Makassar: The Gateway to Eastern Indonesia

• HelloSalama
  [sa-la-ma]
• GoodbyePamali
  [pa-ma-li]
• YesIya
  [i-ya]
• NoTidak
  [ti-dak]
• Please/You're welcomeTolong
  [to-long]
• Thank youMaturangang
  [ma-tu-ran-gang]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [ma-af]
• How are you?Kabar baik?
  [ka-bar ba-ik]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Kamu?
  [ba-ik. ka-mu]
• Do you speak English?Kamu bisa berbahasa Inggris?
  [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, pleaseBoleh lihat menu, tolong
  [bo-le li-hat me-nu, to-long]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya ti-dak ma-kan da-ging]
• Cheers!Selong
  [se-long]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya mau bayar, tolong
  [sa-ya mau 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 han-ya me-li-hat-li-hat]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-ga-nya]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [i-tu ter-la-lu ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Bisa diturunkan harganya?
  [bi-sa di-tu-run-kan har-ga-nya]

• What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
• It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
  [se-ka-rang pu-kul sa-tu]
• Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [se-ten-gah (se-pu-luh)]
• MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
• AfternoonSore
  [so-re]
• 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...?Dimana ada/...?
  [di-ma-na a-da/...?]
• What's the address?Alamatnya apa?
  [a-lam-at-nya a-pa]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan (di peta)?
  [bi-sa tun-juk-kan (di pe-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bis)?
  [ka-pan yang be-ru-tu-nya (bis)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [ti-ket (ke ....)]

Makassar's history stretches back to the 14th century, with the rise of the Kingdom of Gowa. This powerful kingdom became a major maritime power in the eastern Indonesian archipelago. The rulers of Gowa were instrumental in establishing Makassar as a bustling port city, facilitating trade with regions as far as India, China, and the Middle East.

In the early 17th century, Makassar became a significant center for the spread of Islam in Indonesia. The conversion of King Alauddin of Gowa to Islam in 1605 marked a pivotal moment. The city became a hub for Islamic learning and culture, attracting scholars and traders from across the Muslim world.

The strategic importance of Makassar caught the eye of European colonial powers. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) sought control over Makassar's trade routes and clashed with the Kingdom of Gowa. The Battle of Makassar in 1667 resulted in the defeat of Gowa and the signing of the Treaty of Bongaya, which gave the VOC control over the city and its trade.

Fort Rotterdam, originally built by the Gowa Kingdom, was expanded and fortified by the Dutch. This fort became a symbol of Dutch colonial power in Makassar. The architecture within the fort and the surrounding area showcases a blend of indigenous and European styles, reflecting the city's complex history.

During the Indonesian National Revolution (1945-1949), Makassar played a crucial role. The city saw significant military action as local forces resisted Dutch attempts to re-establish colonial control. The struggle in Makassar was part of the broader push for Indonesian independence, which was finally achieved in 1949.

Makassar is known for its rich cultural tapestry, influenced by various ethnic groups, including the Bugis, Makassarese, Chinese, and Arabs. This diversity is reflected in the city's cuisine, traditions, and festivals. The annual Makassar International Eight Festival and Forum showcases the city's vibrant cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, and culinary arts.

Today, Makassar is a thriving metropolis and the largest city in eastern Indonesia. It continues to be a major port and economic hub, with a bustling waterfront and modern infrastructure. The city balances its historical heritage with rapid development, making it a fascinating destination for travelers seeking both cultural and contemporary experiences.

Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi, is accessible via Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG), located about 20 kilometers from the city center. The airport serves both domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use ride-hailing services like Grab to reach the city. Alternatively, DAMRI buses operate routes from the airport to various parts of Makassar. For those traveling by sea, Makassar can be reached via Pelabuhan Soekarno-Hatta, a major port that connects to other Indonesian islands.

Getting around Makassar is relatively easy with various modes of transportation available. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are convenient and widely used. Public transportation includes 'pete-pete' (minibuses) that cover most parts of the city. For short distances, motorbike taxis known as 'ojek' are a quick and affordable option. Renting a car or motorbike is also possible for more independent exploration. Note that traffic can be heavy, especially during rush hours.

The official currency in Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available throughout Makassar. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport, banks, and authorized money changers in the city. It is recommended to have some small denominations for easier transactions.

Makassar is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take common precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. Some areas, such as Panakkukang and parts of Tallo, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night. Stick to well-lit and populated areas and use registered taxis or ride-hailing services. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow local guidelines.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for general assistance. For police, dial 110, and for medical emergencies, dial 118. Sultan Hasanuddin University Hospital and Wahidin Sudirohusodo Hospital are among the major medical facilities in Makassar. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Keep a copy of important contacts, such as your country's embassy or consulate, for additional support.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering mosques and wear modest attire. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight bow of the head. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Makassar like a local, visit the traditional markets such as Pasar Butung and Pasar Sentral for fresh produce and unique souvenirs. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the city's culture and history. Don't miss trying local dishes like Coto Makassar and Pisang Epe at street food stalls. For a unique experience, take a boat ride to the nearby islands like Samalona Island for beautiful beaches and snorkeling opportunities. Attend local festivals such as the Makassar International Eight Festival and Forum (F8) for cultural performances and events.