The Kingdom, redefined

Sometimes, all it takes is a quick getaway to shake things up and Jakarta did just that for me. With just a weekend to spare, I packed my bags, booked my Grab, and hit the ground running in Indonesia’s bustling capital. From sky-high views and soulful shopping to sunset cocktails and a little self-care magic, here’s how I made the most of two whirlwind days in the Big pDurian.

DAY 1: FROM THE CLOUDS TO CULTURE

Morning | Up at Thamrin Nine, Autograph Tower
Started my day literally on top of the world at the top of Southeast Asia’s tallest building from level 109 (385 meter above!). Up @ Thamrin Nine was the perfect intro to Jakarta. Sweeping views, cool breeze, a city that goes on forever. It’s the kind of place that makes you stop, snap a hundred photos, and think, “Right… this is going to be a good trip.”

Afternoon | Sarinah: Indonesia’s OG Department Store
Next up, Sarinah. This place is a national icon not just a mall, but a cultural landmark. Think traditional crafts meets modern cool. Several floors are dedicated to local products, and honestly, I was blown away. It’s not your average souvenir stop. It’s a proud showcase of Indonesian design, and it’s done so well. If you love stories behind your shopping, this one’s a must.

Evening | Ashta District 8: For the Aesthetic Addicts
By golden hour, I found myself at Ashta District 8 Jakarta’s answer to Tokyo’s Omotesando or Seoul’s Garosugil. Think high concept cafés, indie brands, and design that screams “Instagram me.” It’s where the cool kids hang out, and I can totally see why. I lingered here longer than I planned… and I’m not even sorry.

Night | Grand Indonesia: Go Big or Go Home
To wrap up day one, I dived into the epic maze that is Grand Indonesia. One of the biggest malls in Southeast Asia and it doesn’t disappoint since I as kid. From high street fashion to international eats, this place has everything. I wandered, I dined, I shopped, I people-watched. A perfect end to an electric day.

DAY 2: MALLS, MAGIC AND A BIT OF ME-TIME

Morning | Central Park Jakarta
Bright and early, I landed at Central Park Mall. It’s not just another mall the open-air Tribeca Park gives it a resorty feel. Dogs, kids, couples on coffee dates… it’s got a real lifestyle buzz. Good brand mix too easygoing but fun. It felt like the Sunday morning stroll I didn’t know I needed.

Afternoon | Lippo Mall Nusantra then Pondok Indah Mall
Lippo Mall Nusantra is sleek, shiny and still growing into its own one to watch. Then came Pondok Indah Mall, a Jakarta classic. The vibe here? Timeless elegance. I loved the contrast between the fresh and the familiar. Both spots fed my retail cravings, no regrets.

Evening | Totok Aura at Dian Kenangan
Here’s where things got interesting. Ever heard of Totok Aura? I never failed to visit them every time I’m in Jakarta where I found myself on a comfy bed at Dian Kenangan, getting my face and body gently pressed into alignment. It’s a traditional Indonesian technique meant to bring out your inner glow and . I don’t know about the energy flow bit… but my skin? Radiant. 10/10 would do again.

Night | Plaza Indonesia: One Last Stroll
I wrapped things up at Plaza Indonesia where the city’s chicest come to shop. It’s classy, calm, and has the kind of understated luxury that doesn’t try too hard. I sipped a final coffee, took a quiet walk, and let it all sink in. Two days, a full heart, and a camera roll that’s way too full.

MY THOUGHT : JAKARTA, YOU STUNER

I came to Jakarta for a quick escape, but what I got was a full-on experience. It’s loud, stylish, soulful and full of surprises. In just 48 hours, I saw the city from the clouds, dived into culture, explored the coolest corners, and even managed to sneak in a little self-care.

Sometimes, all you need is a weekend to fall in love with a place or at least to come back feeling a little more alive.