Travel has a unique way of transforming lives, bringing people closer, and creating unforgettable memories. Among the many wonders that traveling offers, one of the most beautiful is the opportunity to fall in love. Whether it is with a person, a place, or a moment, love born from travel has a charm of its own. This essay reflects on a personal travel experience that blossomed into a romantic journey, proving that love and adventure are often intertwined.
It all started in the city of Solo, where fate brought me together with someone special through a mutual friend from college. She was from Jakarta and studied at Bina Nusantara University, commonly known as Binus. Our first meeting was unplanned, yet it sparked an unexpected connection between us. And where did we first meet? Not in a fancy restaurant or a luxurious café, but at a humble street-side eatery Angkringan Pak Gundul, named after the bald vendor who owned it. That simple encounter marked the beginning of something meaningful.
As days passed, our conversations grew more frequent through social media. Eventually, I gathered the courage to visit her in Jakarta. With nothing but determination, I booked a bus ticket and embarked on a journey to a city I had never been to before the capital of Indonesia, a bustling metropolis filled with endless opportunities and new experiences.
The journey began at night, departing from Solo by bus. The trip took nearly ten hours, covering hundreds of kilometers. My heart pounded with excitement and nervousness it was my first time traveling alone, and I was about to meet someone who had become very special to me. The bus provided comfortable amenities, making the long journey more bearable. During a scheduled stop, we were served food, which I found surprisingly delicious. The resting area had an elegant, classic ambiance, adding to the experience. As I explored the place, I was amazed to see an enormous freshwater fish the Arapaima gigas along with other large fish in a vast pond. It was an unexpected but fascinating sight.
As the journey resumed, I marveled at the breathtaking view of city lights illuminating the night. Each passing town had its charm, and soon, exhaustion took over, lulling me into an uneasy sleep due to the occasional bumps along the road. When I finally reached the toll gate entering Jakarta, my excitement grew tenfold. The city’s dazzling skyline was unlike anything I had ever seen. Skyscrapers adorned with glowing lights stood tall, a stark contrast to the modest landscapes of Solo and Yogyakarta.
Upon arriving at my destination in West Jakarta, my heart pounded in anticipation. I had traveled across multiple cities and hundreds of kilometers just to meet someone I considered special. Her family welcomed me warmly, and I immediately noticed the cultural differences between us an expected contrast between Javanese and Betawi traditions. Despite the differences, I felt at ease as they treated me with kindness and hospitality. They even prepared traditional Jakarta delicacies and refreshing drinks to help me relax after my long journey.
That evening, her family took me on a night tour of Jakarta, visiting iconic landmarks like Bundaran HI, Monas, and several other renowned spots. The city’s beauty at night left me in awe. The bright lights, the bustling streets, and the vibrant atmosphere made me appreciate Jakarta’s unique charm. Later, we explored Blok M, a famous area known for its diverse culinary offerings. The variety of street food stalls and lively ambiance made it an unforgettable experience.
As the days went by, our bond grew even stronger. We spent time exploring the city together, trying out different street foods, and sharing stories about our lives. It felt surreal to be in an entirely new environment yet feel a sense of belonging because of the company I was with. One evening, we took a quiet walk along the Ancol beach, watching the waves roll in as we talked about our dreams and aspirations. The gentle sea breeze, the calming sound of the water, and the peacefulness of the night made it a moment I would cherish forever.
One of the most memorable experiences was visiting Kota Tua, where the remnants of Jakarta’s colonial history stood proudly. We rented bicycles and rode around the historic district, stopping occasionally to admire the old buildings and take pictures. It was during this time that I realized how much this trip meant to me not just because of the places I had seen, but because of the person who had shared these moments with me.
After that, she took me to her university, Bina Nusantara. The moment I stepped onto the campus, I was completely mesmerized. Binus was incredibly modern, with high-tech facilities and an atmosphere that exuded academic excellence. I noticed that a large portion of the students there were of Chinese descent, commonly referred to as “Chindo.” It was fascinating to see a different cultural dynamic within an Indonesian university. Walking through the campus, I felt like I had entered an entirely different world one that was both inspiring and eye opening. Seeing her in her academic environment gave me a newfound appreciation for her dedication and hard work.
Looking back, my journey to Jakarta was more than just a travel experience it was a leap of faith driven by the desire to meet someone who had become significant in my life. Love born from travel is unique because it is built on shared adventures, spontaneity, and the courage to embrace the unknown. Whether it lasts for a moment or a lifetime, it leaves an everlasting imprint on the heart. My adventure reminded me that love often finds us in the most unexpected places, turning an ordinary trip into a life-changing journey.
Through this experience, I learned that sometimes, the best moments in life come from stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing the unknown. Traveling not only allows us to explore new places but also opens doors to new relationships and meaningful connections. Even if the future is uncertain, the memories created during this journey will always be a treasured part of my life, proving that love and travel are two beautiful forces that can intertwine in the most extraordinary ways.
By: AZGAR FAIZAL FIRMANSYAH
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