Indonesia’s capital city, Jakarta, dubbed “The Big Durian” is an interesting travel destination. The streets may get hot and smoggy but Jakarta is popular for its ability to conjure a hodge-podge of interesting details. A melting pot of cultures and lifestyles, Jakarta can offer both decadent and refined, the earthy and the soulful. Its city proper is populated by more than eight million; the metro is home to more than 13 million citizens.

Jakarta is home to polite, traditional people. Beneath the slums, you’ll see plenty of surprises. Walking along the streets and conversing with the locals will allow you to see a glimpse of the Indonesians’ desire to overcome one of their nation’s biggest problems; poverty. A melting pot of different cultures, traversing the streets of Jakarta may mean rubbing shoulders with people of Bataks, Ambonese, Timorese, Balinese, and Madurese origins.

Jakarta’s main airport, the Soekarno-Hatta Airport, is named after Indonesia’s very first president and vice-president. The country’s largest airline is the Garuda Airlines. Within Jakarta, you can pamper yourself with a limo ride, which may be metered or paid by the hour. The ride can cost as much as 150 thousand rupiah. You may actually save money via a taxi; you do not have to tip the taxi driver but you are required to tip your limo chauffeur. If you want to experience Jakarta at its hottest, visit in July; the temperature can rise up to 88 degree Fahrenheit. January is milder, with a temperature range of 73 degree Fahrenheit to 84 degree Fahrenheit.

You are required to get a visa to Indonesia. A tourist visa will allow a stay of up to 30 days. The VISA will be stamped on your passport upon arrival for a small fee. Only those from ASEAN countries are exempted. Your passport must also be valid for at least six months upon arrival.