Practical Information: North Sumatra

Local SIM Cards & Mobile Providers

Stay connected with local mobile networks.

Details

Telkomsel offers the widest coverage, including rural areas.
Passport is required for SIM card registration.
Data packages are inexpensive, offering generous allowances.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi Availability

Access the internet in various locations.

Connectivity Facts

Wi-Fi is widely available and free in hotels, cafes, restaurants.
Mobile data coverage is good in cities and tourist areas.
Coverage may be spotty in very remote jungle areas.

Postal Services

Indonesia Post (PT Pos Indonesia) offers postal services.

Sending Mail

Post offices are available in major towns.
Sending postcards or small packages can be slow.
For faster international shipping, consider private couriers in Medan.

Language Barriers & Translation

Navigating communication in a new environment.

Language Insights

Bahasa Indonesia is the national language.
English is understood by staff in tourist-oriented hotels and guides.
Google Translate with offline Indonesian language pack is useful.

Important Phrases Simplified

Greetings & Basics

Hello: Halo (HAH-loh)
Thank you: Terima kasih (Tuh-REE-mah KAH-sih)
Excuse me/Sorry: Permisi (Per-MEE-see) / Maaf (MAH-ahf)
How much?: Berapa? (Beh-RAH-pah?)

Helpful Phrases

Yes: Ya (YAH)
No: Tidak (TEE-dak)
I don't understand: Saya tidak mengerti (SAH-yah TEE-dak Men-GER-tee)
Where is...?: Di mana...? (Dee MAH-nah...?)

Stay Connected

For seamless international communication, consider an eSIM from Airalo or a portable WiFi device from Solis Wi-Fi. Learn basic phrases with Rosetta Stone.

Business Hours & Schedules

Plan your activities around typical operating times in North Sumatra.

Shops & Markets

Shops generally open 9-10 AM to 9-10 PM. Traditional markets start early (6-7 AM) and close mid-afternoon. Night markets operate from 5 PM onwards.

Restaurants & Cafes

Hours vary widely. Local eateries open early to late. Tourist area restaurants often have longer hours.

Attractions

Museums and cultural sites operate 9-10 AM to 4-5 PM, often closed Mondays. Natural attractions are usually accessible during daylight hours.

Banking Hours & ATM Locations

Accessing financial services during your trip.

Financial Access

Banks open Monday-Friday, 8/9 AM to 3/4 PM. Closed weekends.
ATMs are widely available in cities and major tourist towns (24/7).
Use ATMs inside bank branches or well-lit public areas for security.

Religious & Public Holidays

Awareness of holidays helps with travel planning.

Holiday Impact

Indonesia observes numerous public holidays throughout the year.
Transportation can be heavily booked during major holidays like Eid al-Fitr.
Some businesses may close or have reduced hours during holidays.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal Closures & Schedules

Seasonal closures are less common for North Sumatra.
Tourist facilities generally remain open year-round.
Volcanic activity (Mt. Sinabung) can lead to unexpected area closures.

Airport Services

Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
Compensair for flight delays/cancellations.
Keep your passport and visa documents ready for airport procedures.

Planning Ahead

Plan your travel well in advance if visiting during major holidays to secure bookings and avoid crowds.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Engage respectfully with local customs and traditions.

Greeting Customs

Polite interactions reflect cultural awareness.

Common Practices

A polite smile and a slight nod are customary.
Handshakes are common, especially among men. For women, wait for them to offer.
For elders, lightly touch their hand, then bring your hand to your chest.

Appropriate Attire

Dressing modestly shows respect for local customs.

Dress Code

Modest dress is advisable, especially for women.
For religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered. Women should cover heads in mosques.
Remove shoes before entering religious sites.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Navigating meal etiquette.

Mealtime Manners

Use your right hand for eating, giving, and receiving items.
The left hand is considered unclean.
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service.

Photography Permissions & Restrictions

Photographing responsibly.

Capture Moments Thoughtfully

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Be discreet when photographing religious sites or private homes.
Some attractions may prohibit flash photography or have drone restrictions.

Taboos & Sensitive Topics

Cultural Sensitivities

Do not touch people's heads.
Do not point your feet at people or sacred objects.
Do not engage with drugs; laws are extremely strict.

Social Norms

Keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
Avoid sensitive discussions on politics or religion.
Do not step over people.

Gender Considerations & LGBTQ+

Gender Awareness

Gender roles are generally traditional.
Solo female travelers are generally safe; use common sense.

LGBTQ+ Travel

LGBTQ+ rights are limited, though not illegal.
Public displays of same-sex affection are generally not accepted culturally.
Discretion is advisable outside major international tourist enclaves.

Mindful Travel

A positive attitude supports a rewarding experience, even if things occasionally do not go as planned.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges or special needs should note North Sumatra's infrastructure limitations.

Infrastructure for Mobility Challenges

Outside modern Medan buildings, infrastructure is not well-equipped for mobility challenges.

Mobility Limitations

Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, or non-existent.
Ramps and accessible restrooms are rare in public spaces.
Older buildings and many smaller establishments lack accessibility.

Accessible Attractions & Transportation

Limited accessible options for sights and travel.

What to Expect

Newer shopping malls and upscale hotels in Medan are more accessible.
Kualanamu Airport Railink is accessible.
Taxis or private car rentals with drivers are the only viable transport options.

Services for Visual or Hearing Impairments

Specialized services or infrastructure are limited.

Support & Information

Limited specialized services or infrastructure.
Public announcements are usually in Bahasa Indonesia.
Signage may not include Braille or other accessibility features.

Resources & Organizations

Planning for specific needs.

Assistance for Travelers

No specific local organizations exclusively for accessible travel.
Contact tour operators specializing in accessible travel for customized itineraries.
Assistance from travel companions is useful for a smooth trip.

Prepare for Your Journey

Advance planning and clear communication with accommodation providers about your specific needs are useful.

Practical Information