Do People in Surabaya Speak English?

Whether you’re considering a trip to Surabaya as a tourist or looking for career opportunities in Indonesia, one of the questions that come to mind is whether people there speak English or not. This blog post aims to answer that question and provide you with helpful information to better understand the language situation in Surabaya.

Language in Surabaya

Surabaya is the second largest city in Indonesia, located in East Java. The official language of Indonesia is Bahasa Indonesia and it is spoken by most Indonesians, including those who live in Surabaya. However, Surabaya is a cosmopolitan city and is home to people from various ethnicities, some of whom speak other languages such as Javanese, Madurese, and Sundanese.

English Proficiency in Surabaya

English is not one of the official languages of Indonesia, but it is often taught in schools as a second language. Moreover, Surabaya is a major city and a hub of international trade and tourism, which means that English proficiency is in demand in many fields such as hospitality, business, and education.

According to the 2019 English Proficiency Index, Indonesia ranks 40th out of 100 countries in terms of English proficiency, which is considered moderate proficiency. The report further shows that there is a significant difference in English proficiency between urban and rural areas in Indonesia, with urban areas having higher proficiency.

English in Surabaya’s Tourist Industry

Surabaya is a popular tourist destination in Indonesia, with attractions such as the House of Sampoerna Museum, the Suramadu Bridge, and the Tugu Pahlawan Monument. The city offers a range of tourist services, including accommodation, transportation, and guided tours. Many of the staff who work in the tourist industry speak English to varying degrees, depending on their level of education and training.

Most of the major hotels in Surabaya employ staff who are able to communicate in English with guests from different parts of the world. There are also many private tour guides who speak English and offer services such as city tours, cultural tours, and shopping tours.

Opportunities to Learn English in Surabaya

If you’re planning on staying in Surabaya for a longer period of time or want to improve your English skills, there are many language schools and courses available in the city. Some of the popular language schools in Surabaya include:

• EF English First Surabaya
• Wall Street English Surabaya
• English Today Surabaya
• Bahasa Inggris Surabaya

These language schools offer different kinds of courses depending on your level of proficiency and learning objectives. They provide a structured learning environment with experienced teachers and peer groups. There are also online learning platforms and apps that provide English language lessons and exercises, such as Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone.

In Conclusion

English proficiency is growing in Surabaya, as it is becoming increasingly important in the city’s economy and in the globalized world. While it is not guaranteed that everyone in Surabaya speaks English, you can widely expect to find people in the tourist industry and in certain businesses who do speak it. By learning some Bahasa Indonesia and/or taking English lessons, you can enhance your travel or career experience in Surabaya.

An Insider’s Guide to Surabaya, Indonesia

Surabaya is the capital of East Java province and the second-largest city in Indonesia, with a population of over 3 million people. It has a rich history and culture, a bustling urban scene, and a vibrant food culture. If you are planning to visit Surabaya, here is a guide on what to expect and what to explore.

Attractions to Visit

1. House of Sampoerna – This museum is a great place to learn about the tobacco industry and the history of Surabaya. It offers a guided tour, and you can also try making your own clove cigarette.

2. Suramadu Bridge – This bridge is over 5km long and connects Surabaya and Madura Island. You can rent a bike and cycle across the bridge, or take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Madura Strait.

3. Ampel Mosque – This is one of the oldest mosques in Surabaya and a must-visit for those interested in Islamic culture. It has a unique blend of Javanese and Arabic architecture, and the surrounding area houses many street vendors selling traditional Islamic clothing and food.

4. Taman Bungkul – This green park in the heart of the city is perfect for those who want to experience a relaxing picnic or jog. It offers a large playground for children and plenty of shaded areas and benches to rest.

Food to Try

1. Sate Klopo Ondomohen – This dish is made of grilled meat and served with grated coconut and peanut sauce. The sweet and savoury combination is unique to Surabaya and is a must-try.

2. Rawon Setan – This spicy beef soup is cooked with black nuts and served with rice cakes and bean sprouts. It is a popular breakfast dish in Surabaya and can be found in many traditional markets.

3. Rujak Cingur – Rujak is the Indonesian word for fruit salad, and Cingur refers to the cow’s snout, which is used in the spicy sauce. This dish is very popular during traditional ceremonies, and many locals consider it a comfort food.

Cultural Experiences

1. Klenteng Sanggar Agung – This Chinese temple is over 300 years old and dedicated to the goddess of the sea. It is a popular destination during the Chinese New Year and offers a unique cultural experience in Surabaya.

2. Museum Mpu Tantular – This museum showcases the cultural heritage of East Java’s people, from prehistoric era to modern times. It offers a collection of artefacts including stone statues, ceramic objects, and traditional textiles.

Local History

1. Heroes Monument – The monument honours the people who fought for Indonesia’s independence, especially during the Battle of Surabaya in 1945. It offers an interactive exhibition featuring dioramas, murals, and audiovisual displays.

2. Gedung Cak Durasim – This building used to be a courthouse, but now houses a museum and documentation centre dedicated to the history of the labour movement in Surabaya. The building itself is a colonial-era structure with a unique blend of European and Javanese architecture.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

1. Kampoeng Peneleh – This neighbourhood is a hidden gem in Surabaya, with a unique architectural style influenced by the Chinese and European cultures. It is filled with colourful old houses, art galleries, and cafes.

2. Pasar Atom – This wholesale market is a great place to explore and buy souvenirs. You can find anything from traditional textiles to electronic goods at a bargain price.

In conclusion, Surabaya is a city full of diverse attractions, tasty food, and rich history. You can experience a blend of cultures and engage in various activities while exploring the city. Make sure to include these recommendations in your itinerary and immerse yourself in Surabaya’s vibrant culture.