Jakarta is a huge, busy city with friendly people, and a lot of history. With about 10 million inhabitants, Jakarta is a large, and chaotic city with motorbike streets on all sides. So, if you’re one of those who wants to know every place you go, you can set aside two or three days for Jakarta. Just book your Singapore to Jakarta flight and be ready to be delighted by the kindness of its people, and its many museums.
Arriving and leaving: airport
Jakarta Airport is about 35 km from the city center. The most economical way is by bus. The trip can take 1h because of traffic. Buses are frequent and comfortable. It is also possible to buy or consult prices on the internet.
Train
If you plan to travel the island of Java, a good option is to go by train. Buying well in advance is possible to get good prices. The main train stations are Gambir and Pasar Senen. The difference basically is that trains leaving Pasar Senen are cheaper. Buying a train ticket is easy. Just go to any station, and shop at the self-service machines.
Bus
Getting out of Jakarta by bus is quite complicated as there are several stations, and they are far from the center. Therefore, most prefer trains. The advantage of buses is that they are more comfortable and apparently more economical. Here we list the main bus terminals:
Kalinderes – buses going west from Jakarta to destinations like Merck and Labuan. You can get there by public transportation using Bus way Corridor 3.
Kampung Rambutan – with destinations south and southeast of Jakarta such as Bogor, Bandung and Pangandaran. You get there with Bus way Corridor 7.
Lebak Bulus – From where buses depart for Yogyakarta, Bali and other long-haul destinations to the east. You get there with Bus way Corridor 8.
Pulo Gandung – another terminal for long-distance buses. In addition to Yogyakarta and Bali, there are also buses to Sumatra Island. Arrive with Bus way Corridor 2 and 4.
Where to stay?
There is no ideal place to stay in Jakarta as tourist destinations are far apart. A good place to stay would be south of the National Monument, preferably near MH Thamrin Ave. There are shopping malls, restaurants, snack bars and public transport runs right in front.
Conclusion
When we visit some unknown places, and want to explore the charm of the place, we cannot leave to taste the food. You can eat at Jakarta’s simplest street stalls and restaurants. If you are looking for a good place to drink, unfortunately you will have difficulties here. Beer is expensive, and hard to find. All in all, you will find Jakarta as a good trip, worth your investment.
