This week, we’ve compiled four shortened versions of the articles published at the Life channel on thejakartapost.com. If you are keen to read the full articles or want to look for more interesting lifestyle pieces, complete with photos and videos, pay a visit to the Life channel on our website. However, for quick access, download a QR scanner application on your smartphone and scan the codes displayed next to the articles.

Jakpost Nightlife: Jakarta’s speakeasy bars

The term “speakeasy” dates back to the Prohibition era (1920 to 1933) in the United States, when people were banned from consuming and selling alcohol. At that time, people drank their booze in hidden, illicit drinking houses that were only open to members and spread through word of mouth, as reported by star2.com.

Jakarta has bars that apply a speakeasy style for those who wish to enjoy their drinks with exclusivity.

Goldstein

Located beneath León, Goldstein is a speakeasy bar that fits 40 people and specializes in cocktails. It has a bar and round tables without a minimum bill, and sofas with minimum bill starting from Rp 3 million (US$202). Reservations in advance are advised. People will usually receive a golden ticket before entering the bar.

Jakarta student shares stories from Summer Science Program in US

Della Nathania, a student at Singapore Intercultural School in South Jakarta, participated in the Summer Science Program at the University of Colorado Boulder, the United States, starting in late June.

For over 39 days and with 35 fellow high school students from countries around the world that include Pakistan, Uruguay and the United Kingdom, Della conducted research in astrophysics and had the chance to operate a research-grade telescope to take images of a near-Earth asteroid. With her team, consisting of three students, they then calculated its orbital path and chance of impacting Earth in the future.

Commentary: How ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ educated the world

By now, most moviegoers around the world may have gone to see the new romantic comedy, Crazy Rich Asians. Based on the best-selling novel by author Kevin Kwan, the movie managed to capture the hearts of people everywhere no matter what their race. Hollywood did its best, presenting glitz, glamor, class and — almost unknown to most audiences — a large dose of culture. 

Most Indonesian audiences, even those without any Chinese lineage like myself, won’t even ask too many questions regarding the (modern) cultural customs presented in Crazy Rich Asians as they hit too close to home, but we do keep a watchful eye and the movie passed our scrutiny with flying colors.

Indonesians and instant noodles: A love affair

Since its introduction to the Indonesian public in 1968 with the brand “Supermie”, instant noodles have slowly but surely become a significant part of the Indonesian diet. It has been categorized as comfort food, even marketed as an occasional replacement for daily breakfast, lunch or dinner. The word “instant” no longer accurately applies in “emergency cases” such as when time or resources are limited. 

The easy preparation method and variety of flavors carefully tailored to suit the average Indonesian palate have put instant noodles as a priority product to be packed when traveling, as well for stocking up at home.