Urban Pulse: Exploring Jakarta with Our Indonesian Friends

Day 10 of our journey took us from the cool, calm highlands of Bogor to the bustling heart of Indonesia—Jakarta. It began with a two-hour train ride that carried us into a completely different rhythm of life. The moment we stepped off the train, the energy shift was palpable. Jakarta, with its high-rise buildings, endless traffic, and fast-paced lifestyle, offered a stark contrast to the laid-back atmosphere of Bogor.



One of the highlights of our day was experiencing Indonesia’s modern innovation—the bullet train. Sleek, fast, and efficient, it was a glimpse into the future of transportation in the country. The ride was smooth and exhilarating, and for many of us, it was our first time on such a high-speed train.


As we explored the city, we couldn’t help but notice how parts of Jakarta reminded us of Metro Manila—busy intersections, towering malls, street vendors, and the warm hustle of everyday life. Yet, there was something uniquely Indonesian about the way it all came together: a blend of tradition and progress, chaos and charm.


For lunch, we once again delighted in Indonesian cuisine. The dishes were rich in flavor and culture, with fragrant spices and diverse textures that continue to amaze us each day. Sharing meals with our Indonesian friends has been one of the most memorable ways to bond and learn about each other’s cultures.


One meaningful stop during our city tour was a visit to a prayer area for our Muslim friends. Here, we gained deeper insight into Islamic traditions and practices. We learned about the five daily prayers (salat), the importance of cleanliness before prayer, and the role of the mosque as a spiritual and community center. It was a humbling experience that deepened our appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural and religious diversity.



To cap off our adventure in Jakarta, we did what many locals and tourists love to do—we tried out the iconic Indonesian photo booths. These fun, colorful booths are popular in malls and public spaces, and our group had a blast striking poses, laughing at the silly props, and capturing memories to bring home.


As the day drew to a close, we boarded the train back to Bogor. The ride was long, but filled with conversation, shared photos, and quiet reflections. Jakarta gave us a glimpse into the vibrant urban life of Indonesia, and while it was an exciting change of pace, many of us found ourselves longing for Bogor’s cooler weather and peaceful charm.


If I had to choose between the two, I’d pick a rainy day in Bogor over the scorching heat and bustling streets of Jakarta any time—but still, this Jakarta trip was one for the books.

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