First thoughts often associated with this lively city are of impressive temples, world-class Batik fabrics, the Sultan family, palaces and classic dances – or the mighty Merapi Volcano. We would like to now reveal another unique side of Jogja that not many visitors know about – or ever experience.
After the usual daily tourism activities conclude, the city offers another, colorful and bizarre face, surprisingly different from other Indonesian cities. We’ve teamed up with a Jogjakarta Specialist who has lived in the city for more than 25 years who meets guests at their hotel before leading them on a journey to uncover the hidden gems of Jogja.
The evening kicks off with a stroll along Jalan Malioboro, a major shopping street in the center of town. It is packed with shops selling all kind of curious arts and literature, while street-side restaurants present local delicacies as artists, street musicians and painters perform on either side of the road. Your local expert will provide deeper insights to the various specialties offered or assist you with some souvenir shopping. The journey later leads to a colorful and flamboyant cabaret show, presented in blatant contrast to the traditional Ballet or Shadow Puppet performances the city is usually famous for.
Another famous spot on our list serves a delicious dinner, and is owned by arguably Indonesia’s most famous drag queen. Be prepared for a memorable dinner experience in the raunchy decoration of the restaurant, complete with images of its owner in humorous and provocative poses.
To conclude the unique night, we take guests to a square close to the palace, which transforms at night into a scene of chaotic revelry. Everyone is here to enjoy the illuminations as flashy pedal cars and loud music transforms the area.
