The Vibrant Heart of Surabaya: Tunjungan

• 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. Bagaimana denganmu?
  [ba-ik. ba-gai-ma-na den-gan-mu]
• Do you speak English?Apakah anda bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?
  [a-pa-kah an-da bi-sa ber-bi-ca-ra 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 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?Bisakah anda menurunkan harganya?
  [bi-sa-kah an-da me-nu-run-kan har-ga-nya]

• What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
• It's one o'clockJam satu
  [jam 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...?Di mana...
  [di ma-na]
• What's the address?Apa alamatnya?
  [a-pa a-la-mat-nya]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bisakah anda menunjukkan kepada saya (di peta)?
  [bi-sa-kah an-da me-nun-juk-kan ke-pa-da sa-ya (di pe-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kapan (bus) berikutnya?
  [ka-pan (bus) be-ru-ti-knya]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [ti-ket (ke)]

Tunjungan, located in the heart of Surabaya, was significantly developed during the Dutch colonial period in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As Surabaya emerged as a vital trading hub, Tunjungan became a prominent area characterized by colonial architecture, including the historic Tunjungan Plaza, which reflects the European influence of that era.

In the 1930s, Tunjungan played a pivotal role in the modernization of Surabaya. The establishment of businesses, hotels, and entertainment venues transformed the neighborhood into a central social and commercial hub. This period saw the construction of the iconic Hotel Majapahit, which became a symbol of luxury and elegance.

During World War II, Tunjungan, like much of Indonesia, experienced the harsh realities of Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. The occupation led to significant changes in the local economy and society, as Japanese authorities imposed strict controls and utilized local resources for the war effort. The impact of this period is still remembered by residents through various historical narratives.

Following Indonesia's declaration of independence in 1945, Tunjungan became a focal point for nationalist movements. It witnessed significant political activity and demonstrations as the local population sought to assert their rights and identity. The neighborhood's vibrant community spirit was instrumental in shaping the post-colonial narrative of Surabaya.

Today, Tunjungan is a blend of history and modernity, serving as a cultural hub that showcases Surabaya's rich heritage. The area hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and traditional markets, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the neighborhood over the decades. The blend of modern shopping complexes with historic sites illustrates the ongoing evolution of Tunjungan within the urban landscape of Surabaya.

Tunjungan is centrally located in Surabaya, making it easily accessible from other neighborhoods. You can reach Tunjungan by taking a taxi or using ride-hailing apps like Gojek or Grab. If you're coming from Surabaya's Gubeng Train Station, it’s just a short 15-minute taxi ride. Public buses and angkots (minibuses) also frequently connect Tunjungan with various parts of the city, making it convenient for travelers.

Tunjungan is well-connected by public transport. The local bus system operates routes through the area, and angkots can be flagged down along major streets. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the neighborhood at a leisurely pace, as many attractions are within cycling distance. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available, providing an easy option for getting around.

Tunjungan is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy markets and shopping areas. Be cautious in poorly lit streets at night and avoid displaying valuables. While most of Tunjungan is safe, areas around the outskirts may have higher crime rates—exercise caution when wandering off the main streets.

In case of an emergency, dial the local emergency number 112 for police assistance. Hospitals and clinics are available in and around Tunjungan, with the RSUD Dr. Soetomo being one of the larger hospitals. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops in such places. Religion: Do respect local customs, and when visiting mosques, ensure to wear appropriate attire. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly or disabled passengers, but don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite handshake; a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try street food, but don’t drink tap water; opt for bottled water instead.

To experience Tunjungan like a local, visit the historic Tunjungan Plaza for shopping and dining. Explore the nearby traditional markets for authentic Indonesian snacks and handicrafts. Engage with local vendors, as they often share stories about the culture and history of Surabaya. Don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes such as rawon (beef soup) and rujak (fruit salad) at street stalls. Take time to enjoy the vibrant street art that adorns many buildings in the area.