Local Customs & Etiquette in Surabaya, Indonesia
1. Balinese Greeting (Saranan)
A gentle press of the palm to the forehead when meeting someone, signifying respect and friendliness. Essential for greeting locals in Surabaya's Balinese neighborhoods.
- Respectful Gesture: Shows humility and acknowledges the other person's superiority.
- Common in Balinese Areas: Primarily used when meeting someone in Surabaya's Balinese neighborhoods.
- Not Standard Handshake: Different from the Western handshake, this is a unique custom specific to Balinese culture.
2. Offering Food to Gods (Ngaben)
A traditional ceremony where offerings of food and flowers are made to the gods. A key practice in Surabaya's Balinese communities.
- Spiritual Significance: Helps maintain balance and harmony between the spiritual and physical worlds.
- Community Involvement: Involves active participation from the entire community.
- Cultural Preservation: Serves as a means to preserve and pass on Balinese traditions to future generations.
3. Javanese Handshake (Pinduk Silaturamai)
A formal handshake where the right hand of the lower-ranking person is placed on top of the left hand of the higher-ranking person. Used in professional and formal settings.
- Sign of Respect: Shows respect to the superior, reflecting Javanese hierarchy.
- Formal Context: Primarily used in professional or formal settings.
- Different from Western Handshake: The placement of hands creates a unique visual symbol.
4. Suro Boyo Street Art
A vibrant street art scene featuring various murals and graffiti. Shows respect for local artists by appreciating their work.
- Artistic Expression: Allows locals to express themselves creatively.
- Local Talent Showcase: Highlights the skills and talents of Surabaya's artists.
- Urban Beautification: Enhances the aesthetics of the city, making it more attractive to visitors.
5. Suroboyo Carnival
A colorful annual event showcasing various cultural performances, arts, and crafts. It fosters understanding and appreciation of Surabaya's rich diversity.
- Cultural Celebration: Highlights the diverse cultures present in Surabaya.
- Educational Opportunity: Provides a platform for learning about different cultures and traditions.
- Community Bonding: Encourages bonding among the diverse communities in Surabaya.
6. Madurese Greeting (Pesan Sewu)
A greeting where you hold your hand to your chest and bow slightly. Used when meeting someone in Surabaya's Madurese communities.
- Respectful Gesture: Shows respect, humility, and politeness.
- Common in Madurese Areas: Primarily used when meeting someone in Surabaya's Madurese neighborhoods.
- Not Standard Handshake: Different from the Western handshake, this is a unique custom specific to Madurese culture.
7. Surabaya Zoo Etiquette
Respecting animal habitats and following the zoo rules helps ensure a pleasant visit for both animals and visitors.
- Animal Welfare: Ensures proper treatment and care for the animals.
- Safety Considerations: Prevent accidents or injuries by following safety guidelines.
- Eco-Friendly Practices: Reduces waste and promotes conservation efforts.
8. Surabaya Night Market (Pasar Malam Suryoagung)
A bustling night market selling a variety of local foods, clothes, and souvenirs. It encourages interaction with locals and supports local vendors.
- Cultural Exchange: Provides an opportunity to learn about Surabaya's local culture and traditions.
- Local Vendor Support: Supports small businesses and the local economy.
- Delicious Food Discovery: Allows visitors to try various local dishes and street food.
9. Surabaya Batik Textiles
Traditional Indonesian cloth decorated with intricate patterns, often worn as formal attire. Buying Batik supports local artisans and preserves the craft.
- Cultural Preservation: Supports the preservation of traditional Indonesian culture.
- Artisan Support: Provides income for skilled artisans who create these intricate pieces.
- Souvenir to Take Home: Makes a unique and beautiful keepsake from your trip to Surabaya.
10. Coffee Etiquette at Suroboyo Coffee Plantation
A visit to a coffee plantation requires respect for the environment and understanding of local coffee culture.
- Sustainable Practices: Ensures that coffee production is done in an eco-friendly manner.
- Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into the rich history and importance of coffee in Indonesian culture.
- Support for Local Producers: Provides income to local coffee farmers and producers.
11. Surabaya Temples Dress Code
Respecting temple rules by dressing modestly helps maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the sacred spaces.
- Religious Sensitivity: Shows respect for local religious beliefs and practices.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Ensures a tranquil and spiritual environment within the temples.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respects the cultural values and practices of Surabaya's religious communities.
12. Surabaya Mosque Etiquette (Grand Mosque)
Following mosque rules, such as dressing modestly and removing shoes, shows respect for the sacred space.
- Religious Respect: Shows respect for Muslim culture and beliefs.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Ensures a tranquil and spiritual environment within the mosque.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Respects the cultural values and practices of Surabaya's Islamic communities.
13. Surabaya City Tour Guides
Hiring a local guide helps navigate the city, understand its history, and interact with locals.
- Cultural Insight: Provides valuable knowledge about Surabaya's history, culture, and traditions.
- Local Interaction: Encourages interaction with local residents, fostering mutual understanding.
- Navigational Assistance: Helps navigate the city more easily and efficiently.
14. Surabaya Street Food Safety
Ensuring street food is properly cooked and served helps avoid foodborne illnesses during your travel.
- Health Protection: Avoids potential health risks associated with poorly prepared or contaminated food.
- Cultural Experience: Allows visitors to enjoy local delicacies and street food.
- Support for Street Vendors: Provides income for local street vendors.
15. Surabaya Nightlife Etiquette
Respecting the city's nightlife rules by being mindful of noise levels and local customs helps maintain a harmonious atmosphere.
- Community Consideration: Shows respect for the local community by minimizing noise disruption.
- Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into Surabaya's nightlife culture and traditions.
- Enjoyment of Local Nightlife: Allows visitors to experience Surabaya's vibrant nightlife scene.