What to see in Jakarta in 2 days

For some it is a captivating city and for others it is utter chaos, but for every visitor to Indonesia it has become a destination not to be missed. The population numbers are staggering: there are over 10 million inhabitants in the inner city alone (with almost 30 million in the wider metropolitan area), and the traffic is ever present. Two days in Jakarta are not enough to make you feel like a local, but they are sufficient to let you visit the most iconic sites. For this itinerary, we have selected a historic neighbourhood, Kota Tua, so that you can learn about the city’s colonial roots; a few other places such as the National Monument that will tell you the story of its past; and different religious buildings, including Jakarta Cathedral and the Istiqlal Mosque. We have also made sure to allow time for the quiet enjoyment of a good lunch at Café Batavia or a sunset drink in the Skye Bar.

Although this is a city of contrasts, home to both skyscrapers and very humble neighbourhoods, the smiling friendliness of the inhabitants is evident everywhere. The people of Indonesia have learnt to live calmly even in the worst of times, and their philosophy of life is underpinned by Buddhism, although 90% of the population describes itself as Muslim. One last recommendation: put aside your prejudices when you tour Jakarta, and allow yourself to go with its flow; it may be chaotic, but it can also become addictive.