Jakarta

Jakarta is Indonesia's capital and largest city, with about 10 million inhabitants, and totally 30 million in Greater Jakarta on the Java island. Dubbed The Big Durian, an equivalent to New York's Big Apple, its concrete jungle, traffic frenzy, and hot polluted air may tempt you to skip the city as fast as feasible, but what awaits inside will change your perspective! One of the most bustling and cosmopolitan cities in Asia and the J-Town has cheerful Halal dining, vibrant shopping malls, a variety of foods, refreshing greenery, cultural diversity and a rich history, that caters to all levels of budget and how much fun you want to have.

Jakarta Districts

Administratively, Jakarta is a province called the Jakarta Special Capital Region (Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta). It is administratively divided into 5 municipalities and 1 regency (the Thousand Islands in the Jakarta Bay):

Central Jakarta (Jakarta Pusat)
The heart of Jakarta's administration, government and finance, an aptly named neighborhood and the site of Jakarta's symbol and the soaring Monas (Monumen Nasional) and also the world's largest city square "Lapangan Merdeka". The city is a part of the old Jakarta (Batavia), recognizable by the president's palace and the National Museum of Indonesia, both built in the 19th century. Now filled with modern high rises for office buildings, hotels, and shopping centers, this is where most of Jakarta's attractions are, such as the malls and the Tanah Abang garment complex and the Istiqlal mosque and the Gothic Church, and the Bung Karno Sports Stadium.

West Jakarta (Jakarta Barat)
This site is also part of the Old Batavia. It is home to the Glodok area (Jakarta's Chinatown) which is rich in street food

South Jakarta (Jakarta Selatan)
Jakarta's middle/upper class residential area, and part of Jakarta's business center. Here you can find upscale shopping malls, restaurants and hotels, Blok M, Senayan sports complex, and affluent residential areas. The Kemang area is very popular among expats and local residents for its nightlife and entertainment.

East Jakarta (Jakarta Timur)
The city's industrial quarter and the most populous city within Jakarta. The location of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (where you can see parts of Indonesia's multiethnic community in one big park), some golf courses, Cibubur camping ground, and Jakarta's second airport, Halim Perdanakusuma Airport.

North Jakarta (Jakarta Utara)
Jakarta's main harbor area and the real home of the old Batavia. A small area consisting of Dutch buildings and harbor, its streets are thronged with hawker food, crafted goods, street performers, artists and Jakartan youths hanging around. This is also the location of Ancol Bayfront City, Asia's largest integrated tourism area. The beautiful Thousand Islands (Indonesia)

Most visitors opt to travel by taxi, which is very affordable by GCC standards, abundant and occasionally fast. There is a multitude of taxi companies of varying degrees of dependability. - Blue Bird Group - ☎ +62 21 7917 1234, +62 21 794 1234 - The Blue Bird, including the Pusaka & Morante taxis as well as the premium brands Silver Bird and Golden Bird, are well known for their reliability, efficient telephone order service, and orderly meter usage. A special ride for the physically impaired can also be requested. The Silver Bird executive taxi charges a premium rate for a larger car. In addition, Blue Bird Taxi has launched taxis using a low roof MPV which can accommodate up to 7 persons. The fare is the same as for a regular taxi, but if you want one, order it specifically when you call for a taxi.

The popularity of online taxis (GrabCar and GoCar), due to cheaper fares, safer and more polite drivers, means that nowadays it can be more difficult or time-consuming to get conventional/regular taxis; out of 32 taxi companies previously operating in Jakarta and there are only 4 now. Besides Blue Bird and these are the remaining companies:

Express - ☎ +62 21 500 122 - This is typically the second-best option, if Blue Bird taxis are not visible, but hail this taxi if your main concern is price. No minimum payment for hailing in the street and the minimum payment is only for ordering by phone: Rp60,000.

Gamya - ☎ +62 21 8779 5555, +62 21 840 3838
Taxiku - ☎ +62 21 4786 2121

You can generally determine a good cabbie by asking "Pakai argo?" ("meter?") - if they say no or "tidak", get another taxi. Taxis parked near train/bus stations, tourist attractions, and hotels often refuse to use the meter and quote silly prices (especially to Foreign Muslims) - in this case, it's a good idea to walk away a bit and then hail a passing taxi from the above companies.

Tipping is not necessary, but rounding the meter up to the nearest Rp7,000 is expected, although rounding the meter up to the nearest Rp3,000 is also OK. So prepare some change if you want, or else you may be rounded up to the nearest Rp7,000.

Blue Bird, Gojek and Grab apps can be downloaded for free to help you order taxis via smartphone. Fill in the departure and arrival points and Google Maps will show the map with the taxis and also the estimated cost displayed in a range. Blue Bird Taxi has the same fare regardless of whether you hire them online or by phone (with minimum payment applied). GoCar and GrabCar have prices fixed in advance, regardless of any traffic jams. Choose the taxi that will be used and the taxi will usually come in five minutes. Only qualified taxis and qualified drivers can join the apps, so this is one of the safest ways to get a taxi. Taxis have been abundant since online ride-hailing started operating in Jakarta. Online taxis rate is only about two-thirds that of a conventional taxi, or at most the same as a conventional one during peak hours.

By bajaj

The Jakartan equivalent to Thailand's tuk-tuk is the bajaj (pronounced "bahdge-eye"), orange mutant scooters souped up in India into little three-wheeled vehicles that carry passengers in a small cabin at the back. Besides the usual orange bajaj and there is blue bajaj, which use gas as fuel.

They're a popular way to get around town since they can weave through Jakarta's interminable traffic jams much like motorbikes can. Although slow, boneshaking (they have no suspension), hot and windy (local residents joke about the "natural A/C"), and a great way to breathe in more exhaust fumes than you ever thought feasible (maybe less if you ride the blue bajaj), riding around in these little motor-bugs can really grow on you. Blue gas-fueled bajaj are quieter than the orange 2-cycle bajaj.

There are no set prices, but a short hop of a few city blocks shouldn't cost much more than Rp7,000. Be sure to agree to (read: haggle) a price before you set off. Bajaj drivers are happy to overcharge visitors, and often ask double or even more than what you would pay by a meter in a more comfortable Blue Bird taxi. Locals who regularly use the bajaj know what a typical fare should be and are happy to tell you. Also, since bajaj aren't allowed on some of the larger roads in Jakarta, your route may well take you through the bewildering warren of backstreets. Try to keep an eye on what direction you're going, because some unscrupulous bajaj drivers see nothing wrong with taking the "scenic" route and then charging you double or triple the price.

Qute Bajaj

The new variant of bajaj in Jakarta, with 4 wheels instead of typical 3-wheeled bajaj. Since early June 2017, bemo (pronounced "bay-mo") are forbidden to operate in the city due to their contributions to air pollution and sound pollution. Qute are much quieter than bemo and have air conditioning. These 'new bemo' operate throughout Central Jakarta towards North Jakarta via Mangga Dua to Ancol. The price is quite the same as for ordinary bajaj (about Rp. 5,000 for a short hop). Make sure to negotiate a price before you ride the vehicle.

By ojek

If you're poking around narrow back streets, or in such a hurry that you're willing to lose a limb or more to get there and then Jakarta's motorcycle taxis (ojek) might be the ticket for you. Jakarta's ojek services consist of guys with bikes lounging around street corners, who usually shuttle short distances down alleys and roads but will also do longer trips for a price. Agree on the fare before you set off. Insist on a helmet and wear it properly—no need to make it more insanely dangerous than it already is. The ojek drivers will insist you're safe with them and that they'll drive carefully—some are telling the truth, some lying. Before you choose a driver, pay attention to their motorcycle's appearance and their helmet; sometimes it shows their character. Locals normally pay Rp7,000 for a short ride (one kilometre) and Rp8,000-10,000 for a longer (roughly more than a kilometre or a 15-minutes walk). Foreign Muslims are likely to be asked for more, but generally, ojek drivers will accept the proper fare if you insist on it, unless they see you really need their service.

On-demand (online) ojek services such as Go-Jek and Grab are ubiquitous can be booked through their respective smartphone apps, and offer generally cheaper fares which are stated in advance. Payments can be made by cash or stored value (akin to prepaid mobile phone service). You may chat or call the driver for help with finding each other, although some knowledge of Indonesian would be helpful. Go-Jek as a pioneer has more widespread availability; those who travel here alongside other Southeast Asian countries may find it useful to keep using Grab. The other more expensive on-demand ojek service is Lady Jek with female drivers. Unlike conventional ojeks, which typically only operate dawn to dusk and they are available at all times and relatively safe for both passengers and drivers as they are monitored by GPS. While it seems cheap, those who travel in groups of at least three may be better off taking a taxi for convenience and the unnoticeable difference in fares.

The aforementioned brands also offer taxi service that are either private cars akin to Uber elsewhere in the world or with taxi companies so that you can hail them from the same app. Other services include food or groceries delivery and shipping between residents or from online businesses.

By helicopter

If you have quite an amount of cash and want to beat the traffic exponentially, a helicopter can be an option for you. They can be chartered as well for excursions outside Jakarta.

Transwisata - Halim Perdanakusuma Airport Terminal Building, Ground Floor ☎ +62 21 80889628

Whitesky Aviation - ☎ +62 21 80890066

Travel by bicycle in Jakarta

Cycling provisions are almost non-existent in Jakarta, but the first signs of a cycling culture are emerging. Every Sunday from 06:00-11:00 during the Car Free Day (CFD) in Jalan Sudirman and Thamrin (and every month in other places in each city in Jakarta) are emptied of motorized vehicles, except TransJakarta. The atmosphere can be festive, as events are held in some places (especially in Hotel Indonesia Roundabout). There are some bicycle lanes at Blok M and Kanal Banjir Timur.

Beyond that and there are dedicated mountain biking paths in Cihuni and along the Jalur Gas Pipa, both in Tangerang. Or you could head to Salak Mountain or other parts of the region beyond Bogor.

Walk in Jakarta

The bad news: walking is the last thing anyone wants to do in Jakarta. The hot and humid air sends folks into their air-conditioned vehicles. Then, because the sidewalks are less used and they are filled with pushcart vendors, resulting in even less room to walk. With the exception of a few posher areas, sidewalks are crowded with pushcart vendors, drivers disregard pedestrians and crossing streets can be suicidal. As a matter of fact, pedestrian crossings do nothing other than giving the visitor a false sense of security, because the local drivers don't stop or even slow down for pedestrians, even at pedestrian crossings.

Now and the good news: because of the horrendous traffic, walking can be frustratingly faster than using motor vehicles, as you will not be caught up in traffic, especially if your destination is just across the thoroughfare. Use the overhead bridges for safety if the road is very wide, or cross only at the markings. You may think that conditions are bad in Jakarta, but some think that driving habits are even rowdier in other parts of Indonesia, where even less attention is paid to safety. Whenever you cross the road, always show your palm to the drivers to gain their attention.

A few neighbourhoods can, however, be explored on foot:

Kota Tua (West Jakarta): a pedestrian-friendly square, a walk in this area explores the sights of Dutch colonial charm that was once central to the colonial administration.
Pasar Baru (Central Jakarta): a pedestrian-friendly market that has been in existence since the colonial era.
Sudirman-Thamrin corridor (Central and South Jakarta): the central business neighborhoods have a paved pedestrian footpath for eager explorers.
Rasuna Said, Kuningan District (South Jakarta): another business neighborhood along Jl. HR Rasuna Said with many embassies and office buildings.
Monas and Kebon Sirih area (Central Jakarta): the city square is a pedestrian-friendly zone, and the surrounding area has several attractions such as the presidential palace and old colonial churches.
Kanal Banjir Timur (Jakarta Timur), a nice river view in the morning with special bicycle and walking/running lane.
Jatinegara (Jakarta Timur), full of vintage stalls, building, train station, and river view of Ciliwung.
Kemang (Jakarta Selatan), full of coffee stalls, restaurants. The best place to walk at night.
Cikini (Jakarta Pusat), for coffee stalls, art spaces, and performances.

On Car Free Day (CFD), every Sunday from 06:00 to 11:00 in the morning and the Sudirman-Thamrin thoroughfares are closed to motor vehicles, except for the Transjakarta buses. During the CFD times and the strip of the road becomes a wide open space to do sports, walking or biking.

What to see in Jakarta

The heart of tourist attractions is to the north and centre of Jakarta. Visitors typically start exploring Jakarta from this part of the town, called the Kota Tua, where the old buildings of Jakarta are preserved within a dedicated walking area. Jakarta has 47 museums, which are spread across the city.

The Jakarta History Museum, formerly a city hall (Stadhuis), covers Jakarta's history from 400 AD to the present day, with photos, replicas, and maps. Do not miss the Jagur cannon in the back yard.

The Bank Indonesia Museum tells about the economy and currency system then and now using modern technology while the Museum Bahari takes you to the old glory of Jakarta's port, and Indonesia's as a whole. If you are into arts & crafts and the Museum Wayang has a collection of different puppets (Wayang) from all across the nation and the world, and the Museum Seni Rupa & Keramik allows you to admire Indonesia's art in paintings and sculptures. Museum Prasasti for historical and scripture.

A few kilometers down south, you'll find the legacy of the Dutch and the first years of the Indonesian government, such as the iconic landmark of Jakarta, the National Monument park standing right at the center of the court, and the Presidential Palace on its north side. And where else in the world could you find the Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia's biggest mosque, and a 113-year-old gothic cathedral standing mightily across from each other? On the western side of the court and the elephant statue welcomes you to the Museum Nasional, one of the better designed museums out there. Or Gallery Nasional for art and sculpture.

Statues and monuments are ubiquitous in Jakarta and many stand prominently in major points across the city. Most of these icons were erected during Soekarno's rule in 1960, and thus still represent the old glory of independence. Start your trip from the Tugu Tani statue in Menteng that has a figure of a farmer going out to war. Across the Monas Park is Arjuna Wijaya, an eight-horse carriage statue near Monas. Going south at Jalan MH Thamrin and the iconic Selamat Datang statue waves at you, with a fountain that signifies its importance as the downtown of Jakarta. Passing through that is the Jenderal Sudirman statue giving a salute, that gives the street its name. Going further until the end of the straight street, is the Pemuda Membangun or Youth Developing statue that looks like a man holding up a burning bowl. The Dirgantara statue is visible in its glory if you are using the inner tollway in South Jakarta.

Parks

Green spaces are often overlooked in Jakarta. While the city has nearly 1,000 public parks big and small, very few are well maintained including even the National Monument Park (Monas). Menteng is large and perhaps the best and Taman Suropati hosts regular violin shows. Pantai Indah Kapuk, while inundated by housing projects, still leaves a space for mangrove swamps and monkeys' habitats in the two parks there. For parks with lakes, Pluit Park is one option, and a smaller one is Pulo Mas Park. Ragunan and the official zoo of Jakarta, is the second largest zoo in the world (140 hectares), offering diverse Indonesian and international flora & fauna, including a dedicated centre that houses primates, especially the endemic orangutans. Kalijodo Park is open 24 hours a day with green and child-friendly public space and an international skate park. For community park, look for Ruang Publik Terpadu Ramah Anak (RPTRA). Although smaller, it usually offers a small library with AC available to get some rest and a futsal field for physical activity. The newest is Lapangan Banteng Park which is also open for 24 hours and has good illumination for playing football.

However metropolitan Jakarta has 3 small forests in the city at Muara Angke, Srengseng and Tebet.

Jakarta also hosts two amusement parks. Taman Impian Jaya Ancol at the North, that is for pure fun plus a sea world aquarium, and Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Indonesia in miniature) in East Jakarta, which celebrates the culture of all 34 provinces of Indonesia, a bird park containing multiple endemic species, and multiple museums. Escape to Kepulauan Seribu to see wild birds and eagles, and island resorts not too far away from the city. The Setu Babakan down south is the centre of the indigenous Betawi culture. If you are looking for lake scene, go to Taman Waduk Pluit or Taman Waduk Ria Rio. For river scene, go to Taman Kanal Banjir Timur or RPTRA Mawar.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Jakarta

Districts

Betawi culture

Despite being the melting pot of Indonesia, Jakarta's indigenous tribe called the Betawi still stays proud of its culture. They are actually a unique assimilation of various domestic and international races from the Chinese to the Portuguese, which makes it distinct from other parts of Indonesia. The Lenong theatre performance is accompanied by the Gambang Kromong orchestra that consists of the (Sundanese) Gendang and the (Javanese) Gamelan, and the Chinese Kongahyan (its own version of violin). The Tanjidor trumpets are an influence from the Dutch, while the Portuguese bequeathed the Keroncong orchestra. At the anniversary of the city's founding every 22 June, a distinctive piece of culture can be seen at your hotel the infamous pair of Ondel-ondel puppets. The complete experience of the culture can be found at Setu Babakan and the village of Betawi culture (and fishing at its lake).

Cinema

Cinemas are a more affordable escape at around Rp50,000 - 45,000 for a plush seat (Rp40,000 - 70,000 on the weekend, up to Rp350,000 if you watch in Premiere Class at XXI or Velvet Class at CGV Blitz) in any of the capital's shopping malls. Beware of the heavy hand of the Indonesian censor though. The price of popcorn and soft drinks are exorbitant so you may wish to bring your own coming in. CGV Blitz cinemas will typically show movies in any foreign language other than English and the lesser ones also exhibit Indonesian B-Movies with erotic themes (still heavily censored). The largest chain of cinemas in Indonesia are the 21 Cineplex (branded as XXI in premium shopping malls) and CGV Blitz . IMAX theaters are only available at Gandaria City's XXI theatre, Mal Kelapa Gading III's theatre and Keong Mas in TMII, although the latter more often shows documentary than blockbuster films.

Sport

The sport scene in Jakarta is perhaps one of the most vibrant you'll ever see in Asia. The Senayan sports complex still lives up to its name since the 1962 Asian Games, where archery and indoor shooting range are also publicly available to try. Soemantri-Brodjonegoro in Kuningan neighborhood also offers you many kinds of sport activities. If you like skateboarding, Kalijodo Skatepark is the best place to meet others.

Golf

Jakarta is perhaps the best city to play golf in Asia, thanks to the abundance of courses close to or even in the middle of the city, and relatively affordable prices compared to GCC standards. Green fees can go as low as Rp80,000 on weekdays, although the better courses are twice that, and weekend rates are considerably steeper at Rp500,000 and more. Many golf courses are at Jakarta/South|South and Jakarta/East|East within the immediate suburbs of the city, much better in quality and quantity at the satellite cities.

Football

Futsal is the indoor version of football, which has 5 players per team and more lax rules of play. Anytime after work or on the weekends, you can easily find crowds at the many indoor courts across the city. Outdoors and the dirt and grass makeshift fields are abundant in residential areas, crowded with players, spectators and vendors, typically on weekend afternoons. In these casual games, anyone can simply ask to jump in or relax.

Badminton

As a badminton powerhouse, Jakarta has a multitude of badminton courts, ranging from the national venues at the Senayan Complex to the suburban halls which cater to both futsal and badminton. Most of them have wood-panel flooring and are maintained in reasonably good condition. Lighting is strictly functional and is below par in comparison with standard badminton halls. People play almost every evening - so, walk in, strike up a conversation with the group's captain, and expect to blend in with their group for the session. If the captain refuses payment (usually less than Rp40,000), it is polite to buy the players a round of soft-drinks (teh-botol is a good choice). Be warned that it is common for Indonesians to eat, smoke, drink and nap by the side of the court: so watch your footing.

If you want to watch rather than to play and the Istora Senayan is packed every early June during the Indonesian Open Superseries, when Indonesia's and the world's top badminton players compete. The deafening cheers are chanted even beyond when the players hit the shuttlecock, an enthusiasm unmatched elsewhere in the world. It is advised to buy the tickets online (especially for the semifinals and final matches), otherwise you must choose between watching it on television or the big screen in Istora (think about Murray Mound/Henman Hill in Wimbledon).

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Jakarta

More than 2.5 million foreign tourists and more than 30 million domestic tourists visit Jakarta every year. It's a paradise for buying international brand-name garments (both genuine and fake).

If you're stopping in Jakarta, consider buying an extra suitcase, because there are lots of good shopping opportunities. Good used suitcases can be purchased at Surabaya street and vendors also sell antiques. However, note that although quality can be excellent, genuine branded goods or quality products are expensive.

Every year and the Provincial Government of Jakarta holds an annual Festival Jakarta Great Sale that takes place from Mid-June to Mid-July. Most markets, shopping malls, and department stores attend it and will give discounts on selected items, although the event itself might be barely noticeable aside from some banners. Some stores also run Midnight Sales, usually in the weekend. And most of the malls are open from 10:00-20:00 every day, except on Ied Day when they're open 13:30-22:00.

Shopping malls

Despite the crushing poverty exhibited in some parts of the city—mostly among migrant uneducated workers from other cities—In 2017, Jakarta has more than 170 giant, glittering malls (including trade centers and groceries centers) more than double of 70 at five years ago, more than other cities in the world, and far more than you'd expect as a newcomer. Note that for genuine imported goods from sole agents, prices are controlled to be roughly the same all over the world, so domestic tourists no longer need to look for bargains abroad, while some foreign tourists actually prefer to shop in Jakarta for more design options. Most of the shopping malls are located close to each other, so if you are unable to find what you need, just go next door.

Some of the most well known shopping complexes are at the heart of the city. Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia are two upper-class malls next to each other on Jakarta's busy Hotel Indonesia Roundabout. Plaza Senayan & Senayan City are also across each other and are both chic. Mal Taman Anggrek and Central Park at Jalan Letjen S. Parman are for all rounders.

Jalan Prof.Dr.Satrio is Jakarta's answer to the famed Orchard Road in Singapore, Ginza in Tokyo and Fifth Avenue in New York. Four malls (namely ITC Mal Ambassador, Kuningan City, Ciputra World I, and a bit further off, Kota Kasablanka) and counting, catering to visitors of all budget levels. Kelapa Gading has a street with four malls on its side, and two other giant malls are located elsewhere in the region. Pluit and Pondok Indah hosts three malls located along a single strip.

Every shopping mall has at least one department store, alongside brands that have their own shops. Sogo has the most branches, followed by Metro & Centro. Galeries Lafayette can be found at Pacific Place while Seibu and Central are located at Grand Indonesia. Matahari also provides similar fashion usually for a lower price.

Markets

In addition to malls and there are also numerous extremely large shopping centres, most of them within a complex, so if you are unable to find what you need at one mall, you can try again at the mall next door. Mangga Dua, Tanah Abang, and Pasar Baru are the best places in Jakarta to shop for fashion. In Mangga Dua area there are at least 3 shopping centers connected by bridges: ITC is for middle and upper middle class fashion, while the lower class is served by Pasar Pagi Mangga Dua, and Mangga Dua Mall is for gadget enthuasiasts. Tanah Abang is a wholesale market and the biggest in Southeast Asia, with delivery to Africa and other parts of the world. Tanah Abang is overcrowded, so Thamrin city next to Grand Indonesia (500 m from Tanah Abang) can serve as an alternative, mainly for Muslim wear and batik. Pasar Baru is not a shopping center, but more like a street with old retail shops; stamp collectors will be able to find Indonesian stamps at the front of many of these shops. Mangga Dua Plaza, as well as Glodok and Roxy, are places to find gadgets. WTC (Wholesale Trade Centre) Mangga Dua is now specialized in sell used cars, with more than 100 sold per day.

If you are looking for antique products such as local handicrafts, Indonesian traditional batik or wayang golek (Sundanese puppets), you can go to Jalan Surabaya in Central Jakarta. If you are looking for rare maps, prints or paintings, you can go to Kemang Raya, where there are many galleries including Bartele gallery and Hadi Prana. Pasaraya Grande shopping mall at Blok M, South Jakarta has one dedicated floor for Indonesian antiques and handicrafts. Pasar Seni at Ancol is the centre of paintings and sculpture, including portrait pictures you can obtain done on the spot. Sarinah department store also has a vast section of traditional gifts.

Shopping at traditional markets may also be an exciting experience, where you can find exotic tropical fruits, traditional Snacks, affordable fashion and novelty items. While most of them are far from tourist locations, Pasar Gondangdia across the namesake train station and the Fresh Market Pantai Indah Kapuk are the places that still offer such experience in a modern building while easily accessible.

Cash is still the most effective payment system for all transactions. A few established shops may accept payment with debit/credit card and electronic money.

Halal Restaurants in Jakarta

Jakarta has a vast range of food available at hundreds of eating complexes located all over the huge city. In addition to selections from all over the nation, you can also find excellent Chinese, Japanese, and many other international foods thanks to the cosmopolitan population.

If you want to go local Jakarta and the indigenous Betawi has its own dishes to offer:

Sop iga sapi, beef spare beef soup that takes a simple Dutch dish and piles on Indonesian spices.
Soto betawi, coconut milk broth with beef tendons, intestines, tripe.
Kerak telor, omelette cooked with glutinous Rice and served with shredded coconut and a dried shrimp topping.
Ketoprak, lontong (rice cake), tofu, bean sprout, shrimp crackers in peanut Sauces.
Gado-gado is like ketoprak, but all of it is vegetables.
Bubur Dingin, literally cold porridge with beef sweet soup.
Nasi uduk, Rice cooked in coconut milk similar to nasi lemak, served with choices of various toppings, such as fried Chicken, beef, fried shallots, and sambal (chili sauce).
Nasi ulam, Rice cooked in coconut milk served with fried minced beef, sweet fried tempeh, many other toppings, cucumber, and sambal.
Asinan Betawi: assorted pickled vegetables, served with peanut Sauce (and sometimes chili) and chips.

Food at malls and brick-and-mortar restaurants are by and large of hygiene standards. Street vendors (kaki lima) or carts can be questionable, though it is still wise to use discretion as some of the best or well-known food can actually be from them.

The online ride-hailing apps Gojek and Grab also offer food delivery service to virtually all restaurants, for a small fee.

Though tips are originally not customary in restaurants, it starts to become a habit. In fact, a few do automatically charge a service fee of typically 5%, which may surprise some patrons. Eating at restaurants are almost always subject to a 10% general tax.

Food courts at just about every shopping mall in Jakarta offer affordable but filling meals. Prices range from Rp35,000 to Rp45,000. While street vendors (kaki lima) are affordable with questionable hygiene standards, some items are unfortunately offered only within street vendors, so use good judgment when shopping around. Look for those that have lines at least a couple people long, as that means it's reputable and indisputably delicious. Steer clear from vendors that offer aggressively affordable prices or being pushy, as they might make their items using shady ingredients.

For cleaner alternatives with decent price, you can look for Lokbin (lokasi binaan), Loksem (Lokasi sementara), or Lenggang Jakarta, which serve same affordable food but with better hygiene standards. Practically the sellers there are relocated street vendors. Price in Lenggang Jakarta and Lokbin will be around Rp30.000 to Rp50.000.

Franchise fast food chains are also a good choice for eating as the hygiene is often up to standards. American fast food chains such as KFC and McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) have ample seating. Local chain Bakmi GM is famous for its Noodles and its fried wanton. Hoka-hoka Bento (locally known as HokBen), also a local chain, provides Japanese buffet with a complete meal set for an affordable price. Also consider Es Teler 77 & Solaria. You will find one or all of them at major malls across the city. Department store or mini market food items can be an alternative should you need to eat on the go or at work.

For some exquisite Indonesian Snacks, head to the traditional markets or street vendors. The infamous jajanan pasar (lit. market snacks) or bakpao (Chinese Meat buns) should cost around Rp30,000 to Rp55,000 per box or piece. Assorted fritters (gorengan) are ubiquitous throughout and should cost Rp8,000 to Rp35,000 for up to a dozen pieces of fried tofu, tempeh, cassava, yam, and even banana. Siomay and batagor will be available for around Rp7.000-Rp10.000. Instant ramen noodle for around Rp7.000-Rp10.000, ketoprak Rp7.000-Rp8.000, pecel lele Rp8.000-Rp10.000, or nasi uduk Rp5.000-Rp7.000.

More substantial meals such as martabak, satay, Chicken Noodles (mi ayam) or porridge (bubur ayam), and nasi goreng are typically on the upper end of budget dining. The Indonesian soto soup can be enjoyed for Rp65,000 with Rice and a drink of your choice and a bowl of meatball (bakso) soup with a side of Noodles or vermicelli should cost no more than Rp70,000 per bowl. Bakeries also have buns that you can consume for breakfast, starting from Rp30,000. Roti Lauw and Tan Ek Tjoan is the most popular choice in Jakarta.

You may look for d'Cost seafood for decent price all over the city.

As some traditional Indonesian cuisine may be too hot and spicy for many foreign tourist, you can usually ask for just a little chili or none at all: "pedas sedikit" and "tidak pedas", respectively. It also better to know that you can say "bungkus" for take away order, or "makan di sini" for dine in. And be careful as red ketchup usually means hot chilli Sauces, not tomato. Fine dining restaurants offer main courses for a range of prices and can be found at just about every mall in Jakarta or better yet outside the malls.

Some of the restaurants in this category include Pizzas franchises Pizza Hut and Domino's, or A&W, Wendy's, and Burger King (Please do not support Burger King as Burger King supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) for fast food chain. Mains in shopping mall restaurants typically range between Rp60,000 and Rp85,000; many even provide lunch set menus for just about Rp70,000 that entitles you to Rice, one or two main platters and a glass of soft-drink which can be an impressive deal. Seafood restaurants north of the downtown falls on the borderline between mid-range to expensive depending on your preference, with shrimp & fish on the cheaper side, followed by scallop, and lastly crab & lobster.

For middle class traditional cuisine, go to Menteng area, and look for Gado-Gado Boplo, Warung Daun, Bumbu Desa, Saur Kuring, Dapur Sunda, Sate House, Bunga Rampai, Sate Khas Senayan or Aroma Sedap. Or try to look around Sabang area. Garuda, Natrabu, Sederhana, Penang Bistro, or Pagi Sore will offer you the best value over price.

For premium traditional cuisine, Rara Jonggrang, Remboelan and Tugu Koenstring Paleis will serve you the highest standard. - Districts}} Jakarta may be the capital of the world's largest Muslim-majority country, but it has an underground life of its own. If you're the clubbing type, its nightlife is arguably among the best in Asia, except during fasting months when some venues are closed or have limited hours. From the upscale Kemang to the seedy Mangga Besar, nightlife is there for all levels of loudness, but bring a friend if you decide to brave the seedier places (though they tend to have the best DJs). Fans of live music, on the other hand, are largely out of luck if they go to budget bars, at least unless they're into Indonesian pop.

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Stay safe as a Muslim in Jakarta

By and large, your stay in Jakarta should not be problematic as long as you use common sense. While theft and robbery seem too common and they are highly unlikely to happen in the crowded Sudirman streets, but very likely at the less economically fortunate areas such as in the East, or in residential areas in the suburbs. It is generally better to use a car, or the Transjakarta and commuter trains if your option is public transit. Women are even entitled to a dedicated seating area at these two options!

Be on your guard in crowded places such as markets, because pickpockets often steal wallets and cellular phones.

Medical Issues in Jakarta

Tap water in Jakarta is not drinkable, unless it's boiled or purified and the water is supplied by PT. Aetra Air Jakarta through the city water supply. It is generally fine for a bath or a toothbrush session, though. Bottled water is cheap, up to Rp7,000, and for safety reasons it is better to buy it from minimarts, rather than from street vendors. Check if the tamper proof seal is intact.

There is a law against smoking in public places in Jakarta, and the smoker can (in theory) be fined up to US$5,000. You may see the signs threatening a fine (denda) of Rp70 million or 6 months jail for smoking, although that law seems not to be enforced, as local residents still smoke everywhere on the street and even in local buses, as anywhere in Indonesia. It's generally prohibited to smoke, however, inside shops, offices, hotel, and air-conditioned buildings generally. If in doubt, you can ask local residents: Boleh merokok?

Diarrhea, food poisoning, and typhoid fever is common in Jakarta, so it's wise to prepare yourself with antidiarrhoeal and activated carbon, and always bring hand sanitizer. Spot your nearest hospital or clinic with 24 hours emergency service before deciding where to sleep.

A visit to general practitioner will roughly cost you Rp70.000 to Rp350.000. While attending a specialist or going to hospital will cost you around Rp400.000-Rp500.000.

Emergency

Jakarta's emergency services are the best in Indonesia. Many hospitals have 24-hour emergency rooms, but equipment may not be as advanced as their international counterparts. The international emergency number 112 does work and will channel you to the respective services you need.

Fire ☎ 113.
Ambulance. ☎ 118.
Police. ☎ 110.
Search and rescue team. ☎ 115.
Indonesian Police HQ: Jl. Trunojoyo 3, South Jakarta. ☎+62 21 7218144.
Jakarta Police HQ: Jl. Jendral Sudirman No. 45, South Jakarta. ☎+62 21 5709261.
Hospitals with 24-hour emergency room UGD (ER): see the Jakarta neighborhood pages.
Child abuse: ☎ 1-500-771

Cope in Jakarta

Immigration office

The General Directorate of Immigration (Jl. H. R. Rasuna Said Kav.X-6 Kuningan-Jakarta Selatan) provides visas, re-entry permits and many other immigration services.

Embassies and consulates

The Kementerian Luar Negeri (Kemlu) or Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintains a complete searchable database of diplomatic institutions. The embassies are located in Jakarta; some consulates general and honorary consulates are located in other cities such as Surabaya and Denpasar. This list may not be complete.

Afghanistan | Jl Doktor Kusuma Atmaja 15 ☎ +62 21 3143169 +62 21 31935390

Algeria - Jl H. R. Rasuna Said Kav. 10-11 ☎ +62 21 5254719

Bangladesh | Jl Denpasar Raya No. 3, Block A-13 Kav 10, Kuningan ☎ +62 21 5251986

Brunei | Jl. Teuku Umar No. 51, Menteng, Central Jakarta 10310 ☎ +62 21 3190 6080 +62 21 3190 5070

China (PRC) - Jl Mega Kuningan No.2, Jakarta Selatan ☎ +62 21 5761039 +62 21 5761034

Cuba Jl. Logam Blok D/ No. 58, Permata Hijau, Jakarta 12210 ☎ +62 21 548 5902 +62 21 532 8174

Egypt - Jl Teuku Umar No. 68, Menteng ☎ +62 21 3143440 +62 21 3145073

India - Jl Besakih Kav S-1, ☎ +62 21 5204150 +62 21 5204160

Iran Jl. H.O.S. Cokroaminoto No. 110, Menteng, Central Jakarta ☎ +62 21 3193-1378, +62 21 3193-1391, +62 21 3193-4637 +62 21 310-7860

Democratic People's Republic of Korea | Jl Teluk Betung No. 2 ☎ +62 21 31908425, +62 21 31908437

Lao People's Democratic Republic | Jl Patra Kuningan XIV No. 1A, Kuningan ☎ +62 21 5229602

Malaysia - Jl HR Rasuna Said 1-3 Kav X-6 ☎ +62 21 5224947 +62 21 5224974

Pakistan | Jl. Mega Kuningan Barat Blok E.3.9 Kav. 5-8 Mega Kuningan - South Jakarta ☎ +62 21 5785 1836, +62 21 5785 1837 +62 21 5785 1645

Russia - Jl Hr Rasuna Said Kav X7 No 1-2 Setia Budi, Kuningan ☎ +62 21 5222912 +62 21 5222916

Saudi Arabia | Jl MT Haryono Kav. 27, Cawang, Jakarta Timur ☎ +62 21 8011533 +62 21 3905864

Singapore | Jl H. R. Rasuna Said Blok X/4 Kav. No. 2, Kuningan ☎ +62 21 52961433, +62 21 5201489

Syria Jl. Karang Asem I No. 8, Kuningan Raya, Jakarta 12950 ☎ +62 21 520 4117, +62 21 525 5991, +62 21 520 1641 +62 21 520 2511

Thailand | Jl Imam Bonjol No. 74, Jakarta Pusat 10310 ☎ +62 21 3904052

Türkiye Jl. H.R. Rasuna Said, Kav. 1, Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan 12950 ☎ +62 21 525 6250 +62 21 522 6056

United Arab Emirates Jl. Prof. Dr. Satrio, Blok C-4, Kav. 16-17, Jakarta Selatan 12950 ☎ +62 21 520 6518, +62 21 520 6528, +62 21 650 6538 +62 21 520 6526

Venezuela Menara Mulia, 20th Floor, Suite 2005, Jl. Jenderal Gatot Subroto Kav. 9-11, Jakarta 12930 ☎ +62 21 522 7548, +62 21 522 7549 +62 21 522 7547

Vietnam | Jl Teuku Umar No. 25, Menteng ☎ +62 21 9100163, +62 21 3100358

Travel Next from Jakarta

Within the metropolitan area:

The fun does not end in Jakarta, but well beyond its satellite cities!

Thousand Islands — administratively a part of Jakarta, but it is the complete opposite of the hectic mainland: an island escape with sprawling resorts and nature reserves.
Bogor — a sense of nature one hour away, where you can tuck yourself away in its botanic gardens or golf courses.
Puncak — cooler climate, beautiful view of the mountains and tea plantations, restaurants, as well as the Taman Safari Wildlife Park.
Tangerang — a thriving area for premium residents and opulent malls, especially to its south.
Depok — a budget style city with adequate facilities because of the nearby University of Indonesia.
Bekasi — home to Jakarta's big industry companies and an increasingly bustling city.

A bit further off

A 3-hour drive using the tollway leads into the Merak Port at the western end of Java, where you can continue your journey by ferry to Sumatra island for 1½ hours.
Anyer is an upscale resort beach 4 hours away from Jakarta, but if you want a less crowded option and the Carita Beach is just a short trip away from there.
Pulau Umang, an island resort to itself, is midway between Carita Beach and Ujung Kulon National Park.
Ujung Kulon National Park — a beautiful national park 5 hours away, featuring the endangered single-horn rhinoceros.
Bandung — 3 hours away from Jakarta, it's a budget style city famous for both food and bargain fashions.
For a tropical island hype (without the resorts) and an instant escape from the hectic city, head to Belitung Island, less than 1 hour away by air.