208 days ago
208 days ago
Jakarta (pop. 10 million) is Indonesia’s largest city, capital and financial center. It’s located on the island of Java and the most populated city in all of South East Asia. Jakarta is a massive urban sprawl easily identified by its towering, modern skyline and other landmarks like the Istiqlal Mosque, the Merdeka Palace and the Taman Mimi Indonesia Indah.
XTS Rating: 7- Jakarta isn’t on the backpacker’s radar for several reasons- One, it’s a huge urban city with not much to do or see. Two, backpackers are drawn to Indonesia’s more interesting sights and don’t have to pass through the capital due to Indo being an archipelago nation with every island having its own airport. Three, it’s a little expensive because Jakarta, and Indo in general, is booming economically.
The three listings above are true, but that shouldn’t stop you from checking out Jakarta, especially if you’re interested in urban culture. In fact, since it’s not very touristy or even backpackery, it gives you the opportunity to experience its unique blend of Chinese, Muslim and Indo culture, wonder down some photo-perfect back alleys and befriend the locals who are known to be some of the friendliest in the world. If American, be sure to drop Obama’s names and you’ll be eating free the rest of the day. They love the guy since he spent several years of his childhood in there.
