NEA’S EXTREMELY UNOFFICIAL BANDUNG GUIDE
For someone who asked where I disappear when I want to disappear.
warning: I am, quite dramatically, the last person you should ask for Bandung recommendations. I spend most of my time at home, and when I do go out, it’s usually for WFC, meeting friends, or wandering around with a camera. So my Bandung repertoire is mostly cafés everyone already knows. Deeply sorry…
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01 — The Room 19
For disappearing into books.
A small library space where you book a three-hour session, get free-flow tea, and are basically encouraged to forget that the outside world exists.
Rating: 4/5
Risk: You may finish a book instead of whatever you came there to do.
02 — Cihapit
For when I don’t actually know where I’m going.
This is probably the most honest recommendation I can give you. I spend a surprising amount of time here wandering, hunting for photographs, finding something to eat, and occasionally pretending I have an itinerary.
03 — Nimna Book Café
For a proper reading afternoon.
Books, quiet corners, warm light, and enough time to make an afternoon disappear. They even have a read-all-day pass.
04 — Kineruku
For afternoons that don’t need a destination.
I don’t go there often enough, but every time I do, it reminds me why I like books in the first place. There is something comforting about being surrounded by people quietly reading, writing, or doing absolutely nothing urgent. ( no wi-fi, no colokan)
And yes, I’m still slightly amazed that you actually found A Little Piece of Ground. Fifteen thousand rupiah is an excellent investment, under a dollar.
I hope you enjoy it and I’m very curious what you’ll think of it once you’ve finished.
Please don’t judge it too quickly. I think some books need a little time before they decide what they want to say.
And one more thing.
Apparently my father has been saying something very similar to the woman who gave you that prayer.
Good luck with yudisium, Fa.
I hope the next chapter is a little gentler.
