Traveling by Economy Train

By: Jasmine Zalianty

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Traveling by economy train from Solo to Banyuwangi is an adventure that blends long hours of travel with the excitement of reaching new places and reuniting with loved ones. My name is Jasmine Zalianty, and this trip is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey filled with nostalgia, beautiful landscapes, and meaningful connections. My adventure begins at Purwosari Station in Solo, where I board the Sri Tanjung economy train.

The train ride takes approximately 12 hours, a long but rewarding experience that allows me to witness the diverse landscapes of Java. As the train departs, I settle into my seat, ready for the adventure ahead. The rhythmic sound of the train on the tracks creates a soothing atmosphere, making it easy to relax despite the lengthy journey. Through the window, I watch as we pass through rice fields, small towns, and bustling stations like Yogyakarta, Madiun, Surabaya, and Jember. Vendors come and go, offering traditional snacks like pecel, tahu petis, and hot tea, adding a local touch to the travel experience.

After 12 hours, the train finally arrives at Temuguruh Station, one of the last stops before reaching the heart of Banyuwangi. Unlike the larger Banyuwangi Kota Station, Temuguruh is a smaller, quieter station located in a more rural area. Stepping off the train, I immediately notice the fresh, cool air—so different from the bustling heat of Solo. The station has a simple yet charming atmosphere, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature.

My relative is already waiting to pick me up, and after such a long journey, I’m relieved to finally be on my way to their house. The drive from Temuguruh Station to their home is peaceful, with roads lined by rice fields and distant mountains adding to the scenic view. When I finally arrive, I’m greeted with warm smiles and a delicious home-cooked meal, the perfect way to unwind after a long trip. I spend the rest of the night resting, excited for the adventures that await me in Banyuwangi.

The next morning, I wake up feeling refreshed and ready to explore. My first plan is to visit my cousin, whom I haven’t seen in a long time. Catching up with family is always special, and we spend the morning reminiscing about childhood memories and sharing stories about our lives. As the afternoon approaches, my cousin suggests we take a trip to Red Island (Pulau Merah), one of Banyuwangi’s most famous beaches. Excited for the adventure, we hop on motorcycles and begin our journey. The ride takes about two hours, passing through scenic roads lined with lush greenery and small villages. The journey itself is enjoyable, with fresh air and stunning views making the ride feel shorter than it actually is.

When we arrive at Red Island, I am instantly mesmerized by the sight before me. The vast golden sands stretch toward the horizon, and in the distance, a small reddish-hued island stands beautifully in the middle of the ocean. It’s easy to see why this place is so beloved by travelers. The beach is known for its perfect waves, making it a paradise for surfers, but today, I am here for something else—the sunset.

As the sky begins to change colors, my cousin and I find a quiet spot to sit and watch the breathtaking view unfold. The sun slowly descends, casting a golden glow over the water, creating a scene so stunning that words cannot do it justice. Sitting there, with the sound of the waves gently crashing on the shore, I feel a deep sense of peace and gratitude. The world feels vast yet intimate in that moment, and I realize how much I cherish these simple yet beautiful experiences.

The next day, I have another exciting plan—this time with an old friend from senior high school. We haven’t seen each other in years, so when we planned to meet up in Banyuwangi, I knew it would be a special day. In the afternoon, we decide to visit Boom Marina Banyuwangi, a modern waterfront destination known for its scenic views and relaxing atmosphere.

We ride motorcycles for over an hour, enjoying the long journey filled with laughter and nostalgic conversations. Upon arriving, the place immediately impresses me. Unlike Red Island’s wild and untouched beauty, Boom Marina has a more structured yet equally charming vibe. There are pathways for jogging, benches facing the ocean, and a long pier stretching into the sea.

As we walk along the marina, we catch up on old times, sharing stories about school days and how life has changed since then. The breeze is cool, the sound of the waves calming, and the sight of boats docked at the marina adds a picturesque touch to the scenery. From the pier, I can see the silhouette of Bali across the ocean, reminding me how close yet different these two places are. The afternoon sun casts a warm golden glow over everything, making it a perfect setting for a peaceful and meaningful reunion. We take plenty of pictures, capturing the memories before heading back to the city in the evening.

On my last day in Banyuwangi, I want to spend quality time with my two cousins, and we decide to have a meal together at Conato Bakery, a well-known café and bakery in the city. After days of travel and adventure, I’m looking forward to sitting down and enjoying some delicious food. The moment we step inside, the aroma of freshly baked bread fills the air, instantly making me feel at home. Conato Bakery is famous for its variety of pastries, cakes, and savory bread, and choosing what to eat feels almost impossible with so many tempting options.

We order a mix of everything—soft croissants, rich chocolate cake, and their signature cheesy bread, all paired with warm coffee. Every bite is delicious, and I can confidently say that the food here is worth every rupiah. As we eat, we talk about life, plans for the future, and all the small things that make family gatherings special. The cozy atmosphere of the café, combined with the joy of being with loved ones, makes this meal the perfect way to end my trip.

As my time in Banyuwangi comes to a close, I reflect on the incredible experiences I’ve had—the long yet meaningful train journey, the stunning sunset at Red Island, the nostalgic reunion at Boom Marina, and the heartfelt meal with my cousins. Traveling is not just about seeing new places; it’s about the connections we make and the memories we create along the way. With my heart full and my mind filled with unforgettable moments, I board the train back to Solo, already looking forward to my next adventure.

By: Jasmine Zalianty

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