Cihampelas: The Heartbeat of Bandung's Shopping and Culture

• HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [se-la-mat ting-gal]
• YesYa
  [ya]
• NoTidak
  [ti-dak]
• Please/You're welcomeSilakan
  [si-la-kan]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ri-ma ka-sih]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
• How are you?Apa kabar?
  [a-pa ka-bar]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Kamu?
  [ba-ik. ka-mu]
• Do you speak English?Apakah kamu bisa berbahasa Inggris?
  [a-pa-kah ka-mu bi-sa ber-ba-ha-sa Ing-gris]
• I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sa-ya ti-dak men-ger-ti]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, to-long]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
• Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [se-la-mat mi-num]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, to-long]

• Help!Tolong!
  [to-long]
• Go away!Pergi!
  [per-gi]
• Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pang-gil po-li-si]
• Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pang-gil dok-ter]
• I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
• I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]

• I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-li]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat-lihat
  [sa-ya hun-ya me-li-hat-li-hat]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-gan-ya]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Bisa kurangi harganya?
  [bi-sa kur-an-gi har-gan-ya]

• What time is it?Sekarang jam berapa?
  [se-ka-rang jam be-ra-pa]
• It's one o'clockSekarang jam satu
  [se-ka-rang jam sa-tu]
• Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [se-ten-gah (se-pu-luh)]
• MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
• AfternoonSiang
  [si-ang]
• EveningMalam
  [ma-lam]
• YesterdayKemarin
  [ke-ma-rin]
• TodayHari ini
  [ha-ri i-ni]
• TomorrowBesok
  [be-sok]
• 1Satu
  [sa-tu]
• 2Dua
  [du-a]
• 3Tiga
  [ti-ga]
• 4Empat
  [em-pat]
• 5Lima
  [li-ma]
• 6Enam
  [e-nam]
• 7Tujuh
  [tu-juh]
• 8Delapan
  [de-la-pan]
• 9Sembilan
  [sem-bi-lan]
• 10Sepuluh
  [se-pu-luh]

• Where's a/the...?Di mana...
  [di ma-na]
• What's the address?Alamatnya apa?
  [a-lam-at-nya a-pa]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan saya (di peta)?
  [bi-sa tun-juk-kan sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bis)?
  [ka-pan yang be-ru-tut-nya (bis)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [ti-ket (ke)]

Cihampelas, located in the western part of Bandung, has roots that trace back to the early 20th century when it served as a significant area for the burgeoning population of the city. Originally developed as a residential neighborhood, Cihampelas began to attract visitors and settlers due to its cooler climate and lush landscapes, which were a draw for the Dutch elite during colonial times.

During the Dutch colonial period, Cihampelas became a prominent area for the establishment of villas and leisure facilities for the colonial elite. The architecture from this era can still be seen in some of the buildings, which reflect a blend of European and local styles. Cihampelas was also part of the larger urban planning initiatives by the Dutch, aimed at creating a modern city that incorporated green spaces and recreational areas.

Following Indonesia's independence in 1945, Cihampelas underwent significant changes as it transitioned from a colonial residential area to a vibrant commercial hub. The neighborhood became known for its unique blend of traditional markets and modern businesses, reflecting the broader cultural shifts within Bandung and the country as a whole, as locals sought to establish their identity in the post-colonial era.

In the late 1990s, Cihampelas emerged as a shopping destination with the establishment of Cihampelas Walk (Ciwalk), a modern shopping complex that combined retail, dining, and entertainment. This development not only transformed the local economy but also made Cihampelas a focal point for both locals and tourists, showcasing the region's evolving culture and lifestyle.

In recent years, Cihampelas has become synonymous with youth culture in Bandung, often highlighted in various Indonesian films and music videos. Its vibrant atmosphere, street art, and fashion boutiques have attracted young crowds, making it a cultural hotspot that reflects the dynamic social trends of the city.

Cihampelas is centrally located in Bandung and easily accessible from various neighborhoods. From Bandung's train station, you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service, which takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Local buses (Angkot) also connect to Cihampelas from major areas like Dago and Setiabudi. The nearest airport is Husein Sastranegara International Airport, about 5 km away, with taxis available for direct transportation to Cihampelas.

Cihampelas is relatively compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options include local buses (Angkot) and motorcycle taxis (ojek), which can be hailed from the street or ordered via apps. Bicycles can also be rented from various shops for a more leisurely exploration of the area. Be mindful of traffic as it can be congested, especially on weekends.

Cihampelas is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in dimly lit areas. While crime rates are low, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded markets. Areas to exercise caution include busy shopping streets and night markets. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 118 for medical emergencies. There are several hospitals and clinics in and around Cihampelas. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are readily available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Don't wear revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be mindful when taking photos of religious ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile; a nod can also be a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local food and drinks, but don't refuse food offerings as it may offend your host.

To experience Cihampelas like a local, visit the Cihampelas Walk shopping mall for a mix of local and international brands. Try local street food such as batagor and cilok at nearby food stalls. Engage with local vendors and ask for recommendations – they are often eager to share their favorite spots. Visit the nearby Cihampelas Forest Park for a relaxing break from the bustling streets, and don’t forget to check out the famous Cihampelas jeans street for unique shopping experiences.