Jakarta has been in the news quite often lately, but certainly not for the tourist sights. When political chaos reigns the streets can be packed with protestors and idealists fighting the corrupt political system. Once things cool down, expats can show their faces again.
To most travelers, Jakarta as a starting or ending point of their trip. However, Jakarta is one of the most exciting night-life cities in the world.
Although Jakarta itself doesn't have many "sights" to offer, it is the lively commercial centre of Java.
In addition to several museums, the heart of the old Dutch town at 'Taman Fatahillah'. National Monument or known by locals at Monumen Nasional [Monas] and National Museum or Museum gajah nearby Merdeka Square.
Sunda Kelapa, is the old harbour from which merchantmen from all over the world come and go. Take a weekend charter to Anak Krakatoa, and compare it to Captain Cook's 1773 description. The night-time southern sky is not something you will soon forget.
Indonesia is a wonderful country with beautiful, friendly people. It is a wonderful mixture of beauty and chaos that you will either love, or hate. The rice paddies, volcanos, small villages and ocean beaches are incomparable in this world. |
