As the capital of Indonesia, a country composed of more than 13,000 islands with a population of over 180 million people, Jakarta is a cosmopolitan city placed on the coast of West Java and formed by multiple cultures, languages, religious traditions and more, that’s why it’s often called ‘the city of contrasts’. Jakarta is one of Indonesia’s designated tourist areas; it’s actually filled with sightseeing and tourist attractions, lots of shopping malls and hidden back streets for food and fun. As for accommodation, there are hotel and guest houses for all budgets. You may want to walk in upon arrival, book a hotel in advance through the typical hotel websites or check out Traveloka.com , a hotel and flight booking website created for local people in Indonesia which will probably offer better rates. These are just some of the wonderful places you can visit in Jakarta:
Taman Mini Indonesia Indah
This is a picturesque park that was literally named ‘Indonesia in Miniature’ because of its beautiful scenery and multiple museums where you can learn many things about Indonesian cultures from 33 provinces of Indonesia. You’ll also be able to see Paviliuns (traditional houses from each province in real sizes), a huge lake depicting miniature of the Indonesian archipelago and even rent a bicycle or take a cable car.
Dufan or Dunia Fantasi
Dufan is an amusement park for kids and grownups that is actually part of a big complex that includes Ancol Beach. If you want to relax, have fun and do something different, escape from your routine, then this is definitely the place for you. This park allows you to spend a day playing around, enjoying all the games, taking a ride on the roll coasters and more.
The National Monument
This certainly is a spot you cannot miss. Right at the center of Merdeka Square, The National Monument is not only important because of its cultural meaning, but also because it’s a magnificent icon of the city and a symbol of the struggle of Indonesia. This tower is open daily from 08.00 – 15.00 throughout the week except for the last Monday of each, and it’s a great location to really appreciate the incredible Jakarta skyline.
National Museum
With more than 200 years, this is an archeological, historical, ethnological, and geographical museum with a collection of over 140.000 items spreading from a wide range of subjects, a library with thousands of antique books, regular events and a particular trait: an elephant statue that is very popular among locals and tourists.
Nightlife
Being the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta has many clubs and bars available, like Sky Bar, located in the heart of the city and surrounded by Jakarta’s modern skyscrapers, the rooftop bar on this 57-story building is supposedly home to the best view in town; there’s also Kemang or Cafes like Escobar. However, you can always visit Jalan Jaksa Street where you’ll find many bars, clubs and cafes to choose from, resembling nightlife in Bali but in a larger scale.
Jakarta’s cultural richness and dynamic growth have increased significantly throughout the years. Now, with museums, parks, colonial areas, monuments and the vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see that this city is the home of many fantastic places that are worth visiting, whether you want to relax and enjoy the view or get more excitement in your life. Don’t miss the opportunity to have an adventure you’ll never forget, only in Jakarta.
