Solo Journey Jakarta
Varieties of Lady in regards to 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 certainly price a go to, particularly in case you are travelling to Bali because it’s only a quick flight away.
It has colonial attraction and historical traditions and there are actions for each form of solo traveller. I frolicked 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, methods to get round and really useful locations to remain for solos!
Is Jakarta Secure for Solo Feminine Travellers?
On the whole, Jakarta is pretty protected, particularly in central and southern areas. Most locals are heat, respectful, and genuinely interested in foreigners, particularly in the event you’re a lady travelling alone. You might hear a pleasant “Hi there, Mister!” from youngsters, as there does not appear to be a gender distinction in Indonesia.
Jakarta is well reachable from Bali and an excellent multi-stop vacation if you wish to discover extra of Indonesia away from the seaside vibes of Bali. As with every huge 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 chances are you’ll 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 may quickly get used to it.
Solo Journey Suggestions 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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Gown modestly, particularly when visiting spiritual websites. Lengthy trousers or a skirt and coated shoulders are your greatest wager. If you happen to 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 affordable however I like to recommend taking a water filter bottle with you (I take advantage of this one!)
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Carry money, particularly for native markets. ATMs are broadly obtainable however will not be all the time dependable, so change some foreign money and have some with you simply in case.
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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 dangerous (Kathmandu is way worse). However if you wish to keep away from any air pollution, a masks or scarf will help in the event you discover it uncomfortable outdoors after some time.
- Take an umbrella. It is excellent for wet season and likewise 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 imagine 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 points of interest, 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 appears to be like 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 excellent intro to the nation’s proud historical past.
Istiqlal Mosque
I beloved this mosque. It is one of the vital 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 find out about 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 in the event you’re fortunate chances are 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 ambiance and complex stained-glass home windows. There’s additionally a small museum upstairs in the event you fancy a browse.
Discover Jakarta’s Outdated City: Kota Tua
The Outdated City is certainly 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 Square is on the coronary heart of the Outdated City with meals carts and avenue 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. If you happen to’re round on a Sunday, catch a dwell efficiency with haunting music and intelligent storytelling.
I beloved this place and spent ages right here on my tour. If you happen to can, do what I did and purchase a puppet to take house as the cash helps assist the museum and the craftsmen. * I visited the museum on this tour
Dine at Cafe Batavia
If you want a espresso cease or some lunch, this colonial jazz cafe is the right solo lunch. It is proper within the Outdated City so you’ll be able to sit close to the window and simply individuals watch. This famous cafe is without doubt one of the oldest and is stuffed 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 here with others from my half-day tour!
See Sunda Kelapa Port
Do you know Jakarta is definitely sinking? A trip to Sunda Kelapa Port actually brings this to life. Components of town sit simply two centimetres above sea degree, and while 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 at present. Huge picket schooners, referred to as pinisi, dock right here identical to they did centuries in the past, with porters hauling big masses by hand.
Verify The Water Ranges
Not removed from the port, in Jakarta’s Outdated City (Kota Tua), there’s a small however highly effective monument that exhibits the rise in sea ranges over time. It’s straightforward 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 cross by way of a few of Jakarta’s poorer neighbourhoods on the way in which, so it’s greatest to go to throughout daytime, ideally with a local guide who can share extra in regards to the space’s historical past and the challenges it faces at present.
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 National Library of Indonesia has 24 flooring and in the event you head to the highest flooring you get beautiful views over 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 Procuring at Grand Indonesia & Plaza Indonesia
If you happen to fancy a little bit of buying, Indonesian-style, these smooth malls are modern-day escapes from the warmth and site visitors. You’ll discover all the pieces from native designers to worldwide retailers reminiscent of Zara, plus rooftop eateries and impartial cafes. Excellent 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 while you’re solo is to go on a meals tour. It is an excellent option to spend a night and likewise to dine with firm too! Plus you get an opportunity to style the road meals from native distributors. * I recommend this food 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 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 already know it will be good.
What I really like in regards to the metropolis is that Jakarta has a thriving espresso scene. Cafes reminiscent of Titik Temu, Giyanti Espresso Roastery, and One Fifteenth Espresso supply 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 social gathering however it there are some nice locations to get pleasure from a drink with a great view or dwell 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 keep on 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, dwell music venues, and worldwide eating places.
SKYE Bar sits on the 56th flooring of the BCA Tower and presents 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 certainly definitely worth the view. Perched on the ninetieth flooring (yep, ninetieth!), it’s the best rooftop in Indonesia. I like to recommend coming right here for golden hour views. It’s an excellent spot to deal with your self to one thing a bit particular and also you get the possibility 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’ll be able to sit again with a drink, hearken to dwell acoustic music, and never really feel misplaced as a solo traveller.
Jakarta is cut up into East Jakarta, West Jakarta, North Jakarta and Central Jakarta. Town is actually unfold out and in case you are making an attempt to get anyplace 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 town. Sudirman stretches into South Jakarta and is a part of the primary enterprise district (CBD). The MRT runs alongside this hall, making it tremendous handy. Each are glorious bases for first-time guests who need trendy comforts and straightforward transport.
Kemang in South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan) is understood for its boho vibe, with plenty 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.
Jakarta has quite a lot of lodging from 3 star to five star worldwide lodges. If you happen to’re visiting right here on a finances, you will additionally discover hostels the place you’ll be able to keep in dorm rooms to maintain the prices down. If you happen to’re uncertain the place to remain, under are really useful lodging for solos together with the place I stayed! * Click here for all other accommodation in Jakarta
After staying in Timor Leste, the lodging right here was such good worth! Assume skyscrapers, a pool, fitness center, restaurant. So when my airport switch pulled as much as this resort, I used to be so so completely satisfied! My room was big. There was a big pool and fitness center, and three eating places. You possibly can even select your personal espresso on the espresso bar. The breakfast buffet was the most important choice I’ve ever seen in all of my travels. And the employees went above and past to make sure my keep was superb. Tip – ensure you ask for a bathe and do not go for the nook rooms which have bathtub tubs. * Check prices & availability: Merlynn Park Hotel
This 4-star resort is an efficient location, only a 17 minute stroll to the Nationwide Monument. The resort has a stunning ambiance and the employees all through the resort are actually pleasant. There is a pool, fitness center and a laundry room and every room has a piece desk in case it’s good to work throughout your keep (or simply plan the remainder of the your journey!) Breakfast is included within the value too. * Check prices & availability: Ashley Tugu Tani Menteng
This 5-star resort is actually reasonably priced. It’s just one km from the practice station and near the unique shopping center with avenue meals simply strolling distance away. There’s a spa, magnificence salon and a 24-hour fitness center in addition to a Japanese restaurant and a delicatessen. Rooms include a metropolis view. * Check prices and availability for Sari Pacific Jakarta
If you wish to deal with your self, this 5-star resort positioned within the Outdated City is unbelievable! It’s near the Puppet Museum and Cafe Batavia, and is stuffed with artwork of historical past. There’s a spa and fitness center, 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 in regards to the artwork and historical past. It’s positively a singular keep. * Check prices & availability: House of Tugu
I like to recommend getting out of town and exploring extra of the island. Java is actually lush and you’ll chill out in a pure scorching spring, style the Lupi espresso or see an energetic volcano. This is the day trip 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 Scorching Springs: Positioned close to Subang, these stress-free springs are excellent for a day of self-care. Foot massages price 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’ll be able to attain the crater by automobile and stroll alongside well-maintained paths across the rim. As you stroll up the crater you cross native sellers making picket cups from Batik wooden and different handmade items.
You may also 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 made out of the volcanic stone!
Getting Round Jakarta
Relying on the place you might be staying (the Outdated City for instance), you could possibly stroll to some of the sights however Jakarta is a sprawling metropolis so you have to transport to get round.
I do not advocate hiring a automobile because the site visitors might be chaotic. As an alternative, 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 (referred to as bajaj) are distinctive to Jakarta and a enjoyable option to get round. Simply be sure 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 have been launched to cut back sexual harassment on public transport. The standard buses are orange buses (that are electrical) however chances are you’ll favor to hop on a pink one!
For the trains, Jakarta’s MRT (Mass Speedy Transit) and LRT (Gentle Rail Transit) supply a faster option 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 primary 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). If you happen to’re flying in from Bali then be sure 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 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. If you happen to 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
