Jakarta - Hotels

[GentileBear]

Stayed here over 2 weeks. Yes girl friendly. But once you go to Jakarta you'll realize why most here find that question stupid to begin with.

Hotel right now is in the shit side of construction. Loud and polluted heavy equipment across the street. (Traffic is psychotic and horrible). Taxi's will get confused since there are MANY IBIS hotels. Bring your hotel key or business card with the hotels' address of Jl Hayam Wuruk No 35, Jakarta Trust me. I just saved you countless minuities of talking to the taxi drivers. Especially the blue 3 wheel Tuk Tuk's. Jumping out to ask another driver where this Bule's hotel is. Not many will know but say they know and still need to ask to make sure it is the right IBIS hotel. But fortunately this is the biggest negatives of the hotel.

This is a budget hotel directly next to Grand Mercure on the left and a 24 hours McDonalds to the right. Walking distance to the right is the Malio Club, and some restaurants like Dunkin Doughnuts, A&W and Indo Mart. Across the street there is a grocery store that has beer and soft drinks and chips and vegetable's and orange juice, etc.

The Hotel has a Good Bed. Not too soft and not like a rock. Very decent at this price point. They have 4 pillows. Soft! The shower is very powerful with hot water. Plenty of toilet paper and the usual signs to not flush it (like so many Asian hotels sorry not sorry). You get 2 mineral waters a day. Room is somewhat small and I did not have a slidable window much less a balcony. This is an Alcor brand hotel. Like Motel 6 but better quality. Especially the bed. No desk but there is a small couch type place to sit and make it a make-shift desk. For those who are picky. The rooms are dirty. I was surprised that the carpet had so many stains. The coffee pot was dirty, the water glasses were dirty, the hallway has dirty carpet. Sheets were fine and I am not picky at this price point. As I drink soda and beer in their own cans anyway. Staff was perfect. Elevator very smooth. One possible problem (and I hesitate here. Because I am NOT sure) but I think the air filters are probably dirty too. As I got a 48 HR flu and always kept the AC on. When I arrived the safe had a dead battery and I think my room wasn't rented in a long time. I am thinking the stale dirty polluted air and their dirty hvac got me sick, but this is just a guess. Maybe it was a girl? Anyway, safe worked fine. Small fridge (no freezer). No issues with security. WIFI worked. would be slower during 8pm - 10pm but still usable. WIFI password needs to be re-loaded every day but I auto - saved password to make it seamless. Closet space was a joke. Maybe 3 or 4 shirts - but honestly I am not picky about these things as I just kept most my stuff in luggage anyway. There seems to be lots of locals who meet here for business and have conferences, etc. I never ate at the restaurant. Always ordered my food by Gojek delivery. Oh and the driver will leave at the lobby for you. No stolen food - the parking attendants will store it for you at their booths. 2 ATMS, both useless to me since they only spit out 50K IDR notes and max of just 1.25 mil?! Overall Ibis Harmoni has decent accommodations in a shitty part of central Jakarta. It is NOT a "nice" hotel like Grand Mulia is. But it is decent enough. It was safe, staff friendly bed and shower good.

I will say that someone mentioned they could walk from here to Classic in 15 mins. This is the main reason I chose Central Jakarta and this hotel. To be closer to Classic and Kota Inda. I would highly suggest to get get a blue bird taxi instead... "walking" around here SUCKS, especially now with all the construction.

[Axel Heyst]

Hi all,

Just a quick question in case anybody has looked at this before / recently.

One of the things I definitely want to include in my next trip to Jakarta in Sep / Oct is to spend at least 2-3 nights a bit more upscale than usual (possibly Mandarin Oriental / Oakwood etc.) and get a room with a view. Partially since it is a view that I would like to share with a lady while enjoying some quality time. It seems that a corner room in the Mandarin with Monument View could be nice (on a first glance from a view perspective may beat e. G. The Mulia).

Budget can be relatively flexible, but based on a quick look at what is out there would target approx. USD 150-200 per night for this (I. E. The penthouse suites aren't really in my budget in most cases).

Does anyone have experience with the "with a view" aspect?

Best regards.

Thommy.

Thommy, there are a number of very excellent 5 star hotels in Jakarta. There is a lot to choose from. So, I rate the Mandarin as a pretty good 5 star hotel and I am sure you will have a pleasant stay there if you decide to book it, but the Hyatt across the street is IMHO the better hotel for a number of reasons.

1) I really like the Hyatt pool / garden. It is really great.

2) the Hyatt's king bedrooms are nicely appointed and larger than Mandarin's king rooms and the view from a room on a high floor of the Hyatt is just as good (if your Hyatt room faces west).

3) On location: it may not seem like a big deal, but the Hyatt's location on the east side of Jl. M. H. Thamrin above the Plaza Indonesia is a big plus thanks to the mall's many restaurants, a pharmacy, and its gourmet grocery store. It is very convenient.

4) The Hyatt is usually priced below the Mandarin, so it is no brainer. Check out the Hyatt before you make any decisions.

And note there are some newer 5 stars like the Fairmont and the Hyatt Park that might qualify as 6 star hotels. You might want to consider these two, if money is not an issue. The views are very good at these hotels too although not the iconic view you are looking for at the Mandarin or the Grand Hyatt. Lastly, I have never stayed at the Mulia. Too pricey for me, and it; s location is kind of isolated. You will need a taxi to go anywhere, but it is huge bonus to have a room above CJ's. I stayed at the Shangri La one time. I liked staying in thae hotel in a room above Bats. The Shangri La pool and a garden area rivals the same at the Grand Hyatt.

[Roy2920]

Hi, I am now torn between Redtop and Harris Vertu Harmoni. I previously stayed in Redtop and had excellent FS from very pretty masseuse every day there. Wondering if the in-room spa service in Vertu Harmoni also provide such service or are they strictly vegetable? Anyone here can share spa experience from Vertu Harmoni?

[Zippos]

I usually use booking dot com with the option of same day cancellation, specially if I want certain type of room with certain view. Also, make sure to include that in Booking msg and call up the hotel or visit (if you are in Jakarta) to confirm that you would only accept certain desired room. They will probably tell you "it depends on the availability" but be firm on your preference and make it very clear the fact of cancellation if you don't get the room. 90% of the time you will get it. Don't hesitate to BS saying you are their regular returning client and you always prefer certain room.

Hi all,

Just a quick question in case anybody has looked at this before / recently.

One of the things I definitely want to include in my next trip to Jakarta in Sep / Oct is to spend at least 2-3 nights a bit more upscale than usual (possibly Mandarin Oriental / Oakwood etc.) and get a room with a view. Partially since it is a view that I would like to share with a lady while enjoying some quality time. It seems that a corner room in the Mandarin with Monument View could be nice (on a first glance from a view perspective may beat e. G. The Mulia).

Budget can be relatively flexible, but based on a quick look at what is out there would target approx. USD 150-200 per night for this (I. E. The penthouse suites aren't really in my budget in most cases).

Does anyone have experience with the "with a view" aspect?

Best regards.

Thommy.

[Thommy84]

Hi all,

Just a quick question in case anybody has looked at this before / recently.

One of the things I definitely want to include in my next trip to Jakarta in Sep / Oct is to spend at least 2-3 nights a bit more upscale than usual (possibly Mandarin Oriental / Oakwood etc.) and get a room with a view. Partially since it is a view that I would like to share with a lady while enjoying some quality time. It seems that a corner room in the Mandarin with Monument View could be nice (on a first glance from a view perspective may beat e. G. The Mulia).

Budget can be relatively flexible, but based on a quick look at what is out there would target approx. USD 150-200 per night for this (I. E. The penthouse suites aren't really in my budget in most cases).

Does anyone have experience with the "with a view" aspect?

Best regards.

Thommy.

[Setzer]

Hello gents,

I am going to be in Jakarta and staying at the Grove Suites for a week. Does anyone have any experience with this hotel regarding what bars to go to pick up working girls? Much appreciated.

It's more like a service apartment at Grove Suites. There's a supermarket at the basement of the compound and restaurants on the ground floor. Otherwise, it's just ok, no WOW factor for me.

Picking up working girls, nearest probably would be Shangri La (BATZ Bar), Mulia Hotel (CJ's) IMHO. Otherwise maybe you want to try your luck around Mega Kuningan / SCBD with office girls.

[Setzer]

I think Grand Mercure will be a better option in that area, suggestions expected.

On the left of Grand mercure harmoni, there's Ibis Harmoni. Although its a budget hotel, its actually pretty decent (clean bed, clean room) for around 500 k IDR per night iirc. And there's also a McDonald's right next to Ibis Harmoni hotel. Breakfast at Ibis is very bare minimal though.

[ArlenLove]

Hello gents,

I am going to be in Jakarta and staying at the Grove Suites for a week. Does anyone have any experience with this hotel regarding what bars to go to pick up working girls? Much appreciated.

[CodeName47]

Six nights trip was just over. Stayed first two nights in Holiday inn Mangga Bassar. Good hotel big rooms and good breakfast at a moderate price of $55 per night through Agoda.

Location was shitty but as a second time visitor in Jakarta didn't felt it so. BB warned me early about the location. Action places are little away. Next time won't stay. I always prefer walkable distance or fast to reach in Grab or Blue bird to the targeted spots.

Third and fourth day stayed in Harris Vertu. Room small but clean, breakfast good. But location is good. Walkable distance to Malio Club, Emporvium and even Classic. $50 per night. I think Grand Mercure will be a better option in that area, suggestions expected. Interesting part is that, met a tall service girl in the restaurant talked and collected her number and now in touch with her. It was a good experience that in Jakarta it is easy to approach a smiling girl with positive face can lead to a fortune. Will that be in mind. He he.

Last two nights stayed in BFashion in West. Not much far. Stayed last time there for a night and enjoyed the spa. After staying in Holiday inn and Vertu, felt BFashion as substandard. Spa is good even though not much girls. But not much crowded. Totally spa is good as the sauna, jacuzzi, steam room are budget friendly with a massage and full service for just 735 K.

Met one service girl in the restaurant last day, talked with her. She is ready to join me in my next visit.

BFashion still cheap $40 per night. Breakfast not upto the standard. Good Malls nearby.

Traveled to South Jakarta this time. Felt it as a great clean place to stay. Next time will check in a good hotel in South.

Thanks to all friends who supported me and Expecting help in upcoming trips.

Long live Mongering.

I am now stayed twice at Santika Premier Hayam Wurk. Its the right balance. Affordable clean and not far from action.

[Thampi62]

Six nights trip was just over. Stayed first two nights in Holiday inn Mangga Bassar. Good hotel big rooms and good breakfast at a moderate price of $55 per night through Agoda.

Location was shitty but as a second time visitor in Jakarta didn't felt it so. BB warned me early about the location. Action places are little away. Next time won't stay. I always prefer walkable distance or fast to reach in Grab or Blue bird to the targeted spots.

Third and fourth day stayed in Harris Vertu. Room small but clean, breakfast good. But location is good. Walkable distance to Malio Club, Emporvium and even Classic. $50 per night. I think Grand Mercure will be a better option in that area, suggestions expected. Interesting part is that, met a tall service girl in the restaurant talked and collected her number and now in touch with her. It was a good experience that in Jakarta it is easy to approach a smiling girl with positive face can lead to a fortune. Will that be in mind. He he.

Last two nights stayed in BFashion in West. Not much far. Stayed last time there for a night and enjoyed the spa. After staying in Holiday inn and Vertu, felt BFashion as substandard. Spa is good even though not much girls. But not much crowded. Totally spa is good as the sauna, jacuzzi, steam room are budget friendly with a massage and full service for just 735 K.

Met one service girl in the restaurant last day, talked with her. She is ready to join me in my next visit.

BFashion still cheap $40 per night. Breakfast not upto the standard. Good Malls nearby.

Traveled to South Jakarta this time. Felt it as a great clean place to stay. Next time will check in a good hotel in South.

Thanks to all friends who supported me and Expecting help in upcoming trips.

Long live Mongering.

[Thampi62]

Aryaduta used to have a tiny bar called the Tavern. I don't know what's it like these days. It was run by an Austrian or German bloke. On weekend nights a handful of FL's would be available there. I picked up an Eurasian girl there a couple of times, she was a regular and came there quite often. A hot hairdresser.

It's good value for money. Older style hotel. Partly renovated about 11/12 years ago. Prior to Covid they they made a distinction between renovated and non-renovated rooms. The non-renovated rooms the cheaper option, old furniture and a bit worn out, I used to stay in the renovated ones. The business lounge is ok-ish.

Thanks for the information. Finally booked Holiday inn Gajamadha and Harris Vertu Harmony for two nights each. Got both for 60 $ appr. Per day. Booked thinkig it as good buy. Will give feed back. Thanks to Banana Boy for the tips to exploration. Focusing on few eat outs, bars and night clubs. Of course to try Kelap Gading girls too. Did RTFF so have something in mind, Holy Cow, Johny Steak, Collossium club and few pubs in South Jakarta. The D'Heaven still in mind, had a good time pre covid. Grand Indonesian mall is one in mind.Enjoyed BFashion stay and spa in west Jakarta last time in final two days and hotel closer to Airport as an added advantage. Read Harris Vertu Harmony as Spa and Hotel, if so any idea about the potential of tha spa?More tips are highly appreciated.

[Giovanni Volo]

Hello everybody.

Do someones know an hotel with swimming pool near Classic Hotel?

I would stay near Classic for girls, but I would prefer to stay in a normal hotel to live.

I am looking one with swimming pool, outside, cheaper but nice clean.

Some suggestion?

[Banana Boi]

I wouldn't stay in Redtop myself, but 100 m across the road would be Emporium. Massage and strip club. Has that closed?

Last I heard was yes. I asked for an update and got response.

Any of the other overpriced strips clubs other than Malio still open?

[Tommy Suharto]

Not much around Redtop and not a nice area at all... Taxis know where this hotel is but unless you say Redtop with an Indo accent they won't have a clue where Redtop is.

Haha. That's true. Macca's becomes "Makdonoll" other wise they don't know what you mean. I wouldn't stay in Redtop myself, but 100 m across the road would be Emporium. Massage and strip club. Has that closed?

[Tommy Suharto]

Thanks BB. Aryaduta seemed to be my ideal place for operation.

Aryaduta used to have a tiny bar called the Tavern. I don't know what's it like these days. It was run by an Austrian or German bloke. On weekend nights a handful of FL's would be available there. I picked up an Eurasian girl there a couple of times, she was a regular and came there quite often. A hot hairdresser.

It's good value for money. Older style hotel. Partly renovated about 11/12 years ago. Prior to Covid they they made a distinction between renovated and non-renovated rooms. The non-renovated rooms the cheaper option, old furniture and a bit worn out, I used to stay in the renovated ones. The business lounge is ok-ish.