Indonesia Journal : Lake Toba

2000-03-15 to 2007-03-22

    Danau Toba is a massive volcanic lake on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. It is roughly 100km long and 30km wide, surrounded by large sprawling hills. Although lake Toba is well known it is still undeveloped, allowing the heritage of its natural inhabitants to remain intact. The ethnic Batak are arguably the most prolific musicians in all of Indonesia, they can be found in clubs, bars, and music halls throughout the country.

   There is a lingering ancient air about Toba which is borderline eerie, however the picturesque sunsets and views are truly inspiring. I traveled there when I was 16, with a small group of classmates from my international high school in Jakarta. As part of an outward bound program, our entire grade of 150 students traveled to exotic locations throughout the archipelago. Some ventured to Komodo, others to Bali and Flores, we were selected for Lake Toba.

   I was well known at JIS (Jakarta International School). I have always been very athletic and equally intelligent, so I was never one to conform to rules I didn't agree with. As you can imagine I was popular with the other kids and dreaded by most of the faculty. That being said, the administration managed to place me in a travel group with 15 of my good friends. To top it off this was the first year the school organized a trip to Toba. The two American teachers that accompanied us were like lame ducks out of water.

This was the most exciting, dangerous, and poorly planned trip I have ever been on. Parts of it are suitable for a movie script. I will always remember the 7 days we spent in and around Lake Toba, the memories are impossible to forget.

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Lake Toba

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