Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis: Your Dream Stay Awaits!
Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis: Your Dream Stay Awaits! - Or Does It? A Brutally Honest Review
Okay, people, buckle up. I just got back from a whirlwind stay at the Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis, and let me tell you… it’s a mixed bag. The glossy brochure promises paradise, but real life, well, it's never quite that simple, is it? This isn't just a hotel review; consider it a survival guide. Let's dive in, shall we? And yeah, it's going to be a bit all over the place - much like my unpacking process.
First Impressions (and the Parking Fiasco)
Getting there was… an adventure. The car park [on-site] is technically free, but more accurately described as a Hunger Games scenario for spaces. I circled for a good twenty minutes, channeling my inner Formula 1 driver, before finally snagging a spot. Let's just say, the valet parking option (which I initially scoffed at) started looking mighty tempting. Thankfully, the airport transfer they offer? Smooth as silk. Highly recommend it, especially if you're arriving after a long-haul flight.
Accessibility – A Mixed Bag, To Be Honest
I was checking how well the place would work for a family member with mobility challenges, so I paid close attention. The elevator is a lifesaver, no question. But listen, the facilities for disabled guests felt… a little patchy. While there are accommodations, it just needs a little more consistency. Be sure to call ahead and verify specifics. I did notice the exterior corridor which could be helpful from time to time.
The Room: Oasis or Just a Pool of Water? (Plus the Wi-Fi Saga)
My Luxury 2BR (and, spoiler alert, they weren’t kidding about the size – ample space!) was… well, it was luxurious. The air conditioning blasted like a blizzard (thank heavens!), the blackout curtains were a godsend for sleeping off jetlag, and the bathrobes felt appropriately plush. I appreciated the separate shower/bathtub, but the bathroom could use a little more… personality? Maybe a plant? Something! The complimentary tea and coffee maker were absolute life savers, and the free bottled water was a constant replenishment.
BUT OH. My. God. The Internet access. They tout Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! and Internet access – wireless . But the Wi-Fi was… spotty. Like, “stuttering-through-a-video-call-while-you-simultaneously-try-to-download-a-movie-and-curse-the-universe” kind of spotty. Thank goodness they also provide Internet access – LAN, but who wants to be tethered in 2024? A definite area for improvement. And speaking of internet, I’m still shaking my head about the laptop workspace – just barely big enough for a phone and a coffee (thank you, complimentary coffee!).
Things to Do & Ways to Relax (Or, How I Tried to De-Stress)
Okay, this is where the "Oasis" part sort of kicks in.
- The Pool: They have a pretty good swimming pool [outdoor] that's well-maintained, surrounded by loungers, and has some great views. The Pool with view is a definite selling point.
- Spa & Sauna: I was dying to experience the Spa/sauna that they tout, but I got there one afternoon and the sauna was out of order. The Spa offers a good range of treatments including Body scrub and Body wrap for total decadence.
- Fitness Center: I can't believe I actually hit up the Fitness center, but it has all the basics.
- More Relaxation: The foot bath and massage options sound like a perfect ending to the day. I never got around to them. Maybe next time
Cleanliness and Safety: Did They Really Clean?
I give them points for effort. The anti-viral cleaning products and rooms sanitized between stays, is really essential these days. The daily disinfection in common areas and the constant presence of hand sanitizer felt reassuring. I noticed the CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property . Their staff seemed well-trained in the safety protocols. I still brought my own sanitizing wipes, of course.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Fueling the Adventure
The restaurants offer an array of choices. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was tasty enough. The Western cuisine in restaurant was… well, let's just say it wasn't quite Michelin-star level. I appreciated the breakfast [buffet], with its Asian breakfast and Western breakfast, though. Pro-tip: get there early before the crowds descend. The coffee shop served decent coffee, which was essential given the Wi-Fi situation. Had a cocktail at the bar, which was good, and the poolside bar was a nice spot for happy hour.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (Mostly)
The concierge was helpful. The laundry service was a lifesaver (especially after my little parking incident). The daily housekeeping was efficient. Room service [24-hour] is always a win. The convenience store was handy for drinks and snacks.
I found the staff trained in safety protocol very reassuring.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly or Family-Frustrating?
I didn't bring any kids, but I did see some families. They offer babysitting service. The presence of family/child friendly facilities is great. There were also kids facilities.
Getting Around and Other Nice-To-Haves
The airport transfer I mentioned was smooth. The car park [on-site] that was a free for vehicles is good. The taxi service is readily available, which is essential because I'm still not sure how I'd get around, otherwise.
The Bottom Line: Should You Book This?
Look, the Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis has its flaws. The internet is consistently frustrating. The parking lot? A joke. And there's that slight feeling that they are not quite delivering on all their promises.
BUT…
That said, it's a solid choice. It has its good points: the spacious rooms, the amenities, the swimming pool.
MY HONEST TAKE:
It's a good option. It offers a lovely escape.
Book it if:
- You're looking for a hotel with a pool!
- If you want to be in the area.
- The 2-bedroom is spacious and you just need some room,
Don't book it if:
- You depend on the internet.
- You require perfect accessibility.
SPECIAL OFFER (Because Everyone Loves a Deal!)
Okay, here's the deal, based on my experience (Take it or leave it!). I'm offering a special package deal based on my experiences, for all of you, to sweeten the pot and maybe, just maybe, make up for some of the foibles:
Book within the next 7 days and get:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi booster (because I know the struggle is real!)
- Breakfast Included!!
- A bottle of wine
Use the code "HONESTREVIEW" at check-out.
Final Verdict: The Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis has the potential to be a true oasis. With a few tweaks (particularly the Wi-Fi!), it could be an absolutely perfect place. But even as it stands, it’s a beautiful hotel with a unique experience that is worth checking out.
Wojo Hotel China: Your Luxurious Escape Awaits!
Okay, buckle up, buttercups. This isn’t your perfectly-curated Instagram feed. This is me, raw and unfiltered, attempting a "travel itinerary" for a stay at the "Homey 2BR Apt @ Grand Palace Kemayoran By Travelio Indonesia." Get ready for a rollercoaster.
The Kemayoran Chaos: A Totally Unrealistic Itinerary (Because, Let’s Be Honest, That’s How It Goes)
Day 0: The Pre-Trip Freakout (And the Airport Shuffle)
- Morning (5:00 AM): Wake up SCREAMING. Okay, maybe not screaming but the internal monologue is definitely yelling. Did I pack enough socks? Did I remember to turn off the iron? Ugh, the iron. And is my passport actually in my bag? Probably not. Start frantically rummaging. Find passport. Relief. Briefly consider a celebratory pastry. Abandon pastry idea because, you know, "beach bod" (lie).
- Late Morning (10:00 AM): Finally at the airport. The chaos begins. Queue for check-in is longer than the Great Wall of China. Someone’s kid is screaming. Mine would be too. The guy in front of me is arguing with the airline about his extra-large suitcase (which is, frankly, ridiculous). I silently judge. And covet his travel pillow.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): The flight. Ah, the joys. Squeezed in between a snorer and someone who clearly hasn't showered in days. Try to sleep. Fail epically. Watch three terrible movies. Eat airplane food that could be used as a weapon. Vow never to fly again. (Spoiler alert: I will).
- Evening (4:00 PM): Land in Jakarta. The heat hits you like a physical force. It's sticky and humid and my hair immediately transforms into a frizz monster. Find the pre-booked Grab car. (Success! So far…)
- Evening (6:00 PM): Arrive at the "Homey 2BR Apt @ Grand Palace Kemayoran By Travelio Indonesia." Pray it’s not a total disaster. (It's fine. It's actually pretty nice, though the pictures online were definitely taken with some serious filters. The wifi, however, is a godsend.)
Day 1: Orientation and Over-Enthusiasm (Followed by a Nap)
- Morning (8:00 AM): Wake up after a surprisingly decent night's sleep. The jetlag is trying to rear its ugly head, but I'm fighting it. Coffee. Strong coffee. Check out the tiny balcony and feel like a miniature version of someone living in an apartment.
- Mid-Morning (10:00 AM): Officially "explore." The local area. Walk around, get lost, find a warung (local food stall) that looks promising. Order something I can't pronounce but smells AMAZING. It's, like, spicy and delicious and I feel like I’ve tapped into the soul of Jakarta. (Note: It will probably give me the runs later, but right now, it's glorious.) Take a million photos of everything, because, duh.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Decide to be a "cultural explorer." Head to a local market and get overwhelmed by the sensory overload. The smells! The colors! The people! Bargaining like a pro (or at least, I think I am). Buy a ridiculously oversized hat I’ll never wear again. Regret it immediately but embrace my new life as a ridiculous tourist.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Okay, the heat is winning. Completely. Seek refuge in the apartment. Collapse on the sofa. Nap. A glorious, glorious nap.
- Evening (7:00 PM): Decide, on a whim, to head back to the market for dinner, or at least a snack. The street food beckons. Re-encounter the same food stall and am greeted with a look of amusement, so I order the same delicious food. Savor the food, feeling all sorts of smug and satisfied. Then discover a tiny, incredibly cute cat that has adopted me as a pet. (I don’t adopt the cat. I just pet it and it purrs. My heart melts.)
- Night (9:00 PM): Realize, in a panic, that I haven’t actually showered today. Face plant back at the apartment. Shower. Stumble into bed, absolutely exhausted, and feel incredibly grateful for the air conditioning.
Day 2: The "Historical Stuff" and the "Foodie Adventure" (Possibly Intertwined… with a Side of Impromptu Karaoke)
- Morning (9:00 AM): Wake up feeling somewhat rested (miracle!). Determine to finally see some historical sights. Head to the National Monument (Monas). It’s… tall. And crowded. But also impressive. Take more photos. Pretend to understand the historical significance of everything. Secretly just enjoy the people-watching.
- Mid-Morning (11:00 AM): Wander around Old Town (Kota Tua). It’s charming in a slightly dilapidated way. Take photos of the old buildings… decide to make myself the subject of photos. Feel the sudden itch to pose. I look like a ridiculous, yet happy, tourist.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Food. Gotta eat. Spend an hour trying to find a specific restaurant I saw online. Get lost again. End up stumbling upon a tiny, hole-in-the-wall place that serves… ah, some sort of delicious Indonesian food. It’s beyond my ability to describe it. It involves spices, rice, and something that is definitely not on my diet. Worth it.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Back to the apartment for a strategic power nap.
- Evening (7:00 PM): After being a little refreshed, I decide to embrace The Night! I've seen places that provide karaoke, and a bunch nearby seems to beckon. Drinks are had. Confidence is gained. The karaoke is… well, let's just say my singing voice is better suited for the shower. But it’s hilarious and I don’t care, and the locals are surprisingly supportive. (Or maybe they're just laughing with me.)
- Night (10:00 PM): Stumble back to the apartment. In a haze of giggles, I remember I have a bag of snacks, and I devour it right before I faceplant into bed, my brain still buzzing with the day's adventures.
Day 3: The Departure (And the Bitter-Sweet Goodbye)
- Morning (7:00 AM): Wake up feeling remarkably… okay. No hangover! Pack. Repack. Realize I’ve bought way too much stuff. Try to jam it all into my suitcase. Fail. Start panicking about extra baggage fees.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM): Final breakfast at the same warung. Say my goodbyes to the adorable cat. (Maybe leave a little something for it. You know, the little cat is such a sweetie.)
- Afternoon (12:00 PM): Check out of the "Homey 2BR Apt @ Grand Palace Kemayoran By Travelio Indonesia." The apartment was… well, it wasn’t the Ritz, but it was a decent basecamp for my Jakarta adventure. The best part? The feeling of space. And the air conditioning.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM): Uber ride to the airport. Traffic is, of course, horrific. Stress levels rise. Contemplate walking the rest of the way. Reject that idea.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM): Airport chaos again. Check-in. Security. The usual.
- Evening (6:00 PM): On the flight. Looking back at the last few days, I feel a strange mix of exhaustion and elation. I saw, I ate, I sang, I got lost, I embarrassed myself. All of it worth it.
- Night (9:00 PM): The plane takes off, and I close my eyes. I fall asleep and dream of spicy food, adorable cats, and more adventures.
- And then, back home, I spend the next two weeks battling the jetlag, and I'm already planning my next trip.
Luxury 2BR Grand Palace Kemayoran Oasis: Honestly, Let's Do This FAQ!
Is this place *really* as fancy as it sounds? "Grand Palace," seriously?
Okay, so "Grand Palace" is a bold claim, right? I mean, are we talking Versailles? Nope. But, and this is a big but, it's def *grand-ish*. Think upscale apartment with a lobby that actually makes you *want* to linger. I walked in, and okay, first thought was, 'Woah, someone's got serious money'. The marble? Glorious. The chandelier? Probably more expensive than my car. Then, a tiny moment of panic - am I dressed *right*? (Spoiler alert: I wasn't, but nobody cared). So, yes, fancy. Surprisingly approachable fancy, though. Not the stuffy 'don't-breathe-on-the-sofa' kind of fancy. Mostly.
What's the deal with the location, Kemayoran? Is it *actually* an oasis? Because…Jakarta traffic, right?
Kemayoran. Hmm. Okay, let's be real. It's Jakarta. Oasis? Maybe a *slightly* exaggerated marketing term. But hear me out! My experience involved a near-death experience with a bajaj and a taxi driver who seemed to think the gas pedal was a suggestion. However, once *inside* the complex... the oasis vibe *definitely* kicks in. The pool? Lush. The landscaping? Seriously well-maintained. It's like a walled garden of zen, shielding you from the glorious chaos of Jakarta. Plus, relatively speaking, it’s actually pretty well-connected. I managed to find amazing street food (more on that later) and a decent mall without completely losing my will to live. The traffic, though... yeah, plan accordingly. Early mornings are your friend, or embrace the chaos.
The 2-Bedroom. Is it actually big enough for, like, a family, or are we talking 'cramped luxury'?
Alright, the 2-bedroom. This is where things shine. *Space*. Glorious, sprawling space. Okay, not Buckingham Palace-level space, but seriously plenty. We're talking proper bedrooms with their own bathrooms. No fighting for the shower after a long day of battling the traffic! My friend and I had so much room, we actually had a pillow fight (don't judge). The living room… oh, the living room! Seriously, a comfortable living room is KEY. I could actually do a yoga session (if I was into yoga), and I am not! It would be perfect for a family with kids. The kitchen… well, I didn’t cook. But it looked well-equipped, I'll tell you that much. Plenty of space for whatever your culinary dreams (or takeout fantasies) may be. The balcony… it’s the perfect escape.
Amenities. What's actually *useful*? I'm not impressed by a gym I'll never use.
Okay, the amenities. Here's the truth: I did actually *use* the gym. Not every day, let's be realistic, but I did! It has enough equipment and isn't the size of a football field. The pool? Divine. Spent a solid afternoon pretending to be a mermaid. The on-site restaurant? Convenient, but maybe not award-winning cuisine. The real winner? The *staff*. Seriously, they were phenomenal. Friendly, helpful, and managed to remember my coffee order after the *first* day! That made a HUGE difference. Oh, and the Wi-Fi? Solid. Essential for staying connected to reality (or escaping it, depending on your mood).
Any hidden downsides? The catch?
Okay, the hidden downsides. There's always a catch, right? Hmm… The noise from the road in the morning, probably. But, seriously, you are in Jakarta! Be ready for sounds. The "luxurious" is probably not actually a palace, but, a very, very nice apartment. The price, of course. It wasn't *cheap*. But considering the space, the location, the amenities… and the staff!… it felt worth the splurge. The biggest problem? The temptation to never leave and to order room service for every meal. Seriously, you could get used to that lifestyle very, very quickly.
Seriously, what was the *best* part? Be brutally honest.
Okay, the *best* part. This is where things get a little… sentimental, maybe? I had a really, really rough week before I arrived, and the stress was killing me. The moment I walked into that apartment, I just… exhaled. Like, actually exhaled the accumulated tension of a thousand bad meetings and even worse emails. I opened a window, looked out at the city, and felt… peace. That. That feeling of being *completely* comfortable and taken care of… that's what I'll remember. The fancy furniture was nice, the pool was amazing, but that feeling of sanctuary? Priceless. Also, the street food. Seriously, hunt down the sate ayam. Trust me on this.
What are some common issues that come with this property?
Real talk? Okay, so, nothing's perfect, right? One thing that bugged me - and this is knit-picky, I admit - the water pressure in the shower could have been a bit stronger. Not *terrible*, mind you, but I'm a person who likes a good, invigorating shower! And the lift, a couple of times the wait was longer that expected. Also, if you’re not good with heights, get a room lower down, because the balcony view is amazing, and maybe a bit vertigo-inducing for some.
Would you stay there again? Would you recommend it?
Absolutely. 100% yes. Would I recommend it? Yes, with a few caveats. If you're looking for a truly luxurious escape in Jakarta, with space, comfort, and a touch of glam, then this is it. Just be prepared for the traffic. And pack extra snacks. You might just never want to leave. Honestly, I'm already looking at dates for a return trip! Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm suddenly craving sate ayam...
