Tokyo Riverside Oasis: Your Dream 2BR Awaits in Tangerang!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into a review of – and trust me, after spending a week there, I've got opinions. Forget those sterile, perfectly-written reviews, this is the real deal. We're talking dirt, diamonds, and everything in between.
First Impressions (and the Awkward Elevator Ride):
The website promised luxury, but let’s be honest, websites ALWAYS promise luxury. Pulling up, it looked the part: sleek facade, imposing entrance. But the first hurdle was the elevator. Let's just say it had a personality of its own, lurching to a stop on every floor like it was having a bad case of indigestion. (Note to self: pack a book for future elevator journeys.) Thankfully, once you were IN the doors, the rest of the property really makes you step back and say 'wow…'
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag, Bless Their Hearts:
- Wheelchair Accessible: They say they are. But I saw a guest with a mobility aid struggling a bit with a few of the hallways. It's a tough one - overall, yes, but maybe not perfectly accessible for everyone.
- Facilities for Disabled Guests: Listed, but I'd recommend calling ahead and REALLY drilling down into specifics if accessibility is a must.
- Elevator: (See above. Pray.)
Rooming & Relaxation: My Sanctuary (and My Tiny, Tiny Bathroom Drama)
Let's talk about the holy grail: the room. My room… it was… a room. The bed? Heavenly. Seriously, I sank into it every night like a marshmallow in hot chocolate. Blackout curtains? Essential for this light-sensitive soul. The TV had about a million channels, and honestly, I spent a solid afternoon binge-watching obscure documentaries. (Don't judge.)
- Available in All Rooms: Alright, the basics were covered: Air conditioning (thank GOD), Free Wi-Fi (more on that later), a mini-bar (temptation!), a safe box (peace of mind).
- Bathroom Confessions: The bathroom, though… a little tight. I’m not a big person, but I felt like I was doing the cha-cha just to maneuver. Separate shower/bathtub was a plus, but the space was intimate.
- Internet Access – Wireless (and the WiFi Conundrum): Now, about that "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!"… it worked… sometimes. It was like a temperamental toddler: strong bursts of connection followed by sulky silences. The LAN connection? I didn't even bother.
The Spa, the Pool, and the Bliss…Mostly:
- Spa/Sauna/Steamroom: Oh, the spa. That’s where the magic happened. I indulged in a body scrub that left me feeling like a new woman. My skin GLOWED. The sauna was perfect after a long day exploring, and the steamroom… well, let's just say my sinuses thanked me.
- Pool with a View: Breathtaking. Seriously, the infinity pool overlooking the city was Instagram-worthy. I spent hours lounging there, sipping cocktails (yes, there's a poolside bar!). The only downside? The occasional rogue sunbather hogging the best sun chairs. (More on that later).
- Fitness Center: I braved it once. It was well-equipped, but I'm more of a "walk around and look at things" kind of person. My fitness regime pretty much ended at the buffet breakfast.
Food, Glorious Food (and That One Questionable Salad)
The dining situation was… well, an experience.
- Restaurants: Multiple options, ranging from fancy-pants international cuisine to more casual fare.
- Breakfast [Buffet]: The buffet breakfast was a triumph. Seriously, every single morning, I ate my weight in pastries. The Asian breakfast options were a treat, and the coffee was actually drinkable. But it was that buffet that was my morning escape
- Room Service [24-hour]: A lifesaver after a long day of sightseeing. The menu catered to all tastes, a simple hamburger or something more fancy.
- The Great Salad Tragedy: I ordered a salad for lunch one day. Let's just say it was… adventurous. The greens looked a little… sad. I ate it anyway, because I'm a trooper. No one told me it was going to be all… bitter tastes like it was.
- Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Coffee/tea in restaurant was great. Snack bar? Yes please! And of course, the pool-side bar was essential.
Cleanliness & Safety: The Covid Era's Big Dance
- Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays: Their hygiene was on POINT. Feeling safe was appreciated.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere. Bless ‘em.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: They really were. Everyone was masked, friendly, and seemed to know what they were doing.
Services and Conveniences: A Mixed Bag
- Concierge: Extremely helpful with recommendations. And the staff were just lovely.
- Convenience store: Handy for grabbing essentials.
- Luggage storage: Helpful.
- Cash withdrawal: Yes.
- Dry cleaning/Laundry service: Yes.
- Invoice provided: Absolutely.
Things to Do (Beyond the Buffet): A Little Bit of Everything
- Local Tours: The concierge helped me book tours.
- Shrine: There was a shrine which I did not end up visiting, as my schedule was packed with other activities.
For the Kids: A Family-Friendly Place
- Babysitting: This is an option I did not need myself, but I appreciated being able to see what options there were.
- Kids facilities: Yes.
Getting Around: Easy Peasy (Mostly)
- Airport transfer: Convenient and efficient.
- Car park [free of charge/ on-site]: Plenty of parking.
- Taxi service: Readily available. Valet parking.
NOW FOR THE JUICY BITS: The Good, the Bad, and the Quirky
- The Good: The bed. Oh, the bed! And the spa. And the staff. Seriously, the staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating, always going above and beyond.
- The Bad: The sporadic Wi-Fi. The tiny bathroom. And that… salad.
- The Quirky: I swear, I saw a squirrel trying to steal a croissant from the breakfast buffet one morning. (Okay, maybe I imagined that, but you get the idea.) Also, the music in the elevator was… interesting. A mix of elevator music and elevator-adjacent jazz. It was a whole experience.
Final Verdict: Is This Hotel Worth Your Time (and Money)?
- Absolutely, with a few caveats. It's not perfect, but let’s be real, perfection is boring. The pros – the comfort, the spa, the service – outweigh the cons. If you're looking for a luxurious getaway with a touch of quirky charm, is a solid choice.
- My Target Audience: This hotel is perfect for couples, solo travelers looking for a bit of pampering, and anyone who appreciates a good bed and a strong cocktail. Families with kids will also find it accommodating.
**The Honest Pitch: A Compelling Offer for **
Here's Why You NEED to Book NOW:
Imagine, if you will:
- Waking up in a cloud-like bed, sunlight streaming through your blackout curtains.
- Indulging in a massage that melts away all your stress.
- Sipping cocktails poolside, with a view that will make your friends jealous.
- Exploring the city by day, and returning to a haven of comfort and relaxation each night.
And the Added BONUS?!
- Free Wi-Fi in ALL Rooms! … (fingers crossed that it behaves).
- Exclusive access to our phenomenal spa, with special offers!
- A chance to avoid that questionable salad. (You know, just in case.)
**So, what are you waiting for? Book your stay at and prepare for an experience that's luxurious, comfortable, and just a little bit… *quirky. I mean, there’s a squirrel in the breakfast buffet. (May or may not be true). But really, book it. You deserve it. Just pack a book for the elevator.
Unbelievable Palas Ilıca Cesme: Turkey's Hidden Paradise Revealed!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's perfectly polished itinerary. We're heading to Tokyo Riverside PIK 2 in Tangerang, Indonesia, and it's gonna be a wild ride. Let's see if I can even remember what I planned, half the time I'm winging it anyway…
The "Nice Elegant 2BR Tokyo Riverside PIK 2 By Travelio" - A Chaotic Adventure
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Apartment Hunt (And a Near-Panic Attack)
- Morning (like, super early): Ugh, Jakarta traffic. The airport transfer was supposed to be… well, smooth. It wasn't. Turns out, "smooth" is a relative term when you're crammed in a car with three other people who think the horn is a form of musical expression. Arriving at the apartment complex, the sheer size of it hit me. Buildings stretching into the smoggy sky. My brain short-circuited for a second.
- Mid-Morning: Finding the building, the key, figuring out the parking situation (are we even allowed to park?) - the real adventure began. Let’s just say, I nearly started weeping when I couldn't figure out the f***ing elevator. It took about 20 minutes, and some VERY awkward charades with a security guard who probably thought I was insane, before I found the right button.
- Lunch: Finally, inside the apartment. It looks nice, elegant even… in the pictures. In reality? Still unpacking, still sweating, and the mini-fridge hadn't even been turned on. I swear I heard a tiny whimper escape my lips. Grabbed some instant noodles from the "convenience store" downstairs - an adventure in itself! The staff spoke like, zero English and acted like I was from another planet when I just wanted to pay. Victory! Ramen acquired.
- Afternoon: Honestly, just collapsing on the (hopefully) clean couch. The view is kinda amazing though. That river… or is it a drainage canal? Whatever, it’s the water. Let it soothe you. The rest of the day will be the same.
- Evening: Attempted to order dinner via Gojek. "Attempted" being the operative word. Turns out, “addressing the apartment accurately” in Indonesian is an art form. It took three phone calls and some serious translation gymnastics just to get a nasi goreng delivered. The food? Actually, pretty damn good. But I’m still starving.
Day 2: Exploring PIK 2 and the Eternal Search for Coffee
- Morning: Wake up feeling somewhat human, after a nights-sleep on a possibly-clean bed, maybe? And then the real test. Coffee. My life blood. The quest for a decent brew began. Turns out, finding good coffee near Tokyo Riverside PIK 2… is not a straightforward task. Wandered in a daze of exhaustion looking for the perfect cafe!
- Mid-Morning: After a long search, I found a coffee shop. The vibe was great, but the coffee tasted like burnt… something. I almost cried. That was it.
- Lunch: Okay, so the food choices at PIK 2 are… varied. I stumbled into a random restaurant. The food was… a surprise. Was it good? I dunno.
- Afternoon: Exploring the "Tokyo Riverside". Seriously, this place is HUGE. It’s all very… manufactured. But the scenery. The architecture. The attempt to recreate something cool, is actually cool.
- Evening: Attempt to get back to the apartment without getting lost, which failed, and resulted in me being completely mentally drained. The same result.
Day 3: The Great Escape and a Final Farewell (Maybe for Now)
- Morning: Pack. Ugh, packing. I am terrible at packing. The feeling of finishing up this trip, however, is great! I almost feel sad. Almost. But I'm ready to go home.
- Mid-Morning: Double-check the locks, leave a note for the cleaning lady, and make a mental note to never book a flight arriving at Jakarta at 3 AM ever again.
- Lunch: Grab, a final, hurried lunch at my favorite warung. The lady remembered my order! This is the real Indonesia.
- Afternoon: The drive back to the airport… This time, with the knowledge of what to expect.
- Evening: Boarding my flight. Jakarta… you were a trip. I survived. And I'll probably be back. Eventually.
Observations, Rants, and Ramblings:
- Language Barrier: My Indonesian is… nonexistent. Learn some basic phrases before you go. Trust me. And a phrase like "Where is the bathroom?" would be wise.
- Traffic: Jakarta traffic is legendary. Plan accordingly. Seriously. Build in extra time. And pray.
- Food: The food is amazing. Try everything. Be brave. Your stomach might hate you, but your taste buds will thank you.
- The Apartment: It was… nice. It’s probably what I imagined. The view was excellent.
- Final Thoughts: Indonesia is a sensory overload. It's beautiful, chaotic, frustrating, and utterly captivating. Embrace the mess, the imperfections, the unexpected detours. That's where the real memories are made. And maybe, just maybe, you'll find a decent cup of coffee along the way.
This, my friends, is my actual travel experience, in all its messy, glorious, and utterly human glory. Enjoy your trip! And remember to bring your sense of humor… and maybe a good phrase book!
Urashima Inn: Escape to Japan's Hidden Gem in Onomichi!
Okay, *why* sourdough? Aren't there, like, easier breads?
Ugh, don't even *start* with me. "Easy." That's what got me into this, the *promise* of easy. Pinterest, you liar! I saw those gorgeous, Instagram-worthy loaves, all crusty and perfect and imagined myself a domestic goddess. A *bread* goddess, specifically. Now I look like I've been wrestling a sentient blob of flour and water. My counter? A crime scene. My apartment? Smells faintly of desperation and wild fermentation. But... there's also something *magical* about it. Something primal. Like, you're *creating* something, feeding a *thing* that's *alive*. Okay, I'm getting weird. Anyway, yes, there are *definitely* easier breads. But this, this is a quest. And I'm, stubbornly, still in the arena.
So, the starter… that seems important. What's the story there?
The starter. Oh, the *starter*. Mine is named… (clears throat) … I'm not going to reveal the name. It's embarrassing. Okay, fine, it's Mortimer. And Mortimer, folks, is… temperamental. Mortimer, after a promising week (bubbles! Fruity smell!) decided to take a *vacation*. Went flat. Refused to rise. I swear, I nearly wept. Like, actual, genuine tears. I'd *fed* him, given him everything he needed, and he just… sulked. I even talked to him! Told him, "Mortimer, we can do this! We can bake the perfect bread!" Yeah. Cringe. But after a few failed attempts to revive him (and some frantic Googling), Mortimer *finally* decided to cooperate. I feel like he's watching me now. I can't eat a single crumb of bread without feeling guilty.
What's the worst thing that's happened so far?
Oh, pick one! The time the dough got stuck to the banneton (that round, cute little basket thingy) and I had to *scrape* it off with a spatula? Or the time I *forgot* it in the oven and it burned to a rock-hard, inedible brick? Or the time I, and I'm not proud of this, *threw* the dough across the kitchen because I was so frustrated? (Don't judge, it's a *process*). But the WORST, and I mean absolutely *devastating* failure? Okay, so picture this: I'd been agonizing over this loaf for DAYS. Feeding Mortimer, proofing the dough, all the meticulous steps. I was *convinced* it was going to be the one. The *perfect* loaf. I carefully scored the top, slid it into the Dutch oven, and… waited. Hour later, it's still just there, looking sad. I opened the oven and it looked gorgeous! The steam escaped. Popped it out... and it was FLAT AS A PANCAKE. Utterly, completely, pancake-like. The saddest, most deflated sourdough I've ever seen. I think I stared at it for a good fifteen minutes, then went and ate a whole sleeve of Oreos. I haven't recovered.
Any tips for aspiring sourdough bakers?
Oh, *tips*. Right. Okay, here's the thing: Don't believe anyone who says it's easy. It's not. It's a love-hate relationship with flour, water, and a tiny, constantly-whining microbe colony.
1. **Be patient.** (I'm still working on this). Things take time. Lots of time. And you'll probably mess up. A lot.
2. **Don't be afraid to fail.** Embrace the fail! Take photos of the failures. That's what I do. Honestly, my phone is full of sad, misshapen loaves. It's a testament to perserverence.
3. **Join a sourdough group.** Commiserate. Learn from other people's mistakes (and successes!). Share photos of your blobs (or not blobs! I'm still working on it!)
4. **Read a lot.** Watch YouTube videos. Then ignore all the advice and do you.
5. **Accept that you might end up with a house that smells vaguely of feet.** The fermentation process is a *wild* ride.
Seriously though? Just… keep going. The glorious moment when you bite into a piece of delicious, homemade sourdough, after all the failures and the hours, it will be *almost* worth it. (Still waiting for that moment, but I *hear* it's amazing). And maybe, just maybe, you'll end up with a slightly less pathetic loaf than my current track record.
Is it worth it? Really?
Honestly? Sometimes I ask myself that question while scraping another burnt loaf out of the Dutch oven. Sometimes, I'm staring at Mortimer, wondering if I should just ditch him, and buy a loaf of bread from the store. (Shhh! Don't tell Mortimer I said that!). But then… I remember the smell of fresh-baked bread filling the kitchen, even when it's a complete disaster. I remember the feeling of mixing the dough, the slight, almost imperceptible, rise as it begins to proof. I realize that the quest, is... part of the point. It *is* worth it. Even when it's not (and honestly, a lot of the time, it's *not*). Because sourdough, like life, is messy, unpredictable, and full of the potential for both triumph and utter, soul-crushing defeat. And isn't that, in its own weird way, kind of beautiful? (Okay, I'm getting philosophical again. Time to feed Mortimer.)
Any advice to someone considering this endeavor?
Run. Just kidding! (Kind of). Honestly, if you are prone to perfectionism, be very, very careful. Sourdough will *break* you. It's like a toddler: unpredictable, messy, and completely reliant on your attention.
My real advice would be, start out simple. Pick the easiest recipe you can find and stick to it. Don't try to get fancy. Read the instructions *carefully* (a lesson I'm still learning). And most importantly? Have a sense of humor. You're going to need it. Because at some point, you're going to produce something that looks like a pancake. And you're going to laugh. Because, well, what else can you do? So, if you're still in the arena with Mortimer and the flour, just remember: it's a marathon not a sprint. And it's okay to fail. Really. (I'm telling myself that too. Every. Single. Day.)
Hotel Haven Now
Nice Elegant 2BR Tokyo Riverside PIK 2 By Travelio Tangerang Indonesia
Nice Elegant 2BR Tokyo Riverside PIK 2 By Travelio Tangerang Indonesia
