“Selamat datang.” Welcome to Jakarta, the vibrant and bustling capital city of Indonesia! Situated on the northwest coast of the island of Java, Jakarta is not only the largest city in Indonesia but also one of the most populous cities in the world. Known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse population, and thriving economy, Jakarta is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity.
From its towering skyscrapers and bustling markets to its historical sites and delicious street food, Jakarta offers visitors a captivating experience that showcases the country’s unique charm. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historical landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, or immersing yourself in its vibrant nightlife, Jakarta is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler who sets foot in this vibrant metropolis.
The longest I’ve stayed in a country was two weeks. I never expected to last almost seven months in a new place, all on my own. The moment my plane touched down at the Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta, I was already feeling homesick — something new for a frequent traveler like me who has been away from home since my teenage years.
But Jakarta embraced me as its own. There were differences in culture compared with my upbringing but there were also a lot of similarities with the Filipino way of life. And I was there when the blast that rocked Bali — and the rest of the world — occurred.
Despite the Bali bombing, like in the local Philippine scene, life went on in Jakarta. My stay was filled with work, tutorials (for local Indonesians wanting to study in my country), shopping, socializing with Filipino friends, Catholic community and touring visitors to Jakarta’s landmark.
Mind you, I’ve never been to all despite the length of time I spent there. It’s different when you’re in a place at a short time with visit as the topmost priority compared with staying for months and postponing tourism because the places are “just there.”
Anyway, a friend asked me what I can recommend in Jakarta and I was grasping my memory of the places I’ve passed by or visited during my brief stint there.
Jakarta attractions
Jakarta’s main symbol is the Monas. It’s a towering landmark that marks Indonesia’s freedom and independence. A golden flame-like shape towers the tall monument which I can compare with the Quezon Memorial Circle. Everyday, I pass by this monument but never had the chance to really get inside and climb up to the tower.
Within the periphery of Monas are the train station, the US embassy and the Vatican embassy. Down Jalan Sudirman is the great fountain that sits in the midst of various hotels.
Our office, which was then situated in Gedung BRI, is just within that main thoroughfare. Across our building is the Atma Jaya Catholic University.
What I liked about their city is the urban planning. The skyway is connected and you’ll never get lost. It surrounds the central part of Jakarta and you’ll surely end up where you enter, in case you forgot where to exit. Buildings have driveways and are not built wall to wall, unlike our Makati.
Still in Central Jakarta, you’ll find the Istiqlal Mosque which is the largest mosque in Indonesia. The Istiqlal Mosque is not only the largest mosque in Southeast Asia but also an iconic symbol of religious tolerance and harmony. Its grand architectural design and strategic location make it a prominent landmark in the city’s skyline.
The mosque was inaugurated in 1978 and can accommodate more than 200,000 worshipers at a time. With its distinctive modernist style, the Istiqlal Mosque blends elements of Indonesian, Middle Eastern, and contemporary architectural influences. Its spacious interior features a vast prayer hall adorned with beautiful calligraphy, while the exterior is characterized by the mosque’s towering minaret and large dome.
The Istiqlal Mosque serves as a significant place of worship for Muslims in Jakarta and welcomes visitors from all backgrounds to appreciate its architectural magnificence and experience the spirit of religious diversity in Indonesia.
Across the mosque is the Catholic Cathedral where I went to hear mass there once. Officially known as the Jakarta Cathedral Church or the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, it is a significant religious landmark in the heart of the city. Built in neo-gothic architectural style, this majestic cathedral stands as a testament to Jakarta’s rich Christian heritage.
The cathedral’s construction began in 1891 and was completed in 1901, making it one of the oldest cathedrals in the region. The imposing twin spires, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate interior decorations create a serene and sacred atmosphere within the cathedral. The Jakarta Cathedral serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Jakarta and attracts both devout worshippers and visitors seeking to admire its architectural beauty and experience a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling city. It is a place of spiritual significance and a symbol of Jakarta’s religious diversity and tolerance.
For shoppers, malls like Plaza Senayan and Taman Anggrek are popular.
But if you are looking for a good buy of Dutch lamps, you’ll get beautiful goods at Jalan Surabaya where a row of antique stall await tourists.
My favorite hotel is JW Marriott Hotel, which is a bit secluded even when it is at the heart of the city. I frequented this place while I was there and, unfortunately, was blasted a few months after I returned home.
But my friends usually hang out at the lounge of the Grand Hyatt hotel where a Filipino band plays on the grand piano. We drink cocktails as we listen to some Filipino songs overlooking the grand fountain at the background.
Living in the northern part of Jakarta, my friends took me to nearby Sea World. We went inside the tube looking at beautiful underwater species found in the rich seas of Indonesia.
Down south is where backpackers’ hotels and fine restaurants are found, including the Secretariat Office of the ASEAN.
An Indonesian friend also took me to their revolving restaurant. I saw the splendor of Jakarta at night, 360 degrees!
I do hope that when I go back to Jakarta, it would be more of pleasure and with some friends in tow, too. But I do miss a lazy quiet afternoon in my unit at Sunter where I learned to cook various Pinoy foods and usually glued in MTV all day and night. And hopefully, I can also explore other parts of Indonesia.
hope we can visit indonesia also. when that time comes wish you could give us inputs…regards irene