by: Emma Kwee
Jalan Jaksa is probably the seediest backpackers district in the world. Other than its cousins Khao San road in Bangkok or even Sosrowijayan in Yogyakarta where the shadiness is compensated by its lively atmosphere, Jalan Jaksa doesn't hide its grim features under a fake smile. With very few exceptions, its hotels are shabby, dingy and dark. The bars attract a cheerfully mixed crowd of prostitutes, dubious middle-aged expats and Jakarta youngsters making use of this gateway to liberalism.
But for those who are still interested, the neighbourhood serves its purpose well; accommodation is cheap compared to the rest of Jakarta and all standard backpackers needs are available (i.e. beer, internet, travel agencies). Its location is also pretty convenient, in the heart of Jakarta close to the train station and the National monument (Monas), and the blok M bus terminal. To get there, either walk from the train station for about 15 minutes following Jalan M. Thamrin and take a left at Sarinah mall, and follow Jalan KH Wahid Hasyim for about 1 kilometer, after which you'll find Jalan Jaksa on the left side, or to make things easier take a cab. Another convenient option is the air-conditioned bus way getting on at Monas, stop at Sarinah Mall, and walk from there.
Sarinah Mall is also the most handy place to go to for last (or first) minute shopping. There are several floors selling clothes, souvenirs, batik (although prices are steep) and two internet cafes on the third and fifth floor. Outside on the main street to Jalan Jaksa a conglomeration of street vendors sell cheap nasi goreng and countless other dishes.
On Jalan Jaksa a medium sized supermarket can be found spot in the middle at the fork leading to jl Kebon Sirih Barat. Fast internet cafes are located both on the left of the supermarket as on the right. Travel agencies are abundant on Jalan Jaksa and sometimes also offer worldwide package services. An BCA atm is located on Jalan KH Wahid Hasyim after turning right after leaving Jalan Jaksa. A branch of the Lippobank is placed on the other end of Jalan Jaksa, at the left side of Jalan Kebon Sirih.
A blessing in disguise, that's what Jalan Jaksa is, or at least it will be a euphemism for the gloomy nuance that it possesses because you can also obtain a sense of how the rest of Jakarta is just walking alongside its pavement. Then you can decide whether you want to explore more of Jakarta or utilize it as a transit point. The choice is yours.
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