Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta, is a vibrant patchwork of old and new. Formerly known as Batavia, the foremost spice enter port in Southeast Asia. The Old Dutch quarter of Kota is steeped in the city’s illustrious past and, at the old harbour of Sunda Kelapa, vintage clippers and schooners which one plied the valuable spice trade routes can still be seen.
As if to testify to the historical significance of the city, Jakarta has 13 museums, some of which are devoted entirely to painting, pottery, puppets, textiles, and stamps. The National Museum is well known for its archeological collection while the historical development of Jakarta can be traced in the Jakarta historical Museum (Puppet Museum) stages regular performances of the traditional wayang golek (three dimensional) and wayang kulit (shadow) puppet show art forms.
Jakarta’s past reliance on trade remains in its profusion on markets to handicraft and bric-a-brac. Other places of interest include the Monas (the National Monument), the Merdeka (Independent) Palace, the Fatahillah Square, Istana Negara (The State Palace). Taman Mini Indonesia or “Indonesia in Miniature” is an absorbing cultural theme park showcasing the country’s attractions in one place. It includes mock villages in the widely different architectural styles to be found in Indonesia.
Still on subject of theme park, The Ancol Dreamland, located in the northern part of the city, is Jakarta’s answer to Disneyland. The recreation area is a sprawling leisure and theme park with an art market, a marine park, and a Fantasy Land.
For a taste of paradise islands, Pulau Seribu (Thousand Islands) is just a few kilometers out of the Bay. These dreamy, palm fringed havens easily accessible by boat from Jakarta Bay are a perfect gateway from Jakarta Bay are a perfect gateway from the city scene.
