Throw your adventure pants in your luggage, people, we’ve found an Indonesian holiday destination you’re going to want to know about...
We don’t know about you, but when it comes to getting outta town and into vacay mode, we’re all about destinations that are a little bit off the ‘tried ‘n’ tested’ bucket list. Of course, we still love an easy getaway to fave hot spots like Penang and Phuket, but we also swoon hard when it comes to new and exciting places we’ve not been to yet. So when we heard about Bandung and its great vibe of culture and adventure, lovely scenery and delish eats, we were sold. Throw in a luxe hotel at affordable prices, and you’ll find us booking a holiday to Bandung right about… now.
How to get to Bandung
Singapore Airlines and AirAsia will whizz you from Changi to Bandung in just under two hours. Yep, you can leave the office on a Friday afternoon and be sipping a cocktail by the pool later that very same day.
What to do
Whether you’re jetting away as a couple, with a group of friends or with the family in tow, there’s tonnes of fun to be had for adventurers of all ages in Bandung. First up, take yourselves to Saung Angklung Udjo, a super cool centre celebrating and preserving Sundanese culture, where you’ll find handicrafts, colourful performances and bamboo music. Perfect for getting into the local spirit of things.
Fancy eggs for brekkie? Head out on a mission to cook your own… on the surface of Tangkuban Perahu Crater! Perched on an active volcano – whether you fancy your eggs sunny-side-up or scrambled – this gives a whole new spin on a crackin’ meal with a view.
If you’re in the mood for a dose of culture, head over to Selasar Sunaryo Art Space. Not far from the city on the slopes of Dago Hills, it’s a great space filled with amazing sculptures and artwork, calming greenery and ponds. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee and pastry at Kopi Selasar!
But if shopping is more your bag, stay out of the heat by shopping ’til you drop at Paskal Shopping Centre, packed with local and international fashion brands as well as the area’s largest cinema. Or how about a market set entirely on boats? Lembang Floating Market will have you floating with happiness with your cool local purchases and delish halal eats.
Or how about Farmhouse Lembang (which includes a hobbit house inspired by the Lord of the Rings movies!); the giant birdcage at Dusun Bambu (do make sure you try the chicken satays at nearby Purbasari, which comes with a side order of stunning views); or, if you’re feeling especially intrepid, Kawah Putih. A spot that literally translates to ‘white crater’, Kawah Putih is where you’ll find a stunning natural white lake that changes to hues of blue depending on the weather.
Where to eat
You can’t visit Bandung without trying siomay Bandung or batagor, Bandung’s version of a fish dumpling in spicy peanut sauce. Locals love Kingsley on Jl. Veteran for their dumpling fix. For dessert, we love martabak manis (a fluffy, delicious stuffed pancake) from Martabak Manis Bangka Ajun San Francisco. It’s got an extensive selection of flavours, including Ovomaltine and Toblerone. Don’t forget to check out Dusun Bambu for authentic Sundanese food and The Valley for a good steak.
Where to stay
Well that’s easy: it’s got to be Hilton Bandung, one of the largest hotels in the city. Whether you plump for a spacious Executive room (which includes access to the Executive Lounge for complimentary breakfast and refreshments) or a suite with its own separate living area and benefits, there’s a room to suit all kinds of travellers and all kinds of budgets.
Cool off after a day of sightseeing in the pool, which overlooks the Tangkuban Perahu Mountain, or really up the relaxing ante by booking into the stylish Jiwa Spa by Zen. Fitness buffs not worn out by climbing volcanoes can head to the fully equipped fitness centre, while guests who are all about fine wines, speciality dishes and dining decadence should head to Fresco Restaurant: an open-air poolside affair sure to please.
But don’t forget to leave some room for cocktails and tapas at Magma Lounge, and to make a date at Purnawarman Restaurant for fresh Asian and global fare. Nom, nom, nom.
Perks!
Book a queen deluxe room at Hilton Bandung and enjoy complimentary weekend buffet dining for maximum two kids (below 12 years old and must be accompanied by paying adults), welcome goodies for the kids and welcome cookies/chocolate.
Ah lovely Bandung: we’re coming for you!
Hos Tjokroaminoto, Bandung, Indonesia
This post is in partnership with Hilton.