Jakarta

« Jakarta can be surprising. In one of its eastern districts, there are slums that at first glance look like any other slums – dirty streets, rundown low buildings, an overall sense of neglect and decay. If you happen to wander into this shabby area, you'll soon be surrounded by a crowd of grimy kids hoping to squeeze a few dollars from you.

If you don't flee the scene immediately, you'll soon notice a rather strange feature of this settlement – small figures that, at first glance, seem very much like the children who begged you for money. However, if you look a little closer, you'll see hairy limbs and claw-like features peeking out from under their clothes. It's quite a creepy sight that inevitably leaves a lasting impression on tourists.

This eerie phenomenon has a simple explanation. The slum residents dress up monkeys in children's clothing and masks with childish faces. The intention is clear – to earn some cash. For many locals, these “living dolls” are their only source of income, allowing them to not go hungry.

The place is even called the Monkey Village.

Good night! 🌙 »

« Jakarta greeted me with a stark contrast: black rivers, bizarre shed-like buildings. The high humidity combined with the heat, along with an abundance of greenery and flowers. »

« - How did you like Indonesia? - everyone has been asking me since this morning.
- I didn't like it! - I reply emphatically, deeply ingrained with European standards and a discomfort around poverty. »

« Jakarta, it's incredibly hot, very soulful, and quite puzzling. »