Just a glimpse of BenHil

Entering the last week of fasting, things haven't slown down at work. It's as if it's just a normal September month, while actually in Indonesia, the fasting month (Ramadhan) is a joyous occasion with lots of traditions attached to it. It is a time where you prioritize your spiritual needs, it's a time to re-connect with your friends and family......... It's a time where you become easy target for marketers!

Such an irony, where logically if you fast you consume less, in Indonesia many actually consume more. As a friend of mine pointed out, he actually spends more on food and drink during the Ramadhan because after breaking the fast, he'd go and buy any kind of food he wants, regardless of the price. It's in a way to make up for not eating during the whole day, as he puts it.

My mother also usually cooks more delicious food during the Ramadhan. She says that it is so that we would get excited and become more motivated to fast.

Gatherings with family and friends for breaking the fast are also a common activity during the Ramadhan. So be aware that restaurants are usually packed from 17.30 - 19.00.

Anywayssss.... temporary food sellers often spring up during the Ramadhan. One area in Jakarta which is famous for this is called BenHil (short for Bendungan Hilir - remember we Indonesians just love our abbreviations). Not only do the food tickle your taste buds, they are a feast to the eyes as well. This is just a glimpse of the things you can find there.