What to buy at Balikpapan's souvenir market
Located on Jl. Raya Letjend. Soeprapto, Pasar Kebun Sayur is actually big souvenir complex in Balikpapan, despite its name, which means "the vegetable garden market".
This is where stalls and shops selling an array of East Kalimantan's crafts and souvenirs are gathered, resulting in a vast variety of items to choose.
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For a natural-born shopper, the market's vast selection is heaven. For others, it could mean the opposite, bringing only confusion.
This guide should help any kind of shopper enjoy their time at Pasar Kebun Sayur.
Gemstones
The market is also famous as the go-to-place for precious gemstones at cheaper prices than those found in Java or other parts of the country.
Kalimantan's reputation for quality gemstones has been long recognized and Pasar Kebun Sayur has established itself as a choice gem-shopping destination.
Emeralds, diamonds, amethysts and akiks are among the most sought-after gemstones at the market. Prices vary depending on size, quality and clarity, ranging from Rp 150,000 for the small amethyst to more than Rp 10 million for a small diamond.
Shoppers can buy jewelry, independent stand-alone stones, or can have gemstones custom-built into items like rings and bracelets.
Authentic gemstones are cool to the touch, but if you're skeptical, compare with other vendors and do not hesitate to ask questions. Market stalls are also equipped with tools to test the stones' authenticity.
Even if you are not a gem lover, shopping for a more affordable, artificial gemstone matching your horoscope could be a fun mission.
Dayak crafts
Long before baby carriers became fashionable throughout the world, the Dayak tribe had already figured how to carry their infants, in style.
This baby carrier is adorned with beads in bright colors of yellow, red and green, and also features the Dayak tribe's traditional pattern. Even if there's no baby or no plan to have a baby soon, the carrier makes for a unique souvenir. Consider it an extra bag for your belongings on your return trip.
Other Dayak crafts include mandau (traditional Dayak sword), necklaces and pen and pencil covers.
The keychains, pen cover and several of the necklaces are extremely affordable, starting at Rp 15,000 (US$1.21) per piece. The infant carrier-cum-bag will cost considerably more at Rp 100,000.
Some Dayak stones are also quite pricey, starting from Rp 300,000, depending on the quality. Do make sure that the expensive ones are in fact inlaid with the original stone painted by the Dayak. The hand-painted character is why the stones are not identical, although they may be painted and shaped in similar patterns, colors and sizes.
Antiques
Although there aren’t many, antique lovers can find one or two stalls selling vintage china, from small jars to jugs, large plates and bowls.
Similar to the precious gemstones, shopping for antiques requires a little knowledge. But for the uninformed, just ask the merchants.
The sellers here are friendly and chatty and will not mind answering your questions, even if they do not lead to a purchase. The conversations will enrich the experience and might even give you new knowledge.
Traditional herbs, medicines and ointments
Buying one of these is very entertaining and best of all, will be a great story to tell back home. They are light, easy to pack and very affordable, starting from Rp 25,000 per item/bottle.
According to one of the sellers, most dried herbs can be consumed easily by soaking them in hot boiling water and letting them cool before enjoying the health benefits.
Pasak bumi (eurycomafisa longifolia), a plant that grows in abundance in Kalimantan, is an excellent choice. The plant is said to have many benefits, including helping to cure headaches, malaria and and boosting male libido.
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