Jakarta is often referred to as 'The Big Durian' - the popular but rather pungent Asian fruit, banned from hotels and airplanes, but nonetheless unexpectedly tasty. This Indonesia's capital city also holds claim to be the most heavily populated city in Southeast Asia.

Jakarta is best described as a mixture of Bangkok and New Delhi. The city has a decidedly cosmopolitan air, woven together by a tapestry of cultures and the predominant religion is Islam. The city has a large expatriate community that contributes to the global feel of the place. Jakarta is an overwhelming experience, with something of a 'Marmite effect' - you either love it or hate it.