Where to make suits, bags & shoes?

Dear Kelly, Lara,
I have been here now for over 3 years and having come from other countries where some basic fixing and servicing remains a given I have yet to find a good shoe shop that can re-sole any type of shoe with a new leather bottom for Church, Crocket and Jones shoes etc. here in Jakarta.

I have found there are differences in Jakarta, what they say they can do and what I am looking for. What is required is to remove the entire sole and machine stitch on a new sole/ heel etc. I have found places that say they can do it and end up gluing a new sole on top of the old, which looks bad.
Strange request I know, but are there options in Jakarta?

Another good question
Where is the best place to get a suit made?
Alex

Hi Alex,

Ben & Sons but speak please with the owner and NOT her staff. If you go to her staff the end result will not be satisfactory. Make an appointment with her only. They are at Jl. Kemang Timur No 28B at 7179 0753 or email them at ben-sons@cbn.net.id. Also try Deisy for snakeskin (amazing bags and shoes) at www.duniashopping.com or email duniashopping1@yahoo.com

And for tailor made - you contact Deepak at "Universal Fashion Tailors" - www.universalfashiontailors.com
He will come to your house with samples and price very reasonable. My partner just made 3set suits with him and it's wonderful.

Kelly & Lara

Dance class & studio in Jakarta

Hello Kelly and Lara,
I'm a big fan of Lindy Hop (a type of Swing dance) and I've been taking classes in San Francisco, US (where I'm living now) in the past year.
There is a big chance that I may be relocating to Jakarta early next year and I'm wondering if there is any Lindy Hop community or dance studios or classes in Jakarta.
Also, do you have information about Argentina Tango classes too?

Thanks for the info,

Cheers
AlviN

Hi Alvin,

Not a whole lot of information about Lindy Hop here but you can contact Cathy at cparent@jisedu.or.id and request information on this.

RE: Tango classes, please call Luisa at 081315952133 for private or group lessons. Meanwhile, weekly salsa activities are as follows: Monday-FX Sudirman club O1 class salsa 6-8pm, Tuesday-class salsa in Amigos Kemang 7-9pm, Wednesday- Grand Indonesia Resto Japan Benihana class tango 6-7.30pm, class salsa 7.30-8.30pm after that latin nite with Morenitos, Thursday- Ritz Carlto Hotel Mega Kuningan club Tempus(former Mistere) class salsa 7-9.30pm after that latin nite with Primavera, Friday- Amigos Kemang salsa class 7-9pm, after that latin nite with Morenitos, Saturday- Grand Hyatt hotel in club Burgundy, class tango 6-7.30pm, class salsa 7.30-9.30pm, after that latin nite with Primavera, Sunday- Italian Resto Aperitivo in Rasuna Said only Latin nite with Meduzza band 6.30-11pm

Medical Check Up

Hi ladies,

I'm a recent addition to Jakarta within the past 6 months. Hopefully I'm at the end of my run of bacteria and parasite illnesses, however, I don't think I've managed to shake it totally and have something still going on. Can you provide advice on where to get a good thorough medical? I have experience with SOS but would like alternative options.

Thanks in advance
Cameron




Hi Cameron,

First, I'd like to ask if you have had a culture and sensitivity (C&S) done to determine whether or not you are resistent to the antibiotics you have been taking? A C&S usually takes 4-5 days to come back but it is important to know whether or not you are on the proper antibiotics. With that being said, you could try going to Global Doctor. Please visit their website for an address near you at: http://www.globaldoctor.co.id/Home.html

Another pointer I pass on to our newcomers is that you should not be using the tap water to brush your teeth. Suggest you keep a thermos or water dispenser in your bathroom and use only bottled water.

Do keep us updated on how things progress with you. If you continue with these problems, please contact me at Santa Fe Relocation Services for further assistance.

Lara

I would also recommend True Care Clinic in Kemang and see Dr Isabella Margie ph 71792337 for an appointment.

I find if you eat uncooked food in Jakarta (like salads) at restaurants you will eventually come down with a parasite or gastro upset. Avoid uncooked foods when eating out if you’re susceptible to stomach upsets. Even at 5 star hotels. At home all food should be washed in Aqua not tap water and check your staff know your hygiene requirements.

Often you aren’t given a long enough dose of antibiotics and if a parasite you should go back afterwards for another stool sample to check all clear.

To add further to Kelly's comment below, you may also facilitate the vegetable/fruit cleaning process at home with a vegetable cleaner (found at all major grocery stores) or go to Electronic City and spend 2.8 million; a worthwhile investment on an ionic vegetable cleaner. With that purchase you will also receive free of charge a refrigerator 'purification' device or a car air 'purification' device. This device is remote controlled (Hannocks professional health care) and is located to the left of the store near the water filtration/reverse osmosis systems. It has many other uses and the staff will do a demo for you to demonstrate all of it's features.

Good luck!
Kelly

Gluten Free

I'm interested to see if you or any of your readers have found anywhere that stocks Gluten free products on an ongoing basis. Hero, Ranch Market and Kemchick do have some items but along with being hard to find in the stores, it's very hit and miss forcing you to buy everything you see which is really not fair on others, that also need Gluten Free Supplies???

Kaye


Hi Kaye,

Grand Lucky Superstore has a vast variety of gluten free products. Their address is:
Kawasan Niaga Terpadu in SCBD area
Jl Jend Sudirman Kav 52-53
Ph: 515 5232.

The only problem is that you will need to scour the store for these products and read labels. They have everything from gluten free noodles, flours, soups, sauces, salad dressings, deserts, cereals, etc.

As an alternative - if you happen to be in Singapore I recommend you stop in to Brown Rice Paradise. This merchant carries everything that is gluten free. Please visit http://www.mybrp.com.sg/

Should you need further assistance with your gluten free shopping needs, you may contact me at Santa Fe Relocation Services.

Good luck,

Lara

Indoor Flower

Hi,

I’m new to Jakarta and currently setting up our house. I have bought some flowers along the road to keep inside the house (the type of flowers we normally have indoors in my country) but they are not happy flowers.
Just wondering if there are any indoor flower shops available tht might have more suitable ones? I haven’t been shopping a whole lot so haven’t got the picture on that yet.

Thanks,
Christina


Hi Christina
I'm not sure if it's the heat or ac. Roses only seem to last a day or so.

If you buy the tropical flowers like the queen
Of the night, banana man or Ginger flowers they seem to last a lot longer.

Also potted live orchids last very well. When the flowers fall off give them to your gardener to keep in the garden and buy another as they are very cheap.

Kelly

Hi,

Thanks for your advice., I’ll look for the flowers that you recommended.
Also, I have another maybe “strange question”, do you know if it is possible to get wood chips anywhere to put on top of the flowerbeds outside?
I’ve checked with my gardener but he doesn’t seem to understand what I mean.
I’ve used that in the past and it makes it look quite nice.

Thanks,
Christina

OctoberFest in Jakarta

Hi Ladies,

I am just back in town and trying to catch up ref Oktober Fest ….Can you tell me if Aryaduta will have one as usual and/or Kempinski is taking over??
If I am forewarned I can start work on invitations
Thanks for any help/advice
Regards
Robert


Dear Robert,

The october fest in Aryaduta will be on this Friday at Aryaduta.
You can call them directly for more info - Hotel Aryaduta Jakarta , Jl. Prapatan No. 44-48, Jakarta 10110 | Phone: +6221 2352 1234

Cheers,

Kelly & Lara

Things to bring to Jakarta

hi

i'm coming to jakarta with our 10 month old son at the start of october. we'll only be there a few months staying in a serviced apartment

just wondering if you think there is anything i need to bring with me that that i can't get there for him? (eg, infants panadol, he's teething terribly)

also, any Aussie playgroups? max loves hanging out with other kids

thanks

noni

Hi Noni
Definitely brined medications. You can get them here but often find equivalent here doesnt have the same kick. Nappy creme etc too.

I would recommend you also bring a good car seat but be aware not all cars have correct anchor points so maybe bring an anchor clip to have installed if the seat needs more than a seat belt.

A small stroller is handy for shopping although you can buy the umbrella type cheaply here.

Maybe a portacot, and a few fav blankets or cotton wraps? Depends on where you're staying.

Baby formula if specific brand isn't available or he's fussy.

Disposable nappies are readily available here. Just need to try to find one brand you like.

Anza (australia and nz association) has a weekly playgroup that us well attended each Wednesday morning. Ph 021 71793042 or email anzajakarta@gmail.com

Hope that helps.

Kelly & Lara

Salsa & Hiking in Jakarta

Hi there!

It's a fab blog you have here ladies. It will be great if you could help me out with a few things:
1. Dance classes (near S. Jakarta if possible)- I'm interested in Salsa
2. Theatre Clubs/Groups
3. Any adventure sports clubs (Trekking, Cycling) which organise 1/2 day activities.

Thanks heaps!
Arathi


Hi Arathi,

I can help with dance classes. Salsa has quite a big following here.

Two instructors you'll come across are Luisa and Elkin who teach classes at amigos Kemang on Tuesdays and Fridays approx. 630pm. They also do classes at ritz-carlton mega kuningan on Thursday nights in lounge bar at mistere from 630pm. Anza in kemang does a Monday morning class 1030am with instructor helmi.

Plus there are many instructors that do private lessons either at your home or at a salsa night. You can almost find a club having a salsa night any night of the week in Jakarta.

Theatre group try Jakarta Players http://thejakartaplayers.blogspot.com/

I’m not really big into adventure sports but for trekking try ID Guides www.idguides.org/programmes-easy-escape-jakarta.html
Kelly & Lara

Tanning Salon in Jakarta

Dear ....
This might like a very silly question when asked in Jakarta ( both for cultural and geographic reasons), but as a working caucasian, I miss the opportunities to tan and frankly don't even have a place to do it out in the open. Are there any tanning salons in this city??


Hi Monika,

LifeSpa at:
Arkadia Office Park
Jl. TB. Simatupang Kav. 88 Jakarta
Tel. 78838722, 78837687

They charge 75,000 per 15 minute sessions.

Kelly & Lara

Black pudding in Jakarta

Is there any butchers or SM's in Jakarta which sell black pudding?
Ken M


Hi Ken.

Please contact Klaas at Die Stube at 7179 3486 or email him at klaas_meinke@yahoo.com. I understand that the English and German versions of the black puddings are not the same but he will guide you in the right direction.

Lara & Kelly

Deportment/grooming classes in Jakarta

hello

I have an 11 year old daughter and wish to give her some
deportment/grooming classes. Is there one in jakarta that you know?
Thanks, Cameron



Hi Cameron,

As of now I have not been able to find any classes here of this nature. On occasion the Mercantile Athletic Club offers etiquette / table manner classes at the club but these take place approximately 2 times per year. Perhaps you may wish to contact Roberto at Alfons Salon at +6221 7220416 for the grooming classes.

Or contact John Robert Powell
http://www.jrpindonesia.com/v2/eng/home/index.php

Jakarta (WTC)
World Trade Center (WTC), 17th Floor
Jl. Jendral Sudirman Kav. 29-31 Jakarta - 12920
Phone: (62-21) 527 8563

Jakarta (Kelapa Gading)
Jl. Boulevard Timur Raya Blok NC 1 No.42-43
Kelapa Gading, Jakarta Utara - 14240
Phone: (62-21) 452 3777

Good luck!

Travel to Jakarta Tips

Hi there ladies,

I have read some of your questions and see that mine doesnt fall within your general advice but here it goes.

My cousin and I will be visting Jakarta this November and not sure where the best part of the city is to book a hotel and still be close enough to the night life and other main attractions. Also can we use the train - is it realiable to get around?

Thanks
Nicoleen



Hi Nicoleen,

Please check WhatsNewJakarta.com and buy their book in the airport bookstore -
JAKARTA ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE 2011 - 2012 1st EDITION,
1st EDITION
BAR AND RESTAURANT LISTING INCLUDING MAPS

We won't recommended train unless you want to go outside Jakarta.
We would recommend you to always use Blue bird taxi here (it's cheap and safe).

Our recommendation hotel for you to stay is better in South Jakarta area ...

5 stars hotel -
Le meredien
Intercontinental Hotel
Hyatt
Mandarin Hotel
Marriot
Ritz Carlton

3 - 4 stars
Ibis Hotel in Wahid Hasyim
Harris hotel in Tebet
Gran Mahakam Hotel
Gran Kemang Hotel

Place to hang out : check this link http://www.whatsnewjakarta.com/web3/event/EventList.php?cboGroup=54

Good luck!
Lara & Kelly

Weekend Dance Classes in Jakarta

Read your blog with great interest.

I am an expat and have been looking for weekend dance classes in Jakarta for the longest time! Either they offer only weekday slots or only one (very early) class on a Saturday.

The classes I am interested are: strip tease, pole dancing or Beyonce/Pussy Cat Dolls type of routine. Objective is to have some exercise and fun at the same time.

Wonder if you can help.

Many thanks!


Hi there!

This one took a bit of time but we found someone who offers these classes. Please contact Jun Ko Agus - "AGUS" at 08128083472 or BBM PIN 20EA3857.

I've just called him and he is still teaching and looking forward to hearing from you.

Best of luck and let us know how it goes.

Lara & Kelly

Looking for an endocrine system doctor

Hi,
I wonder if you could help me something.
My friend who suffer from mild overactive thyroid is coming to Jakarta next month as an expat wife.
Do you know anywhere she can have a doctor who specialists in endocrine system in or around Jakarta?
(or Surabaya may be able to commute from her place...)
At this moment her bahasa indonesia is very limited so that she prefers to have a doctor who can speak
English.
Thanks in advance.
Judith.



Hi Judith,

I would suggest your friend to seek specialist with;

Dr. Isabella Margie & Partners
TRUECARE
Location: Grand Kemang Building 4th Floor, Jl. Kemang Raya No. 15, Jakarta
Phone: +6221 7179 2337 / +6221 7179 4613 | Fax: +6221 7179 4613
E-mail: truecare_margie@yahoo.com (Highly recommended)

Global Assistance & Healthcare
Location: CILANDAK COMMERCIAL ESTATE, BUILDING 111-GC, JALAN CILANDAK KKO RAYA
24 Hr Alarm Centre: +62 (21) 299 78 999 Toll Free: 0-800-1-GLOBAL Medical Center is reachable thru: +62 (21) 299 78 988 Administration is reachable thru: +62 (21) 299 78 997
Website: www.Global-Assistance.net
E-mail: operations@global-assistance.net

Global Doctors
Location: Jl. Kemang Raya No. 87 - Kemang, Jakarta Selatan
Phone : +6221 719 4565 | Fax: +6221 719 8969
Mega Kuningan Clinic, Taman kantor A9 - No. A3A Mega Kuningan, Jakarta Selatan
Phone: 576 2869 | Fax: 579 33421
Website: www.globaldoctorsjakarta.com
E-mail: info@globaldoctorsjakarta.com

International SOS
Location: International SOS - Jakarta, Indonesia, DID. +62 21 7599 8781 | Fax. +62 21 750 6002/3
Clinic Services in Jakarta SOS Medika Klinik - Cipete | Phone : +6221 7505973
SOS Medika Klinik - Mega Kuningan | Phone: +6221 5255367
Website: www.sosindonesia.com

Ceramics

Hi
I'm looking for an adult's ceramics / pottery course in Jakarta. I've had a look myself can't find anything. Any suggestions?
Thanks, Ali


Hi Ali,

Please call Eresa at 085810106068 as one option. Another option is a bit far in Cinere but at 0217541263.

Let us know how it goes. :)

Lara

Natural disaster

Hi, we are currently living in Sydney and have just been informed by my Husband's company that they are moving us to Jakarta in 6 weeks time. I don't know much about Indonesia but always think of natural disasters when I think of it!! Are the disasters very commonplace in Jakarta? Is it a dangerous city to live? Hope to hear from u soon.
Regards, Dee


Hi Dee
Well natural disasters seem to be happening all over the world at the moment
and in Indonesia, no more than any other country that has volcanoes in the
ring of fire. It is a big country and there are often small earthquakes
reported in parts of Indonesia. Generally they do not effect Jakarta so
much, but I guess you can never say never in this day and age. I am a New
Zealander so the big earthquake in Christchurch effected many friends but my
family are not effected on the opposite coast. Indonesia is quite like
this.

As far as is it a dangerous city to live in I would say no. As a woman I
feel very safe going out with my friends at night, getting a taxi home at
night. Walking around my neighborhood is busy but safe. The people in
Indonesia are lovely and once you get to know them will do anything to help.
Of course there is petty theft etc but that is probably far less than other
big cities around the world.

The media has a lot to answer for when reporting on Indonesia as usually
they give it a bad wrap. To be honest I feel much safer here than at home
now and one reason I think the crime like random rapes, muggings and
beatings are much less (almost non-existent amoung the expat community) is
being a Muslim country there are not the drunk people on the streets who
will pick a fight for no reason like at home.

I think you will be pleasantly surprised when you arrive. Common sense when
it comes to looking after your valuables but overall I personally feel very
safe in Jakarta.

Kelly & lara

Good Salon

My girlfriend is moving to Jakarta to live with me. She dyes her hair blonde and has been worrying about finding a Salon in town that would do a good job with blonde highlights. Do you have any recommendations for her? Perhaps something priced on the high end and something in the moderate end.

Many thanks!


Dear Robert,

Jakarta has so many good salon and she shouldn't be worry about it ;-)
You can try my regular in Alfoons in jalan Barrito. Ask for roberto oor you may call indro at +628179144282 who will give you directions. Lara

Looking for Brazilian Model

Dear WNJ,

I worked in a cosmetic packaging company who ships a good portion of our export to Brazil and other Latin American countries. We are looking for a native Brazilian or Latin American expat who is based in Jakarta who is interested and can help us in liaison with our Brazilian and other LATAM customers and to further explore the market potential in that region. Is there any venue or job posting program where we can look for assistance?


Dear Nata,

We can try to post it in WNJ and maybe you can try also in www.internations.org and contact recruitment agency.
You can find the list in here http://askmiree-whatsnewjakarta.blogspot.com/2008/06/finding-work-in-jakarta.html

Cheers,
Kelly & Lara

New restaurant in Jakarta?

Hi,
I am Grace, and I live in Jakarta.
I want to know the new restaurant in Jakarta?

Can you give me the information about that.

Thank you for your attention


Hi Grace,

You can get a copy of Jakarta Entertainment Guide Book edition 2011 - 2012 by WNJ which listed more than 900 places in Jakarta in bookstores such like PERIPLUS, KINOKUNOYA, AKSARA - please check out this link HERE

Or see the What's Hot section in WNJ LINK HERE

Cheers,

Kelly & Lara

Immigration at Airport

Hi, Whenever I am at the immigration counter there are always people
zipping through the "express lane" on the right side. How can I be one
of those people and how much will it cost? Harry


Dear Harry,

That line is for diplomats or APEC card holder.

But if you want to have VIP pick up service - Santa Fe Relocations can provide the service. You can find their complete contact at here http://www.santaferelo.com/jakarta

or suggest you look at joining the Saphire Club which you can fast tract thru immigration without documents and an iris scan.

To qualify you need to meet the following;
What requirement do you need to apply Saphire Program?
Minimum age : 17 year old or has married.
Indonesian citizens with:
• A valid ordinary passport with minimum validity of 18 months.
• Page passport at least 4 pieces empty.
• Fill in an application form.
• Not included in the list of Immigration prevent-desist.
• Pay the fees as required.

Foreigners with:
• A valid ordinary passport with minimum validity of 18 months.
• Page passport at least 6 pieces empty.
• Fill in an application form.
• Not included in the list of Immigration prevent-desist.
• Pay the fees as required.
• Sponsor letter (download sponsor letter).
• A visa:
• A valid permanent stay permit (KITAP), or a valid temporary stay permit (KITAS) together with a multiple re-entry permit (MREP)
See their website for more details; www.saphire.co.id

Cost is approx Rp3 million pa and I have several friends use this service which they think is great. It can be used outbound or inbound through immigration.

Hope this helps.

Kelly & Lara

Transfer old videos

Hello Ladies, Can anyone tell me where about in Jakarta I can get old vhs video's transfered on to cd's, I know another person who is looking for somewhere to get this done as vhs don't last long in this climate.
Thanks Helen

Sorry for the delay in replying Helen. Ratu Plaza is the place to go. I was there yesterday and many of the gaming outlets will do it but the place we buy the kids playstation games called “Blessed Games” definitely does it. They’ll convert almost all formats eg. vhs, mini video, video 8 etc to VCD or DVD.
Cost is Rp100,000 per DVD which can take up to 2 hours of video. (if you have several shorter VHS’ the an fit onto 1 DVD for you at same cost.) Takes about days for them to convert. Maybe longer if you have many to convert.
Good luck.
Kelly & Lara

Looking for a date

(Georgina) Hi Kelly and Lara, Glad to find your website. I'm 46 yrs old, single and I'm definitely
looking for a date. I prefer to date western guy, so could you advise
me on how to find a good guy? I guess if you put my question in your
website then I could also advertise myself as well.
I'm working to foreign company and as we start establishing it, I sort
of getting involved in various things. I dont have kids and as i also
don't go clubbing, it's hard to find a date. So any advise? Thanks before.


Hi Georgina, Sorry we haven’t replied to this as was a bit of a tricky one.
I guess my advice to find a date here would be the same as home but with a bit more competition from the local ladies.
Bars, restaurants, hanging out with your friends, business networking meetings, sporting events are all very good ways to meet interesting people. It’s really up to you being confident and getting out there and meeting new people.
Hope that helps.
Kelly & Lara

Agent for permit

Hi,

Would appreciate if you can recommend a good agent to process our KMS and exit permit.

Our agent who is in the midst of processing our documents has disappear with our deposit of Rp5 juta.

Please advise.

Dorothy Wang



Dear Dorothy,

You can contact Santa Fe Relocation - http://www.santaferelo.com/jakarta to help you about this or my friend - MAHESH at "Mahesh Krishnamurthy" . His business is to help expats to get permits.

Good luck!

Pool table

Hi Ladies,
We are new to Jakarta from the U.S via Australia and have always wanted a Billards table or Pool table. We were hoping we could find a place here that sells or can make us one? Any ideas? We'd hate to have to wait till we go back home to the States to find one, but we understand that may be the case. Thanks for the help!
Cheers,
Tracy

Hi Tracy,

Try to keep eye on www.Whatsnewjakarta.com 's garage sale and Mary Ann Wiley daily newsletter. You can subscribe by email her at .

Cheers!

International women club in Jakarta

Hi! I'm an Italian 32 years old woman that just moved to Jakarta from China. I was wondering if here in town there is any international women club or similar association organizing fun activities or meetings that can help me to meet immediately some new friends. I hope you can give me some good tips! thanks, Ambra

Hi Ambra,

Welcome to Jakarta!! :)

There are many women's clubs and most accept all nationalities. It's just a matter of finding one you click with.

Try coming to Anza (australia and NZ association) on a Friday morning for their coffee morning. Usually a good crowd of many different nationalities. Ph 7179 3042 for directions.

Or the British women have a morning tea each Monday.

Or just pop into their club houses for a look and a chat.

or Try the Women's International Club Jakarta (WIC)
www.wic.jakarta.or.id or +62 21 526 3302.

Kelly & Lara

Where to buy licorice or licorice all-sorts in Jakarta?

(Tom) Hello Ladies, Do you know anywhere you can buy licorice or licorice all-sorts in Jakarta. It has some excellent healing properties, but to tell you the truth, i just like the taste of it. Licorice starved Aussie, Thanks


I'd try the Kemchicks at pacific place. I remember seeing it somewhere. Maybe one of those choc shops that sell all the lindt choc at the shopping centers. I know there's one right near Kemchicks pacific place.

Good luck.

Kelly

-----------
Hi Tony,

I am not a licorice fan myself so I made a few inquiries around town. Would licorice flavored jelly beans satisfy your cravings? :) My friend, Raquel (also a personal chef should you ever need) has told me that they have black jellybeans at the Food Hall inside Pondok Indah mall near the registers. Occasionally you can find red Twizzlers at some of the Ranch Markets and Kem Chicks.

Have a great Easter!

Lara

Question About BBQ

(Mary) Hi, Here's a weird question for you; 3 years ago, we bought a used Ducane Gas BBQ (Home Depot - USA) from someone who was leaving Jakarta. It worked fine with one of those little gas tanks for about a year. Then, the pastic nozzle that connected the gas tank to the hose for the grill broke. I ordered a new part from the USA, but when I went to have my handyman put it on, it's nearly impossible to repair! A thin metal shelf over the affected part prevents anyone from getting their hand in there with a wrench to replace the part. And, the screws holding the shelf in place are rusted. Either find someone with a blowtorch to cut a hole in the shelf for a hand to reach in there or what???? I'm not sure this is a BBQ repair job or what. Since it involves gas, I want a professional job so we don't blow up trying to roast a frank. Any ideas? We have a package of Oscar Mayer Franks in the freezer that expire 8/12. We may end up boiling them in water on the stove. Thanks, Mary Lee

Dear Mary Lee, The best suggestion I was able to come up with after I made several phone calls around town is try emailing Mr. Ming at amingpratikno@yahoo.com or calling him directly at 0811868830. He would need to have a look at the BBQ but has fixed several in the past. I hope this helps. LARA

Questions about the new immigration law

(Mike) Hi , Just a couple of questions for you regarding the Immigration Amendment Bill just passed.
1. Any idea how long this may take to percolate thru the system and become factual and someone can actually apply for a P.R..
2. A slightly different subject, what would be the scene as regards "fiscal tax " in this event and also is there any known activity regarding the abolition of said fiscal as was declared last year.

(Kelly) Hi Mike, I can answer question 2 immediately. Fiscal has already been abolished as of January this year. I just travelled to Singapore over the weekend and just pay the normal departure tax at check-in of rp150,000. Then straight thru immigration. I'll see what I can find out on the other but usually doesn't happen over night.

Bowling Alley in Jakarta

Hi, A couple of weeks ago, my husband, my son and myself went to Plaza Senayan for our regular Saturday afternoon game of ten pin bowling.

Imagine our surprise when we arrived to find that the place had shut down!!!!

What can you tell me about this??

I remember there was a bowling alley in Pluit, but that is quite far and the one near Pondok Indah Mall no longer has a sign out the front.

Are there any bowling alleys left???

Hope you can help us,

Kind regards,

Gian

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hi Gian,

Thanks you for your info - actually WNJ have a complete listing of bowling places under sport activities....

Please check here http://www.whatsnewjakarta.com/web3/event/GuideDetail.php?cboGroup=17&subGroup=155

I tried bowling in the EX Plaza Indonesia - I think that one is better than plaza Senayan.

Hope this helps.

"Mad Science" birthday parties and putt putt

Hi Kelly,

In your kids party bit for the family guide to Jakarta, you mentioned that a guy does “mad science” parties – do you have the contact details? Also, the putt putt that used to be at Senayan has closed down. Do you know if there are any others around? I’m trying to organise a party for my 6 year old boy that doesn’t cost the earth!

Cheers,

Sally.

Hi Sally

This is the contact number I had from my last Mad Science Party a couple of years ago is;

Vicky HP 0815 1874268

I’ll get back to you on the putt putt as checking one possibility out. Although did find this one mentioned a few times but may be a little far out.

Family Park Alam Sutera

Wonderful kids' playground offering fun cars, cho-choo trains, putt-putt golf and games, paintball, outward bound area, as well as a pool, a food court, and a birthday party pavilion.

Perumahan Alam Sutera, Jl. Raya Serpong-Tangerang

Tel: 5312 2525

Email: familypark@alam-sutera.com

www.alam-sutera.com

This one also sound’s interesting by haven’t experienced it personally;

Doctor Rabbit

A great outdoor space with tons of activities that must be pre-booked for use. They ran a brilliant party for my 6-year-old son last year. They speak English and kept the 20+ kids entertained for a couple of hours. First there were team games on the tennis courts, then they were divided into two groups and one went off to make ‘flobber-style gunk’ while the other had several goes on the flying fox. After swapping round they all got changed and had time in the pool which was well supervised. We pre-ordered food for the children and I was able to supply my own cake. They have several different themed parties – Spiderman, Harry Potter Magic Party and Grenade War Party. Their rates include invitations, entrance fee, kids meal, party bags and all entertainment.

Jl. Taman Sari I/77, Karang Tengah, Lebak Bulus

Tel: 021 769 4786 / 021 769 4750

Fax: 021 750 8371

Email: doctorabbit@link.net.id

both above ex “Family Guide to Jakarta”

http://www.familyguidetojakarta.web.id/partytime/entertainersorganisersvenuesequipmenthire.html

From personal experience; I did my son’s 5th birthday at Tamani Kids in Kemang and they had quite a reasonable package for an approx 2 or 3 hour party, which included entrance a basic kids meal, drink and ice cream. They don’t close the whole place off under this package but you can also use their party room for the cake and entertainer if you want. I brought along my own piñata and cake. I found the kids were quite happy just to play and didn’t need an entertainer. Also they did very reasonable boxed lunches for nannies. I would also recommend buying a heap of cheap socks (From an ITC) for the kids that forget them. You can buy them there. Put a start and finish time on your invite and remind parents to pack socks.

Also McDonalds and KFC do quite good packages.

Just another couple of ideas come to mind.....

Not sure if you’re 6 year is a boy or a girl but recently attended a couple of parties for soccer crazy boys.

One held at a Futsal Court (Behind CITOS) where the Mum hired the court and got soccer shirts made for each child as a party gift. The kids just had a couple of games and headed to Burger King at CITOS for the food.

Other one was the Mum hired a couple of local soccer coaches quite cheaply and they did ball skills with the kids and a quick game using a school field then back to their house for pizza and cake.

or Pizza Marzano is great with the kids pizza making. If you haven’t experienced it, the kids love it. Ideal for a party of 12 or less. Rp50,000 per child they get to make their own pizza with a chef showing them step by step. They get a hat and apron and price includes the pizza a drink and ice cream. So much fun but be prepared for clothes covered in flour. Book ahead for parties. You can also do this with 1 or 2 kids when heading there for lunch or dinner. My boys make their own every time. (sometimes is restricted times due to their busy periods)

Hope this helps.

Kelly