28.01.2024 – Journey to Yogyakarta: Arrival and First Impressions
After a six-hour journey on the ARGO DWIPANGGA 10 train, we finally arrived in Yogyakarta. Despite the onboard food offerings, we found ourselves extremely hungry upon disembarking. After a brief rest of about an hour at our hotel, we decided to venture out and find something to eat.
Our hunger led us to search for a restaurant within walking distance from our hotel. We stumbled upon a charming café called “Secret Garden and Chocolate,” conveniently located near Jalan Gampingan. The café’s ambiance was inviting, with a cozy blend of traditional and modern decor, making it the perfect spot to unwind after our long journey.
The menu offered a delightful mix of local cuisine and western dishes. Famished, each of us decided to order two servings. I couldn’t resist the allure of nasi goreng ayam (fried rice with chicken) and a hearty grilled chicken. The dishes were beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The nasi goreng was perfectly spiced, with a delightful mix of textures and tastes, while the grilled chicken was tender and juicy, complemented by a rich, smoky marinade.
Menu - Part 1
Menu - Part 2
With our hunger satiated, we felt revitalized and ready to explore. We decided to take a leisurely stroll around the area. The evening air was cool and refreshing, a welcome change from the heat of the day. Our wanderings eventually led us to Bukit Bintang, a popular spot known for its stunning nighttime views.
Unlike its namesake in Kuala Lumpur, Yogyakarta’s Bukit Bintang offered a serene and picturesque setting. As we reached the top, we were greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the city’s twinkling lights. The sight was nothing short of magical, with the cityscape spread out before us like a glittering tapestry. The tranquil atmosphere was perfect for unwinding and taking in the beauty of Yogyakarta at night.
We found a small stall where we ordered some local snacks – jagung bakar (grilled corn) and pisang cheese (cheese-coated bananas) – along with a pot of hot tea. The grilled corn was sweet and smoky, a perfect snack to enjoy under the starlit sky. The pisang cheese was a delightful treat, with the creamy cheese adding a unique twist to the sweet bananas. The tea was soothing, providing a warm contrast to the cool night air.
As we relaxed, we couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s adventures. The journey had been long, but the experiences and sights we had encountered made it all worthwhile. With our bodies and minds refreshed, we decided to head back to the hotel. Tomorrow promised more exciting explorations, and we wanted to be well-rested for the adventures that lay ahead.
Back at the hotel, we settled into our comfortable beds, the anticipation of discovering more of Yogyakarta filling our thoughts. As we drifted off to sleep, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memorable start to our Indonesian adventure.
Night view of Bukit Bintang
Stall at Bukit Bintang
Having Jagung Bakar and Hot Tea
As we relaxed, we couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s adventures. The journey had been long, but the experiences and sights we had encountered made it all worthwhile. With our bodies and minds refreshed, we decided to head back to the hotel. Tomorrow promised more exciting explorations, and we wanted to be well-rested for the adventures that lay ahead.
Back at the hotel, we settled into our comfortable beds, the anticipation of discovering more of Yogyakarta filling our thoughts. As we drifted off to sleep, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memorable start to our Indonesian adventure.