Surabaya is the capital of East Java and the second largest city of Indonesia. It is also the main seaport, business hub, commerce, industry, administrative and education center of eastern Indonesia. Known to the Indonesians as 'Kota Pahlawan' literally 'City of Heroes' as it was the home of many independence fighters during historical times.
The city's logo is a white shark and a white crocodile; which according to legend, battled for the title 'The Strongest and Most Powerful Animal'. Thus its name 'Sura' meaning shark and 'Baya' meaning crocodile or known locally as Suroboyo in Javanese.
Views of the city from my room at Ibis Surabaya Rajawali Hotel.
Food vendors opposite the hotel during early morning hours.
Urban swiftlets' home in the city center.
The Oriental gateway to Chinatown district - A 750m long and 20m wide street lining with hundreds of small business, numerous Chinese restaurants and eateries. Locals still use hand pulled carts to transport their goods. An interesting glimpse into the past.
Spinach with salted egg and century egg (双蛋菠菜) served in a wok. Never have eaten such a dish anywhere else before. Simply Delicious! Just the right combinations.
Codfish congee 鳕鱼粥 is perfectly stomach warming top with salted egg, crispy fried yu tiao (油条), ginger, shallot, spring onion and celery. Wonder what's the secret recipe of this super smooth, soft congee with the fresh codfish still swimming in my stomach!
Fresh soursop and avocado whipped up into frothy juices, taste more like smoothie. Jus Alpukat (avocado juice) is a signature drink of Indonesia. The blend of ripe avocado, milk, coffee and ice with drizzle ribbons of chocolate syrup is heavenly! Addicted instantly!
The Suramadu Bridge or Surabaya-Madura Bridge connects Surabaya on Java Island and Bangkalan on Madura Island over the Madura Strait. It was officially opened on 10th June 2009 and is currently the longest bridge (5.438km) in Indonesia.
Stopping by along the bridge is not allowed with NO STOP signs everywhere. Took a quick snap before the efficient patrol police come chasing people off in their patrol cars.
Taxi fare always took a long time to settle..
The city's motto: 'Sparkling Surabaya' is to designate Surabaya as A Sparkling, Bright, Comfortable and Never Sleep City. Cannot sleep indeed. "How much did i give the taxi guy just now? Did i give him the correct amount? Did he give me back the correct change?"
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