Yogyakarta | Indonesia

Looking for that special something, with a unique flair? Some oleh-oleh (trip gifts) that your friends back home will enjoy? Welcome to Yogyakarta (or as everyone here calls it, Jogja), shopping capital of Java, for local Indonesian crafts.

Our shopping trip today began at 9 am. Our driver, being the antithesis of every other Indonesian driver on the road, took his sweet time getting us to our destination. After lunch at McDonald's (which is a delicacy when you live in the middle of nowhere), we crossed traffic and began to walk down the main street of handicrafts and local goods called Malioboro. Think Canal Street, Asian style. Anything you could possibly want to remind you of your time in Indonesia was lined up on both sides of the street.

I also had a bit of a chuckle because every few feet, I would see something that we sold at World Market...at a fraction of the price. For instance, take these trays with a retractable mosquito net. World Market: $25, Indonesia: $3.

These guys, who drive baceks (a form of pedi-cab) line the street behind the stalls, begging you to let them take you somewhere. This guy was pretty excited to have his picture taken. 

French fries, Christmas shopping, Starbucks city mug. All around successful day. I can't wait to do it again in three weeks when Debbie, Sondra, and Jan come to visit!