Day 7

Today was probably the best day yet. After having a fascinating talk with the Deputy Governer of Culture and Tourism, we got to eat lunch at the governer’s office and talk to him one on one about issues like why people don’t get along and what makes Jakarta a hub for religious pluralism and why that works. The lunch there was also amazing and I hope to have salad with peanut sauce again sometime soon! After our visit at the Governor’s office, we went to the Constitution Center where we learned how the public policy of the country is shaped. Then we took to the streets of Jakarta and walked all around Chinatown where they were selling everything from snacks to live animals. The bunnies were probably my favorite, although it was sad to see many of the animals being mistreated. At one point there was a man on a motorcycle holding a fistful of chickens with their feet tied together. I know this kind of thing happens a lot but it was different to see it happen in person. There were actually SO many people everywhere it’s hard to imagine how they all fit in one city. It was also interesting to observe people living in abject poverty right alongside people that were more well-off in their living quarters. I can’t wait to see what Jogja is like because I have heard it is much different than it is here. We’re leaving to start the day soon, but I’ll post again later with the evening report! Ciao!

--Shannon Cassidy, Lehigh University

 

Just got back from a morning bike ride with our wonderful hosts! Lloyd and I were the only Americans brave enough to do so--and so glad we did! It was AMAZING! I'll post more later, but what a great way to start the day!!

--Ellie McGuire, Lehigh University 

 

A loyalty of Merapi and Yogyakarta people that you can't explain.

--Anggita Paramesti, Gadjah Mada University