Wednesday Walk in GBK Senayan

While curating some content, I stumbled upon a blog post by @viviehardika where she prepared for a 10K run at GBK (Gelora Bung Karno).

GBK is one of the largest football (or soccer) stadiums in Indonesia, located in Senayan, Jakarta. In my opinion GBK is not just a venue for sporting events; it's a cultural landmark with a long history. But I don't feel like writing history, so let's talk about the GBK and its surrounding area.

GBK’s surrounding area is expansive, offering more than just a stadium experience. It includes parks, an urban forest, jogging tracks, and a complex of various sports facilities such as badminton (if you're a fan of badminton, you're likely familiar with the enthusiasm at Istora Senayan 😊), basketball, tennis, baseball, softball, aquatic gymnastics, and many more.

In the past few years, a significant renovation took place in the GBK and surrounding area, primarily for the 2018 Asian Games, if I remember correctly. The area was cleaned up, and many buildings were revitalized, giving the whole place a fresh, modern look. This transformation has made it a popular spot not just for sports enthusiasts, but also for families and friends looking for a pleasant place to hang out. Now, it has become one of the favorite spots to spend time, whether you're enjoying a peaceful walk, a rigorous jog, or simply sitting on a bench to enjoy the scenery.

Senayan is in the heart of Jakarta. So if you visit on weekdays in the evening, you'll likely see people jogging after office hours. The jogging track outside the stadium is the most popular. It's a common sight to see people of all ages, from young professionals to retirees, making the most of their evenings by engaging in some physical activity. The track provides a safe and scenic route, and offers a view of the bussy city vibe around it.

As for me, I don't jog, so my favorite spot is the urban forest and parks. I enjoy slow cycling or just walking around. The forest area offers a peaceful retreat from the city's hectic pace. There are a lot of mosquitoes, but I can live with that. The fresh air and the sounds of nature make it worth it. Sometimes, I bring a book and find a quiet spot to read. It's a luxury to find such a tranquil place in the middle of an overcrowded metropolis.

I love spending time in the forest area in Senayan. It feels like a sanctuary to me. I enjoy seeing the greenery and experiencing the fresh atmosphere, away from the hustle and bustle of the crowded roads. It's a place where I can unwind and reconnect with nature, even if it's just for a short while. The contrast between the serene environment of the forest and the vibrant energy of the city makes it all the more special.

Jakarta definitely isn't the greatest city to live in, but I'm grateful that we have so many public spaces and open areas here. These spaces offer a much-needed escape and a chance to breathe. They are essential for maintaining our well-being in a city that can often feel overwhelming. I'm glad this place exist, allowing me to relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.

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