Friday, January 27, 2012

Jalan Malioboro

Malioboro is the most famous street in Yogyakarta. In runs north-south from the main railway station towards the Kraton.Derived from the word Marlborough, the name of the street traces it’s origins back to the brief period of British rule at the beginning of the nineteenth century. In the daytime the street is lined with colourful market stalls selling all kinds of local handicrafts.

Here is possible to have rubber stamp made in a few hours, or purchase an oil to promote hair growth made from an extract of crushed scorpions. Competing with the street sellers are modern, glass fronted shops stocked with fashion goods, electronics gadgets, cassette tapes and quality batik. At night Malioboro transforms itself into what my be the world’s longest restaurant.

A continuous row of food stalls extends down both sides of the street, offering traditional delicacies like fried chicken or pigeon , and course nasi gudeg, until into the early hours of the morning. Entertainment is provided by a variety of artists and street musicians, who help make every evening on Malioboro one of constant celebration.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

The Bird Market (Pasar Ngasem)

The Bird Market is located near the ruins of Tamansari. Rows of brightly coloured cages a large variety of birds from all over Indonesia, as well as rabbits, kittens, guinea pigs and the accasional fruit bat. Many people come here to find rare songbirds, which are entered into competition and command very high prices. Visitors may be surprised to see some of the caged bird set high up on poles. The reason for this is that the birds are said to sing better in this position.