At least for this week only. Usually during the Eid ul-Fitr holiday, many people from Jakarta went and visit their families. Usually their families lives quite far from Jakarta and it could took hours or even days to go and visit them. Since many people in Jakarta come from rural areas.

I enjoyed the air because it feels and looks more fresh and clear than usual. It is a joy to go for a ride or a drive on your motorcycle or car because the streets are mostly empty or at least free from the usual traffic jam that’s been plaguing this city for so long. Read the rest of this entry »

For all my Muslim brothers and sisters, let me say Happy Eid ul-Fitr, 1 Shawwal 1430H. Allow me to ask for forgiveness for any wrongdoings I might have made in the past. I hope you will all have the happiest and merriest celebrations ever.

As I write this, the mosques and musallas are still chanting Allaahu Akbar. Although I am not a Moslem myself, but the holy month of Ramadan and the ritual of fasting is not a new experience for me. It is not a surprise because the majority of people in Indonesia are Moslems.

I love the feel of festivities that are abundant everywhere. Earlier this evening, we played firecrackers with the neighbors; the children simply loved it. We also have an enjoyable evening watching the fireworks fly. Tomorrow we will go and visit our neighbors to celebrate together.

One of my favorite things is the food such as Ketupat, Opor Ayam, Rendang and not to mention the sweets and cookies. Our neighbors usually share some of their cooking with us and with each other. Truly a holiday like none other! Best wishes to those of you who also celebrate it.