Ancol Dreamland, Jakarta (must see)

Ancol Dreamland, officially known as Taman Impian Jaya Ancol, is a prominent resort and entertainment complex in Ancol Bay City, situated along the waterfront in the Pademangan district of North Jakarta. Established in 1966, it represents a significant transformation from its original state as a mosquito-infested swamp area, historically linked with malaria outbreaks during the era of Batavia.

The inception of Ancol Dreamland was driven by President Sukarno in the early 1960s, who envisioned a vast entertainment hub that would also include housing and industrial zones. This was a shift from earlier plans which suggested developing the area purely for industrial purposes. The development commenced under the leadership of Jakarta Governor Ali Sadikin. Ancol Dreamland was part of a broader effort to enhance the city's infrastructure and recreational offerings.

Today, Ancol Dreamland stands as the largest integrated tourism area in Southeast Asia. The complex features a myriad of attractions including an international championship golf course, multiple hotels, a theme park named Dunia Fantasi (Fantasy World) which was added in 1984, and other recreational facilities like swimming pools and an oceanarium.

The initial phase of the park saw the establishment of the Bina Ria Ancol beach, which became famous for its drive-in theater in the 1970s. Subsequently, the area expanded to include more diverse attractions such as the Putri Duyung cottage and the Hotel Horison, complete with its casino. Ancol Dreamland has continually evolved, drawing both local and international visitors to its extensive array of entertainment and leisure activities, solidifying its status as a central fixture in Jakarta's tourist landscape.