Jakarta Hotels
You will be spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodation in
Jakarta. It is geared to all budgets and tastes. If you’re on a budget head to Jalan Jaksa, a popular backpacker hangout, and perfect if you’re looking for cheaper accommodation and a chilled out atmosphere. There are also lots of bars along the street so you wont have any problem locating the local beer, Bintang. You will also find cheaper accommodation in the nearby streets. Jaksa is a good area for wi-fi and internet cafes too, however, in many cases the accommodation is not salubrious so be prepared to rough it. Booking ahead isn’t always necessary and many backpackers just turn up and visit a few hostels before deciding where to lay their weary heads. Karya Bahana and Tator International Hostel are popular options.
More expensive and upmarket hotels can be found in the Golden Triangle – the city’s commercial area. The main streets for accommodation are: Jalan H.R. Rasuna Said, Jalan M.H. Thamrin and Jalan Jenderal Sudirman. You will find the Hilton, the Four Seasons, Gran Melia, Le Meridien, Sari Pan Pacific in this area.
The Grand Hyatt and the Mandarin Oriental are both situated near Welcome Monument in Jakarta’s financial district. Across from the Hyatt is Hotel Indonesia - the country's highest starred hotel. President Soekarno is rumored to have stayed here.
If you’re looking for a coastal option Ancol Dreamland is a family resort and amusement park (which includes Sea World and a water park). The resort has a hotel and bungalows to rent. The area is also the place to go to if you want to visit the neighboring Thousand Islands. Other good options in the area include Horison known as the “honeymooners hotel.” A private beach and views over the Java Sea make it easy to understand why it has got this nickname. Pondok Putri Duyung Cottage is another popular choice. Beachfront cottages and bungalows are decked out in a traditionally native style.
Wherever you choose to stay in Jakarta always try and haggle on the price, especially in low season where hotels are sometimes willing to reduce their rates.
Check out time in most places is around 12noon.
