FROM the roof terrace of Skye Bar at the top of Jakarta’s tallest office building, the city looks almost peaceful.
From 56 floors up the BCA Tower, this vibrant 24-hour metropolis with a population of 28million, is a silent sea of lights.
Glossy bars like this are huge after-dark attractions in Asian capitals, away from the constant beeping and bustle of the streets – an airy oasis after the 30-degree heat of the day.
But while it’s great to escape the hubbub, the Indonesian capital is a destination to be explored and experienced and this can only be done with gusto at ground level.
An intense sensory overload, it has a fascinating history, buzzing nightlife, a melting pot of cultures and lots of shopping.
In short, it is the perfect city break for those with a bit more time than your usual long weekend. Kota, the old town, is a good place to start.
Head to the Jakarta History Museum to learn more about the region. From the city’s founding in 1527 as Jayakarta through Dutch colonial rule to independence on 1948, it offers a snapshot into the past.
Here you can sample traditional Indonesian cuisine like rice dish Nasi Goreng, washed down with Bintang – the nation’s favourite beer.
Afterwards take a stroll around the nearby Pasar Ilkan fish market. It’s a colourful scene of local life with people milling around, peering over the large quantities of fish and shellfish displayed on huge slabs. The smell can be a little strong in the midday heat mind!
Culture vultures should take in the National Monument in Merdeka Square, a 132m tower built to symbolise the struggle for Indonesian independence.
Thrill seekers will enjoy the expansive views from the top as well as the mini scooter rides on offer from locals in the square below.
Thirty thousand Rupiah (about £1.50) will buy you ten minutes on one of these two-wheeled devils which provide great fun.
There are 7.5million scooters in the city. Nippy and nimble, they are the ultimate machine to weave your way through any snarl-ups.
After a taste of Jakarta’s spirited side, you may want to retreat to base before heading out again. In the upscale area of Mentang, the impressive new Hermitage Hotel makes for an elegant escape.
Housed in a heritage building and kitted out with every modern luxury, it has 90 rooms including two stunning presidential suites, a chic rooftop terrace and an outdoor infinity pool.
The rooms are opulent, with mammoth baths and two flat-screen TVs. But once you’ve enjoyed a recharge, the pull of the city’s exhilarating nightlife takes hold.
Forget full moon parties and beach clubbing, Jakarta is all about modern restaurants, bars and clubs with a relaxed Oriental feel.
For an early evening bite it’s a short stroll to Bungerampai, a classic Indonesian eatery. Enjoy the elegant atmosphere while sinking your teeth into delicious Indonesian-style ribs. Then for dessert, those with an appetite for the unusual should try durian fruit.
Regarded by many on the continent as the “king of fruits”, durian is delicious but comes with a rather intense whiff. You have been warned!
If your tastes don’t stretch to stinky snacks, head to Eastern Promise, a western-style diner where you can try the ultimate aperitif, a lagerita. Half beer/half margarita, this signature drink was surprisingly delicious and had the desired effect!
For a high-energy vibe make a beeline for Portico, an upmarket terrace bistro on the bottom floor of Senayan City. The place does great tapas and its unique turf floor makes it feel almost rural, despite being in the middle of the urban sprawl.
The shopping mall next door lends itself to an afternoon of splashing the cash followed by cocktails and snacks. Night owls should head for Dragonfly – an evening cocktail bar which transforms into a club after dark.
Wall lighting and a completely wooden interior retains an Asian influence but the disco music will be familiar to Brits.
Flying to Indonesia has just become more accessible, with the recent launch of Garuda Indonesia’s five-times-a-week service from London Gatwick to Jakarta via Amsterdam.
Within a year the airline hopes to provide a non-stop service between London and Jakarta, bringing one of the world’s most fascinating mega cities that little bit closer.
RETURN flights with Garuda Indonesia from Gatwick to Jakarta start from £528pp, based on economy class travel including 30kg baggage allowance. Flights between London Gatwick and Jakarta operate five times a week using Garuda Indonesia’s latest range of Boeing 777-300ER aircrafts. Visit Garuda UK on Twitter or become a fan of Garuda IndonesiaUK on Facebook.
Rooms at the five-star Hermitage Hotel – a member of The Leading Hotels of the World – cost from £110 per night, based on two sharing. For details or to book visit lhw.com/hermitagejakarta.
This article first appeared in the Daily Star Sunday on 2 November, 2014.
