Jakarta, Indonesia; Not To Be
Missed
Ever
wondered about the exotic land of
Indonesia, in Southeast Asia. The country has a moderate climate that
doesn’t drastically change. They have many amenities and adventures to embark
on, as well as the exotic feel of one of the true hidden gems of the world. Based
on the currency of Indonesian, the Rupiah, if you were to buy a McDonald’s Big Mac, it would cost you roughly
31,000 Rupiah which is just $2.40 in the US Dollar. Cheap, fun, and a far
superior spiritual experience than you expect.
The
biggest tourist spot here is Jakarta. The heart of the cultural diversity that
comes with any nation with more than 1,000 islands surrounding it. Remember how
cheap it is there? Now consider the phenomenal shopping. A shopper’s paradise
called Pantai Indah Kapuk, or PIK, avenue mall is similar to New York’s Fifth
Avenue. The promenade has quite the diverse retail selection and tons of food.
Another
draw to the area is the Yoga Retreat option. After shopping, visit an ashram
and take an hour yoga class, or simply stay at one of these incredible resorts
and come out of it renewed and ready for the next stage of your life. You can also hike the natural wonders in a
few of the nearby National Parks.
In
Menteng, a name for the central part of Jakarta, lies a treasure trove of
diners, bistros, cafés, and amazing street food. You can get anything you have
a craving for. A few of the must hit spots are: Aneka Gorengan: Pasaraya
Grande, where you can get Gorengan which actually means “fried things.” They
are light, small snacks that are a quick grab or a sit down meal. There is also
Bakpao Lombobattang: Jl where you can get Bakpao, which means “meat
dumpling.” Sort of a cross between a pot sticker and a pasty, this small bun is
filled with meat or vegetables. Amazing. While you are in Jl, you can go to Sate
Khas Senayan: Jl where you can try the Jakarta specialty Sata. Their
famous skewered meats have charmed tourists the world over.
Finally, you have to try Roti Bakar which is
available at a restaurant by the same name in Jl. Literally, it means “fried
bread,” but it is much like a funnel cake that has died, gone to heaven, and
skipped back down for a second run. Your taste buds will thank you.
Overall,
Jakarta is not to be missed. It will change the way you look at Asia.
