Where to stay

Park Hyatt Jakarta, surrounded by Central Jakarta office buildings, incorporates dark shades in its interior while its rooms and rooftop pool offer panoramic views of the city’s skyline. Stay for an afternoon tea at the Conservatory lounge, where menu options change seasonally.

Alila SCBD Jakarta is located near the Indonesia Stock Exchange and other office towers. Unwind with an in-house Balinese massage and take advantage of the facilities at one of the biggest fitness centres to be found in any Jakarta hotel.

What to say

Jakarta is known for its traffic, which crystallises during morning and evening rush hours. Questions like “How was the traffic?” are expected, while saying the word macet (“traffic jam” in Indonesian) will impress local colleagues and make for a good icebreaker. Additionally, many Indonesians enjoy starting the day with a coffee. Asking your colleagues “Have you had coffee?” might net you some good coffee recommendations while you are in town.

What to know

When meeting with a new colleague or business partner, a gentle handshake is preferred. Use your right hand when exchanging business cards and gifts, as it is considered clean and polite.

Many Indonesians are not accustomed to being addressed by their names. You can call your business counterpart by the honorific pak (Indonesian for “sir”) or bu (“madam”).