food. And by ‘stopping’ we mean ‘immersing yourself in every corner of the city’. From the food courts of central Sudirman Street and the Sun Plaza mall to the noodle stalls and curry hawkers lining Petisah and Kesawan Square, Medan’s vibrant and mouth-wateringly tasty food culture is proof that the black smoke spewing from motorised becaks isn’t the only sensory stimulation this city has to offer. Need some respite? Venture up to one of the many sacred sites – you don’t need to be Muslim, Buddhist, Hindu or Islam to appreciate the serenity.

MEDAN’S TOP 10

MEDAN EVENTS

Medan Jazz Nation in May is a new event, conveniently instigated to promote not only jazz but Medan’s lacking tourist industry.

At June’s Food & Fashion Festival you’ll find tasty food and clothing hawkers lining Medan Walk.

The bright neon lights of McDonald’s are shrouded in curtains for the fast of Ramadan. There’s plenty more to do in Medan during this month, but even many Muslims don’t say no to a sneaky cheeseburger.

Medan locals love to eat, so it’s no wonder they adore Eid ul-Fitr – a three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan.

In Europe they have the Christmas markets, in Medan they have the Ramadhan Fair (November). It’s just as popular, just as brightly lit and a little grimier.

WHEN TO GO

• Although May to September is the dry season, that doesn’t mean it’s completely rain-free.
• April is the transition month, when temperatures can hit 35°C (95°F).
• Medan’s weather is unpredictable during storms on the Indian Ocean. Warm, sunny days go hand in hand with heavy afternoon showers.

GETTING AROUND

• Becaks (also known as trishaws or pedicabs) are a good choice if you’re adept at communicating through maps and lots of pointing.
• Taxis are common, but stick with the main companies. Most others won’t use meters and many won’t even give you change.
• Public transport might be tempting to those who aren’t born negotiators, as it has the advantage of fixed prices. To use them, however, you will need to speak Indonesian, flag them down and have a good sense of direction.

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