worldwide club guide: jakarta

Jakarta is not famous for its nightlife like some other Asian capitals, which was why I was very pleasantly surprised to find a smorgasbord of club options. Despite being a Muslim country, the alcohol flows freely and clubs are open until late, so I’m officially declaring Jakarta Asia’s undiscovered party city – get in quick before the secret’s out!

X2 (Plaza Senayan) is by far the biggest club in Jakarta. Actually, there are four separate clubs under the X2 umbrella (X2, Equinox, Vintage and Ego Ultralounge), all aimed at different music genres so there’ll be tunes to make your booty shake no matter what your taste. The main X2 club hosts local and international DJs playing progressive house and trance, while live acts also make appearances. X2 pulls a high-end crowd while Equinox is full of friendly young hipsters and offers an eclectic music selection – from hip-hop to mambo jambo. Ego Ultralounge is the exclusive VIP space so you’ll need a membership card to gain entry (hint: make friends with members). Inside this sanctum you can dance or chill at candle-lit tables with premium cocktails or a glass of expensive bubbly.

Barcode (Jalan Kemang Raya) is a rooftop club where you can relax in the open-air surrounded by greenery. There’s delicious food on the menu if you’re feeling peckish. Apart from the outdoor bar there’s also a dedicated club space which is home to DJ Riri and the Spinach Crew, who play a great mix of house, trance and electro.

Immigrant (6^th floor, Plaza Indonesia) is a cool new club that is cozy and relaxed yet sophisticated. As the name suggests it’s a place that celebrates diversity so it’s a good place to meet and party with fellow travelers, expats and locals. Being on the 6^th floor it has a great view of the sparkling nighttime Jakarta. It’s open from 11am until late every day so you could have a meal in the late afternoon, watch the sunset with a martini, then dance the night away.