Solo Journey Jakarta
Forms of Lady in regards to the Globe – Cultural, Historical past, Nature GatG
Jakarta won’t be the primary place that springs to thoughts for a solo journey, however this vibrant, sprawling capital is unquestionably price a go to, particularly in case you are travelling to Bali because it’s only a brief flight away.
It has colonial allure and historical traditions and there are actions for each sort of solo traveller. I hung out solo in Jakarta and share my ideas and recommendation beneath. Uncover what to do in Jakarta alone together with what to do within the evenings, how one can get round and beneficial locations to remain for solos!
N.b. When you e-book your actions or lodging in Jakarta by means of this text, I donate cash to tasks serving to susceptible women in regards to the globe. Thanks for serving to! Lisa x [/bg}
Is Jakarta Secure for Solo Feminine Travellers?
Generally, Jakarta is pretty secure, particularly in central and southern areas. Most locals are heat, respectful, and genuinely interested in foreigners, particularly for those who’re a lady travelling alone. You could hear a pleasant “Good day, Mister!” from children, as there does not appear to be a gender distinction in Indonesia.
Jakarta is well reachable from Bali and an ideal multi-stop vacation if you wish to discover extra of Indonesia away from the seaside vibes of Bali. As with every massive metropolis you continue to want to remain alert for those who’re solo.
Keep away from East Jakarta for those who’re alone, particularly after darkish. It’s much less developed and extra conservative, so it’s possible you’ll really feel misplaced and expertise some stares.
Solely take out what you want with you and go away any valuables in your lodging. Keep away from carrying costly jewelry, and don’t wander into quiet streets at night time. Keep the place the opposite vacationers and locals are.
The zebra crossings do not appear to actually work as locals simply stroll into visitors and make eye contact with drivers. It’s a bit daunting at first, however simply cross when the locals do and you may quickly get used to it.
Solo Journey Suggestions for Jakarta
Use Seize (the native Uber) for comfort and security. It is very easy to make use of.
Gown modestly, particularly when visiting spiritual websites. Lengthy trousers or a skirt and coated shoulders are your finest wager. When you go to the mosque, they provide you an abaya to put on that is included in your entry payment.
Keep away from consuming faucet water, bottled water is in every single place and is reasonable however I like to recommend taking a water filter bottle with you (I exploit this one!)
Carry money, particularly for native markets. ATMs are extensively out there however usually are not all the time dependable, so change some forex and have some with you simply in case.
Be aware of the air. They are saying that Jakarta is without doubt one of the world’s most polluted cities however I did not discover it that unhealthy (Kathmandu is way worse). However if you wish to keep away from any air pollution, a masks or scarf will help for those who discover it uncomfortable exterior after some time.
Take an umbrella. It is good for wet season and in addition retains the solar off you through the warmth too.
Issues To Do in Jakarta for Solo Feminine Travellers
Jakarta actually shocked me. It is a vibrant metropolis with many alternative areas and I could not consider that I hadn’t visited earlier than!
It isn’t a metropolis that’s actually listed for a solo journey however it has a mixture of fascinating historical past, cultural sights, and is ideal for exploring solo. Whether or not you’re into tradition, native life, or simply people-watching, listed here are my favorite issues to do in Jakarta for solo feminine travellers.
Nationwide Monument (Monas)
That is town’s most iconic landmark (it seems like a large torch particularly at night time). On a transparent day you possibly can head to the highest for panoramic views or simply stroll round Merdeka Sq. beneath. On the base you may discover a small however informative museum on Indonesia’s battle for independence. It’s an ideal intro to the nation’s proud historical past.
Istiqlal Mosque
I beloved this mosque. It is some of the lovely ones that I’ve seen in Indonesia. This colossal mosque can match as much as 200,000 worshippers and is fantastically designed, with marbled flooring and cooling fountains.I joined their guided tour to study its symbolism and learnt that the variety of domes, pillars, and steps all symbolize important Islamic dates. They provide you a gown to put on and for those who’re fortunate it’s possible you’ll even get to bang the gong! (the man taking the tour is an incredible photographer too!) * This was included on my half-day tour
Jakarta Cathedral
Proper throughout from the mosque, this neo-Gothic magnificence represents the spiritual concord Indonesia strives for. Step inside and also you’ll be struck by the peaceable environment and complicated stained-glass home windows. There’s additionally a small museum upstairs for those who fancy a browse.
Discover Jakarta’s Previous City: Kota Tua
The Previous City is considered one of my favorite areas right here. You’re feeling as if you might be stepping again in time amongst Dutch colonial buildings, horse-drawn carts, and quirky museums. It does not even really feel such as you’re in Indonesia. The Fatahillah Sq. is on the coronary heart of the Previous City with meals carts and avenue performers. For a vacationer second, you can lease a brightly colored ‘onthel’ bike (full with matching hat!) and cycle across the sq..
See The Conventional Puppets at Museum Wayang
This hidden gem in Kota Tua showcases Indonesia’s shadow puppetry custom and also you get to fulfill the craftsmen who promote their puppets. There’s an eerie allure to it, particularly with puppets from throughout Asia. When you’re round on a Sunday, catch a reside efficiency with haunting music and intelligent storytelling. I beloved this place and spent ages right here on my tour. When you can, do what I did and purchase a puppet to take house as the cash helps help the museum and the craftsmen. * I visited the museum on this tour
Dine at Cafe Batavia
While you want a espresso cease or some lunch, this colonial jazz cafe is the right solo lunch. It is proper within the Previous City so you possibly can sit close to the window and simply folks watch. This well-known cafe is without doubt one of the oldest and is filled with vintage mirrors, with an old-world allure and you will be following within the footsteps of the well-known individuals who have been right here earlier than. You may see their photographs on the wall as you stroll up the steps. * I dined right here with others from my half-day tour!
See Sunda Kelapa Port
Do you know Jakarta is definitely sinking? A visit to Sunda Kelapa Port actually brings this to life. Elements of town sit simply two centimetres above sea stage, and whenever you see the sandbags lining the world, it’s a little bit of an eye-opener. This historic harbour is the place the Portuguese first landed again in 1527, and it nonetheless buzzes with exercise right this moment. Large wood schooners, generally known as pinisi, dock right here identical to they did centuries in the past, with porters hauling big hundreds by hand.
Examine The Water Ranges
Not removed from the port, in Jakarta’s Previous City (Kota Tua), there’s a small however highly effective monument that reveals the rise in sea ranges over time. It’s simple to overlook until somebody factors it out, however standing in entrance of it actually places issues into perspective, particularly figuring out how susceptible town is to flooding.
You’ll move by means of a few of Jakarta’s poorer neighbourhoods on the way in which, so it’s finest to go to throughout daytime, ideally with a neighborhood information who can share extra in regards to the space’s historical past and the challenges it faces right this moment.
See The View From The Highest Library within the World
I do know {that a} library possibly is not probably the most thrilling of locations to go to however this one is a bit particular because it’s the best on the planet! The Nationwide Library of Indonesia has 24 flooring and for those who head to the highest ground you get beautiful views over town and the Nationwide Monument. The library is free to enter and inside you may discover corners displaying Indonesia’s conventional art work and cultural heritage in addition to spacious studying and dealing areas (it’s a library!)
Go Buying at Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia
When you fancy a little bit of procuring, Indonesian-style, these glossy malls are modern-day escapes from the warmth and visitors. You’ll discover every part from native designers to worldwide retailers comparable to Zara, plus rooftop eateries and unbiased cafes. Very best for those who want a breather or a little bit of retail remedy. Or go to Sarinah Mall which is a little more native and historic. Sarinah was the primary ever mall in Indonesia! It’s been revamped and now has a pleasant mixture of Indonesian manufacturers, crafts, and locations to eat.
Style The Native Delicacies
An effective way to fulfill others whenever you’re solo is to go on a meals tour. It is an excellent solution to spend a night and in addition to dine with firm too! Plus you get an opportunity to style the road meals from native distributors. * I like to recommend this meals tour
Or you possibly can head to Glodok, which is Jakarta’s Chinatown earlier than it winds down early afternoon for some recent Chinese language meals.
As with many locations in Asia, the basic-looking canteen-style eating places are generally one of the best. Do not let the plastic chairs put you off as these ‘warungs’ do nice meals! If the locals are consuming there, then you recognize it will be good.
What I really like in regards to the metropolis is that Jakarta has a thriving espresso scene. Cafes comparable to Titik Temu, Giyanti Espresso Roastery, and One Fifteenth Espresso provide single-origin brews, cosy vibes, and funky native crowds. They’re nice spots for journalling, studying, or simply reflecting in your journey over a flat white.
What To Do in Jakarta at Night time
Simply since you’re alone, do not let that cease you from exploring town at night time. It is not actually the place to celebration however it there are some nice locations to get pleasure from a drink with a great view or reside music. You do should be a bit cautious at night time too. Order a Seize taxi to and out of your vacation spot and persist with well-lit areas. If someplace does not really feel proper then simply belief your intuition and discover someplace that has a nicer vibe.
Central Jakarta has one of the best collection of rooftop bars, reside music venues, and worldwide eating places.
SKYE Bar sits on the 56th ground of the BCA Tower and affords a panoramic view of town. Because the solar units and the lights begin to twinkle, it’s fairly magical. It is the right place to sip a cocktail whereas absorbing the thrill round you.
Eden Rooftop Bar on the Park Royal Resort is unquestionably well worth the view. Perched on the ninetieth ground (yep, ninetieth!), it’s the best rooftop in Indonesia. I like to recommend coming right here for golden hour views. It’s an ideal spot to deal with your self to one thing a bit particular and also you get the prospect to decorate up too.
For a spot that is extra low-key, Cafe California is a small native venue with a heat, relaxed vibe. It’s a kind of locations the place you possibly can sit again with a drink, hearken to reside acoustic music, and never really feel misplaced as a solo traveller.
Finest Space To Keep in Jakarta
Jakarta is cut up into East Jakarta, West Jakarta, North Jakarta and Central Jakarta. The town is absolutely unfold out and in case you are attempting to get wherever throughout rush hour then it’s a good suggestion to remain close to the sights. Listed below are my suggestions for various areas to remain in.
Menteng in Central Jakarta (Jakarta Pusat) is one of many metropolis’s most elegant and historic areas, with tree-lined streets, colonial structure, and a mixture of embassies and authorities buildings. It is very walkable by Jakarta requirements and near main landmarks like Monas (the Nationwide Monument).
Thamrin sits in Central Jakarta, proper on the coronary heart of town. Sudirman stretches into South Jakarta and is a part of the principle enterprise district (CBD). The MRT runs alongside this hall, making it tremendous handy. Each are wonderful bases for first-time guests who need trendy comforts and straightforward transport.
Kemang in South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan) is thought for its boho vibe, with plenty of cafes, indie retailers, artwork areas, and a powerful expat presence. It’s extra laid-back and residential in comparison with the high-rises of Sudirman, however the visitors can get hectic on weekends.
Finest Inns in Jakarta For Solos
Jakarta has quite a lot of lodging from 3 star to five star worldwide inns. When you’re visiting right here on a funds, you may additionally discover hostels the place you possibly can keep in dorm rooms to maintain the prices down. When you’re not sure the place to remain, beneath are beneficial lodging for solos together with the place I stayed! * Click on right here for all different lodging in Jakarta
Merlynn Park Resort – $$
After staying in Timor Leste, the lodging right here was such good worth! Assume skyscrapers, a pool, health club, restaurant. So when my airport switch pulled as much as this lodge, I used to be so so pleased! My room was big. There was a big pool and health club, and three eating places. You may even select your individual espresso on the espresso bar. The breakfast buffet was the most important choice I’ve ever seen in all of my travels. And the workers went above and past to make sure my keep was superb. Tip – be sure you ask for a bathe and do not go for the nook rooms which have tub tubs. * Examine costs & availability: Merlynn Park Resort
Ashley Tugu Tani Menteng – $$
This 4-star lodge is an efficient location, only a 17 minute stroll to the Nationwide Monument. The lodge has a beautiful environment and the workers all through the lodge are actually pleasant. There is a pool, health club and a laundry room and every room has a piece desk in case you want to work throughout your keep (or simply plan the remainder of the your journey!) Breakfast is included within the value too. * Examine costs & availability: Ashley Tugu Tani Menteng
Sari Pacific Jakarta, Autograph Assortment – $$
This 5-star lodge is absolutely inexpensive. It’s only one km from the prepare station and near the unique shopping center with avenue meals simply strolling distance away. There’s a spa, magnificence salon and a 24-hour health club in addition to a Japanese restaurant and a delicatessen. Rooms include a metropolis view. * Examine costs and availability for Sari Pacific Jakarta
Home of Tugu – $$$
If you wish to deal with your self, this 5-star lodge situated within the Previous City is incredible! It’s near the Puppet Museum and Cafe Batavia, and is filled with artwork of historical past. There’s a spa and health club, espresso store, restaurant and a terrace. Every room is soundproofed and has its personal theme with a backyard or metropolis view. You may even take a tour of the placement to be taught extra in regards to the artwork and historical past. It’s positively a singular keep. * Examine costs & availability: Home of Tugu
Jakarta Day Journeys
I like to recommend getting out of town and exploring extra of the island. Java is absolutely lush and you’ll loosen up in a pure sizzling spring, style the Lupi espresso or see an lively volcano. That is the day journey that I did that coated all of those locations.
Subang: Generally known as the Pineapple Metropolis, you’ll see a large pineapple statue at a roundabout. Locals say to not eat pineapple too early within the day (it’s believed to upset the abdomen). Sweetness settles on the backside, so pineapples are hung the other way up to let the sugar unfold.
Sari Ater Sizzling Springs: Situated close to Subang, these stress-free springs are good for a day of self-care. Foot massages value round 50,000 IDR (£2.50) and a full physique therapeutic massage is about 100,000 IDR (£5).
Tangkuban Perahu Volcano: This volcano can also be included on the day tour. What makes it distinctive is the straightforward entry as you possibly can attain the crater by automotive and stroll alongside well-maintained paths across the rim. As you stroll up the crater you move native sellers making wood cups from Batik wooden and different handmade items. You too can purchase ginger tea and snacks to maintain you heat because the temperature plummets on the high. I introduced fridge magnets from right here that had been comprised of the volcanic stone!
Getting Round Jakarta
Relying on the place you might be staying (the Previous City for instance), you might be able to stroll to a couple of the sights however Jakarta is a sprawling metropolis so you will have transport to get round.
I do not suggest hiring a automotive because the visitors will be chaotic. As an alternative, I used the Seize app to name taxis for after I wasn’t on a tour. It is secure, dependable, and cheaper than most taxis.
For brief distances, tuk-tuks (referred to as bajaj) are distinctive to Jakarta and a enjoyable solution to get round. Simply make sure that to all the time agree on a value first.
If you wish to take the bus, Jakarta has particular buses only for girls! These pink buses are a women-only house and had been launched to cut back sexual harassment on public transport. The same old buses are orange buses (that are electrical) however it’s possible you’ll desire to hop on a pink one!
For the trains, Jakarta’s MRT (Mass Fast Transit) and LRT (Gentle Rail Transit) provide a faster solution to journey throughout town. Each networks are absolutely air-conditioned, which is good within the metropolis’s tropical local weather. The MRT runs between South and Central Jakarta, whereas the LRT connects the principle areas in East Jakarta. The trains run continuously, and are nicely sign-posted with bulletins in each Indonesian and English too. Purchase your ticket on the ticket counters or on the machines on the stations.
From the Airport
There are two important airports in Jakarta. Soekarno-Hatta Worldwide Airport (CGK) and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP). When you’re flying in from Bali then make sure that to verify which airport you arrive at in your airport switch because the airports are roughly half-hour aside.
Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta Worldwide Airport (CGK) is round 40–90 minutes from central Jakarta, relying on visitors. You may both discover the devoted pickup zone for Seize and order a Seize taxi as a substitute of an airport taxi. When you do take an airport taxi, go to the official taxi rank and keep away from anybody shouting “taxi taxi.” Or take the Airport Rail Hyperlink that drops you at BNI Metropolis station in central Jakarta. * Use Rome2Rio to plan your journey