5 Things You Need to Remember Before Traveling to Jakarta

5 Key Things You Need to Remember Before Traveling to the Jakarta

I have told you that I am heading back to Jakarta, Indonesia, for good, this summer, right?    Yes, I am going home. Pretty soon. Super excited! 

And it's about time to share more info about traveling to Jakarta. 

There are so many beautiful places to see and enjoy in Jakarta for sure, like its colorful cultures, delicious culinary, historical places, friendly people, and crazy traffic due to its 10 million population, if you can enjoy that :). Not to mention big sales, vibrant night scenes and so much more. No wonder Jakarta is still one of the top 5 among most popular cities for holidaymakers in Indonesia, besides Bali, Jogjakarta, Bandung, and Batam.

Jakarta is the capital as well as the largest city in Indonesia and it can be found on the northwest coast of the world’s most populous island of Java.  With almost ten million people living there, it is definitely more populated than Halong Bay, Paris, or almost any other city in the world.  It also means that you are going to need to remember certain things as you get ready to travel to this beautiful city.

I therefore notice that there are important things that everybody needs to know, especially foreigners and those who have not been traveling to Jakarta before. Well, it is only natural that we always try to find more information before heading to any places, especially something to do with our wellbeing and security.

Here are 5 key things you need to remember before traveling to the Jakarta:

Flood Season

Jakarta has been struggling with flood for quite some times. There happens to be a flood season in Jakarta every year that goes from December through April. Well, it's not always happening but it's good to check the updated information on weather before yo to Jakarta. When flood hits the city, unfortunately that means that the areas in the lower parts of the city and anywhere close to the rivers will flood much easier when it rains.  The average annual precipitation for Jakarta is forty inches, but the majority of that will fall between November and April.  On average, the months of January and February will see twelve inches of rain each month.  

But don't get me wrong... You can still enjoy yourself in Jakarta during the rainy season, but you will want to be prepared to keep your belongings up high and evacuate to another area if necessary. If you are not accustomed to flood or simply don't want to have any complication during your holiday, it might be more comfortable to travel here during the dry season. 

Public Transportation 

In many areas of the world, you would be able to rely on public transportation to get you to where you want to go, but in Jakarta it's different. 

The buses and trains are available, but they do not stick to regular schedules.  There are taxis available, but they can be difficult for you to hail during rush hour as everyone else needs one at the same time.  Also, when it comes to taxis, be careful about some possible taxi scams, as I have found in several other countries as well, including in NYC (mind you!).  

It is recommended that you choose some higher end taxi lines, like Silverbird, for example, so you do not end up being taken on the scenic route to where you want to go.  There are a few online taxi services that you try, like Uber and Grab, for examples. That includes Go Jek, the online motorcycle taxis.  If you are comfortable to have your adventures with public transportation, these will be a choice. Otherwise, it will always be safe to travel around with your guide or friend in rented cars and remain vigilant wherever you go. 

Traffic

Traffic in Jakarta can be depressing!

The traffic in Jakarta is insane, so much so that New York City traffic doesn’t even come close in comparison.  Well, It seems in New York City, you have a chance at crossing a street safely, but in Jakarta you have to be extremely careful.   Even for us, Indonesians :).

Always keep your head up and pay attention when attempting to cross a street or walk anywhere in Jakarta, because the result could be an accident or worse.  This isn’t meant to scare you, just to make you aware that there are a lot of people in this city and they are all going somewhere at the same time that you are. 

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

There is always a steadfast rule when traveling overseas and that is to never drink the water.  Well, that applies to the city of Jakarta, even if there is a filter involved.  It just isn’t worth the risk of spending days being ill from drinking tap water.  Instead, you should only drink water from an unopened bottle.  

Again, just like when we're traveling elsewhere, we have to be careful with the food and drink you consume. If you request bottled water and someone brings you one that has already been opened, please do not accept it.   Be nice about it but ask for one that you can open yourself.  Use your wise judgement when you buy some from the street or un-established vendors.

It will be very handy as well to grab some bottles of water to keep next to your bathroom sink so that you can use it when you are brushing your teeth. It's one of my habits as well :).

5.     The City is Fairly Safe

For being such a large and populous city, Jakarta is fairly safe for locals and visitors.  That should make you feel safe as you embark on your travels to this wonderful city for your vacation.  Don't forget to ask around if you get lost or if you need help. Indonesian people are famous for being friendly and helpful, 

Of course, this isn’t to say that you should flaunt your money, designer bags, and diamond jewelry, but you should be able to walk around without feeling threatened if you have your money in a small bag under your clothes while wearing a small chain necklace. Again, be wise! As long as we are careful, we will be safe wherever we are.

So these are five things that you must remember before traveling to Jakarta and if you do, you will find that you will have a much more pleasant time in the city.  You will be able to relax more and enjoy more. Don't forget to get all the updated info before you travel!

All in all, Jakarta is indeed worth a visit! And I'm happy to welcome you all in our Capital City once I'm back here in July 2018.

So, are you ready to enjoy Jakarta?