Jakarta

Jakarta is Indonesia's capital and largest city, and usually the first stop for anyone arriving on a direct flight from Saudi Arabia. It is a modern city of towers and shopping centres, and also one rich in history and street markets.

At its centre is Merdeka Square, with the 132-metre National Monument (Monas). Close by stands Istiqlal Mosque, the largest mosque in Southeast Asia, opened in 1978. To the north lies the old town, Kota Tua, with Fatahillah Square and the Dutch-era Batavia City Hall, now the Jakarta History Museum.

Jakarta suits a short stay of one or two nights before you continue to Bali or Yogyakarta: one day for the landmarks and one for its large shopping centres. Halal food is available almost everywhere, and Friday prayer at Istiqlal is an experience guests remember.