Padang Warnings and Dangers

Theft can be a problem. If you are mindful of your valuable things and precautions, the chances of being ripped off are small. Most thefts are the result of carelessness or naivety. The chances of theft are highest in crowded places and when traveling on public trains, buses and bemos. Pickpockets are common in big cities, and crowded bus and train stations are favorite haunts, as are major tourist areas. Compare to most Indonesians, tourists are rich and this attract thieves. The thieves are skillful and often work in gangs, if you find yourself being hassled and jostled, check your wallet, watch and bag. A money belt worn under your clothes is the safest way to carry your passport, cash and credit card.

Padang which is on Sumatra island lies near the Sunda Fault and is prone to earthquakes. According to the Meteorology and Geophysics Agency and U.S. Geological Service, an 8.4 RS earthquake hit West Sumatra province and Bengkulu province. The earthquake epicenter was 105 km off the coast of Bengkulu province. There have been several aftershocks, measuring from 5.6 to 6.6 RS. The earthquake and the 6.6 RS aftershock generated Tsunami alerts that were subsequently called off. The earthquake took place on September 12, 2007 at 18 pm, prior to the first day of the holy month of Ramadhan. The earthquake was felt in Jambi, Riau, West Sumatra, Singapore, Malaysia, Srilanka, as well as in the capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta.

When you are surfing or doing other water sports, avoid contact with these sea creatures because of their stinging tentacles – seek local advice. Dousing in vinegar will deactivate any stingers which have not “fired”. Calamin lotion, antihistamines and analgesics may reduce the reaction and relieve the pain.

Just want to caution you that as you get nearer the beach, you may be stopped and asked to pay an 'entrance fee'. Our local guide did the negotiation and paid a certain sum before we were allowed through.

Like my Jordanian trip, I found Indonesians also like to race when they actually drive. My taxi driver had been a vey nice man not until the moment he was in charge of our wheels. He virtually made accident if he had been two seconds late; what's more, he did it more than one time. Perhaps that's how things work out in Indonesia. Wait, I haven't been to rest part of the country, don't jump to conclusion too soon, but one thind for sure that is people really reace in Padang!!

Indonesia is a Muslim donminant country, and they tend to be more conservative in clothes. For female travellers, it's better to wear clothes with sleeves. However, it's now really okay if a female wears a singlet and walk in the street. But sometimes laughter from pedestians can be very annoying and irrespectable. Beach is th only place where there is no problem AT ALL. But if you were in Ache, then please try your best to comform local manner, warning by Mr. Liu.