Tailor on Wheels

If you currently live in an Asian or African country, this may not be a new sight. If you don't live in one, or you just don't know what the heck this is, allow me to explain. This is one of the many "mobile services" you can find here in Jakarta.
If your pants have a tear, or you think they're too long, or maybe your shirt ripped at one of its seams, Mr. Anas here can help you. Mr.Anas here is not only an amazing bicycle rider, he's also an amazing tailor. So if you're heading out and find yourself bursting at the seams, he'll help you mend your problems and get you on your way. Well, of course you have to catch him first.
Jakarta is full of innovative businesses, and a lot grass root vendors are going mobile. You might see one cycling like Mr. Anas here, you might see one walking. And due to the fast spread of technology, the majority of them can be called up on their own private mobile phone number. Don't worry, though his work is customized to your specific measurements, you won't have to rob a bank, not even break open your kids' piggy bank, to pay the bill...

Motorcycle Antics 1: An Introduction

There is no other vehicle in Jakarta that can truly represent Jakarta than the motorcycle. So, I introduce to you the Motorcycle Antics series. It will give you an upclose and personal description of what motorcycles (and their drivers) can do in Jakarta.
If you've never visited an Asian country, then you'll probably call this a scooter, but across Indonesia it's a motorcycle (sepeda motor, or motor for short). This baby is the number one choice for cheap and easy transportation. There's probably more motorcycles in Jakarta than people (note: I am not a researcher). Because of it's economic advantages, people have gone beyond the call of function in utilizing it. Take exhibit A here. You might question, "how the hell is this person driving it?". I had the exact same question. As a an actual witness, I can tell you that he was literally on the edge of his seat. For all of you who plan on visiting Indonesia, specifically Jakarta, this will be a normal everyday sight. So, go ahead and hold your breath, because there will be more...

Just a Normal Day

It was a nice Sunday afternoon and for some odd reason this happened. As I waited patiently to find out what was causing this traffic jam, it turned out to be... nothing. To those who don't know, that's actually normal in this beloved city. There were no accidents, the traffic light functioned well, no one was lying in the middle of the street trying to stop the flow of the cars. All of this was caused by the magnificently large number of cars now existing in Jakarta, and the inability of the roads to hold them all. I've asked some expats who live in this city would they drive in this city? They answered, "I'm not that crazy!"

Welcome to Jakarta!

For all of you who have never been to Jakarta, consider this blog as a crash course on what life really looks like in Jakarta. For all of you who have been, or are still living in Jakarta, consider this blog as a reminder that we should fight for something more. You'll mostly see traffic, traffic and more traffic. I will as cruel as possible show you the stupidity that happens here, but I promise you beneath all of this mess, is a city with a big heart.