In Reply to: Whoops,, Forgot to ask... posted by Ron on Thursday, 19. August 1999 at 04:53 Bali Time:
Ron,
Yes, Medan is in Sumatra (Sumatera). It is the largest city on the island and is the capital of North Sumatra. It is a surprisingly modern and clean city (until you get out into the 'burbs!). There are some huge private residences with their own armed guards. We stayed at the Danau Toba (Lake Toba) hotel. There was a high fence around the property. Pools, mini golf, bars and lovely gardens inside the fence. Outside, living in cardboard boxes amongst the banana palms on the banks of a black, seething drain were the locals who could hardly imagine what it was like on the 'other side'.
If you go there, get a detailed map of the city and walk. It is quite a place with some wonderful shopping.. especially for 'antiks'.. my love!
Although we never went there ourselves, Lake Toba and Samosir Island are well worth a visit. I think the lake is about 2hrs (??) away by local transport.
E-mail me if you want further info on Medan.. or were you just wondering if you have to dodge the Garuda aircraft that tumble, regularly, from the clouds!!??
Regards and Happy Evading
Brookesy