Visitors to the Indonesian capital should make it a point to explore the environs of Setu Babakan, a small but attractive lake situated in South Jakarta. It is located in the middle of the Betawi Cultural Village, a unique site dedicated to the preservation and development of the native Betawi culture. The lake spans an area of 79 acres and is filled by water flowing in through the Ciliwung River. The local Betawi people use the lake for fish farming, setting up net cages in the water to breed various varieties of fish, such as tilapia, carp and different kinds of ornamental species.
The lake is also used for recreational pursuits such as fishing and rafting. The numerous gardens surrounding Setu Babakan are used for the cultivation of fruit plants like coconut, banana and guava.
Those who would like to obtain an authentic glimpse of the local lifestyle and traditions should take the opportunity to visit the Betawi Cultural Village. This idyllic site presents a fascinating insight into this local culture, showcasing the various traditional arts and crafts. Visitors will get the opportunity to watch the topeng dance, the lenong (a comedic play), a colourful wedding ceremony and the renowned ondel-ondel, a huge puppet attired in a traditional costume complete with a colourful crown.
Visitors will be able to experience the distinctive local dialect, which is a blend of a Malay tongue combined with influences such as Hokkien Chinese vocabulary and Balinese grammatical structures. The Betawis are a friendly people and they will demonstrate their unique music, like the distinctive keroncong, rebana and samroh, which display Arabic and Portuguese influences. You will also be able to see typical Betawi houses which date to the 1920s and take a leisurely duck boat ride on the placid lake waters to conclude the visit.
If you arrive in June or July you will be able to witness the distinctive festivals organized to celebrate the Jakarta Anniversary, which celebrates the date on which Jakarta became the capital of Indonesia.
Well-informed visitors desiring serviced apartments Jakarta will find an outstanding choice in the Somerset Grand Citra Jakarta. This quality serviced accommodation Jakarta offers provides comfortable rooms and a selection of amenities.
