Travel around Jakarta with Bobby
The reason I chose to visit Jakarta was its unique mix of Indonesia’s cultural and historical richness. Despite being a modern metropolis, it has an intriguing blend of old and new in every corner. Exploring Kota Tua, with its colonial-era buildings, felt like traveling back in time. The street food and culinary scene were also a big draw—I couldn’t wait to try dishes like nasi goreng and satay right at their source. Additionally, Jakarta’s vibrant nightlife and bustling shopping streets offered the perfect chance to experience a city’s energy like no other. It felt like a journey straight to the heart of Indonesia.
Day 1Welcome to the Heart of Indonesia – Kota Tua and Beyond
Landing in Jakarta, I was instantly met with the hum of a bustling metropolis, and I couldn’t wait to jump into the adventure. After checking into my cozy room at The Hermitage, a stylish boutique hotel that combines colonial charm with modern comforts, I headed straight for Kota Tua, Jakarta’s Old Town. This historic area feels like a piece of the past, with its Dutch colonial buildings and narrow, cobbled streets. Walking through Fatahillah Square, I visited the Jakarta History Museum, soaking in stories of the city’s transformation over centuries.
Next stop: Café Batavia, a colonial-style café right on the square. With a view overlooking the square, I sipped on a refreshing iced kopi (Indonesian coffee) and tried nasi goreng, a flavorful fried rice dish topped with a perfectly fried egg. A local must-have!
In the evening, I explored Glodok, Jakarta’s Chinatown, for an authentic street food experience. The street vendors were tempting me with snacks like martabak (sweet stuffed pancake) and sate ayam (chicken skewers). Jakarta’s street food didn’t disappoint—the blend of flavors was incredible.
Kota Tua is a must-see for history lovers, but also a great start to get a sense of Jakarta’s diverse cultural vibe. The food alone is worth the trip to Glodok!
Day 2 From Modern Marvels to Spiritual Sanctuaries
After a quick breakfast at the hotel, I made my way to Monas, the National Monument that towers over central Jakarta. This 132-meter-tall symbol of independence offers a stunning view of the city from the top, and the museum at its base tells the story of Indonesia’s fight for independence.
Next, I visited Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia’s largest mosque. The sheer size and intricate design of this religious landmark were awe-inspiring. Just across the street was Jakarta Cathedral—another architectural gem, with its Gothic spires and impressive interiors. I loved seeing these two monumental places of worship side by side, symbolizing Jakarta’s spirit of diversity.
For lunch, I tried Sate Khas Senayan, famous for their sate kambing (lamb satay) and gado-gado, a tasty salad with peanut sauce. That evening, I explored Grand Indonesia Mall for some modern shopping. This place is massive, filled with everything from local designer stores to international brands.
Lunch at Sate Khas Senayan introduced me to some amazing Indonesian dishes like sate kambing and gado-gado. The flavors were authentic and the portion sizes generous, making it a great spot to dive into the local cuisine. For dinner, I grabbed a meal in the Grand Indonesia Mall food court—convenient, yet packed with delicious options.
Food
Returning to The Hermitage felt like coming home, especially after a busy day in Jakarta’s lively center. The hotel’s amenities, like the rooftop pool, were a perfect spot to unwind. Their attentive staff made my stay even more comfortable.
Accomodation
Climbing Monas for the panoramic view was unforgettable, giving me a full sense of Jakarta’s cityscape. Visiting Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral was equally inspiring, showcasing the city’s architectural and cultural diversity. These sites brought me closer to the heart of Jakarta’s multicultural identity.
Activity
Monas and the Istiqlal Mosque are iconic stops that give a deeper insight into Indonesian culture and history. Plan to spend extra time here, especially for the view from Monas—it’s worth it.
Day 3 Escape to Nature – Bogor Botanical Gardens Day Trip
Jakarta’s traffic can get intense, so I set off early for a day trip to Bogor Botanical Gardens, about an hour away. This lush green oasis is a breath of fresh air away from the city hustle. Walking through these vast gardens was a refreshing experience, with incredible plant species and peaceful ponds around every corner. The Istana Bogor, a palace on the grounds, adds a touch of grandeur to the scenery.
Returning to Jakarta in the late afternoon, I made time for an early dinner at Seribu Rasa, where I sampled more Indonesian flavors, including rendang (a rich, slow-cooked beef dish) and tempeh goreng. Afterward, I decided to experience Jakarta’s nightlife at Lucy in the Sky, a rooftop bar with fantastic city views and a chill vibe.
Seribu Rasa was a dining highlight, with dishes like rendang and tempeh goreng that were rich in flavor and authentic to Indonesian cuisine. The restaurant’s atmosphere was intimate, which added to the experience of sampling local dishes. That evening, enjoying drinks at Lucy in the Sky’s rooftop bar was the perfect way to unwind.
Food
After a refreshing day in Bogor, coming back to The Hermitage offered a comforting sanctuary. With its luxurious and calm setting, I could fully recharge for the following day’s plans. The peaceful ambiance here made me appreciate the hotel even more.
Accomodation
Bogor Botanical Gardens provided a peaceful escape from Jakarta’s hustle, with serene landscapes and unique plant species. The walk through the lush gardens was both calming and invigorating, making it a must-visit spot outside the city. Ending the day with a view of Jakarta’s skyline at Lucy in the Sky was a memorable way to wrap up the adventure.
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If you have a day to spare, Bogor is the perfect natural escape. Back in the city, Lucy in the Sky offers a great place to wind down with Jakarta’s city lights as a backdrop.
Day 4A Taste of Local Life – Pasar Baru and Jalan Surabaya
For my last day, I dived into Jakarta’s local market culture. Pasar Baru, one of the city’s oldest markets, was buzzing with life. Here, I found everything from batik fabrics to local snacks and handicrafts. Exploring the stalls and bargaining with the vendors was an adventure on its own. The colors, sounds, and aromas were all part of the experience.
My final stop was Jalan Surabaya, an antique market where I browsed through stalls filled with vintage treasures, old records, and unique artifacts. The thrill of finding something unique made it an exciting last stop. To cap off my journey, I returned to Menteng for a meal at Lara Djonggrang, a restaurant with a magical ambiance inspired by Javanese mythology, serving local delicacies like ayam betutu (Balinese roasted chicken) and pisang goreng (fried banana) for dessert.
At Lara Djonggrang, I ended my trip with a taste of traditional Indonesian cuisine in a truly magical setting. Dishes like ayam betutu and pisang goreng were cooked to perfection, bringing the flavors of Indonesia to life. The mystical decor and warm atmosphere made this meal unforgettable.
Food
My final night at The Hermitage left me wishing for more time in Jakarta. The hotel’s unique style, exceptional service, and luxurious comfort made it one of the best stays I’ve experienced. This place truly feels like a hidden gem in Jakarta.
Accomodation
Exploring Pasar Baru and Jalan Surabaya was an adventurous way to wrap up my trip, diving into Jakarta’s bustling market life. I found incredible souvenirs and antiques while immersing myself in the lively local atmosphere. These markets are perfect for capturing the essence of Jakarta’s vibrant daily life.
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Pasar Baru and Jalan Surabaya are perfect for anyone who loves markets and wants a taste of local life. The food and vibrant atmosphere are the perfect way to end your Jakarta adventure.
Summary of My Trip
Jakarta is a truly captivating city, with each corner holding a unique story. Although the crowds and fast pace can feel overwhelming at first, I quickly found a rhythm in the organized chaos. Walking through Kota Tua felt like a journey back in time, where modern skyscrapers coexist harmoniously with colonial architecture. My brief escape to Bogor allowed me to reconnect with nature, offering a refreshing contrast to Jakarta’s vibrant energy. The food scene was a highlight—every dish, from street food to fine dining, told a different story of the city’s rich culture. The Hermitage Hotel provided a luxurious retreat where I could unwind after exploring the city’s liveliness. Visiting landmarks like Istiqlal Mosque and Jakarta Cathedral showed me the city’s spirit of cultural diversity and tolerance. From sprawling malls to bustling markets, Jakarta surprised me at every turn. Jakarta’s dynamic, multifaceted charm makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to truly understand Indonesia.
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Jakarta offers an eclectic mix of history, culture, and modernity, making it an intriguing destination for any traveler. The city’s vibrant food scene, diverse attractions, and warm people left a strong impression, while its bustling pace added an exciting layer to the experience. While Jakarta may have a few challenges, like traffic and environmental factors, it nonetheless offers incredible value and insight into Indonesian life.
At Café Batavia in Kota Tua, I tried the iconic nasi goreng (fried rice with egg) while watching life go by in Fatahillah Square. This café's colonial ambiance added to the experience, making it feel as if I were back in Jakarta’s past. Later, exploring Glodok’s Chinatown, I sampled street foods like martabak and sate ayam, each bite packed with flavor and excitement.
Food
Staying at The Hermitage felt like stepping into an elegant mix of colonial style and modern luxury. The rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated, providing a peaceful retreat after a full day of sightseeing. The hotel’s location in Menteng was ideal, with easy access to Kota Tua and central Jakarta.
Accomodation
Exploring Kota Tua’s historical landmarks, especially the Jakarta History Museum, was an enriching start to the trip. The square had street performers and art displays, adding a vibrant touch to the cultural immersion. Walking through these old, cobbled streets gave me a real sense of the city’s past.
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