When you talk about "colonies," what comes to mind?

Is "colonialism" a merit or a fault? A scar or a medal? The history of colonization is indeed full of wounds, but from a long-term perspective, it also planted the seeds of modernization in some regions. At least today, most of the areas on Earth that were once colonized have become economically relatively advanced and more favored by tourists within their countries. Jakarta's Old Town (Kota Tua) is such a contradictory epitome. Experience: The café by the square is a perfect spot to zone out. Order a local coconut coffee with fried bananas, or grab a milk tea from a convenience store, and leisurely stroll around to discover many surprises — colonial-style old buildings, impromptu street bands, local families gathering to play, tourists from various countries, and lazy cats napping on benches. Must-visit: Highly recommend the Old Town Museum (photos 5, 9)! The vintage building itself is an exhibit. Inside, colonial-era old newspapers, antique furniture, and daily utensils offer a direct touch of Jakarta’s century-long changes. You’ll gain a lot from the visit. The trendy café BATAVIA (photos 1, 7) is on the pricier side, so it’s optional. Next door, the restaurant + café Djakarte (photo 8) is more affordable and also good for lunch. The window seats on the second floor are equally great. PS: When taking a taxi, don’t directly set the destination to the core of the Old Town! It’s recommended to ask the driver to stop on the surrounding main roads and walk in. This way, you can avoid the congestion of the narrow alleys in the Old Town and also experience the local street life along the way. Indonesian Travel Notes