Did you know that Jakarta is the most populous city not only in Indonesia but also in all of Southeast Asia? With over 10 million residents, Jakarta stands as a bustling metropolis, while Indonesia itself boasts a population exceeding 275 million. To put this in perspective, Indonesia has more people than Russia, making it the fourth most populous country in the world and the largest Muslim-majority nation.
A Glimpse into Jakarta’s Rich History
Jakarta’s history is deeply influenced by its colonial past. Previously known as Batavia, it served as the capital of the Dutch East Indies. The city is home to many colonial-era buildings and landmarks that reflect its storied history. Notable sites include the Jakarta History Museum, which was once the Batavia City Hall, and the historic Kota Tua (Old Town).
Culinary Delights Await
Jakarta is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vast array of street food and traditional dishes that highlight the diversity of Indonesian cuisine. From spicy satay skewers to rich rendang curry, the city’s culinary scene is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Navigating Jakarta’s Traffic
However, Jakarta is also infamous for its severe traffic jams, among the worst in the world. It’s not uncommon for residents and visitors alike to spend several hours a day stuck in traffic. Having experienced it myself, I can attest to the intensity of these traffic jams.
A Personal Journey
This marks my second trip to Jakarta, and once again, my time to explore the city was limited. The main purpose of this visit was to obtain a new passport. Mission accomplished! Here’s a glimpse of the 10-year difference:
I hope to find time to explore Jakarta in more detail in the future. For now, my next destination is Kuala Lumpur. Stay tuned for more travel adventures!
