☞ I ♥ Jogja

I just got back from a short trip to  Yogyakarta, Indonesia.  This time around I was following filmmaker Mustafa Davis  as he screened a few of his films at special venues and Universities.  Yogyakarta (or Jogja as it’s called) is a cool place.  It’s a college town that moves at its own pace.  It’s not frenetic or manic, like Jakarta.  Instead Jogja is brimming with a pleasant enthusiasm and vibrant sense of humor.  This was my third trip, and each time I’ve found the people to be really friendly and engaging.  Traveling with Mustafa Davis, I was able to see students get inspired by his work.  But, instead of waxing poetic about this city, I’ll leave you with snapshots of my favorite memories from this amazing trip….

Tamansari

Perhaps I should explain these pics.  They were taken at Tamansari.  As I was wondering around the lady on the right came up and told me if I wanted a good view I should follow her.  I wasn’t really sure what I was getting myself into, but I followed her around her house and to a wall that was indeed adjoining the Sultan’s pool.  I climbed up and sure enough, there was a great view.  Also a semi-scary view, if you, like me, are afraid of heights.  I looked down and then immediately sat down as I  didn’t want to become the dumb tourist that fell off a wall and into the Sultan’s pool.  The guy on the left is probably wondering why there is a crazy lady on  the wall looking like she might jump….good times.

Shadow Puppet Maker

Walking around Jogja

Sumur Gumuling--The Underground Mosque

Filled with young people taking pictures and just hanging out, The Underground Mosque was not at all what I expected it would be.  It’s a casual place, with pretty architecture, nestled in a lively and easy to navigate (on foot) neighborhood.

The Candy Vendor

This Candy Vendor exemplifies the easy-going and playful nature of the city.  He makes sugary treats all day.  As I stood there a boy (with his family) came up and asked if he could put a penis one of the horse shaped confection.  The family roared with laughter, and the man just put it right on.  Just keepin’ the customer happy I suppose.

A store at night.

As night falls the city remains animated.

Jogja at Night

The best part of this trip was getting to sit-in and hear the students talk with Mustafa Davis about his work.  Their passion was incredible & contagious.