1. Thousand Islands
Despite its name, this holiday destination refers to the 110 islands off the coast of Jakarta. The closest of the cluster of islands, which encompasses the Kepulauan Seribu National Park, can be reached via a half-an-hour boat ride from Jakarta’s Ancol Marina. Those with more time can head to Pulau Putri, among the farthest of the islands – it’s a three-hour boat ride from the capital and boasts fine beaches and clean waters.
2. Bandung
Called the Paris of Indonesia during the Dutch colonial days, Bandung – located a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Jakarta – is known for its striking tropical Art Deco buildings, which were once the playground of wealthy tea and coffee plantation owners. Today, the city is famous for its factory outlets that stock local and international brands at discounted prices.
3. Puncak
At an altitude of about 1,500 metres above sea level, and around a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the Indonesian capital, Puncak’s cool climate makes it a popular weekend getaway for Jakarta’s residents. The hill resort town features spectacular vistas of the volcanic peaks of Gede, Pangrango and Salak, and is close to the 85-hectare Cibodas Botanical Garden.
Singapore Airlines flies to Jakarta nine times daily. To book a flight, visit singaporeair.com
SEE ALSO: A fresh spin on cuisine and art in Jakarta
This article was originally published in the April 2019 issue of SilverKris magazine
