Why You Should Visit Jakarta – A City of Contrasts

Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is an interesting city to explore. The contemporary lifestyle thrives here with the rich cultural heritage in the background. With a mix of history, culture, friendly people, and cuisine, Jakarta offers you a diverse set of experiences. Here’s why you should visit Jakarta. 

Jakarta -Photo by Muhammad Rizki on Unsplash 

Cuisine 

Jakarta is a treat for foodies! You can munch your way through a whole spectrum of dining experiences, from delicious street food to fancy fine dining. 

If you're into art and good eats, check out Tugu Kunstkring Paleis. It used to be a fine arts centre, but now they serve up fantastic Indonesian dishes alongside some amazing art exhibitions. 

For a taste of local flavours, head over to the Jalan Jaksa area. There are several eateries that serve up Javanese street food, like pisang goreng and spicy fried chicken. 

If you're in the mood for a more upscale Indonesian meal, you’ll find swanky restaurants that whip up multi-course menus. 

Shopping 

Shopping in Jakarta is a real adventure! This city has some impressive malls like Plaza Blok M Mall, which has a convenient location because it's directly connected to the MRT system. And if you're into luxury shopping, Pacific Place Mall is the place to be. 

But if you're looking for souvenirs, head to Pasaraya Blok M. It features a massive collection of souvenirs, and you're bound to find something special to take home. 

Now, if you're more into trendy and hipster vibes, South Jakarta has some amazing bazaars and markets that are a bit different from your typical mall shopping experience. 

So, what kind of shopping experience are you after? Whatever it is, Jakarta has you covered! 

Accommodation 

With a wide array of options available, finding a place to stay in Jakarta is no challenge. If you’re in the mood for convenience combined with modern comfort, Jakarta serviced apartments would make for an unforgettable accommodation experience – just check out Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta, and you’ll know this to be true. 

But if you have to watch your wallet, don’t worry – Jakarta has plenty of budget-friendly options too. 

Want to enjoy some luxury? The city offers you numerous options where you can splurge. 

Public Transportation 

Getting around Jakarta is a breeze with its public transportation options. The city has an MRT system, buses, and commuter trains to help you navigate the city. 

If you're flying in, you'll likely arrive at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, which handles international travellers. Once you're in the city, the MRT system makes it super easy to get around. 

However, if you're planning longer journeys, the train service connects Jakarta to different cities across Java, so you can explore even more of this amazing island. 

Cityscape 

Jakarta's skyline is quite a sight to see. It's a fantastic blend of modern skyscrapers reaching for the sky and historic colonial buildings that give the city a unique character. 

If you head up to the northern shores, especially in the old town area known as Kota, you'll step back in time. It’ll feel like you’ve been transported to Jakarta’s colonial past – be sure to explore Sunda Kelapa harbour, which is one of the most popular attractions in the city. 

Art and Culture 

Jakarta has a series of museums and cultural centres that showcase its artistic heritage. Two standouts are the National Gallery of Indonesia and the Taman Ismail Marzuki Cultural Centre. 

The National Gallery is like an art lover's paradise, hosting a wide range of art exhibitions that'll leave you inspired. 

Over at Taman Ismail Marzuki, culture and performances take centre stage. You can catch incredible shows and cultural events that showcase Jakarta's vibrant creative scene. 

Islands 

If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Jakarta, you should take a trip to the Thousand Islands. They're located just north of Jakarta's coast and offer a tranquil getaway from the city. 

These islands have something for everyone, from luxury retreats like Macan Island to more budget-friendly options like Tidung and Pramuka Islands. Whether you're up for a day trip or a longer stay, you'll find a variety of activities and experiences to enjoy. 

Nightlife 

When the sun goes down in Jakarta, the city's nightlife comes to life! It's a vibrant scene with something for everyone. 

You can elevate your night at chic rooftop bars perched atop high-rise buildings, offering stunning views and delicious drinks. But if you're in the mood for something more traditional, there are plenty of classic nightspots to explore. 

Jakarta's nightlife truly has a wide range of options for evening entertainment, so whatever it is you’re after, you’re sure to find it.