Young, Broke, But Want to Travel? Here Are 7 Things Malaysians Can Do Under RM100 in Jakarta

There’s no denying that Indonesia is a popular holiday destination among Malaysians. However, most of us would usually think of visiting Bali, Lombok, and the Gili islands for a beach holiday as opposed to the city.

While beach holidays there are fun, let’s just say the touristy prices at those hot spots are not exactly wallet-friendly, especially if you’re young and broke, but still need a vacay. Well, what if we told you that you CAN travel to Indonesia without forking out that much money?

Don’t believe us? Then check out these cheap and even free things you can do in Jakarta for under RM100.

1. Take a trip back in time to Jakarta’s colonial past at Jakarta Old Town (Kota Tua)

Source: Mas Yossie

If you’re a history buff, this should be numero uno on your to-do list because it’s Jakarta’s most significant heritage site. Here, you can learn about the city’s past because Kota Tua, which was once a seaport town, is now jam-packed with some of Jakarta’s oldest buildings that come in the form of Dutch colonial architecture. Plus, the buildings now serve as museums and there are tons that you can visit for a small fee. Some are free though, such as Fatahillah Square, Sunda Kelapa harbour and Rumah Akar.

Entrance: approx. RM1.50 per museum 

2. Educate yourself about the Indo-Chinese culture in Glodok

Source: ekodediamirnugroho

Every city has its own version of Chinatown and for Jakarta, you can find it in Glodok. Fun fact: This is actually the country’s (and one of the world’s) biggest Chinatown, and just like our Petaling Street back home, Glodok is where you’ll get an oriental vibe all around – from its buildings to multiple temples and shrines.

What to expect:

• Visit Jin De Yuan temple at Petak Sembilan Market and spot two dragons with pearls in their mouths on the roof!
• The Petak Sembilan Market also has a host of unique dishes and sells a lot of traditional medicinal remedies.
• Try out some other scrumptious culinary dishes at Gang Gloria street nearby.
• Take Insta-worthy photos at Candra Naya Building, a gorgeous historical site within the market!

Price: Free

Source: J Channel

3. Get an overview of the country at Taman Mini Indonesia Indah 

Source: Theliyanaaris

Let’s be honest, Indonesia is HUGE and you won’t be able to cover all 26 provinces and 17,000 islands in one trip. Hence, take a shortcut by visiting Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, or Beautiful Mini Indonesia, if you have no time to see them IRL. At this 100-hectare park that’s divided by province, you’ll find traditional houses belonging to each one where the clothing, handicrafts and customs of each region will be on display. Another reason why this place is awesome? It even has a cinema called the Keong Mas IMAX Theater for you to see the latest and greatest blockbuster in stunning IMAX detail; the way they should be seen!

PS: Like the country, this place is also pretty big, so you’ll need to rent a Grab car, Go-Jek, motorbike or bicycle to get around, and trust us, you can spend hours here!

Entrance: approx. RM6 (other museums inside will incur additional fees)

4. Enjoy the sea breeze at Ancol beach 

Source: Pinterest

Didn’t think a city like Jakarta would have a beach, right? When you’re tired of all that walking, simply head to this strip that’s lined by soft sand and blue waters. Do note that while this is technically a public beach, there is a small fee that you’ll have to pay to use the facilities but fret not, because like everything else on this list, it will not burn a hole in your pocket. Psst… we heard there’s “beach karaoke” for free every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday so look out for that if you love singing! 

Entrance: approx. RM7

5. Have a splashing good time at Atlantis Water Adventure

Source: Atlantiswateradventures

Does a wave pool or floating playground make your heart beat faster? Then pack your bathing suit and head here! Located near Ancol beach, this water park boasts up to 8 different water zones that are suitable for all ages, as well as plenty of pools and exciting slides for a fun day away from the city centre. Meanwhile, the wave pool offers wave simulations every few hours. Sounds like the best way to cool off when Jakarta’s heat is getting to you! 

Entrance: approx. RM35 (weekday), RM50 (weekend & all-day pass)

6. Visit Pasar Baru Market aka Jakarta’s Little India 

Source: aryok66

Are you a fan of markets? Then visit Jakarta’s oldest one in Sawah Besar, which is also known as the city’s Little India. After all, most vendors here are of Indian descent and just like in Chinatown, you’ll find that they too sell traditional costumes, fabric, accessories and more (yes, bargaining is welcome), while the restaurants and food stalls will be hard to miss since the smell of their aromatic cuisine will be lingering in the air. Even if you have no moolah to spend, Pasar Baru still makes for a splendid experience!

Entrance: Free 

7. Get an adrenaline rush at Dunia Fantasi

Source: infodufan

Think Disneyland, but the local edition. Dunia Fantasi is an amusement park in Ancol Dreamland and adrenaline junkies will be glad to know that there are over 30 rides here for you to take and scream your lungs out on. From the hardcore Halilintar roller coaster and Hysteria drop tower to the mild spinning cups and a Ferris wheel where you can take in the city view – there’ll certainly be something up your alley! FYI, they also have a Star Wars section! 

Entrance: from approx. RM58 (weekday), RM86 (weekend)

See? You really don’t have to empty your bank account for a decent holiday, and with so many things in Jakarta that cost less than RM100 (some even for 0 rupiahs), who says you can’t travel on a lean budget? Plus, there are always fun and exciting events happening in town like the Jakarta Jazz Festival and more.

For more information on the great city of Jakarta and other amazing Indonesian destinations that are just waiting for you to pay a visit, click here.