On my last full day in Jakarta, I set out to savor the city one final time before heading back to Manila. After checking out early, I made my way to BNI City Station, where I boarded the Sky-Blue Line to Manggarai Station.

From there, I transferred to the Red Line, bound for Jakarta Kota Station—the gateway to the city’s historic heart. Upon arriving at Jakarta Kota Station, I marveled at the historical architecture of the old buildings surrounding the area. I spent my remaining time wandering around Kota Tua and Old Batavia, taking in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the area.

🏛️ Arrival in Kota Tua: A Step Back in Time

As I stepped out of Jakarta Kota Station, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of its colonial architecture. The station itself, a relic of the Dutch East Indies era, felt like a portal to another time. I wandered through Kota Tua (Old Town), also known as Old Batavia, where cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings, and vintage bicycles painted a picture of Jakarta’s layered past.

I spent the morning exploring museums, sipping coffee in heritage cafés, and browsing street vendors selling handcrafted trinkets and local snacks. The atmosphere was vibrant yet nostalgic—a blend of old-world charm and modern-day bustle.

🖼️ Cultural Immersion & Quiet Moments

The juxtaposition of Jakarta’s colonial legacy with its contemporary pulse was captivating. I visited the Jakarta History Museum, admired the puppets at the Wayang Museum, and paused at Fatahillah Square, where locals and tourists mingled under the tropical sun.

As the afternoon wore on, I hopped on a TransJakarta bus from Kota Tua to BNI Sudirman Station, taking one last look at the city’s dynamic streets. The ride gave me time to reflect on the vibrant sights, warm interactions, and cultural richness I’d experienced throughout my stay.

🚆 Final Train Ride & Reflections

From BNI Sudirman, I boarded the airport train, a smooth and quiet ride that offered a moment of solitude before the journey home. As the train glided past Jakarta’s skyline, I felt a deep sense of gratitude—for the stories I’d gathered, the people I’d met, and the unexpected beauty tucked into every corner of the city.

Jakarta had surprised me. It wasn’t just a stopover—it was a living mosaic of history, resilience, and everyday magic. It was the perfect way to end my trip to Jakarta before catching my flight back home.

*** I went to Jakarta, Indonesia, on August 17-20, 2024, alone. It was my first time exploring a Muslim-dominated country, and I was pleasantly surprised by the warm hospitality and diverse culture I experienced during my visit. Thank you for reading and supporting my work.***