Monday, June 11, 2007

Cruising the Ciliwung

On Saturday, Chad and I and a friend went to check out the city's new water taxi. Having a water taxi in Jakarta may seem like a bad joke, given how polluted the canals and rivers are. But I love the idea of getting around the city in boats, and I love the idea that maybe water taxis will inspire people to stop throwing trash in the canals.

Maybe others agree, because there was a pretty long line to get on board.

This first route is clearly just a touristy thing. It only runs on Saturdays and Sundays, for a few hours a day, along a brief, 1.7 kilometer stretch of the Ciliwung River.

Yes, the water was dirty and yes, the engines clogged with garbage. Twice, actually. But it really wasn't very smelly.

People seemed to have a good time, especially the kids.

It looks almost romantic in the sunset, doesn't it?

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

I just saw this on tv the other day! Looks like a fun ride. I'll have to give it a try soon. Wish I was there with you to take pictures! :)

Trish said...

It's so cool! I really hope they stick with it, especially after the new governor gets elected. And yes, there's definitely great photo opps.

Did you see us on TV? Chad got interviewed three times!

mr_john said...

In what language?

Trish said...

English. We didn't see any of the coverage, but we know he was on TransTV.

Anonymous said...

Hi Trishmeist!

If your travels come through NYC, stop in and stay!

Love,
Jen-Meist