Whether spending an hour or a day in Jakarta, this bustling Indonesian city hosts hundreds of activities for the transient tourist. Consider visiting the historic and lively Fatahillah Square to watch the people of Jakarta bicycle, play, or pass by on their way to work, or find an air-conditioned escape at Southeast Asia’s largest mall, Mall Taman Anggrek.

Escape the crowded downtown streets of Jakarta and relax at an old-world café at Fatahillah Square for a few hours. Located in Old Town, this cultural center offers tourists an opportunity to see locals as they proceed with their day-to-day activities. In addition to a handful of shops and restaurants, the square is home to the Jakarta History Museum, a puppet museum, and art gallery.

To avoid the hot and sticky Indonesian climate, visit Mall Taman Anggrek for some afternoon shopping. The mall houses more than 500 department stores, several fitness centers, and four Cineplex studios in addition to ten exhibition areas, an ice rink, and an atrium. Tourists will find a variety of restaurants available for any taste and budget. Rather than settling for hours of airport wandering or hotel lounging, take a quick day trip into Jakarta on your next visit.

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According to the Jakarta Globe, Indonesian art sales are now among the fastest growing in the world. Jakarta auction sales are reaping high revenues and inspiring many to travel from across the globe to purchase local Indonesian handicrafts, paintings, and ceramics. To see what the buzz is all about, take a trip to the Jakarta Fine Art and Ceramic Museum on your next visit to Indonesia.

The Fine Art and Ceramic Museum possesses 19^th and 20^th century neoclassical paintings such as Raden Saleh’s “The Regent of Lebak” and pieces by Haryonoto, Mirna, and Hardi. Galleries also contain a wide range of naturalistic and abstract sculptures in addition to a collection of contemporary local ceramics.

The museum is easily accessible by bus or car and is open Tuesday through Sunday for viewers to peruse the wide variety of galleries. Prices vary and can be purchased at the door. The Fine Art and Ceramic Museum is a gem among tourist destinations and will interest anyone looking for a cultural or artistic experience in Jakarta.

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