Started my day around 8 am. The plan for today involved exploring Jaboi Volcano, or the Jaboi Geothermal Spot, and later in the afternoon, unwinding at Santai Sumurtiga. Breakfast at Freddies turned out to be amazing. While I’m not usually a big breakfast eater, Freddie’s creations were fantastic—fruit, toast, various bread types, cereals, and an array of spreads. One highlight was the croque-monsieur with a delightful cooked egg salad inside. Just recalling it makes my mouth water, haha.
The Jaboi Volcano
Following breakfast, Erwin and I headed to the Jaboi Geothermal Spot, also recognized as the Jaboi Volcano. The journey, undertaken on mopeds we secured at Freddies for 100,000 IDR per day, took approximately 30 minutes from Santai Sumurtiga. I opted for a two-day rental for mine.
I captured some superior photos of the Jaboi Volcano, but unfortunately, they are stored in the internal memory of my camera (the SD card got ejected), and presently, I’m unable to retrieve them.
Contrary to my expectation, the Jaboi Volcano wasn’t the highest peak on the island. Nevertheless, it proved to be an active volcano with small plumes of smoke emerging from its openings. This volcano doesn’t offer any hiking opportunities. It’s essentially a flat expanse, making it easily accessible for a visit.
The air carried a distinct sulfur smell reminiscent of rotting eggs. Adjacent to the volcano, a nearby stream exhibited a green/white hue due to sulfur. Unfortunately, I’m unable to showcase the details of the stream at the moment. It dawned on me how uninformed I had been until now about Pulau Weh being a volcanic island.
Diving at Pulau Weh
I learned about Weh’s volcanic activity from someone later today. I was informed that it’s possible to explore the underwater volcano. Here’s a glimpse of this incredible diving spot at Weh Island. Regrettably, I didn’t have sufficient time to obtain my diving license here; otherwise, I would have undoubtedly indulged in that underwater adventure. In the vicinity of Ibioh Beach, there are numerous diving opportunities. I’d say the rich marine life around Pulau Weh is definitely worth exploring underwater!
Driving at Pulau Weh
Following our exploration of the Jaboi Geothermal Spot, I returned to Freddies to explore the beach, while Erwin embarked on his personal tour around the island. Yesterday, I merely admired the view of Santai Sumurtiga, and now it was the perfect moment to genuinely discover and relax on the beach. On the drive back, I captured some pictures of the roads, landscape, and the sea.
Navigating the roads here is quite amusing and never fails to bring a smile to my face. Exercise caution around cattle, roads devoid of signs, and, of course, remain vigilant in traffic interactions with locals, as their driving styles may differ from yours. I witnessed a person carrying a baby, akin to the story shared by a man at Regalia Inn in Langkawi. I even saw kids who looked about twelve or thirteen confidently riding mopeds. It’s quite amusing to experience these moments, haha. In Indonesia (as someone mentioned to me), they have two types of traffic lights—one with a red countdown that turns green and the other resembling the typical traffic lights in Holland, displaying only red and green. It’s mandatory to halt at the stoplight with the red countdown, while the other serves as a mere warning, allowing you to proceed if you wish.
Pantai Sumurtiga
In the afternoon, I strolled onto the beach, Sumur Tiga Beach, directly in front of Freddies and veered to the right. My initial destination was Casa Nemo, a resort adjacent to Freddies, just a mere 100 meters away. I enjoyed a delightful lunch at Casa Nemo, where the service from the friendly lady was truly pleasant. Following lunch, I unwound on one of their sun loungers, basking in the goodness of life here.
After a while, I grew weary of lounging there and opted to take a leisurely stroll along the beach to the opposite side. The area to the left of Freddies was strewn with rocks and pebbles, prompting me to turn back as I hadn’t brought my sandals. Upon returning to Freddies, I spotted a hammock and decided to recline in it for a relaxing moment. The sense of tranquility was profound, particularly as I contemplated that Pulau Weh was just the beginning of my journey.
Freddies’ staff
In the late afternoon, my intention was to visit Sabang, the primary town on Pulau Weh. My goal was to secure a certificate for Danny. Our visit to the Zero Kilometer monument yesterday made us eligible for a certificate issued by the local government. To obtain it, I needed to make arrangements at Sabang’s city hall.
Upon reaching my moped, two staff members from Freddies inquired about my destination. After explaining my purpose, the woman confidently informed me that her brother would handle the certificate arrangement for me tomorrow. Somewhat surprised, I gratefully accepted their assistance, recognizing it would undoubtedly save me a considerable amount of trouble. In my mind I anticipated non-verbal communication with locals, akin to the sign language I encountered a few days ago at my hotel in Banda Aceh. The staff at Freddie’s are exceptional—always cheerful and with uplifting spirits. It’s hard to believe I’ll have to bid farewell to this wonderful place in just two days.
Dinner at Freddies
Ultimately, I opted to head to Sabang, desiring to pick up some groceries. Despite asking five locals for directions to a supermarket, I ended up finding one on my own. Along the roadside, various kiosks offered food and essentials, but none had the items I needed. I managed to purchase toilet paper, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a beverage. Upon my return to Freddie’s, I stowed away my purchases just before dinner.
Tonight’s meal surpassed yesterday’s, and I’m determined to document the ingredients and share some photos tomorrow. Freddy’s culinary creations incorporate spices from various corners of the globe, yet the overall taste leans towards the western palate. Engaging in conversation with Erwin and an Australian couple, I enjoyed the evening. I attempted to capture the moonlight shimmering on the sea with some pictures, although the results were not stellar, I decided to share them nonetheless.
The sight of the ocean cloaked in darkness, illuminated solely by the moonlight, is utterly enchanting. Paired with delectable food and wonderful company, it crafts an extraordinary experience. This indeed felt like paradise.
In the late evening, I made my way back to the expansive family room and enjoyed a movie on the generous bed. Needless to say, I retired to bed quite late.
