Bandung

Common Phrases in Bandung, Indonesia

1. Greetings

• Selamat pagi (Good morning)

  • Context: Used in the morning until around noon.
  • Cultural Note: A polite way to start a conversation; often accompanied by a smile.

• Selamat siang (Good afternoon)

  • Context: Used from noon until late afternoon.
  • Cultural Note: Common in formal and informal settings.

• Selamat malam (Good evening)

  • Context: Used in the evening.
  • Cultural Note: Appropriate for greeting people during evening events.

• Apa kabar? (How are you?)

  • Context: A casual way to ask about someone's well-being.
  • Cultural Note: Often used among friends and acquaintances.

2. Transportation

• Di mana...? (Where is...?)

  • Context: Used to ask for directions.
  • Cultural Note: Follow up with the specific location, e.g., "Di mana stasiun?" (Where is the station?).

• Tolong, ke [destination] (Please, to [destination])

  • Context: Used when taking a taxi or ride-sharing service.
  • Cultural Note: Politeness is appreciated; always say "terima kasih" (thank you) after reaching your destination.

• Berapa ongkosnya? (How much is the fare?)

  • Context: Used to inquire about transportation costs.
  • Cultural Note: Important to ask before starting a ride to avoid misunderstandings.

3. Dining

• Saya mau pesan... (I would like to order...)

  • Context: Used when ordering food at a restaurant.
  • Cultural Note: Follow with the name of the dish; it’s common to ask for recommendations.

• Enak sekali! (Very delicious!)

  • Context: Used to compliment the food.
  • Cultural Note: Compliments are appreciated and can enhance your dining experience.

• Bisa minta bill? (Can I have the bill?)

  • Context: Used when you are ready to pay.
  • Cultural Note: It’s polite to thank the staff when receiving the bill.

4. Shopping

• Berapa harganya? (How much is this?)

  • Context: Used to ask for the price of an item.
  • Cultural Note: Bargaining is common in markets; start lower than your target price.

• Saya hanya lihat-lihat (I’m just looking)

  • Context: Used when browsing without the intention to buy.
  • Cultural Note: This phrase helps avoid pressure from salespeople.

• Bisa kurang? (Can you lower the price?)

  • Context: Used during negotiations.
  • Cultural Note: Use a friendly tone; it’s part of the shopping culture.

5. General Phrases

• Terima kasih (Thank you)

  • Context: Used to express gratitude.
  • Cultural Note: Always say this after receiving help or a service.

• Maaf (Sorry/Excuse me)

  • Context: Used to apologize or get someone’s attention.
  • Cultural Note: Politeness is key; use this phrase frequently in social interactions.

• Sama-sama (You’re welcome)

  • Context: Response to "terima kasih."
  • Cultural Note: A common and friendly reply.

Cultural Considerations

• Politeness: Indonesian culture values politeness and respect. Use formal language when addressing elders or in formal situations.
• Body Language: A smile is important in communication. Avoid pointing with your finger; use your thumb instead.
• Personal Space: Indonesians may stand closer during conversations than people from Western cultures. Respect personal space preferences.

Understanding and using these phrases will enhance your experience in Bandung, making interactions smoother and more enjoyable.