Sumatra Utara has always been a special place for me, full of memories and a deep connection to my roots. This year, my family and I decided to take a long trip back to my father’s hometown in Sipinggan to celebrate Christmas and New Year’s with our extended family. It was a perfect chance for us to slow down, reconnect with where we come from, and spend meaningful time together.
Our journey started with a long road trip from Jakarta to
Danau Toba, one of the most beautiful places in Sumatra Utara. The drive was
full of scenic views that made the trip more exciting. We were surrounded by
green hills, villages, and rivers along the way, which made the journey feel
like an adventure. As we got closer to Danau Toba, our excitement grew, and we
couldn’t wait to see the lake.
When we finally arrived, we checked into a hotel on Samosir
Island. From the hotel, we had an amazing view of Danau Toba, with its wide
blue waters and hills in the distance. It was such a peaceful place to be.
Before we settled in, we visited a natural hot spring in Samosir. The hot
spring was surrounded by nature, and the warm water flowing from the earth was
so relaxing. The cool air and the peaceful environment made it a perfect spot
to unwind. We spent hours there, soaking in the warmth and beauty of the place,
and it felt like a time to reconnect with ourselves and nature.
After our visit to the hot springs, we returned to our hotel
on Samosir Island. Sitting by the lake in the afternoon, we took in the serene
surroundings. The sound of the water, the fresh air, and the quiet made
everything feel calm and special. We spent some time talking and reminiscing
about old memories. As the evening came, we enjoyed a delicious Batak meal,
which made the day even better. The food was warm and comforting, and it was a
perfect way to end our first day in Sumatra Utara.
The next day, we continued our journey to Sipinggan, my
father’s hometown. Sipinggan is a small village, but it holds a lot of meaning
for our family. It’s where my father grew up, and where many of our relatives
still live. We were greeted warmly by family members we hadn’t seen in years.
The atmosphere was different from the busy city life we were used to. This
Christmas felt more meaningful because it was simple and full of love. We
celebrated by sharing stories, enjoying home-cooked meals, and spending time
together. It wasn’t a big celebration, but the warmth and closeness of being
with family made it unforgettable.
On New Year’s Eve, we gathered around a bonfire to welcome
the new year. Instead of a big party, we enjoyed the warmth of the fire and the
company of our loved ones. We shared our hopes and dreams for the new year,
prayed together, and reflected on the past year. The feeling of togetherness,
love, and peace filled the night, and it reminded us how important family is.
Being together, even in the simplest way, meant so much more than any
celebration or fireworks.
Sumatra Utara, with its beautiful nature and peaceful
atmosphere, will always remind me of the importance of coming home, to the
place where we truly belong. From the relaxing hot springs in Samosir to the
simple and meaningful Christmas and New Year celebrations in Sipinggan, this
trip was a reminder of what really matters. It taught us the true value of
family, togetherness, and taking the time to appreciate the people who matter
most. The memories we created during this trip will always hold a special place
in my heart and be part of our family’s story for years to come.