As mentioned in previous post, when I first arrived at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport, I engaged with Garuda Bird taxi counter, as I couldn’t find Blue Bird. Later on, by asking Blue Bird taxis in city, I was told that there’s actually a Blue Bird counter at the airport.

Right in front of Aston Rasuna, there was a service station dedicated to Blue Bird. So, traveling around was very convenient, as taxis were readily available. Similar experience I had in some big shopping malls as well; dedicated Blue Bird depots were available.

Is Blue Bird The Only Trusted Name?

Contrary to general believe, Blue Bird is not the only Indonesian taxi operator you should trust. However, we should recognize Blue Bird Group, instead of just Blue Bird. Another major group under the Blue Bird Group’s umbrella, is Pusaka. Have a look at this page to learn about all logos under Blue Bird Group.

The most prominent feature, the a windscreen sticker labeled with “Blue Bird Group”.

Transjakarta Buses

There’s no light rail transportation in Jakarta. However, they have a close-match alternative - Transjakarta. Transjakarta buses operate in a fixed route with fixed stops. Besides, at most places (not all), Transjakarta buses have dedicated busway lane too.

At fixed rate of 3,500 Rp (about RM1) / trip, you can get to any station within the route map. Yes, no matter how you transit, still same flat rate.

There’s a Transjakarta station (GOR Sumantri, corridor 6) just about 5 minutes walk from Aston Rasuna.

How did I travel to some places with Transjakarta?

1. Menara Duta - From corridor 6, stop at Setiabudi Aini.
2. Grand Indonesia / Plaza Indonesia - From corridor 6, stop at Dukuh Atas and transit to corridor 1 (heading to Kota). Then, get down at Halte Bundaran HI (Hotel Indonesia).
3. Plaza Blok M - From corridor 6, stop at Dukuh Atas and transit to corridor 1 (heading to Blok M). Then, get down at Halte Blok M.
4. Glodok (Chinatown) - From corridor 6, stop at Dukuh Atas and transit to corridor 1 (heading to Kota). Then, get down at Halte Glodok.
5. Monas (National Monument) - From corridor 6, stop at Dukuh Atas and transit to corridor 1 (heading to Kota). Then, get down at Halte Monas. Alternatively, you can also stop at Halte Gambir 1 of corridor 2.

Tips for traveling with Transjakarta: Continue reading ‘How Did I Travel in Jakarta by Taxi and Bus?’

Boarded from LCCT, and arrived at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta International Airport on Sunday at 2.45PM (GMT+07:00). Will be in Jakarta for work, till Thursday.

I couldn’t find any Blue Bird taxi counter at the airport. So, walked to Garuda Bird counter, and was quoted for 200k Rupiah for my destination - Aston Rasuna. As Edwin (he was here last week) paid the same amount too, so ok la… at least I’m not paying more :p

Even though I purchased Garuda Bird ticket, but I wasn’t greeted by a formal taxi labeled with company logo. In fact, it was a normal black Suzuki MPV just like any private car. To be on the safe side, I actually fired up my GPS to make sure that the taxi was taking the right route :p

There was a bit of jam, but considered quite a mild one.

When I did my check-in at Aston Rasuna receptionist, I was told that there’s no more non-smoking executive suite. For a second, I was like “ha??? booked adi one wo~~”

Then, the receptionist said “Sir, we offer you a free upgrade to 2-bedroom penthouse at no extra charge” Continue reading ‘I’m at Aston Rasuna’