SURABAYA

Surabaya is an Indonesian city with a population of 3.5 million people within a greater metropolitan population area of 11 million people, making it the second largest city in the country next to Jakarta. Surabaya was once a pivotal port city for the export of sugar, coffee, and tobacco, and has recently become a financial hub of the region as wealthy investments have poured in. 
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Surabaya’s history of colonialism and foreign trade are reflected in the various sites and architectural designs. The Mahajapit Hotel and Surabaya Post Office are prime examples of Colonial influence while Chinatown and Pasar Ampel, a large Arab Market, reveal the multi-cultural impact from the city’s trading experience with China, India, and Middle Eastern countries.
  
History buffs may also be interested in a visit to the House of Sampoerna. This once hand-rolled clove cigarette (kretek) house is now a museum, art gallery, café, and museum shop, and is one of the city’s top tourist sites. 
 
Arriving at the port of Surabaya is a pleasant surprise, as there is a recently built modern, multi floor, cruise facility. On the ground floor you will find a local taxi tour desk, which is important to note because you will need transportation if you are not on a ship guided tour. The port is not downtown and the city is spread out, so hiring a driver is the most efficient way to make the most of the city.
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It is important to note that the recent influx of wealth has caused a high income disparity, and you will likely see extreme poverty in contrast to opulent malls such as Tunjungan Plaza and Galaxy Mall. Taking the sad, troubling juxtaposition as a cultural learning experience will make you a more informed citizen of the world, and it is important to approach your port day in Surabaya with this in mind.