Jakarta

Posted By: Dano in the Almost South Pacific
Date: 2/29/08 7:29a.m.

Report: outside forum guidelines

In Response To: Almost There (Dano In the Almost South Pacific)

Let see how I can best describe this place! Organized Civil Bedlam. There is no control here save that all respect each other's place. A one miles square of this city could have over 5000 motor cycles, not to mention all the cars and trucks. Skyscraper buildings and tin sheds right next door. Streets we call alleys down the back between blocks are packed full, new SUV's, sedans, small trucks, three wheelers, motor cycles, manual carts and people. Even grade school children walk along these narrow ways. Rarely I see a dent in a newer car (10 years or less). Rule here is "nose first and you have the right of way". One beep is no and two is to go. I've only seen one accident so far and I'm truly amazed. This could not happen in NY City, Chicago, LA or MPLS. I bet 1K that any for a first timer from the US could come here for 30 minutes driving and not have an accident, that's how much different it is. Weather is warm and humid with threats of showers every day. Doing some bumming around with my friend and having a great time. Massages and bar hoping to some extent. All our rides are on Blue Bird Taxi's (TAKSI). It doesnt' pay to rent and drive here. Everything is dirt cheap. But this is also know as the Wild West of Indoneasia. Bali we go on Sunday 3 March. Maybe I'll surface again. Dano