"Bengkulu, a Small Relaxed Town" Bengkulu by adriansyah

Bengkulu, a small relaxed town, is the provincial capital of the province of the same name, is a calm port town by comparison to other Indonesia cities facing the Indonesian/Indian Ocean. Time zone: WIB (UTC+7). Bengkulu is the smallest provincial capital in Sumatra, it has only an area of 144.52 sq km (55.80 sq. miles) and population 308,756 people about 2,136 people per sq km, 95% are Moslems (population census 2010).

Fort Marlborough - a British garrison

Bengkulu was the seat of the British power and influence in western parts of Indonesia until 1825, which they called Bencoolen. From 1939 – 1942 Bengkulu was a home-in-domestic-exile for the Indonesian nationalist leader Soekarno who later became Indonesia’s first president during the struggles against Dutch colonial rule.

Although few tourists visit Bengkulu, it is one of the most attractive in Sumatra. With much of its colonial architecture still intact, it retains a languid charm and elegance and has not been scarred by insensitive redevelopment. It lacks the frenetic traffic and noise of other cities its size, vehicles seem to be fewer and to be driven with less resource to the horn, while the inhabitants are friendly and have time to spare for foreigners who make it here.

Bengkulu is also comparatively clean and uncluttered. The shores around the city of Bengkulu are scenic and unspoilt. Presently growing as a tourist destination, Bengkulu offers many new sights and experiences. Bengkulu has a wide selection of mid-range accommodation at along Panjang beach (Jl. Pariwisata).

Surfing at Samudera Ujung beach

Bengkulu is easily accessible by land, and air transportation. You can catch regular buses from Medan, Padang, Bukittinggi, Palembang or Jakarta. There are daily flights from Jakarta only.

• Pros:Bengkulu is a safe city, it has many fine beaches and historical sites.
• Cons:The locals like to stare at bule (foreign tourist).
• In a nutshell:A small relaxed town with friendly people.