Solo City, Surakarta

Solo City, Surakarta: A firsthand travel perspective by mr.hotsia

When talking about a city full of cultural and historical charm in Indonesia, Solo City, also known as Surakarta (Surakarta), is a place I, mr.hotsia, highly recommend everyone to visit. Once the center of royal power in the 18th century, it still perfectly preserves the charm of the old palace, the local way of life, and impressive local cuisine.

Traveling to Solo City chosen by mr.hotsia

Speaking of traveling to Solo, my choice and recommendation is the train. This city has a train station connected to nearby major cities like Yogyakarta, just 65 kilometers away. The train ride between these two cities takes only about an hour. The train is convenient, with departures every half hour. I have traveled from Yogyakarta to Solo and back by train, witnessing daily life on the train, students, and locals who speak English fluently. It was a fun and very convenient experience.Read about train travel between Solo Surakarta and YogyakartaTo prepare yourself before the trip

Central City Accommodation: ISTANA Griya 2 Hotel with a homely feeling

This time I stayed at ISTANA Griya 2 Hotel, located not far from the Sultan's Palace. The hotel is in a safe and comfortable area, importantly close to local food spots I really like, such as a chicken satay stall behind an alley and an oxtail soup shop across the street that I never miss. Very convenient for traveling and enjoying local food. The room rate is about 250,000 Rupiah per night, roughly 750 Baht, including breakfast, which is very good value. If you want a slightly more luxurious stay, I recommend Novotel Solo Hotel or Ibis Solo Hotel, both nearby in a convenient area for walking and shopping.Read more about the Sultan's Palace and accommodation in Solo

Savoring the unique flavors of Solo

Another thing that made Solo memorable for me is the local food. I found a shop selling oxtail soup with a rich, delicious flavor that made me stop by several times. There is also street pork satay that is equally flavorful, and an Indonesian pancake calledSRABI SOLOwhich is a thinner version of the traditional Indonesian snack 'khanom thang taek.' It is baked in a mold similar to a pancake but larger. Available in banana and chocolate flavors. I tried both and found them a bit sweet, but it was an interesting and tasty experience in its own way.

Another dessert I really liked wasEs Thole Buah Bakar Exotica SOLOIndonesian red syrup bread sold on the streets of Solo. It is a cold sweet treat with jelly, bread, milk, and red syrup. Eating it sitting on the roadside while an old steam locomotive train passes by creates a unique atmosphere you won't find anywhere else.

Activities mr.hotsia did not miss in Solo

Solo has a charm different from other tourist cities because it offers unique activities like riding an old steam locomotive train. Although I missed booking this in advance, I experienced many other activities such as visiting theSultan's Palacewhich is an old palace full of antiques and rich historical stories. I bought a ticket with an English guide at a reasonable price and learned about the relationship between the Sultan and the Thai royal family.

Additionally, I tried a new experience I had never had before, which isear candle therapyHere, a special candle is lit in the ear canal while massaging the head to relax. Afterward, I was surprised to see the earwax that was removed. This experience was unique and memorable, even though it made me feel a bit dizzy afterward.

If you like massages, I recommend trying the local oil massage here. The clean atmosphere and traditional Solo massage service made me feel very relaxed. Read aboutOil Massage in Solo City, Surakartafor video reviews and more details.

Lifestyle and atmosphere in Solo that impressed mr.hotsia

Sunday mornings in Solo impressed me greatly because the main city roads are closed to allow people to engage in activities together, such as walking, cycling, or walking dogs. Seeing groups of people chatting and valuing family time on a holiday is rare in many big cities. This scene made me feel that Solo is not just a tourist city but one that truly preserves the warmth of its community.Read about the strange shell atmosphere and Sunday morning in Surakarta

Summary of mr.hotsia's experience with Solo City, Surakarta

For me, Solo City, Surakarta is a city full of stories and culture worth exploring. Whether it's convenient train travel, affordable accommodation, diverse local food with unique flavors, or unusual and unique tourist activities like ear candle therapy, riding a steam locomotive train, or strolling the pedestrian street in front of the Sultan's Palace, these are experiences I, mr.hotsia, highly recommend you see for yourself at least once.

If you are looking for a destination that is not crowded but full of culture and authentic local lifestyle, Solo, Surakarta is the answer I leave with you.