Indonesia - Java

Java - what most people only associate with a programming language, is actually one of the big Indonesian islands where most people live. I spent the past few days there, traveling from Banjuwangi in the east to Yokyakarta by train via Malang, and then by minibus and ferry to my current location in Karimun Jawa. With my arrival in Java, the rainy season started, so I could safely leave the sunscreen at home for the last few days, because despite the monsoon-like rain, I didn't let it spoil my plans. In Banjuwangi, I climbed the Ijen volcano at midnight, where sulfur escapes and burns. This emission not only stinks like cheesy feet and flatulence, but is also a unique natural spectacle, especially due to the blue flames that occur during combustion, and can only be observed at night. After resting for a day from my nocturnal ascent and descent, I took the train to Malang. The Indonesian railway has a 3-class system, but only wooden-class wagons operate on this route. And so I sat for 7.5 hours at a 6-seater group, with my knees either touching the seats opposite me or the legs of my fellow passengers. Fortunately, I arrived in Malang without any lasting damage or thrombosis, only the memories of the unique nature through which the train meandered at a leisurely pace remained. From Malang, I then went to Yogyakarta the next day in first class (for around €11.00), which has been the highlight of my trip to Java so far. This city not only impresses with an incredibly diverse cuisine and a vibrant artistic scene, but especially with the largest Buddhist temple Borobudur and the largest Hindu temple Prambanan. At the latter, we coincided with a school class from Borneo, who followed and surrounded us white tourists as if we were Hollywood superstars. After everyone, both students and teachers, got a photo with us, we were able to visit the temple relatively peacefully. In addition to these temples, Yogya also has excellent street food culture, so we explored the street kitchens of the city with a guide. I still carry the remnants of this tour with me today. Currently, I am at my temporary last destination in Indonesia, Karimunjawa. An absolute paradise for swimming and a hidden gem, as so far only Indonesians come to this island for vacations. Unfortunately, with my arrival, the rainy season also started, so there isn't much for me to do except write and read hotel reviews. In three days, I will continue to Kuala Lumpur. Until then, greetings.