The Best Of Five Cities In Jakarta

When we think of some of the best city travel destinations, what are the names that first pop up in our mind? New York, London, Paris, Milan, Tokyo? How often do you think of Jakarta? If you’re like most people, you might be sleeping on one of the finest tourist destination cities the world has to offer, a bustling metropolis on the coast of Java, Jewel of the Indonesian Islands. There are five cities in Jakarta and more to explore than you could see in a lifetime. So, where do you start?

Have a splash

The northern city of Jakarta is where the coast is. As you might imagine, this means stretches of gorgeous golden beaches and all the sun, sea, and sand you can handle. There’s a bustling tourist economy here, with boat trips, snorkeling, and much more. But if you really want to experience some spills and thrills, you need to check out the waterparks. Attractions like https://www.whitewaterwest.com/global-projects/dunia-fantasi/ are some of the most kid-friendly spots in the city, with slides, rides, and pools that you can spend a whole day enjoying. There’s even some educational value to be found, with Ice Age themed rides teaching kids and adults alike about some of the deepest mysteries of the Earth’s history.

Find a slice of heaven

Venture a little further off the northern coast of the city and there’s even more to explore. There are boat tours for tourists that can fit any budget, with all the luxuries of private yacht hire available to those who are willing to splurge a little. One of the attractions that most tourists here simply have to see is the Thousand Islands, not too far from the northern coast. Colorful birds, gorgeous seas, and an eccentric collection of marine life including manta rays and turtles make their home here. But the people of Pramuka Island are well worth visiting, too. It’s like a little-hidden getaway, with beach bars, friendly locals, and all the comforts you can hope for when the city gets a little overwhelming.

Get a taste of luxury

That said, if you want to enjoy all the luxuries that city life holds, then you want to stick close to Central Jakarta. This is the financial heart of the city and, as expected, where you can find some of the highest quality accommodation. If you like access to spas, bars, private pools, and great views of the city skyline, you want to check out the Central Jakarta hotels. However, if you prefer your own space in clean, contemporary housing, renting places like in https://www.rumah.com/rumah-dijual/di-area-jakarta-pusat-idjk02 might be more up your alley. You can still find all the luxury amenities you would expect from a five-star hotel, but with a touch of privacy to boot.

Up close with some of the island’s most endangered species

Like many of the more recently developed locations in the world, Java has had some trouble with its conservation of the species that call it and the surrounding islands home. However, in Jakarta, many of these endangered species have found a way to survive in Ragunan Zoo. With a world-class aviary and primate center, this 140-hectare zoo hosts some of the brightest birds and most characterful monkeys, chimps, and apes you can hope to see. The main attraction, however, simply must be the enclosure of Balinese and white tigers. There are few places in the world that offer such an up-close look at some of the most beautiful big cats you can find.

Get a feel for Indonesia

Some people might find that visiting the biggest city a destination has to offer puts you at risk of missing the culture and character that can be found throughout the rest of the country. However, Jakarta never forgets its roots and has them on full display. In the western corner of South Jakarta, which is the more residential side of the city, you can find the very heart of Indonesia represented. This is thanks to Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. A 100-hectare park, this must-see stop includes traditional houses representing different provinces and ethnic groups, traditional crafts and arts on display, and even a miniature version of Borobudur, the country’s most famous temple. You don’t have to go too far from Jakarta to see a painstaking recreation of the country’s spirit.

Get a taste of the city’s history

That’s not to say that the city’s history is solely represented by the Indonesian culture it makes a display out of. Jakarta has seen the influence and dominion of a whole host of cultures over the centuries. It’s a mish-mash of Javanese, Malay, Chinese, Arab, Indian, and Dutch influences. Few better places can you see that than http://www.indonesia-tourism.com/jakarta/jakarta-history-museum.html.  The history lives and breathes through the city as well, from the colonial Dutch buildings of Kula Toa to Glodok, the Chinatown of Jakarta, where the oriental influence can be keenly felt in every building along the docks. Few cities truly embrace multiculturalism as well as Jakarta.

Relax with a view like never before

If you’re looking for nightlife and a taste of the Jakarta party lifestyle, you have to head back to the central city. Amongst the high rises you are going to find some of the best-hidden bars and clubs, the city has to offer. https://www.ismaya.com/skye is on the 56th floor of the BCA Tower and represents much more than a bar. It’s a “lifestyle resort” giving anyone who can find it a taste of the luxury lifestyle. A bistro by day, at night it transforms into one of the classiest nightlife spots in the city, with colorful cocktails and relaxing music to accompany one of the finest views you can find in the city.

Bring back some souvenirs

Can you really say that a city is world-class without talking about its shopping? Probably not. There’s no need to fear, however, as each of the Five Cities of Jakarta has more than its fair share of retail therapy on offer. From small stalls offering local foods and handmade goods to the latest and greatest off the runway, you can find it all here. The prime spot for anyone looking for high-quality shopping, however, is the appropriately named Grand Indonesia Mall. This complex is truly huge, with over 200 restaurants and shops to spend days exploring. There are bargains as well as some of the most famous designer name stores, so it’s a great spot for shopping that can fit any budget.

Visit one of the oldest sites in the world

There are some spots worth leaving the city for, as well. Those into their world history of anthropology will know that ancient Javanese cultures are some of the oldest in the world, rivaling the kingdoms of ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. The proof is there for everyone to visit at Gunung Padang, some of the oldest ruins still stand in the world. Known as Indonesia’s Machu Picchu, it might not be quite in as complete a state, but it still gives you a great idea of the scale and importance of this building to the ancient peoples of the island. It’s a day trip away from the western side of Jakarta, so if you want to go, you need to plan in advance for it.

The Five Cities of Jakarta hold a lot more than what we could show here. Much like any of the other truly world class cities, it’s impossible to see everything in one trip. It can serve you time and time again, with something new to see every time you visit.