Day 1:Departure from Paris and Arrival in Jakarta
When I decided to travel from Paris to Jakarta, I was filled with excitement and anticipation. This would be my first time stepping foot on the mysterious land of Indonesia, and I was eager to explore the city over the next few days. To maximize my travel time, I specifically chose a direct flight with Air China. The flight’s departure time was perfectly planned — it took off in the evening, allowing me to rest on the plane and arrive in Jakarta the next morning feeling refreshed, ready to embrace the new day and start my adventure in Jakarta.
The ticket cost around approximately 500 EUR, and considering it was a direct flight with a reasonable flight time, I felt it was quite a good deal. What made me even happier was that I booked my ticket in advance, which turned out to be cheaper than expected, leaving me with more budget to enjoy the food and attractions. After all, for me, the joy of traveling isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about savoring the delicious local cuisine as well.
Time on the plane always flies by quickly, and although the cabin space was a bit cramped, I still managed to get some sleep. Lying back in my seat with my eyes closed, I couldn’t help but get excited thinking about experiencing Jakarta’s unique charm the next day. To better understand the city I was about to visit, I watched a documentary about Indonesian culture on the flight. The beautiful scenery and the historical insights made me even more curious about the city’s story and increased my anticipation for the trip.
As the plane lightly bounced in the air, I gradually drifted off to sleep, my mind replaying the excitement of the journey ahead. I kept imagining the moment I would wake up the next morning and find myself in a new city, ready for endless adventures. I was eager for every moment to come — Jakarta, here I come!
Arrival in Jakarta
I finally arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. The airport was very modern, with spacious, well-lit international terminals. The immigration process went smoothly, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. After collecting my luggage, I booked a Grab (Jakarta’s ride-hailing service) to take me to my reserved hotel — Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta.
The drive from the airport to the city center took about 45 minutes, and along the way, I could see the cityscape of Jakarta — busy streets, the bustling flow of traffic, and a mix of tall skyscrapers and low-rise neighborhoods. The view from the car window made me even more eager to explore the city in the coming days and reminded me of the city’s diversity and complexity.
Upon arriving at Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta, I checked in. The lobby was grand and modern, incorporating local Indonesian art elements, creating an atmosphere that was both luxurious and warm. The staff warmly guided me to my room, which had a simple yet elegant layout, with a spacious and comfortable bed. After dropping off my luggage, I couldn’t wait to lie down for a short rest, adjust to the time zone, and prepare myself for the exciting adventures that awaited me in Jakarta.
Day 2: Exploring Jakarta
Morning: Visiting the National Monument (Monas)
After enjoying a hearty breakfast at the hotel in the morning, I was even more excited to start my day. The restaurant was filled with an array of delicious dishes, from traditional Indonesian specialties and fresh fruit juices to hot dishes and classic Western breakfast options. My favorite was the classic Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice), which was aromatic and perfectly spiced. The rice was light and fluffy, with each grain distinct, and the mild spice from the sauce added just the right touch. It was the perfect introduction to my time in Jakarta and made a lasting impression on me.
After breakfast, I eagerly set out for one of Jakarta’s most iconic landmarks — Monas (the National Monument). I took a taxi, which was about a 15-minute ride, and as I watched the cityscape quickly change through the window, my excitement grew. Monas, a symbol of Indonesia’s independence, towers into the sky like the city’s backbone, standing tall in the heart of Jakarta. It represents the country’s history, independence, and struggle. As I arrived and looked up at the golden flame at the top of the tower, I could almost feel the weight of the history it carries.
Monas is not just a monument; it is a living witness to Indonesia’s journey toward independence. Standing there, I couldn’t help but imagine the heroes who fought for the nation’s independence decades ago, and how this monument symbolizes their dreams and ideals. The historical significance of the place made every second I spent there feel deeply meaningful.
After touring the museum at the base of the monument, I took the elevator to the observation deck. As the elevator ascended, my excitement grew. The higher we went, the more the city of Jakarta unfolded before my eyes. When the elevator doors opened, I was met with a breathtaking view. From the observation deck, the entire cityscape of Jakarta was laid out in front of me. The tall skyscrapers and historical buildings harmoniously blended together, and the busy streets below were alive with the flow of traffic and pedestrians. The vitality of the city was on full display. In the distance, the mountains appeared faintly through the morning mist, adding a sense of serenity to the dynamic urban landscape.
I stood there, soaking it all in. The gentle breeze brought a sense of calm, and I felt at peace. The view reminded me that Jakarta is not just a modern metropolis, but a city with deep historical roots and boundless potential for the future.
What surprised me the most was the very affordable ticket price to visit Monas, which was only 15,000 IDR . For such an incredible price, I was able to experience both the profound history and stunning views of this city — it truly felt like a perfect value.
Although I spent less than an hour at Monas, standing on this historically significant landmark and looking out over Jakarta was incredibly fulfilling. This wasn’t just a visual treat; it was a soul-stirring experience. To be able to stand there and feel the pulse of the city, while witnessing the intersection of history and modernity, made this visit something truly special.
Lunch: Sate Khas Senayan – Authentic Indonesian Satay
After visiting Monas, I decided to treat myself to a delicious, authentic Indonesian meal and headed straight for the famous Sate Khas Senayan restaurant. This place is almost a household name in Indonesia, known for its traditional sate (satay), and it’s a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Jakarta. After leaving Monas, I took a Grab taxi, which took about 20 minutes to reach the restaurant. As I arrived, the rich aroma of grilling satay wafted through the air, making me eager to walk in.
The restaurant’s ambiance was warm and inviting, with a perfect blend of traditional Indonesian style and modern design elements. Wooden tables and chairs, exquisite decorations, and soft lighting created a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. The walls were adorned with traditional Indonesian artwork and handicrafts, giving the place a local flair while maintaining a stylish, contemporary vibe. Despite the restaurant being fairly busy, it didn’t feel crowded, and the staff greeted me with a smile, leading me to my seat and handing me the menu.
Without hesitation, I ordered the restaurant’s signature beef satay. Each skewer of beef was grilled to perfection, with a slight char on the outside, releasing an irresistible aroma. The beef itself was tender and juicy, and each bite was bursting with flavor. Paired with a rich peanut sauce, the combination of smoky char and the creamy, nutty sauce was exquisite, with a touch of spice that added depth to the taste. On the side, there were fresh cucumber slices, which perfectly complemented the savory satay with their crisp and refreshing taste, offering a delightful contrast.
As I sat at the table, enjoying this hearty satay, my mood relaxed, and I felt more connected to the culture and flavors of Jakarta. Every bite was a reminder of how much Indonesians love their food and how deeply they cherish their traditional flavors. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a celebration of the country’s culinary heritage.
After the meal, I ordered a refreshing chilled coconut water, which was lightly sweet and both thirst-quenching and cooling, a perfect finish to the delicious lunch. The atmosphere in the restaurant made me feel completely at ease — not just because of the amazing food, but also because of the authentic Indonesian ambiance that surrounded me. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Indonesia’s traditional cuisine, and every new dish I tasted deepened my understanding of the culture and flavors of this city.
The cost of this lunch was about 150,000 IDR per person. Given the authenticity and quality of the meal, I felt it was very reasonably priced. The food not only satisfied my hunger but also left me with a lasting appreciation for the unique charm of Indonesian cuisine. After finishing my satay, I sat back and relaxed for a while, basking in the warm afternoon sunlight, soaking in the atmosphere around me.
Afterward, I used Grab to call a car, heading to my next destination — a shopping mall in the city center. While my mind was still savoring the delicious meal, I was excited for the next part of my exploration. Jakarta’s appeal isn’t just in its historical landmarks and delicious food; I was also eager to experience the modern shopping malls, unique street culture, and vibrant markets that the city has to offer.
Afternoon Itinerary: Citywalk at Grand Indonesia Shopping Mall
After visiting Monas, I decided to take a leisurely stroll through one of Jakarta’s largest shopping centers, Grand Indonesia Shopping Mall. This place is where modern luxury meets traditional Indonesian culture. The mall features high-end international brand stores alongside local shops that showcase the vibrant and colorful culture of Indonesia. I spent a few hours walking around, trying out some local snacks, and sipping on an iced latte at one of the mall’s cafes, soaking in the relaxing afternoon atmosphere.
The shopping experience and the mall’s environment were truly enjoyable. Although I didn’t plan to do any major shopping, just walking around and admiring the mall’s design and ambiance made me feel relaxed and content.
Dinner: Café Batavia
As evening approached, I made my way to Café Batavia, located in Jakarta’s historic Kota Tua (Old Town) area. The moment I arrived, I was absolutely stunned by the sight. The restaurant is housed in a century-old building, and stepping inside felt like traveling back in time to the colonial era. The high ceilings, antique wooden decorations, golden chandeliers, and even the faded walls and vintage furniture — everything seemed to tell a story from a bygone era. I couldn’t resist stopping to take it all in, as if the history was alive in the air, adding a unique atmosphere to my dinner experience.
As I sat down, the surrounding ambiance immediately immersed me in a blend of the city’s past and present. The staff was both welcoming and professional, smiling as they guided me through the menu. I ordered the restaurant’s signature dish, Indonesian Rijsttafel. This traditional feast includes a variety of regional dishes served one after another, and just looking at the colorful, aromatic spread in front of me made me excited and eager to dive in. Each dish was rich with spices, taking me into a whole new world of flavors.
I especially loved the Nasi Goreng (Indonesian fried rice) and Ikan Bakar (grilled fish). The flavors were so layered — the richness and spice, paired with savory sauces, were utterly intoxicating. Each bite made me close my eyes in pleasure, savoring the burst of flavors. I also tried Gado-Gado (Indonesian salad), where fresh vegetables were drizzled with a homemade peanut sauce — the tangy sweetness of the sauce was incredibly refreshing and appetizing. The unique Indonesian spices in each dish felt like a delightful adventure for my taste buds.
For dessert, I tried a few traditional Indonesian sweets. Klepon (glutinous rice balls with coconut) was soft and fragrant, sweet without being overwhelming, and Es Teler (Indonesian shaved ice) was refreshingly cool, a perfect combination of coconut, lychee, and watermelon — ideal for cooling off on a warm evening.
The total cost of this dinner was about 200,000 IDR, which was a little more than I expected, but considering the historic ambiance of the restaurant, the unique dishes, and the impeccable service, I felt it was absolutely worth it. Dining in this historically rich setting didn’t just feel like a meal — it felt like an experience, immersing me in both culture and history.
After dinner, I didn’t rush to take a taxi but instead chose to walk back to the hotel. The walk from Kota Tua to Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta took about 20 minutes. Walking along this peaceful street, I felt completely at ease, slowly easing into a calm state of mind. The contrast between Jakarta’s lively daytime atmosphere and its quiet nighttime streets was striking. The streetlights cast a warm glow on the ancient buildings, adding a serene atmosphere. The city at night was far from the usual urban hustle and bustle; it was more laid-back, with a tranquil vibe.
As I walked, I passed a few small cafes with people chatting outside, and an occasional old-fashioned taxi rolled by at a leisurely pace. I couldn’t help but slow my pace, breathing in the fresh tropical air and enjoying the quiet and warmth of the city. Each step made me feel more connected to Jakarta’s rhythm, as if every breath helped me forget the stress of the outside world.
By the time I reached the hotel, the night had deepened. Back in my room, I took a moment to reflect on the day’s experiences. Sitting on the bed with my eyes closed, I replayed the sights and sounds of the day. It wasn’t just about the food; every corner of Jakarta, every person, and every moment made me feel excited and alive. I couldn’t wait to continue exploring the city tomorrow, discovering more surprises and stories.
Today in Jakarta was undoubtedly an exciting experience, full of delicious food, rich culture, and exploration. From visiting the historical Monas monument to savoring the delicious satay at Sate Khas Senayan, and finally experiencing Jakarta’s history at Café Batavia, I truly felt the city’s charm.
Every corner of Jakarta has been a delightful surprise. Each street, restaurant, and landmark has sparked my curiosity, making me eager to discover even more. Over the next few days, I will continue visiting new places, trying more food, and experiencing even more of the city’s culture.
The feeling of overlooking the city from Monas, the satisfaction of enjoying satay at Sate Khas Senayan, and the historic atmosphere at Café Batavia — all of these moments are etched into my memory. If you ever have the chance to visit Jakarta, I sincerely hope you can experience the city’s unique charm and taste its food and culture just like I did. I believe this trip, whether it’s the enjoyment of food or the exploration of its scenery, will become an unforgettable memory for you as well.
