Joanna James
As the country's most dynamic city, Jakarta offers holidaymakers a wealth of new experiences and attractions. From hitting the best museums to spending time in sprawling theme parks, here are the top 7 things to do during a getaway in the capital of Indonesia.
Those who wish to get a sense of what Indonesia as a whole has to offer in terms of cultural highlights should visit the Taman Mini Indonesia Indah cultural theme park, which has miniaturised representations of nearly every landmark in the country. Having opened its doors to the public in 1975, the park, which is spread out over 100 hectares, is home to heritage buildings that hail from Indonesia's 27 provinces. The ideal pit-stop for those who are in Jakarta for a short stay, a tour of this massive enclave is as close as one can get to exploring every heritage site in the country without leaving the capital.
Often ranked as one of the best tourist attractions in all of Jakarta, Museum Nasional is a must-visit for all first-time visitors. Home to a whopping seventy thousand relics and artefacts, the National Museum of Jakarta is considered one of the finest museums in Southeast Asia by no mere coincidence. Occupying pride of place on the western fringes of Merdeka Square, the best time to visit the museum is during the morning hours.
Travellers based at the HARRIS Suites FX Sudirman Jakarta or any similar hotel in Sudirman should also spend time exploring the city's mega-malls on a shopping spree. As one of the main reasons why most travel enthusiasts head to Jakarta in the first place, a retail experience in one of its 170 malls is a must for shopaholics of all ages. Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia are among the city's top shopping hotspots.
As a practice that dates back nearly 2000 years, it seems fitting that Jakarta also houses a museum dedicated to kite flying and everything related to this recreational activity. Located in Pondok Labu, Jakarta, Museum Layang-Layang is a big hit with families and tourists with a passion for kite flying due to the more than six hundred stunning kite designs on show at the venue. Exploring the origins of kite flying in the country, the museum also showcases kites made from traditional materials such as banana leaves and bamboo.
This park, which is spread out over 75ha, is rightly called the Central Park of Jakarta. Offering visitors a lush and well-maintained space to relax and admire the National Monument known as Monas, the venue is a relaxing and tranquil hub away from the hustle and bustle.
Jakarta is a foodie's dream come true thanks to the many hawker centres, street-side food vendors, and fine dining restaurants serving up local treats. Sample Nasi Goreng, satay, and Pempek to your heart's content during a trip to the capital.
This collection of 110 islands just off the coast of Jakarta is the perfect day trip destination for beach lovers.
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