ENJOY JAKARTA AND STUNNING BANDUNG

VISITING INDONESIA? EXPLORING THEIR CURRENT CAPITAL AND THE UNESCO CREATIVE CITY IS A MUST FOR HISTORY AND ART LOVERS, GASTRONOMES, AND SHOPAHOLICS.

Four hours away from Manila via plane, Indonesia boasts 17,508 islands—portions of which are shared with Papua New Guinea, East Timor, Malaysia, and Brunei. Most tourists flock to Bali, with over 5 million foreigners visiting in 2023 alone. Its picturesque natural destinations, peaceful temples, and vast rice fields draw in experienced and first-time travelers alike. Jakarta and Bandung are must-visit destinations, each brimming with surprises for all ages and interests. With Indonesia’s first high-speed railway, “Whoosh,” connecting the cities, exploring both in a week is a breeze. Launched on October 17, 2023, Whoosh travels at 350 kph, making the trip in just 45 minutes instead of the usual 3-5 hours by car. From Jakarta’s Halim Station, transfer to the feeder line included in your Whoosh ticket at Padalarang station to reach Bandung. Both stations feature sleek, airport-like interiors with excellent security and service, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

“WHOOSH, WHOOSH, WHOOSH? YES!”

This encouraging cheer can be heard regularly throughout the ride. Since its launch, there has been much excitement for the railway—mostly because it cuts travel time to a third. But as Southeast Asia’s first highspeed railway system, it also brings much pride to the people. If Whoosh is a benchmark for its neighbors, such as the Philippines, people can set their expectations high. Each reclinable seat is equipped with a folding table and a power socket (Type F and USB A) with plenty of legroom. There are clean toilet rooms and luggage racks found in each car, plus one car has a mini cafe. Above everything, the ride itself can only be described as smooth and comfortable.

Before boarding, explore Jakarta’s charm, from historical sites to must-try restaurants and cafes. The city also boasts a vibrant shopping scene, comparable to Manila’s 168 Mall in Divisoria.

MERCURE JAKARTA SABANG HOTEL

First off, finding the perfect accommodation. Right in the center of Jakarta, this 4-star hotel is only a few minutes away from prime locations for tourists, business travelers, and families alike. A few minutes’ walk away are the National Monument, Sarinah Department Store, and the Selamat Datang (Welcome) Monument. Gambir Railway Station is also nearby, ensuring easy access to the city’s public transportation — exploring Jakarta has never been easier.

Mercure Hotel offers a perfect retreat with spacious rooms, plush beds, and top-notch amenities. Enjoy crafted cocktails by the glowing pool, restful nights in cozy beds, and a breakfast buffet with local specialties like Mi Goreng (stir-fried noodles)—be warned, the “original” flavor packs a bit of spice! Tip: Flights from Manila to Jakarta often arrive very late into the night or early morning, plan your hotel stays accordingly and inform your hotel in advance.

SUNDAY CAR-FREE DAY

Immerse yourself in Jakarta’s local culture by joining the Sunday Car-Free Day. Just a short walk from our hotel, Thamrin Road transforms into a bustling promenade from 6 AM to 11 AM, where hundreds of Indonesians walk, bike, and jog. The streets come alive with food stalls, free outdoor Zumba sessions, and busking musicians, creating a lively and communal atmosphere. At the heart of it all stands the iconic Selamat Datang monument.

SELAMAT DATANG MONUMENT

The Selamat Datang Monument, meaning “Welcome,” was crafted by Edhi Sunarso in 1959 and commissioned by President Sukarno to greet athletes for the 1962 Asian Games. This 10-meter monument features bronze statues of a man and woman waving, symbolizing Indonesia’s hospitality.

Tip: For the best views and Instagram-worthy photos of the monument, visit the viewing platform on the second floor of the Bundaran HI Astra bus station. You’ll also catch sights of Jakarta’s Hotel Indonesia, Grand Hyatt Jakarta, and the Mandarin Oriental.

OLD TOWN BATAVIA OR KOTA TUA JAKARTA

Step into Jakarta’s Dutch colonial era with a visit to this vibrant neighborhood, full of colonial-style buildings and historical museums. Spend an afternoon—or a whole day—exploring Fatahillah Square, especially lively on weekends and holidays. The square buzzes with energy, featuring street performers, cosplayers, and musicians.

Must-see sites include the Fine Art and Ceramic Museum, Café Batavia, Jakarta History Museum, Wayang Museum, and Jakarta Kota Post Office. Nearby, you’ll find the Kota Intan Drawbridge, Gereja Sion (Jakarta’s oldest church), and Jakarta Kota Railway Station.

FINE ART AND CERAMIC MUSEUM

After exploring the square, dive into a pottery workshop at the museum. It’s an affordable, hands-on experience where you can create a unique keepsake. All materials are provided, and guidance is offered throughout. While your piece dries, check out the museum’s collection of paintings by Indonesian masters like Raden Saleh and Affandi, along with traditional and contemporary ceramics.

Tip: Start the pottery workshop early to ensure ample drying time. Once back at your hotel, use the air conditioning to help solidify your clay creation before your journey home.

CAFE BATAVIA

Built in the 1830s, Cafe Batavia is the second oldest establishment in the square. Restored by Australian Graham James and opened in 1993, it retains its vintage charm and has hosted dignitaries like the Queen of Sweden and U.S. Ambassadors. Reservations are essential, as the restaurant serves over 700 people daily and is often packed. For elevated Indonesian cuisine in a setting steeped in history, Cafe Batavia is a must-visit.

NEW BATAVIA CAFE

Just steps away, New Batavia Cafe blends modern interiors with oldschool European charm. Offering a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes, it’s ideal for groups with varied tastes. Whether you’re taking a break from exploring the city or museum hopping, it’s a budget-friendly spot with delicious, generous portions.

ACARAKI: THE ART OF JAMU

Hidden in a century-old building down a narrow alley, Acaraki’s Kota Tua branch is a must-visit for Jamu lovers. This traditional herbal drink, made from roots, herbs, and spices, is renowned for its health benefits and was a perfect post-lunch pick-me-up.

Acaraki excels in Jamu, offering “new wave” options for first-timers, like the “Golden Sparkling,” which mixes Jamu Kunyit Asam with sparkling soda, and the “Golden Yoghurt,” combining it with yogurt. Both were crowd favorites, and we couldn’t resist bringing home a tin of powdered Jamu.

NATIONAL MONUMENT OR MONUMEN NASIONAL (MONAS)

In the heart of Merdeka Square stands a 132-meter obelisk topped with a golden “flame.” Explore the monument’s base to find a museum with 51 dioramas of Indonesia’s fight for independence. Inside the obelisk, the Hall of Independence features mechanized bronze doors that open to Sukarno’s Independence speech, revealing the original Proclamation of Independence behind glass.

The experience is deeply moving, especially with Sukarno’s voice echoing through the hall. Don’t miss the observation deck for a 360-degree view of Jakarta and a stroll around the 80-hectare Merdeka Square, nearly twice the size of Vatican City.

TAMAN SUROPATI PARK

If you must have another park on your itinerary, then head over to the Taman Suropati Park which is home to several ASEAN monuments, including one from the Philippines (“Rebirth” by Luis E. Yee Jr.). Aside from these works of art, you can see a stone footwalk, several fountains and birdhouses, and a book exchange “Bookhive,” which is a private “free library” initiative to encourage people to read and share their love for books.

BART (BAR AT THE ROOFTOP)

For stunning city views, great food, and top-notch cocktails, head to BART (Bar at the Rooftop) on the 7th floor of ARTOTEL Thamrin. With its sophisticated decor and lounge seating, it’s the perfect spot to unwind, savor drinks, and chat about your Jakarta experience. Ideal for a chic, elevated end to your day, BART also offers stylish Instagramworthy shots against the backdrop of Jakarta’s skyline.

TALAGA SAMPIREUN MENTENG

For authentic Indonesian cuisine plus a modern-traditional fusion aesthetic, visit Talaga Sampireun Menteng for a unique dining experience. Once you enter, you are immediately met with a manmade pond framed by over-the-water villas that subtly evoke Toba Batak architecture through their sweeping saddle-back roofs but are muted to fit modern aesthetics. Still, the bigger highlight of the restaurant is not just their stunning design, but also the equallyInstagrammable, authentic, and mouth watering dishes.

Tip: Make sure to always add a dash (or if you follow the locals’ footsteps, a chock full) of sambal to your meals — if you’re spice-averse, then a visit to Indonesia will have you embracing the spice. Sambal is a must; we don’t make the rules.

ISTIQLAL, JAKARTA CATHEDRAL, AND THE FRIENDSHIP TUNNEL

Istiqlal Mosque, Southeast Asia’s largest, can host up to 120,000 pilgrims and welcomes non-Muslim visitors for guided tours. Adhere to the dress code—covering legs and arms for women and legs for men—and wear a provided hijab. Guests must remove their shoes and can enjoy views of Jakarta Cathedral from the mosque’s open-air courtyard.

The upcoming Terowongan Silaturahmi (Friendship Tunnel) will link Istiqlal Mosque with Jakarta Cathedral, symbolizing their strong Muslim-Roman Catholic ties. During Eid al-Adha and Christmas, the Cathedral and Mosque open their spaces for each other’s parking needs.

Jakarta Cathedral, a neo-Gothic church completed in 1901, features Dutch architectural elements and a grotto with a rock from Lourdes. The cathedral’s museum is closed on Mondays.

THAMRIN CITY SHOPPING MALL

If you want to shop until you drop, Thamrin City Shopping Mall is the place to be. This massive, multi-level shopaholic paradise is a must-visit for the best deals on local products, such as batik. You can also purchase souvenirs, trendy clothes, and much more. It’s quite a maze with hundreds of stalls inside so if you’re traveling with a group, make sure to stick together or at least designate a meeting spot.

Tip: Haggling is culturally accepted in Indonesia. But make sure to haggle in good faith: negotiate a price that is good for you and the seller, and only bargain when you’re ready to buy.

THE ACRE

After a day of exploring, unwind at The Acre for a comforting meal. Enjoy authentic Indonesian dishes like ayam bakar kecap and lumajang empal, or opt for Western favorites such as truffled mushroom ravioli and double cheeseburger. The restaurant offers diverse settings: private rooms, a spacious indoor dining area with a large bar, al fresco tables, and an open-air lounge where you can relax with a drink (including jamu!).

ASIAN-AFRICAN CONFERENCE MUSEUM

Time to visit Bandung and after a 45-minute Whoosh train ride, your first stop should be the Asian-African Conference Museum. Note that it’s closed on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and national holidays. The museum delves into the 1955 Bandung Conference,

which brought together 29 countries and over 300 participants to promote global peace and cooperation. Opt for a guided tour to fully grasp this pivotal moment in history.

BRAGA ART CAFE

A short walk away from the museum is the Braga Art Cafe. Featuring a mix of Indonesian and Western cuisine, guests will also appreciate the traditional aesthetic of the cafe. While you wait for your food, roam around the restaurant (don’t forget the 2nd floor) while you savor some tea or brewed coffee. It can get quite hot in the street during lunch, but fret not because it’s refreshing inside the cafe even though there’s no air conditioning.

WAYANG GOLEK & ANGKLUNG

In Bandung, Udjo’s House of Angklung offers a spectacular 90-minute showcase featuring Wayang Golek wooden puppets and the angklung musical instrument. Experience an unforgettable blend of puppet shows, angklung concerts, traditional dance, and even a lively party where you’re invited to join in the fun!

TJENDANA BISTRO

Homey with a cultural vibe, Tjendana Bistro is perfect for small dinner gatherings and big celebrations as well. Since 2014, they have been offering delicious Indonesian fare and with the generous serving sizes, everyone is guaranteed to leave with a full stomach. Our personal favorites were the stir-fried kale (the stems were delicious but we couldn’t get enough of the crispy leaves!), chicken satay, and fried chicken with raw sambal.

BRAGA STREET

Braga Street is a lively, art-filled area that’s captivating day and night. In the evening, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with horror cosplayers and romantically-lit streets perfect for photos. Cool bars and cafes stay bustling late into the night. Art is everywhere, and you can even find well-crafted paintings at affordable prices.

JABARANO COFFEE

Offering both indoor and alfresco spaces, this cafe is the perfect way to cap the day for coffee lovers. If you’re looking for a midnight snack (they’re open until 1 AM), you can also grab food here aside from their signature drinks, such as the Orange Coffee Jabarano, Cheese Crumble Butterscotch, Malicano Apple, and Black Hive Honey. They also have some coffee beans that you can bring home — and you can even ask them to ground the beans!

DE BRAGA BY ARTOTEL

In the heart of Bandung’s vibrant district, de Braga by ARTOTEL stands out with its Art Deco style. Enjoy the swimming pool, in-house spa, and occasional artistic performances. Its central location makes it perfect for immersing yourself in Bandung’s art, culture, and history.

KAWAH PUTIH (WHITE CRATER) ECOTOURISM

About 50 kilometers south of Bandung, Kawah Putih (White Crater Lake) is a breathtaking sight with its turquoise waters and pale white sand. Surrounded by mountains and foggy skies, it’s perfect for stunning photos. For the best views, visit the wooden deck above the lake or, for a small fee, trek up to the mountaintop viewdeck. Note that the sulfuric waters are unsafe to touch or drink, and if you’re sensitive to fumes, limit your visit to 10-15 minutes.

KINARA RESTO

In the chilly mountains of Bandung, Kinara Resto offers a cozy escape with stunning views of tea plantations. Enjoy a hot coffee or tea while gazing at the fog-laced landscape— perfect for a relaxing, wallpaper-worthy moment. When you’re ready for adventure, thrill-seekers can find exciting activities just steps away.

RENGGANIS JEMBATAN GANTUNG (SUSPENSION BRIDGE)

Just outside Kinara Resto, the Rengganis Suspension Bridge awaits daring adventurers. At 40 meters long and 70 meters high, it’s a thrilling challenge, with safety harnesses provided. Explore more of Bandung’s natural beauty with glamping, Golesat rides, and other exciting packages.

PINISI BOAT RESTAURANT

Hungry after your adventures? Head to Pinisi Boat Restaurant, docked beside a lake on a giant ship. Ideal for families, it offers authentic Indonesian dishes along with Asian and Western options. With ample space for any group size, dining here promises a memorable experience for all.

PANTAI INDAH KAPUK

Need a quick bite before your flight? Just 20 minutes from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, Pantai Indah Kapuk offers diverse dining options. Look for the giant 5-level pagoda—home to familiar spots like Din Tai Fung and Gong Cha, plus many other unique choices. The food-filled street is also highly Instagrammable, so plan extra time for photos.

Tip: If you need something at the last minute, there’s an Alfamart convenience store in the area — you can even buy some Indomie Mi Goreng noodles and other Indonesian snacks to bring home!