subject: Ancol Dreamland A Recreational Paradise [print this page] Although Indonesia as a holiday destination has been evocative of white sands and aquamarine seas, Jakarta tends to be viewed by visitors as a mere springboard to the countrys highlights. Ancol Dreamland, or Tama n Impian Jaya Ancol as it is locally known, is a place that makes one speedily revise this opinion. Developed in 1966 by real estate giant PT. Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk, of the Jakarta Bay housing development fame, this recreational park is currently one of the largest integrated tourist hubs in the region, and one of the most popular.
The draws of the sprawling facility are varied and manifold, containing a wildly exciting theme park, an aquarium and sea world, international golf courses, bowling alleys, beaches, resorts and many more. Perhaps the most popular attraction is the Dunia Fantasy theme park, which features over forty rides and other recreational sites. The park is segmented into eight, each section housing rides and attractions being themed around a certain world region or place. Starting with the locality of Jakarta and the homeland Indonesia, the park themes go on to encompass whole continents such as Asia and America, the mysteries of Greece and two fictional places called Fantasy Land and Monkey Parody. A myriad of wildly popular rides such as the Niagara flume ride, Halilintar twisted roller coaster ride, Star Wars, Tornado and Meteor Attack as well as engaging performances such as the Monkey Parody animatrics show make this theme park an undeniable hit with both children and adults.
Three water-centric attractions follow on the heels of Dunia Fantasy. The Atlantis Water Adventure offers the chance to explore the mythical undersea kingdom of Atlantis, complete with many wave pools visitors can splash about in to their hearts content. The Gelanggang Samudra is a facility famous for its dolphin shows and 4D theater while the SeaWorld is one of the largest oceanariums in Southeast Asia.
If that wasnt enough water-themed fun, one can always head over to the Carnival and Festival Beaches bordering the area, whose sun and surf are complemented with a party atmosphere. Indonesias National Bowling Training Centre, the largest bowling centre in the country, is also a part of Ancol as is the 33-hectare Executive Golf Fun course, the nations first beach golf course, which appears replete with meeting rooms and restaurants.
The Ancol Art Market is the finishing touch on the delights of this recreational wonderland. This massive open-air art market brings together the citys artists and artisans and those with a passion for artistic curios. Pottery, knickknacks, paintings and antiques are all purchased by the throngs of tourists eager for souvenirs.
Getting around such large premises is always a concern, but the parks Gondola offers a unique solution. This is a system of sky lift cable cars that afford spectacular views of the Jakarta cityscape and bay, in addition to providing convenient transportation for the parks guests.
Ancol Dreamland Amusement Park is easily accessible for guests staying at Jakarta serviced apartments and hotels in the heart of the city. For those looking for a serviced residence Jakarta in the city centre, the Somerset Serviced Residence Grand Citra is a highly recommended accommodation option especially for business travellers.
