A trip to Jakarta

Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a unique experience to visitors. When I went on the short exchange trip, Jakarta was an amazing destination to explore a new culture and gain new experiences.

Here are some of the things that I experienced and learnt when travelling to Jakarta on a short exchange trip:

Explore the Culture

Jakarta is a city rich in culture and traditions. With over 300 ethnic groups in Indonesia, visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of customs and practices. By visiting places like the National Museum, Istiqlal Mosque, and the Old Town area of Jakarta, visitors can learn more about the history and culture of the city. The Jakarta Arts Theater is also a must-visit for those who want to experience traditional dance and music performances.

Try New Foods

Indonesian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavours and unique blend of spices. Visitors should take the opportunity to try local favourites like nasi goreng, satay, and gado-gado. A visit to the traditional market like Pasar Baru or Pasar Tanah Abang provides a great opportunity to sample street food and mingle with the locals.

Make New Friends

As with any exchange trip, one of the biggest advantages of visiting Jakarta is the chance to meet new people. Visitors can connect with local students and learn more about their daily lives and culture. Many universities in Jakarta offer language exchange programs, which provides an opportunity to practise speaking Bahasa Indonesia with local students.

Visit Tourist Attractions

Jakarta has a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy. The National Monument, or Monas, is an iconic landmark that represents Indonesia’s independence. The Thousand Islands, located just off the coast of Jakarta, is a great place to relax and enjoy the beach. Meanwhile, the Ancol Dreamland amusement park offers a range of rides and activities for visitors of all ages.

In conclusion, a short exchange trip to Jakarta offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a new culture, try new foods, make new friends, learn a new language, and explore some of the city’s popular tourist attractions. Jakarta provided a memorable and enriching experience.

Gao, Yifan

Global Short Program Student (Faculty-Led)

New Colombo Plan Mobility Grant Recipient