I went on the most fascinating bike ride yesterday. It’s so odd how you can live in a place for years and never venture into some of the hidden corners of your surroundings. I entered a gated complex and felt as if I’d been dropped through the rabbit hole. The extremes in poverty and wealth were astounding – not that I haven’t been surrounded by it for three years, but generally not in quite a concentrated area as this. GenerallyRead more
Posts tagged: #Jakarta
Broadband for Brandon and Other Miscellaneous Ramblings
Finally. For the first time in 3 long years I’ll return to having broadband internet at home once again. Am I leaving Indonesia? Nope – just forking out the cash to succumb to the painfully slow and expensive internet service for my home here in Jakarta. Ironically, I work with computers all day and yet don’t even have access to the web from my house. I’m like the ass-cracked plumber who’s own basement is flooded. This is the primary reasonRead more
Great Way to Start the Day
The U.S. Embassy informs American citizens in Indonesia that the Embassy has learned that as of June 1, 2005, there were plans by extremists to conduct bomb attacks targeting the lobbies of hotels frequented by westerners in Jakarta. The attacks were to occur circa noon on an unspecified date. There is no additional information on the timing for the attack(s), or the method of attack. Notice how I received this today – JUNE 3 – yeah, thanks for being onRead more
The Same Blood
When I wander the streets of Jakarta with only a camera – these are the images I see. ————– Another question from the forum – I’ll address it here as well. Hello from abroad. I got a job offer to come teach in Jakarta. I was wondering how do you find life there in the norther neighbourhood of Pluit. Would you say smog is unbearable? Are beautiful beaches accessible from there? Should i be scared of anything there? (I tamperedRead more
Don't Bump Your Head!
I’m enjoying a 9 day break from work, but this time I’m not going anywhere. I decided that for once I’d sit my ass down in Jakarta for the entire break – relaxing, working out, sitting in the sun on my balcony, reading in coffee shops, and basically doing nothing (think “Office Space”). Sure, I’d love to be in Bali right now – or India like one of my friends – but the fact is I’m not – I’m hereRead more
In the Corner
Along one of my walks, I came across a housing development built upon stilts. They were raised 3 meters over the swamp below. The homes weaved intricately through a maze of wood and life. One hallway led to a gang of children playing and laughing in spirits light as helium. All but this one little girl. Clutching her belongings. Not laughing. Not smiling. Alone in the corner. Alone.Read more