New boutique hotels in Jakarta
Bigger isn’t always better. These boutique hotels are small but more than make up for their size in charm, character, and great customer service. Here are some new ones to check out in Jakarta.
Kosenda
Kosenda
Now this is what we called fusion! The interior of the Kosenda is the perfect marriage of contemporary Scandinavian design and Javanese motifs. And the herringbone-pattern floor in the lobby? Absolutely stunning. Decked out in Mid-century-inspired furniture and touches, Kosenda’s interiors will transport you back to the stylish Mad Men era. If you want to set the perfect room ambiance, you can request an iPod with a special playlist to maximize the experience. At Kosenda, make sure to stop by the breathtaking rooftop Awan Lounge for a view of the bustling city center, and enjoy a chill late afternoon coffee break at 127 Cafe.
Kosenda, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No. 127, CBD, Central Jakarta, p: 62-21/3193-6565.
The Hermitage
The Hermitage
Located in a grand Art Deco building, dating back to 1923, the new Hermitage hotel now holds court on a quiet, leafy corner of Menteng. Once inside, you’ll be in awe of gorgeous colonial architecture. In its previous lives, the building was formally a Dutch telecommunications office, then home to the Indonesian Ministry and Culture, and then the site of Bung Karno University. Now it has been given a plush makeover and is the first luxury heritage hotel and the first Leading Hotel of the World property in Jakarta. The Hermitage is home to 90 tastefully appointed rooms (all kitted out with modern amenities), La Vue rooftop bar, complete with infinity pool, and L’Avenue a chic ethno-brasserie filled with colonial-era artwork.
The Hermitage, Jl. Cilacap No. 1, Menteng, Central Jakarta, p. 62-21/3192-6888.
Artotel
Artotel
This artsy urban hotel is a treat for creative guests. The graffiti-covered exterior is a gutsy move, and we love it! Inside, Artotel’s unique look can be attributed to the works made by seven local contemporary artists. The boutique hotel’s four types of studio rooms are equally fun, regardless of their size. We recommend a meal at Artotel’s 24-hour restaurant, Roca, where you will be dining against a backdrop of stone walls and murals that run up the walls and onto the ceiling. Insider tip: if you are planning to go to Roca on a Friday, wear your most stunning high heels and you’ll get a hefty discount on F&B. Before your stay is done, drop by the hotel’s art gallery and shop to take home a piece of locally produced art.
Artotel, Jl. Sunda No. 3, Menteng, Central Jakarta, P: 62-21/3192-5888.
Kemang Icon
Kemang Icon
Ah, the busy streets of Kemang. The endless entertainment options will wear you out by the end of the night (or early morning on some cases!), and you’ll long for a nearby place to rest your head. Kemang Icon, a property by the well-known Alila Hotel & Resort chain, is not only convenient, it’s also stylish and luxurious. Glass and water elements are used as their main aesthetic features and give visitors a serene and relaxing environment. The contemporary rooms are filled with Art Deco accent pieces that mix well with the Indonesian influences. On the rooftop, the poolside Edge Bistro is a perfect place to start your Kemang bar-hopping adventure. If it’s a night in for you, there are plenty of novels and DVDs on hand to choose from. PS: for retail therapy, the hotel has a number of shops and boutiques on the ground floor.
Kemang Icon, Jl. Kemang Raya 1, Kemang, South Jakarta, p: 62-21/719-7989.
Morrissey
We appreciate the special amenities and perks at the other hotels in the city, but at Morrissey we feel like we’ve hit the jackpot. This boutique serviced-apartment has spacious rooms, stylish decor, outstanding hospitality, and great facilities for its guests. From the studio to the deluxe two-bedroom, each suite is designed to maximize comfort and functionality, and is also equipped with a kitchenette. Our favorite spot is the rooftop where the restaurant/lounge and covered pool have the perfect view of the city skyline. For dinner dates, head to Ocha & Bella, an innovative restaurant serving Italian-Japanese fusion dishes.
Morrissey, Jl. KH Wahid Hasyim No. 70, Menteng, Central Jakarta, P: +62-21/2993-3333.
Neo+ Green Savana
Neo+ Green Savana
There are several locations of this hip boutique hotel nationwide, including four in Jakarta, but we especially love the Neo Hotel in Sentul. Managed by Aston International, guests can rest assure that they will get top-notch hospitality at this affordable lodging, located a short ride from the city. The sleek rooms are spacious with a clean design and come with dining tables and courtyards. But our favorite room feature has to be the direct access to the hotel pool! If you’re planning on a weekend trip to Jungleland with the family, Neo is a perfect place to wind down after a full day of theme-park fun.
Neo+ Green Savana, Jl. Siliwangi No.1, Sentul, Bogor, p: 62-21/2921-0831.
Top image: Kosenda, Kemang Icon, Morrissey, Artotel
