Get to Sumatra. The best way to do this is via Medan, Sumatra´s largest city. You can fly to Medan from Jakarta, or by international flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. There is also a ferry crossing from Penang, Malaysia. From Medan, you can reach the lakeside town of Parapat by public bus, private bus, or hired car and driver.
Go to Samsoir Island. While there are hotels in Parapat, the place to be is on Samosir. Several ferries run from Parapat to Samosir, and will drop you off at different parts of the small neck of land on the island where all the guesthouses and resorts are. This area is known as Tuk Tuk, not to be confused with the Thai vehicle of the same name. Buy your ticket, make no promises to the touts hawking rooms at a guesthouse, and wait for the boat.
Relax. You are in a beautiful highland scene with a stunning lake. The waters are cool, but warmer than one might expect because of the residual volcanic heat. Lounge by the lake. Go for a swim. Get a used book from a local shop. Do nothing.
Hike over Samosir ridge. Behind Tuk Tuk is the imposing, mist-shrouded heights of Samosir ridge. If you are looking to break up your relaxation with something strenuous, try hiking these rugged trails. Plus, the ridge is the highest local point, and the view from the top is not to be missed.
Rent a bike and go explore Batak culture. There is a museum and culture center on the far end of Samosir island, several kilometers from the main tourist strip. It is a scenic ride with a pleasant little collection of antique Batak-style houses, artifacts and a traditional dance waiting for you at the end. Those unfit for the bike ride can use the local bemo (minibus converted to public transit) instead.
Sample the mushroom tea. Magic mushrooms are legal because of local traditions. The Bataks brew a tasty tea from them.
Try the baked goods at Tabo Cottages. This guesthouse is the most luxurious on the island, and also hosts a bakery. Sumatra is famous for its coffee and tea, so get some and enjoy the best source of Western baked goods anywhere in Sumatra (maybe all of Indonesia).
Go dancing with the locals. If you are a single guy, the local Batak girls are eager to dance with you. This isn't Bangkok and they are not "bar girls." Instead, they are just nice and a little wild by local standards, and want to have a good time with a foreigner who has a little money. Compared to virtually anywhere else in Southeast Asia, it is all very innocent.
