Solo Journey Jakarta
Kinds of Lady concerning the Globe – Cultural, Historical past, Nature GatG
Jakarta may not be the primary place that springs to thoughts for a solo journey, however this vibrant, sprawling capital is unquestionably value a go to, particularly if you’re travelling to Bali because it’s only a quick flight away.
It has colonial attraction 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 under. Uncover what to do in Jakarta alone together with what to do within the evenings, the right way to get round and really helpful locations to remain for solos!
N.b. In case you e book your actions or lodging in Jakarta by means of this text, I donate cash to initiatives serving to weak women concerning the globe. Thanks for serving to! Lisa x [/bg}
Is Jakarta Secure for Solo Feminine Travellers?
Generally, Jakarta is pretty protected, particularly in central and southern areas. Most locals are heat, respectful, and genuinely inquisitive about foreigners, particularly in the event you’re a girl travelling alone. You might hear a pleasant “Hiya, Mister!” from children, as there does not appear to be a gender distinction in Indonesia.
Jakarta is definitely reachable from Bali and an amazing multi-stop vacation if you wish to discover extra of Indonesia away from the seashore vibes of Bali. As with all large metropolis you continue to want to remain alert in the event you’re solo.
Keep away from East Jakarta in the event you’re alone, particularly after darkish. It’s much less developed and extra conservative, so you might really feel misplaced and expertise some stares.
Solely take out what you want with you and depart any valuables in your lodging. Keep away from sporting 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 essentially work as locals simply stroll into site visitors and make eye contact with drivers. It’s a bit daunting at first, however simply cross when the locals do and you will quickly get used to it.
Solo Journey Ideas for Jakarta
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Use Seize (the native Uber) for comfort and security. It is very easy to make use of.
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Costume modestly, particularly when visiting spiritual websites. Lengthy trousers or a skirt and coated shoulders are your finest guess. In case you go to the mosque, they provide you an abaya to put on that is included in your entry payment.
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Keep away from ingesting 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!)
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Carry money, particularly for native markets. ATMs are extensively out there however will not be at all times dependable, so change some foreign money and have some with you simply in case.
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Be conscious of the air. They are saying that Jakarta is likely one of the world’s most polluted cities however I did not discover it that dangerous (Kathmandu is far worse). However if you wish to keep away from any air pollution, a masks or scarf may also help in the event you discover it uncomfortable outdoors after some time.
- Take an umbrella. It is good for wet season and in addition retains the solar off you throughout the warmth too.
Issues To Do in Jakarta for Solo Feminine Travellers
Jakarta actually shocked me. It is a vibrant metropolis with many various areas and I could not imagine that I hadn’t visited earlier than!
It is not a metropolis that’s actually listed for a solo journey but it surely 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 the town’s most iconic landmark (it seems like a large torch particularly at night time). On a transparent day you’ll be able to head to the highest for panoramic views or simply stroll round Merdeka Sq. under. On the base you will discover a small however informative museum on Indonesia’s struggle for independence. It’s an amazing intro to the nation’s proud historical past.
Istiqlal Mosque
I cherished this mosque. It is one of the crucial lovely ones that I’ve seen in Indonesia. This colossal mosque can match as much as 200,000 worshippers and is superbly 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 signify vital Islamic dates. They provide you a gown to put on and in the event you’re fortunate you might 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 in the event you fancy a browse.
Discover Jakarta’s Previous City: Kota Tua
The Previous City is certainly one of my favorite areas right here. You are feeling as if you’re 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 road performers. For a vacationer second, you can hire 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 satisfy the craftsmen who promote their puppets. There’s an eerie attraction to it, particularly with puppets from throughout Asia. In case you’re round on a Sunday, catch a reside efficiency with haunting music and intelligent storytelling. I cherished this place and spent ages right here on my tour. In case you can, do what I did and purchase a puppet to take residence as the cash helps assist the museum and the craftsmen. * I visited the museum on this tour
Dine at Cafe Batavia
Once you want a espresso cease or some lunch, this colonial jazz cafe is the proper solo lunch. It is proper within the Previous City so you’ll be able to sit close to the window and simply folks watch. This well-known cafe is likely one of the oldest and is filled with vintage mirrors, with an old-world attraction and you will be following within the footsteps of the well-known individuals who have been right here earlier than. You possibly can 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 journey to Sunda Kelapa Port actually brings this to life. Elements of the town sit simply two centimetres above sea degree, and if 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 now. Large picket schooners, often known as pinisi, dock right here identical to they did centuries in the past, with porters hauling large masses 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 exhibits the rise in sea ranges over time. It’s simple to overlook except somebody factors it out, however standing in entrance of it actually places issues into perspective, particularly understanding how weak the town is to flooding.
You’ll go by means of a few of Jakarta’s poorer neighbourhoods on the best way, so it’s finest to go to throughout daytime, ideally with an area information who can share extra concerning the space’s historical past and the challenges it faces right now.
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 this planet! The Nationwide Library of Indonesia has 24 flooring and in the event you head to the highest ground you get beautiful views over the town and the Nationwide Monument. The library is free to enter and inside you will discover corners displaying Indonesia’s conventional art work and cultural heritage in addition to spacious studying and dealing areas (it’s a library!)
Go Purchasing at Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia
In case you fancy a little bit of purchasing, Indonesian-style, these glossy malls are modern-day escapes from the warmth and site visitors. You’ll discover all the things from native designers to worldwide retailers similar to Zara, plus rooftop eateries and unbiased cafes. Preferrred in the event you 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
A good way to satisfy others if you’re solo is to go on a meals tour. It is a super technique 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’ll be able to 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 the most effective. Do not let the plastic chairs put you off as these ‘warungs’ do nice meals! If the locals are consuming there, then you realize it may be good.
What I like concerning the metropolis is that Jakarta has a thriving espresso scene. Cafes similar 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 the town at night time. It is not actually the place to celebration but it surely there are some nice locations to get pleasure from a drink with a superb view or reside music. You do have to be a bit cautious at night time too. Order a Seize taxi to and out of your vacation spot and follow 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 the most effective 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 the town. Because the solar units and the lights begin to twinkle, it’s fairly magical. It is the proper place to sip a cocktail whereas absorbing the thrill round you.
Eden Rooftop Bar on the Park Royal Lodge is unquestionably definitely 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 amazing 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 type of locations the place you’ll be able to sit again with a drink, take heed to reside acoustic music, and never really feel misplaced as a solo traveller.
Finest Space To Keep in Jakarta
Jakarta is break up into East Jakarta, West Jakarta, North Jakarta and Central Jakarta. The town is absolutely unfold out and if you’re 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’s extremely walkable by Jakarta requirements and near main landmarks like Monas (the Nationwide Monument).
Thamrin sits in Central Jakarta, proper on the coronary heart of the 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 a number of cafes, indie retailers, artwork areas, and a robust expat presence. It’s extra laid-back and residential in comparison with the high-rises of Sudirman, however the site visitors can get hectic on weekends.
Finest Motels in Jakarta For Solos
Jakarta has quite a lot of lodging from 3 star to five star worldwide accommodations. In case you’re visiting right here on a price range, you will additionally discover hostels the place you’ll be able to keep in dorm rooms to maintain the prices down. In case you’re not sure the place to remain, under are really helpful lodging for solos together with the place I stayed! * Click on right here for all different lodging in Jakarta
Merlynn Park Lodge – $$
After staying in Timor Leste, the lodging right here was such good worth! Suppose skyscrapers, a pool, gymnasium, restaurant. So when my airport switch pulled as much as this resort, I used to be so so joyful! My room was large. There was a big pool and gymnasium, and three eating places. You possibly can even select your individual espresso on the espresso bar. The breakfast buffet was the biggest choice I’ve ever seen in all of my travels. And the workers went above and past to make sure my keep was wonderful. Tip – ensure you ask for a bathe and do not go for the nook rooms which have tub tubs. * Examine costs & availability: Merlynn Park Lodge
Ashley Tugu Tani Menteng – $$
This 4-star resort is an effective location, only a 17 minute stroll to the Nationwide Monument. The resort has a beautiful environment and the workers all through the resort are actually pleasant. There is a pool, gymnasium and a laundry room and every room has a piece desk in case you could work throughout your keep (or simply plan the remainder of the your journey!) Breakfast is included within the worth too. * Examine costs & availability: Ashley Tugu Tani Menteng
Sari Pacific Jakarta, Autograph Assortment – $$
This 5-star resort is absolutely inexpensive. It’s just one km from the practice station and near the unique shopping center with road meals simply strolling distance away. There’s a spa, magnificence salon and a 24-hour gymnasium in addition to a Japanese restaurant and a delicatessen. Rooms include a metropolis view. * Examine costs and availability for Sari Pacific Jakarta
Home of Tugu – $$$
If you wish to deal with your self, this 5-star resort situated within the Previous City is improbable! It’s near the Puppet Museum and Cafe Batavia, and is filled with artwork of historical past. There’s a spa and gymnasium, espresso store, restaurant and a terrace. Every room is soundproofed and has its personal theme with a backyard or metropolis view. You possibly can even take a tour of the placement to study extra concerning the artwork and historical past. It’s undoubtedly a singular keep. * Examine costs & availability: Home of Tugu
Jakarta Day Journeys
I like to recommend getting out of the town and exploring extra of the island. Java is absolutely lush and you’ll calm down in a pure scorching 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 wrong way up to let the sugar unfold.
Sari Ater Sizzling Springs: Situated close to Subang, these enjoyable 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 be included on the day tour. What makes it distinctive is the straightforward entry as you’ll be able to attain the crater by automotive and stroll alongside well-maintained paths across the rim. As you stroll up the crater you go native sellers making picket 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 prime. I introduced fridge magnets from right here that have been constructed from the volcanic stone!
Getting Round Jakarta
Relying on the place you’re staying (the Previous City for instance), you could possibly stroll to a couple of the sights however Jakarta is a sprawling metropolis so you have to transport to get round.
I do not advocate hiring a automotive because the site visitors could be chaotic. As a substitute, I used the Seize app to name taxis for once I wasn’t on a tour. It is protected, dependable, and cheaper than most taxis.
For brief distances, tuk-tuks (known as bajaj) are distinctive to Jakarta and a enjoyable technique to get round. Simply ensure that to at all times agree on a worth first.
If you wish to take the bus, Jakarta has particular buses only for girls! These pink buses are a women-only house and have been launched to scale back sexual harassment on public transport. The same old buses are orange buses (that are electrical) however you might choose to hop on a pink one!
For the trains, Jakarta’s MRT (Mass Speedy Transit) and LRT (Gentle Rail Transit) provide a faster technique to journey throughout the town. Each networks are totally 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 regularly, 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 predominant airports in Jakarta. Soekarno-Hatta Worldwide Airport (CGK) and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport (HLP). In case you’re flying in from Bali then ensure that to verify which airport you arrive at to 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 site visitors. You possibly can both discover the devoted pickup zone for Seize and order a Seize taxi as a substitute of an airport taxi. In case 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
