Man, what a day! Seriously, Sumenep is wild. I mean, I thought I was just gonna chill, teach some classes, maybe grab a bite. But nah, Sumenep had other plans for me.
So, I wake up, right? The sun’s blasting through my window on Jalan Trunojoyo. I’m like, “Great, another hot day.” I step outside, and boom! The heat hits me like a brick wall. I’m sweating already. But hey, I’m in Sumenep, so let’s roll with it.
First stop, the market. I’m strolling down Jalan Raya, and it’s packed! People everywhere, selling everything from fresh fish to weird snacks I’ve never seen. I’m trying to haggle for some mangga (mango), and this lady is relentless. She’s like, “Ten thousand, no less!” I’m like, “Lady, I’m not buying a car here!” But I finally get it for eight. Victory!
Then, I head to the university. The campus is buzzing. I’m supposed to give a lecture on local culture. But guess what? The projector’s broken. Classic! I’m standing there, trying to explain the significance of Sumenep’s batik, and all I can think is, “Why me?” I mean, come on!
But then, something cool happens. A group of students starts sharing their own stories about Sumenep. They talk about the history, the royal palace, and the beautiful Masjid Agung. I’m just sitting there, listening, and it hits me. These kids are passionate! I’m feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
After class, I decide to explore. I wander down to the beach at Lombang. The waves are crashing, and the sand is soft. I’m thinking, “This is the life!” But then, I see a bunch of trash. Ugh! It’s like, can’t we keep this place clean? I’m getting all riled up.
So, I grab a trash bag from a nearby stall and start picking up. People are staring at me like I’m nuts. But whatever! I’m on a mission. I’m sweating, my back’s killing me, but I’m determined. A couple of kids join in, and suddenly, it’s a mini-cleanup crew! We’re laughing, joking, and I’m feeling like a hero.
Then, outta nowhere, it starts pouring! I mean, like, monsoon level. We’re all soaked, but we’re still laughing. I’m like, “Great, now I’m a wet hero!” We run for cover under a little warung (food stall). I order some soto, and it’s the best thing ever. Hot, spicy, and just what I needed.
After the rain, the streets are all shiny and fresh. I decide to head back to my place, but I take a detour through Jalan Diponegoro. The vibe is chill, and I’m just soaking it all in. The street vendors are back out, and I can’t resist grabbing some kerupuk (crackers).
Finally, I get back home, and I’m exhausted but happy. I think about how Sumenep is this crazy mix of beauty and chaos. It’s got its issues, but man, the people are what make it special. I crash on my bed, thinking, “What a day!”
And that’s Sumenep for ya. Full of surprises, laughter, and a bit of madness. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!