Located just to the east of Jakarta, Bekasi is a swiftly growing satellite city that beautifully exemplifies Indonesia's fusion of bustling urban vibes and historic culture. The vast city enjoys a tropical climate with well-defined wet and dry seasons, implying that October to April are usually rainy, while May to September has drier and sunnier weather.

The city vibrates with the pace of contemporary Indonesian living, where age-old Sundanese customs coexist alongside modern shopping complexes and tech startups. Despite the city's swift urbanization, the inhabitants of Bekasi, often called "Warga Bekasi," continue to foster robust community ties, giving birth to a distinctive ambience where traditional warungs (local eateries) are juxtaposed with international coffee shops.

What sets Bekasi apart is its character as a cultural melting pot, providing an opportunity to experience genuine Indonesian life away from the heavily toured places. The city is well-known for its traditional Betawi and Sundanese gastronomy, primarily Nasi Uduk Bekasi (coconut rice served with an assortment of side dishes) and Laksa Bekasi (a type of spicy coconut noodle soup). Ensure to visit the lively night markets, particularly around the Summarecon Mall area.

Two attractions that are a must-visit include the Grand Galaxy Park, a contemporary recreational space that provides an insight into the local lifestyle, and the Patriot Chandrabhaga Stadium, which regularly hosts thrilling soccer games and cultural festivities. Although the Museum Bekasi is small, it provides enthralling glimpses into the area's history and evolution.