Sea has always been a part of Acehnese’s life for a very long time. It is the inevitable of being surrounded by Malacca Strait in the north and Indian Ocean in the south and west. The beaches in Aceh are beautiful with white sands, shining blue water, and lots of them have perfect spots to watch the sunset. This is the ‘going away’ destination for Acehnese families spending their day relaxing.

But on the December 26th, 2004, the beaches have been washed away by the giant and devastating tsunami waves. Tons of debris covered these then beautiful beaches and deserted for a quite of while. The tragedy left deep trauma and for years people were afraid to go to the beach.

A decade on, the coastal ecosystem has been rejuvenated. The beauty of Aceh beaches has been back. Even now vibrant with happy sounds and faces of teenagers playing football and families enjoying sunny relaxing Sunday. Small eateries have mushroomed again in the area. Looking at the beaches in Aceh now, there’s no hint left by the tsunami.

Only happiness and hope for better future.

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