26012024:
Last night, we slept like logs, completely wiped out from our first day in Jakarta. Our second day promised to be even busier. We kicked off our adventure at 10:30 AM, heading straight to the historical wonders of Kota Tua. Our first stop was Fatahillah Square, where we explored the old post office, Kantor Pos Kota Tua. This building, no longer a functioning post office, is now a hub for food and art vendors. The colonial architecture was captivating, with its grand, weathered facade whispering tales of the past.
The sun was shining brightly, making it a perfect day for photos. We took tons of 360-degree shots with our Insta360 camera around the square and outside the office, capturing the essence of this historical spot. After our mini-photo shoot, our stomachs reminded us it was time for a snack. We stopped by Kopi Nako, a trendy café nearby, for some much-needed caffeine and a light bite.
Next, we headed to Toko Merah, an iconic red building known for its striking Dutch architecture. As luck would have it, there was a Pasar Peranakan event in full swing. The market was filled with beautiful Baba Nyonya jewelry, traditional performances, and cultural exhibits. The atmosphere was relatively quiet, probably because it was a working Friday. I imagine weekends would be more lively and vibrant.
From Toko Merah, we planned to visit the Sunda Kelapa Port, an old port that’s a popular tourist spot known for its historic sailing ships and bustling maritime activities. We envisioned exploring the old wooden schooners and soaking up the maritime history. However, our plans took a turn when we got lost and ended up at a rather eerie, off-limits port area, complete with warning signs and an ominous vibe. Concerned for our safety, we quickly abandoned that plan and decided to head straight for Ancol Dreamland, also known as Taman Impian Jaya Ancol. It is a popular recreational area in Jakarta that includes various attractions such as Dunia Fantasi (Dufan), SeaWorld Ancol, Atlantis Water Adventure, and more. However, before diving into the specific attractions, there’s a general entrance fee to access the Ancol Dreamland complex:
- Per Person: IDR 25,000 (approximately RM7.50).
- Per Vehicle: Car: IDR 25,000 (approximately RM7.50) & Motorcycle: IDR 15,000 (approximately RM4.50).
By then, our stomachs were growling, so we decided to grab lunch first. We ate at a restaurant called BeachFood, where the food was delicious, prices were reasonable, and most importantly, there was air conditioning. We ordered a variety of local dishes and savored every bite. After our meal, we strolled over to Ancol Beach, taking in the refreshing sea breeze and snapping more photos. Ancol Dreamland offers a variety of attractions that would be perfect for families with kids, but we enjoyed our laid-back beach time.
Next, we headed to the Kramat area because my two junior friends are bookworms in need of their book therapy. Kramat is like a literary treasure trove with its traditional bookstores. We spent a good chunk of time browsing through stacks of books, the air filled with the musty scent of old paper. After about an hour, Ainur mentioned wanting a massage, so we searched for a spa. The prices were a bit steep for our budget, so Sharul and I opted out, leaving Ainur to enjoy her massage while we ventured to Sarinah Mall.
Sarinah Mall has a touch of class, unlike the quiet Element Mall. We aimed to find some souvenirs to take back to Malaysia for our staff and families. The mall was bustling with shoppers, and we found ourselves drawn to the beautiful scarves, a step above the typical street market finds. Sarinah offers more upscale options, perfect for gifts.
After our shopping spree, we headed back to the hotel for a break before dinner. But my stomach had other plans—I was starving. I ordered Grab Food and finally got to try the famous Richeese Factory, which I had never tried in Malaysia. Their chicken was smaller than expected—probably hormone-free, I joked, but still delicious with its spicy cheese sauce.
Just as I was settling in, Sharul suggested we check out the street food near our hotel. Initially, I hesitated since I had just eaten, but I didn’t want to miss out on the local flavors. So, I joined him for a second dinner, ordering Nasi Goreng Gila and sipping on Air Kelapa Jeruk. The street was alive with the hustle and bustle of vendors and customers, the air thick with enticing aromas. The nasi goreng was insanely delicious, with a perfect blend of spices and toppings, and I had no regrets about my double dinner.
As the night grew late, we finally made our way back to the hotel, satisfied and exhausted from another adventurous day in Jakarta. Stay tuned for more of our Jakarta adventures and misadventures!