Name : Tjandra.

P Teacher : Dean
Class : IEP

Public Transportation in Indonesia

The good thing about Indonesia is that many times you can walk to get to places. Unlike
many cities in other countries which force you to drive, you can actually walk or take public
transportation in Indonesia.

Indonesians drive on the left-side of the street, as oppose to the right (other countries) –
side. Many streets are narrow. They are good for two cars, one in each direction, with only a few
feet or inches between the two cars. Some people also park their cars on the street (do not have
room for garage), making it more difficult to drive. On top of that, you have to be careful with
motorcyclists, people walking (also jaywalking) on the streets, and public transportation cars or
buses which stop and cut you in an unpredictable manner.

To drive a car or a motorcycle you need a driving license. Many countries issue
International Driving Licenses which are valid in Indonesia. Public transportation includes:

* trains

* buses

* taxis

* "angkutan kota" (mini busses, bemos, mikrolets)

* "ojek" (motorcycle).

* traditional vehicles: "becak" (a three-wheel cycle thing, the driver paddle on the back) "delman"
or "andong".

Public transportations are not convenient, but usable. It can take you from point A to
point B reasonably. I will give you some explanation about public transportation in Indonesia.

Buses
Name : Tjandra.P Teacher : Dean
Class : IEP
Bus is the main transportation between cities. I have to warn you that some bus drivers drive like
crazy and they are reckless. You may have a heart attack riding on their buses. Buses are cheaper
than trains and they go more often. Also watch out for pick-pocket. Watch for your belonging!
Don't leave them unattended! Seriously!

During busy seasons, it is difficult to get into a bus. You have to fight with the other passengers,
just to get into the bus.

Taxis

Many big cities have taxis. But only in Jakarta and Surabaya taxis are common. In other cities,
taxis are just starting to become popular. Taxis are metered (using "argometer"), but sometimes
the drivers refuse to use the meter and ask (haggle) you for a certain amount instead. They are
supposed to use the meter. That is why if you are not in a hurry in Jakarta or Surabaya, insist on
the meter or get another cab. In some places (such as train station), some taxis inside the parking
area refused to use the meter. Get taxis from the street, instead. All taxis in Jakarta and Surabaya
usually have air conditioning. Otherwise, you'll get cooked inside.

There have been rumours on robbery on taxis passengers. However, I could not confirm this
rumours. It should be safe. Although, you should always be careful. For example, I always lock
the doors when I use a taxi. I just don't want strangers to jump into the car. Never happened to me
(and hopefully never will), but it's better being safe than sorry.