Medan City Profile
Long known as the gateway to the wilds of northern Sumatra, Medan is capital of this largely Islamic area of the country. Be prepared to be stared at and possibly hassled if you're not dressed modestly and conservatively.
Don't wear shorts, tank tops, or even "clingy" clothes, because the locals will be very offended. Skirts, t-shirts, and light cotton pants are your best bets. Batik patchwork pants are widely available, and cost about US$2 or $3. The tourist office is located at Jalan Ahmad Yani 107.
Population
2,000,000
Location
Medan is the capital city of North Sumatra province on the island of Sumatra. It is located just inland from the port of Belawan.
Weather
Medan's coastal location makes for hot, humid weather year-round.
Transportation
Medan's international airport has connecting flights to Singapore, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang, and has air service to all major airports in Indonesia as well. You can also reach Medan by bus or train, or via boat through the port of Belawan. Travel within the city is best undertaken by bus, bemo, becak, or taxi. Be sure to agree on a fare before you embark; prices for foreigners are generally higher.
Places of Interest
Keep an eye out for unusual architecture, and be sure to visit Sultan's Palace, the Orangutan Rehabilitation Center, and the Museum of North Sumatra.
Expat Hangouts
Jalan Ahmad Yani, the same street on which you'll find the tourist office, has a few restaurants at which you'll find both ex-pats and good food; to start, check out Lyn's Restaurant and the Tip Top Restaurant. If you're aching for Western food, Medan also has two KFCs and a Pizza Hut. You'll find English-language newspapers at the Tiara Medan hotel book shop.
