[MoonFace]

Hi rc1221

I posted your PM to me , hope you dun mind..so everybody can share the info.

I have read/enjoyed the Jak-thread tremendously, I think you and Rainman has put up one-of-the-finest threads on Sammy! But the more we "outsiders" read, the more confusing Jakarta scene seems to be!!! Anyway, the thread stirred my desire to visit a first time - but may I ask Sifu for some advice, please:

1) BIG QUESTION: Is it unsafe for a non-Bahasa speaking lone-person to cheong JAK?? for I am now planning to do that for Aug 3-6 weekend, BUT SHOULD I NOT COME!??

Yes and No. But it's best to be accompanied. cos many taxi-drivers especially will test your bahasa first. if they know you can't speak well, they know you are new here and so prepared to be slaughter.
But still depends on individuals..if you are street-wise. you can make your way around without any problems. Martini-Fan can advised you more perhaps.

Likewise.. I felt unsafe to go to Wanchai, even though I'm chinese and speaking a non-HK cantonese. but just being street-smart..you can go anyway without problems.

2) Can I get by at places like Stadium by myself speaking English (and Chinese) only???

Many Hong Konger patronise there too!. Don't be surprised you'll find your own countrymate there. Most mamasan can speak Chinese and English, and foreigners are welcome there..so you won't get ripped off.

2) Do you have any suggested hotels /areas to stay (Jayakarta Tower? If rupiahs-no-object - Le Meridien? though I dont mind any other of hotel...)

If you want to be in the thick of the action. Jakyakarta is fine. but a bit run down (and recently the car-park was BOMBED), a good suggestion would be Mecure Hotel Resko. within walking distance of all THE places. but i suggest you not to walk at night, afternoon is fine (action starts early here).. take a cab always.. but be prepared to get ripped by cab drivers.. it's near , so they'll ask good price

3) If you have any suggested itineraries, it would be great...JAK just seems so sprawling confusing!

Jakarta is confusing.. even for me now.

4) FINALLY, AND MOST IMPORTANT: are you guys in town early-AUG and any chance of hooking up???

Give us a message when you about to come here..
I'll see whether we are free

Thanks much in advance for any guidance...
Raymond (form Hong Kong)

Welcome

MoonFace