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Jakarta, being the capital city, is the main transportation hub for Java as well
as all of Indonesia. It is well connected by airlines, ships and trains from other
parts of Java and from other parts of the world. Transportation in Jakarta is
easy, affordable and convenient. No matter, wherever you are in Jakarta and no
matter, what your destination is, you will always find something to reach your
preferred place. Options are plenty ranging from air, land to water.
Air
The primary airport of Jakarta is Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, one
of Indonesia's two major international air gateways. The other airport which
serves the city is Halim Perdanakusuma International Airport.
Railways
The rail network throughout Jakarta is a sort of lifeline to the transportation
system in this capital city of Indonesia. The railroad tracks connect Jakarta
to its neighboring cities. Jakarta is linked with Depok and Bogor to the south,
Tangerang and Serpong to the west and Bekasi, Karawang and Cikampek to the east.
The major rail stations in Jakarta are Gambir, Jatinegara, Manggarai, Tanah
Abang and Jakarta Kota. Jakarta railways are making a commendable attempt to
modify the service according to the need of the increasing population. During
rush hours commuters have a difficult time to travel.
Buses
Buses are the primary means of public transportation in Jakarta. The PATAS buses
provide a comfortable ride with air conditioning facility. These buses are less
crowded creating high probabilities for you to get a seat. The DAMRI buses are
more common and regular and more people avail these buses. Construction of the
second and third corridor routes of the bus-way was completed last year serving
the route from Pulogadung to Kalideres. The bus-way covering the route from
Blok M to Kota has been operational since January 2004.
Taxis
The colorful Jakarta taxis in bright hues swarm on the city streets. There are
regular taxis and also exclusive ones for people looking for convenience. The
stylish and elegant taxis are usually black sedans with 3000 CC engine. These
exclusive taxies guarantee comfort and a smooth ride.
Limousine
If you are in a mood to splurge, you can hire one of those limousines. They
are the latest models of Japanese and European luxury cars featuring a range
of standard and luxury cars. Stretch limousines are also available with or without
driver.
Metro Mini
Metro Minis are actually bright orange small buses running on the streets of
Jakarta. These are quite effective in shuttling between two points.
Mikrolet
This is a very small version of public transport. It is typically a modified
van that can carry up to 10-12 passengers. Mikrolet can take you to the remotest
corners of Jakarta.
Ojek
Ojeks are actually motorcycles with its driver for hire. They can get into the
narrow alleys of Jakarta where no taxi or car can get in.
Becak
Becaks or rickshaws can take you anywhere in Jakarta. They are basically bicycle
with an attached 2-passanger carriage attached in front of it or on its side.
Although, several years back, becaks were banned from the city. Now, you will
find a variant of becak called Bajaj, a fat-bottomed motorcycle with an attached
carriage. Their loud bright orange color and the very distinctive and shrill
rattling sound have become synonymous with spirit of the streets of Jakarta.
Two lines of the Jakarta Monorail are under construction. In addition, there
are plans for a two-line subway (MRT) system. The government is also considering
waterbus ferries as an alternative and affordable means of transportation along
the canals in Jakarta.
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