Simokerto: The Hidden Gem of Surabaya

• 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. Dan kamu?
  [ba-ik. dan 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, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, si-la-kan]
• 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, silakan
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, si-la-kan]

• 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 hu-nya 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 ditawar?
  [bi-sa di-ta-war]

• What time is it?Sekarang jam berapa?
  [se-ka-rang jam be-ra-pa]
• It's one o'clockSekarang pukul satu
  [se-ka-rang pu-kul sa-tu]
• Half past (10)Setengah (10)
  [se-ten-gah (10)]
• 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...?Di mana ada/ada...
  [di ma-na a-da/a-da]
• What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
• 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 (bus)?
  [ka-pan yang be-ru-ti-nya (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Satu tiket (ke ....)
  [sa-tu ti-ket (ke ....)]

Simokerto's history can be traced back to the early days of Surabaya, which was established as a port city in the 13th century. Situated near the banks of the Kalimas River, Simokerto served as an essential community for traders and fishermen, contributing to the economic foundation of the region.

During the Dutch colonial period in the 18th and 19th centuries, Simokerto experienced significant development. The Dutch established trade routes that connected Simokerto to other regions, leading to the growth of local industries, particularly fishing and agriculture. The neighborhood's strategic location made it a vital point for trade and commerce.

The Japanese occupation of Indonesia from 1942 to 1945 brought about drastic changes in Simokerto. The community faced harsh restrictions and forced labor, as the Japanese sought to exploit local resources. However, this period also sparked a sense of nationalism among the local population, setting the stage for post-war independence movements.

Following Indonesia's independence in 1945, Simokerto became a hub for new settlers and migrants from various parts of the archipelago. The influx of people contributed to the neighborhood's cultural diversity, with various ethnic groups coexisting and enriching the local traditions and customs.

In contemporary times, Simokerto has evolved into a vibrant neighborhood, blending modernity with its rich history. Local festivals, traditional markets, and community events reflect the cultural heritage of Surabaya. The neighborhood is also known for its culinary scene, offering a variety of traditional Indonesian dishes that showcase the flavors of East Java.

Simokerto is easily accessible from various neighbourhoods in Surabaya. The neighbourhood is approximately 10 km from the city center, and you can reach it via public transportation. Local buses (angkot) run frequently from major hubs like Tunjungan Plaza and Gubeng Station. Alternatively, taxis and ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab are convenient options for a more direct route.

Simokerto is a compact neighbourhood, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local angkots and ojek (motorcycle taxis) are available. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops for a more leisurely exploration of the area. Public buses connect Simokerto to other parts of Surabaya, ensuring accessibility.

Simokerto is generally safe for tourists; however, it is advisable to remain vigilant. Areas near the Simokerto market can be crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in bustling local markets. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance or 119 for medical emergencies. Several hospitals and clinics are available in and around Simokerto. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide basic over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices; covering your shoulders and knees is recommended in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous, especially to the elderly. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a nod. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food, but ensure it's from clean stalls. Don't refuse food or drink offers as it may offend your hosts.

To experience Simokerto like a local, visit the bustling Simokerto Market early in the morning for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with vendors for insight into local life. For a unique experience, attend community events, which can often be found advertised on local bulletin boards. Don't miss the chance to explore the nearby historical sites, including traditional Javanese houses.