The capital city of Indonesia, Jakarta is a city of contrast: traditional
and modern; the rich and the poor; spiritual and worldly stand side by side
in this bustling metropolis of 10 millions people. One can find the 
representatives of the many diverse ethnic and cultural groups which shape 
Indonesia with its nation's motto: "Unity in Diversity".

One of the proud ethnic Jakartans is known and called "orang Betawi". 
Their local language (dialect), Betawi Malay is spoken by elder people born
and bred in Jakarta, and modern Jakarta Malay, a slang form spoken by the
younger generation and migrants.

Jakarta is the port of entry and the main gateway for tourists and people
coming to Indonesia. It is home to a dynamic contrast between Western-style
skyscrapers, modern urban life-styles and traditional Indonesian culture.
Its rapid growth into a metopolitan city reflects the economic, political, 
social and industrial development of the nation. In recent years, Jakarta
has expanded its facilities for visitors with luxury hotels, fine restaurants,
exciting nightlife and modern shopping centers. It contains many tourist
attractions such as Taman Mini Indonesia Indah (Beautiful Indonesia in
Miniature Park), restored colonial buildings, island resorts and an 
extensive recreation complex called the Ancol Dreamland.

Jakarta's archituecture reflects the history of outside influences which
came and left their mark on this vital seaport city. The Taman Fatahillah, 
known as Old Batavia is one of the most picturesque areas of the city. An
old Portuguese Church and warehouse have been restored as museums. The old 
Town Hall has become the Jakarta Museum, displaying such rare items as old
Indonesian historical documents and Dutch period furniture.

As Indonesia's main gateway,Jakarta's Soekarno-Hatta International
Airport is the central transportation hub of Indonesia. It serves a growing
number of international airlines and is the nexus point for domestic flights
across the vast archipelago. Local transport of all forms within the city
is readily available.