Jakarta — Indonesia’s working capital
About 11 million people in the city proper, 33 million in Jabodetabek (the broader metropolitan area). The economic, political, and cultural centre of Indonesia, and for most business visitors the unavoidable starting point.
All Jakarta pages
District deep-dives, transport, food, day trips, practical info for visitors and expats.
Kota Tua — Jakarta's Restored Old Town
Kota Tua is the restored Dutch-colonial historic core of Jakarta — the heart of 17th-19th century Batavia, now a substantial pedestrian heritage district with museums, restaurants, and street culture.
Menteng & Cikini — Jakarta's Diplomatic and Cultural Heart
Menteng is the historic upscale residential area north of central Jakarta, with the Sukarno residence, embassies, the National Monument (Monas), and the cultural district of Cikini.
SCBD & Sudirman — Jakarta's Business and Commercial Heart
Jalan Sudirman and the SCBD (Sudirman Central Business District) form Jakarta's commercial spine — major banks, multinational headquarters, upscale shopping, the MRT, and the dense expat business community.
Jakarta Food Districts — Where to Eat by Neighbourhood
Jakarta has some of Southeast Asia's most varied food. This guide covers the major food districts — Glodok, Sabang, Kemang, PIK, Senopati, Pasar Santa, and others — and what each is known for.
Jakarta Transport — MRT, LRT, TransJakarta, KRL, and Grab
Jakarta has substantially improved its urban transport in the past decade. This guide covers the MRT, LRT, TransJakarta BRT, KRL commuter rail, and the dominant ride-hailing apps.
Thousand Islands — Jakarta's Day-Trip Archipelago
The Thousand Islands (Kepulauan Seribu) are a small archipelago in Jakarta Bay, accessible by 1-2 hour boat from north Jakarta. Day trips and overnight stays for swimming, snorkelling, and escape from the city.
Jakarta Expat Practical — Living, Working, Settling In
Practical information for the substantial Jakarta expat community: neighbourhoods, schools, healthcare, social life, professional networks, and what to expect when settling in.
Jakarta Nightlife & Entertainment — Bars, Clubs, Live Music, Malls
Jakarta has a substantial nightlife scene — international hotel bars, dance clubs, live music venues, late-night street food, and the famous Jakarta mall culture. This guide covers what to expect.