Ambon

Description

Sweet Ambon… That is what the locals in Indonesia call this beautiful city—“Ambon Manise”! This city lies within the Maluku archipelago, so it is surrounded by a gorgeous coastline and breathtaking natural sceneries. Just like many regions in Indonesia, this city is also popular for its history and multicultural sites!

Ambon has abundant beaches where you can enjoy crystal turquoise waters, white sands, and other attractions! The most famous beach in Ambon is Liang Beach. The shallow waters, clear ocean, rich sea life, and beautiful panorama is why this beach is a must-visit on your travels to Ambon! Pintu Kota Beach is another beach known as one of Ambon’s landmarks. Its iconic naturally formed gate-like structure is what this beach is famous for. Interested in delicious seafood? Go to Ora Beach! The mountain view and local bungalows offer tourists great scenes for pictures.

As Ambon was once a Dutch colony, various related museums and historical places exist within the city. Journey into the Amsterdam fort as well as the Ferangi fort! Both structures were originally made by the Portuguese occupants that were then conquered by the Dutch. Visit Museum Siwalima as well! Various cultural artifacts of Ambon and the surrounding Maluku regions sit at this very museum for any visitors to witness.

Looking for anything to bring home from Ambon? Do not worry! Ambon has various malls and stores where locals and visitors can get anything they need. The Maluku City Mall, Ambon City Center, and Ambon Plaza are the most iconic malls in the city. For local trinkets and delicacies, visit the Ambon Manise, Petak 10, Santho’s Jewelry, and Cahaya Liembers!

Nearby Airports

The Pattimura International Airport is the airport serving Ambon. Travelers can often ride taxis and buses to get around town from the airport. Buses will take visitors to various city centers costing around Rp 50,000. Taxis, however, will be a bit more expensive. A taxi ride will cost around Rp 150,000 - Rp 200,000 and the trip will take around one hour.

Halal Restaurants

Halal cuisine is available at any corner of the city. Be sure to ask the restaurants or stalls first to make sure it is Halal! Go to Walang Kopi Sibu-Sibu where the famous local Rarobang coffee and other traditional sweets & beverages are served! Other intriguing restaurants in Ambon are Lateri Beach Resto, Istana Berkat, and Dapor Kole-Kole.

Mosques

Masjid Raya Al-Fatah is the largest mosque in Ambon. It stands at Sultan Baabullah street. Plenty of local and foreign Muslims visit this mosque to marvel at its legacy and architecture. The second oldest mosque in Indonesia lies in Ambon as well! That mosque is the Masjid Wapauwe which stood since 1414 and it was where Islam started in Maluku. Other great mosques of Ambon are Masjid Jami’ Ambon and Masjid An-Nur.

Things to Do and See in Ambon

• Museum Siwalima
• Amsterdam Fort
• Ferangi Fort
• Namalutu Beach
• Santai Beach
• Hukurila Beach
• Lawena Beach
• Pattimura Park