You know that feeling when you think you've got everything planned out, and then something completely unexpected whacks you upside the head? That was me the moment I stepped off the plane in Medan. I mean, I'd read about it — the best things to do in Medan supposedly all shine like gems in the rough compared to other tourist hotspots — but like, really? Was Medan going to be just “fine,” or would it surprise me? Spoiler alert: it did.
This Spot? Total Surprise.
Honestly, I wasn't expecting much from the city. I mean, it's Medan, not Bali or Jakarta, right? But then, as I made my way through the bustling streets, I stumbled upon something just magical: Tjong Yong Hian Mansion. I almost walked right past it, just another building in a sea of concrete. But something pulled me in, maybe the intriguing mix of Chinese and European architectural styles. And wow, stepping inside was like being catapulted back in time.
There was this peaceful courtyard with a hint of jasmine in the air, and as I wandered around, I could practically feel the whispers of history brushing against my skin. I took a breather here, just soaking in the old-world charm. I'm pretty sure “meditative” isn't the word to use for a building, but that afternoon? It felt right. I didn't even plan to go there, but then again, the best things to do in Medan often find you unexpectedly.
The Afternoon That Changed My Whole Mood
Now, let me backtrack a bit. I landed, exhausted, with fatigue weighing on my shoulders like I was carrying a backpack filled with bricks. I thought I'd get through the first day and just take it easy, maybe grab some mediocre local food. Fast forward to me wandering around, and I found myself at a street vendor who was selling… get this, bakso!
Wow. Just wow. This was hands-down some of the best street food I've ever had. It was a simple bowl of beef meatballs floating in a savory broth, but there was a kind of magic in it that put me in a better mood instantly. I sat on a rickety plastic chair, slurping away as the sun began to dip. The flavors hit me like a wave, and just like that, I was rejuvenated.
You know when something simple makes you feel alive? That was me in that moment, letting the broth warm my insides while absolutely blocking out the stress I'd brought with me. It's strange how a bowl of soup can change the whole energy of your day.
I Almost Missed This, No Thanks to My Bad Sense of Direction
So, let's talk about my typical travel fails. I have a horrible sense of direction. I always seem to take the wrong turn or end up on the opposite side of where I intended to go. If there's a way to make things more complicated, I'll find it.
Take, for example, my journey to the Maimun Palace. I was super excited about checking it out, imagining grand halls and sumptuous décor. But somehow I ended up wandering through a local market first. I mean, I don't know why I ended up there but the lively chaos was magnetic — an explosion of colors, sounds, and tantalizing smells. Stalls crammed with tropical fruits, the sizzle of frying snacks, vendors bantering in the background… I lost my sense of time.
And while I didn't exactly stray far from my original plan, that detour turned out to be one of the best things I could've done. I found this little stall selling something that looked like deep-fried bananas, drizzled in honey. I have no idea what it was called, but it was pure bliss. I devoured it on a plastic chair with the street noise buzzing around me, and I'm pretty sure I grinned for the rest of the day. Sometimes you really need to lose your way to find something special, you know?
A Meal That Left a Mark
I have to mention the Nasi Goreng here. You'd think I'd be over it by now, but no, I can't seem to shake off that plate of fried rice I had at an unassuming little place called Nasi Goreng Sederhana. I took a seat, and before I could even flip through the menu, the owner came over with a smile so wide you could fit a watermelon in it. “You try our special!” he said, practically shoving the plate into my hands.
When it arrived, it looked almost too beautiful to eat — vibrant reds and greens swirling through the rice, topped with an egg that was cooked to perfection. I took a bite and I swear my taste buds danced. The spice was just right, igniting fireworks in my mouth, and the smoky flavor was so rich it felt like a warm hug.
But the cool part? I ended up chatting with the owner, who shared the story of the spice mix his family had passed down for generations. It felt like a meal, but it was also like a window into a way of life. I left that night not just filled with food but also with this newfound understanding of local culture. And how's that for a side effect of a meal, right?
Reflections and Other Little Tidbits
Closer to the end of my trip, I had this moment where I thought: “Should I have even come here?” It was a mix of nervousness and anticipation to leave, you know? Almost all my friends said nothing much happens in Medan, but I realized they just didn't know how to dig deeper into the city's vibe.
Traveling is funny like that. Some places need a bit more coaxing to show their gems, and Medan was no exception. I left the city filled with experiences that were sometimes messy and unpredictable — just like the city itself.
Now, as I sit here sipping my coffee, I can't help but smile at all the little detours and surprises. It's amazing how a city can resonate with you so unexpectedly. Medan taught me that sometimes the best things to do aren't the ones everyone raves about in a guidebook but the moments you stumble into when you least expect it.
Maybe the next time you chat with someone about Medan, you'll hear stories like mine: filled with food that warms the soul and unexpected beauty hiding in corners you'd never expect. Honestly? I can't wait to go back.
