The capital of Central Java, Semarang has long been a centre of trade on the island’s northern coast. Today it continues to be a vibrant city, with many remnants of the Dutch colonial era and signs of Semarang’s large ethnic Chinese group and predominantly Muslim populace lending a multi-cultural flavour to a metropolis surrounded by cool highlands and pristine islands. One of this city’s main attractions includes the 19th century Marba Building, a two-storey red brick structure that resembles the Dutch landmark. Horror-film lovers will enjoy a visit to the supposedly haunted Gedung Lawang Sewu, which means “the house with a thousand doors”. Hungry for more? Take a taste of the delicious Semarang Lumpia, a spring roll filled with delicious vegetables and bamboo shoots. Need a cultural experience? Pay a visit to the Sam Poo Kong temple and complete your Semarang adventure with a ferry ride to Karimunjawa Islands for the ultimate island escapade.