Bandung Travel Answers

Though I don't propose to be an expert in mannars or etiquette, I have stayed with friends in Indonesia. I'd say that one consideration would be, if the people you stay with are Muslim, you would not bring anything containing alcohol. It is my experience that Indonesians are gracious and kind, so if you make some sort of mistake, they would most likely over look it. Bandung is a university town, are the people you plan to visit connected to the University? Shirts/souvenirs from your local university might be good. You might bring a nice book about your hometown or country, age appropriate gifts for children or anything from your hometown or country that might be hard to get in Indonesia. Of course, the more you know about the family you'll be staying with the easier it would be to choose. Another thing that might be a good idea is to bring ingredients to make a favorite dish from you family or country and cook them a meal. Keep in mind, nothing that would require pork. I would suggest giving the gifts soon after your arrival, after you've settled in and when other people, who you have no gifts for, are not around. With regards to etiquette and customs, even if you asked to be told if you make some sort of mistake, it is unlikely that they would mention it as that might be considered rude from their perspective. It would be an interesting idea to bring this subject up with your hosts. Ask them "How do you do this/that in your home or country?" This form of discussion reveals many interesting insights as well as reminding your hosts that you don't actually know many things that might be expected of you while in their home. Also, if they are Muslims, there will be times thoughout the day that they, especially the men, will seem to "drift" away. Prayer time. Some people will announce it and others won't. You could ask what would be appropriate for you to do during their prayer time. You can be rewarded with interesting information. Once, I was actually invited to observe the prayer time ritual and found it fascinating.

Bandung folks are extremely nice anmd hospitable people and you would rarely see naybody asking you for something, even though most are living in modest conditions, poverty is often visible. It might lack originality, but a cash gift - even small amounts - will help them more than anything...with the ewxception of your smile and personal interest.

Every Indonesian man and woman love to get "oleh-oleh" (little presents brought from a holiday or trip). That can be food, or souvenirs. They will very pleased to be given a souvenir from your country because it is very difficult for Indonesia to travel outside their own country (to expensive). Moslims will never buy something that contains drawings or images of people or animals. But photo's of people and animals are allowed (because a drawing suggests that the drawer tries to make the creation made by God more beautifull and a photo just shows the reality). Moslims like pictures of flowers very much. Don't forget the children, Indonesian people are very font of children and always bring a little present for the children. If you want to give a present to the child, drawing of images are allowed (because it is only a toy). Notice that in Indonesia it is not polite to open a present in front of the giver! They will accept your present, say thanks and leave in wrapped. If there is an old man or woman in the room, don't forget to greet him/her first. It is polite to show your respect by bringing your forehead to his/her hand. Never use your left hand to eat or give presents. Indonesian people use their lefthand in the toilet. Be patient always, Indonesian children are learned to be patient, it is part of their religion. It is also a part of their tradition to smile, make contact with other people, and talk to everyone. People who not greet or communicate are called "sombong" (arogant). Have a nice time.