Banda Aceh Travel Guide

Banda Aceh is the provincial capital and of Nangroe Aceh Darussalam Province of Indonesia, located on the very north island of Sumatra.

It is also the oldest Islamic city in the South East Asia which from here Islam was spread out its influence.

On December 26, 2004,  the Indian Ocean earthquake struck off the western coast of Sumatra and Banda Aceh was the closest major city to the earthquake's epicenter. It was the worst hit area out of all the locations hit. hundreds of thousands of people died and many more were injured.

This is definitely a place to cover up ladies.  It's not like other muslim countries where you can get by because you're a tourist.  Especially as a westerner, you need to cover up.  The Indonesians are much friendlier with westeneres since the tsunami, but don't take any chances.  This is the largest muslim country in the world, so be respectful

Head out to the ferry and check out Pulau Weh.  The island is incredible, cheap, and the people are fantastic.  For a more relaxing time there, stay in the town of Iboeh.