Indonesian Local Perfume - Alchemist
My recent trip to Jakarta was a mix of spontaneity and sweet obsession. I had one mission in mind — to find the legendary Alchemist perfume that a friend once gifted me. Its mysterious scent had haunted me for years, and I was determined to track it down in its rumored origin city.
I started my search in the stylish alleys of Kemang, hopping from boutique to boutique. One store owner pointed me to a hidden perfumery in Kota Tua — a small vintage shop tucked between two old Dutch-style buildings. I almost missed it if not for the faint trace of oud and vanilla in the air.
Inside, the atmosphere was magical. Glass bottles lined the walls like a wizard’s lab, and the perfumer, an older man named Pak Hadi, greeted me like he knew why I came. I told him about Alchemist, and he smiled. “Not many remember that blend,” he said, disappearing into the back.
Minutes later, he returned with a small, unlabelled bottle. One sniff — and I knew. It was the one. Rich, smoky, with layers of spice, rose, and something I couldn’t name. I felt like I had found a part of myself I didn’t know was missing.
Aside from this aromatic quest, I also enjoyed sipping iced kopi susu at a rooftop café in SCBD, strolling through the chaotic beauty of Tanah Abang, and ending the trip with a sunset view at Ancol beach.
Jakarta surprised me. It’s chaotic yet soulful, modern yet full of forgotten stories — just like the perfume I came for.
Would I go back? In a heartbeat. But this time, I’ll leave more room in my suitcase for scent-souvenirs.#travel