by: Emma Kwee
Jakarta is Indonesia'a most expensive city regarding accomodation and food. For those on a tight budget, options are limited and if money is running out, there is only one destination that will provide a roof above your weary head, while keeping as much money in your pocket as possible. Jalan Jaksa is the name, and finding a cheap but flee free losmen is the game.
Even though losmens and cheap hostels are abundant in this backpacker's enclave, there are only a few that stand out. The majority of places are dark, ramshackles of buildings with no character or sense of security and flee infested beds. Therefore this quick guide to the best budget accommodation in this myriad of dodgy dingy dorms.
By far the best option for those on a real tight budget is Borneo hostel (021-3140095) just west of Jalan Jaksa, on Jalan Kebon Sirih Barat No. 35. It has rooms starting from Rp. 50,000 with communal bathroom and fan, to air-conditioned rooms with bathroom for Rp. 135,000. The place has recently been redecorated and therefore spurs an un-Jaksa-like coziness. The best room is upstairs at the front where there's a cozy balcony and access to the flower filled rooftop terrace.
Other reasonable losmens are Bloemsteen Homestay (021-325389) and the next-door Kresna Homestay (021-325403), located in Gang 1, a small alley on the Eastern side of Jalan Jaksa. Although rooms are cramped and could use a good scrub, they are very affordable starting at Rp. 35,000, and the atmosphere is slightly less depressing than other places in the neighborhood.
If your budget is more flexible it pays of to check out Le Margot (021-3913830), which resembles an actual hotel inside as well as outside. Rooms are about Rp. 150.000 and have a/c, tv, safety deposit box and hot water. The attached backpackers' restaurant is quite popular and bang in the middle of all the action on Jalan Jaksa.
Hotel Karya Bahana (021-3140484/3150519) can be found on Jalan Jaksa No. 32. Its slogan reads ‘with Royal and Golden service' and although that might be slightly exaggerated, the hotel indeed has a friendly staff and not too bad rooms, with a/c, bathroom with bathtub, tv and minibar. Prices start at Rp. 170,000 and include breakfast.
Whatever your choice may be, always try bargaining. A handy method is asking if breakfast is included (if not all the more reason for a discount) and if there's a special rate if you stay more than one night.
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