Cruise Update 6: A memorable taste of Java

Our Viking Ocean cruise is nearing its end as we arrive in Indonesia, the fourth most populace country in the world, and consisting of 17,000 islands and over 700 languages.

The fascination of this southeast Asian archipelago is as much about present and future as its past with its British and Dutch influence.

A former key possession of the Dutch East India Company, Indonesia’s history has resulted in a rich, multicultural identity, blending Javanese, Chinese, Arab, and European influences.

Our first stop was on the island of Java, where we briefly explored Dutch heritage and explored Kota Lama, the old town of Semarang.

In the extreme heat and humidity, we walked through the rustic streets past historic Dutch heritage buildings to the Blenduk Church, dating back to 1753 and the oldest church in central Java.

Our tour continued to Ranggawarsita Museum, home to an ethnographic collection of almost 60,000 items reflecting the culture and traditions of West Java. The museum’s exhibits consist of antiquities, paintings and other artifacts, which are displayed in four different themed houses.

Next was a visit to Sam Poo Kong, now a multi-faith temple, built in honor of the famous Chinese Admiral Zheng He. We were greeted by a colorful Chinese lion dance and local refreshments. We had a chance to view the intricate stone carvings.

Our Javan visit took us next to Surabaya, including a foot exploration of a Javanese cultural institution and one of Surabaya’s oldest neighborhoods.

As we drove and strolled though these Surabaya’s streets, I couldn’t help reflecting on the contrast with Singapore, with its finest architecture, modern lifestyles and pristine gardens, parks and neighborhoods.

In Surabaya, there was a sense of genuine hospitality and appreciation to greet visitors. School children were excited to wave and high five us. We got to have close up views of their simple, humble homes.

One can learn a lot by seeing how people are living today, but there are so many signs of the rich history of the city as one views the interesting displays and collections in the museums. We visited Mpu Tantular Museum, established in 1933 by German collector Godfried Hariowald von Faber. This is the home of more than 15,000 artifacts, with exhibits that span Indonesia’s long history, from the Hindu-Buddhist and Islamic periods through the colonial era to modern times.

It was eye-opening to witness Indonesia’s past through the museum exhibits as well as viewing cultural performances and artistic displays.

Perhaps the most provocative scenes were in Peneleh Village, a Surabayan community first established during the 13th century. Amid the narrow back streets and uneven pavements, we observed the fascinating blend of Dutch colonial and traditional Javanese architecture that characterizes the village.

We walked the street the founding leader of Indonesia, Suharto, was raised. We viewed his house and saw murals, photos and artifacts of his life.

Along the way, villagers greeted us with such warmth and excitement, while displaying their local crafts, including batik creations.

We are preparing for our final stop in Bali (Benoa) tomorrow. Thanks for accompanying us so far and please come back for our last cruise update in a few days.

Go Riders.

Moses and Cintra