KLAYD is the new basics brand on the block, founded by visionary Paula Anselmi, whose collection of elevated wardrobe staples go beyond the realm of activewear.
Paula grew up in Indonesia and launched her label last year, alongside moving to London. Honouring her roots, KLAYD’s pieces are produced in Paula’s motherland, and each colourway is dedicated to her mother tongue, Bahasa Indonesia.
We speak to Paula about the city she calls home and find out her favourite restaurants, spots to relax at, and where to head for unbeatable views.
Ombie Kofie in Senopati. It’s a good place to relax and have a coffee after a long flight. And if you have some energy left in you, go for a stroll to the shopping centre just around the corner.
Your favourite hotel to check-in at?
View this post on Instagram
The Langham, Jakarta. I love the vibe, facilities and the rooms. The hotel is located amongst skyscrapers, so you have beautiful views of Jakarta during both day and night.
For an early morning workout head to:
Gelora Bung Karno (GBK) stadium is close to The Langham. People love to jog and work out here in the morning. The views are fantastic, and you’ve got plenty of great restaurants and food nearby too – in case you want to refuel after a workout.
Where should we go for breakfast?
Braud General Store is a must visit in Jakarta for pastries. For a more traditional breakfast, head to one of the many May Star restaurants for dim sum, porridge or noodles.
Where can we find the best coffee?
Harlan + Holden have the best butterscotch latte. My ultimate favourite. Their coffee is freshly brewed and is rated one of the best in the region.
How about for a long, lazy lunch?
Cork and Screw Country Club is the best place to be. They have views of nature, right in the middle of a busy city. Plus their menu is delicious.
View this post on Instagram
Your favourite restaurant in town?
Yawara Private Dining. It’s a Japanese yakiniku and they have the best beef with so many types to choose from; it’s a great spot for meat lovers. The restaurant ambience is also lovely. It’s perfect for date night or for visiting with family and friends.
The drink to order at the bar?
I am a wine and sour-flavoured cocktail girl.
A must-try spot for date night?
Pierre Jakarta is a French restaurant that I love for the food, drinks and vibe. It is so romantic and they have the best selection of French wines.
View this post on Instagram
The culture spot to rave about?
The iconic monument of Jakarta – Monas. It has all the history and culture of Jakarta told in stories. Be sure to head to the top of it too, where you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Jakarta.
Where can I go shopping?
My go-to places are Plaza Indonesia and Grand Indonesia. The mall culture in Indonesia is huge, and these two have everything.
Best spot for sundowners?
Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) is a new coastal area with lots of cute cafés and restaurants to choose from.
View this post on Instagram
One place only locals know about?
ITC Mangga Dua. I spent my childhood weekends there with my parents, both shopping and dining. The place is very iconic to locals; it was our go-to place for basically everything, from clothing to electronics. The best part is that they are all very inexpensive in comparison to mall prices.
For a change of pace try?
One of the traditional markets in Jakarta like Pasar Glodok and Pasar Baru. They are both very iconic, and have a very different vibe to other markets.
Souvenir to take home?
If you are a fan of chilli, I think it’s worth bringing different varieties of sambal (chilli sauce) home. For fashion, I would recommend buying batik pieces, they’re the national (and signature) clothing of Indonesia. Pick up some Indonesian pottery too, there are plenty of nice varieties to choose from.
The best place to treat yourself is:
Jakarta has plenty of spa services, but the best place to go is Park Hyatt Hotel Spa. They give wonderful massages and you can also use their Jacuzzi and pool which has a brilliant aerial view of the city.
View this post on Instagram
Your favourite neighbourhood(s)?
Nava Park BSD, my hometown. Also, just on the outskirts of Jakarta, there’s a little city called Tangerang. It’s not too busy and there’s plenty of greenery.
Great day trips include:
Bandung City has always been our destination for a day trip, and you’ll experience more authentic Indonesian culture here. From Jakarta there’s a fast train to Bandung, and when there you’ll enjoy a great culinary scene as well as shopping plus cultural and historical spots.
View this post on Instagram
How should we spend the final day of our trip?
You can’t go wrong with a traditional Indonesian spa, it’s the best the world has.
What’s your Jakarta secret?
In my opinion, Jakarta is very underrated. Most people go to Bali for their Indonesian destination, but Jakarta is very rich in culture and history. It’s also relatively safe to walk around in. However, it can be very busy with lots of traffic during the peak hours, so it is best to visit the city after 10am.
What’s the dress code?
Since Jakarta can be very hot, I would pack light clothes. I would wear T-shirts, sleeveless tanks and dresses.
View this post on Instagram
In one word, Jakarta is:
Home.
Essential items to pack?
The weather is perfect for KLAYD – it is always a KLAYD season in Jakarta. I would bring all my KLAYD basics and style them with denim, skirts, shorts, heels and trainers. Lastly, pair them with cute and stylish bags.
We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.
Any Questions or Tips to add?