Ask Locals Anything in Jakarta!

Highly unlikely a single VOA will suffice for two separate entries into Indonesia. Immigration rules are usually pretty strict about that sort of thing. Best to check the Indonesian embassy/consulate website for Australian citizens, or contact them directly. Playing it safe is always the better option here to avoid any potential issues.

Finding reliable security in Jakarta can be tricky. I'd recommend reaching out to a reputable international security firm with a presence in Jakarta. They often have vetted personnel and established networks, mitigating the risk of encountering less reputable operators. Look for companies with established global operations, not just those solely advertising in Jakarta. Their due diligence will likely be more thorough.

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ridgesafari91 · 16h

That's solid advice. I hadn't considered going through an international firm. I was mostly looking at local options, but the vetting point is crucial. Thanks for the heads-up; I'll definitely prioritize companies with a broader reach.

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Depends heavily on the expat's budget and family size, honestly. You'll find a range from smaller apartments in areas like Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) – pricey, but convenient with modern amenities and malls – to larger villas in areas like Kebon Jeruk or Puri Indah, often with compounds offering more privacy and space but at a premium. Rental costs vary wildly, from a few thousand USD a month for a decent apartment to tens of thousands for a luxury villa. Size-wise, it's everything from studios to sprawling houses with pools. Common desires include good internet, reliable security, proximity to international schools (if applicable), and easy access to restaurants and shopping. Think more "gated community with a decent gym" than "rustic charm," unless they're specifically seeking that out.

Have you considered the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta? It's got a fantastic pool, a renowned spa, and the overall experience is quite opulent. It leans more towards grand luxury than boutique, but it fits the "classical" vibe you're after and is definitely in the same league as The Dharmawangsa. Worth checking out their February packages.

That's cutting it close. Soekarno-Hatta is HUGE. Allow at least 2 hours, maybe more on a Sunday, for immigration, customs, and terminal transfer, especially with an ATM stop thrown in. You'll likely be sprinting. For ATMs, any major bank ATM (BCA, BNI, Mandiri) will work. They're everywhere. For a SIM card, Telkomsel is generally reliable. Look for a booth in the arrival hall – you'll see them. Plenty of options for 30-day plans. Just be prepared for the potential language barrier; have your phrasebook ready or use Google Translate. Good luck!

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archipelagotrav… · 3d

Yeah, two hours sounds about right, maybe even push it to 2.5 just to be safe. Soekarno-Hatta is a beast, I've been stuck there a few times. Never underestimate the sheer volume of people. Good call on the ATM tip – those queues can be brutal. And the SIM card advice is spot on; Telkomsel's pretty much the standard. Definitely bring a phrasebook or have your phone charged up for Google Translate, though - I ended up using hand gestures and a lot of pointing more than once!

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Finding a tailor in Jakarta to copy your pants shouldn't be too hard. For the price, expect to pay anywhere from Rp 200,000 to Rp 500,000 depending on the fabric and complexity of the pants. Higher-end places will definitely charge more. Most tailors will have their own fabric selections, but bringing your own preferred material gives you more control over the final product. As for recommendations, I'd suggest checking out some of the smaller shops in areas like Tanah Abang – you'll find a lot of tailoring options there and can compare prices. Don't be afraid to haggle a bit, it's common practice.

Finding a decent modern apartment in that area is tricky, even for someone who knows Jakarta well. Have you tried reaching out to real estate agents specializing in high-end properties in the SCBD/Kuningan/Sudirman area? They often have the most up-to-date listings and inside knowledge on building conditions. Scrolling through property listings on reputable Indonesian real estate websites might also yield better results than relying on outdated aggregators. Good luck with your apartment hunt! It's a jungle out there.

The Ritz-Carlton Jakarta, Pacific Place usually does a fantastic Christmas takeaway dinner. Worth checking their website or giving them a call.

For NYE, check out the celebrations around Monas (Monumen Nasional). It's usually pretty lively. For cheap eats, wander around Kota Tua (Old Town) – tons of street food stalls with delicious and affordable options. Nightlife is diverse; explore areas like SCBD (Sudirman Central Business District) for a more upscale vibe or Menteng for something a bit more local. Have a blast!

Depends on your vibe! If you want something upscale, try The Hermitage, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Jakarta. Their bar is usually pretty solid. For something a bit more relaxed and local, explore the bars around Menteng – you'll find some hidden gems there.