Shopping

Sumatra's shopping is mostly centred round the larger towns and cities, such as Padang, Berastagi, Medan and Bukittinggi. Most of Sumatra's towns have plenty of road-side stalls selling the usual tourist souvenirs such as fake designer goods and Bintang t-shirts. For a more western shopping experience head to places like Minang Plaza or Plaza Andalas in Padang. Fantastic bargains and buys can be found in Padang - with a bit of haggling. Head to Padang's Pasar Baru street market for great buys like leaf hats, batik silk fabrics and clothes.

In Bukittinggi, make a stop at the bustling Pasar Atas market for souvenirs, and explore the town itself for a plethora of craft, jewellery, and antique shops. For fresh produce, the nearby town of Berastagi is best known for its fresh fruits and vegetables, particularly passion fruit. Travellers wanting a real taste of Indonesia should try betel nuts from the market in Berastagi, which are chewed together with lime and tobacco; or pick up some local palm wine known as tuak. Another good buy is Sumatran coffee beans, which are prized by coffee connoisseurs the world over.