As one of the few predominantly Christian cities in Indonesia, Manado has a slightly different air to many other cities. A popular student pastime seems to be relaxing with a glass of ‘Cap Tikus’ spirit drink (literally ‘Rat Brand’) watching the sunset over the offshore islands in Manado’s small harbour.

Local specialities typically served up (and typically left uneaten by westerners) include stomach-churning ‘RW’ – curried dog, field rat, and bat. Still, most of these quirks of local cuisine will be largely unseen to the majority of tourists who head to North Sulawesi for the sole purpose of exploring the wonders of Bunaken Marine Park, a 45 minute journey from Manado.