Unbelievable Padang Paradise: RedDoorz Syariah's Hidden Gem!
Unbelievable Padang Paradise: RedDoorz Syariah - My Chaotic, Wonderful, and Sometimes Slightly Confusing Adventure!
Okay, so "Unbelievable Padang Paradise"? That's a HUGE claim, RedDoorz. Let's see if this hidden gem actually sparkles, shall we? I just got back, and honestly? It's a bit of a mixed bag. Like, a delicious, spicy, Indonesian mixed bag with a side of "wait, what just happened?" Let's dive in, shall we?
First Impressions & The Accessibility Maze
Getting there was… an adventure. Forget sleek airport shuttles; I took a cramped taxi, weaving through the Padang traffic. That's not the hotel's fault, obviously. đđ¨ Upon arrival, I was immediately struck by… well, the exterior. It’s not exactly the architectural marvel promised in the brochures. Think… functional. But hey, clean is good, right?
- Accessibility: Okay, this is where things get a little tricky. The website boasts "Facilities for disabled guests," which is great! But navigating the hotel itself? Let's just say it requires a healthy dose of patience and a good sense of adventure. The elevator exists, which is a massive win. But some hallways felt a bit…narrow. I didn't have any mobility issues myself, but I definitely questioned how easy it would be for someone with mobility challenges. Verdict: It’s a mixed bag. I would definitely call ahead and ask specific questions if accessibility is a key concern. (Keywords: Accessibility, Wheelchair accessible, Facilities for disabled guests).
The Digital World & Keeping Connected (or Trying To!)
Right, let's talk about the digital stuff, because in this day and age— it matters.
- Internet: Okay, so this is a BIG DEAL for me. I need Wi-Fi. Like, need-need. The promise of "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" is music to my ears. And, well, it was kinda true. Eventually. Sometimes. The signal strength varied wildly, and I spent a significant amount of time doing the "close the laptop, pace around the room, reopen the laptop, whisper a prayer" dance. Thank heavens for the Wi-Fi in public areas, because sometimes the lobby was the only place I could reliably get a connection. They even had Internet [LAN] which I found hilarious in 2024. Verdict: Free, but temper your expectations. Bring a backup hotspot, just in case. (Keywords: Internet, Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, Internet [LAN], Internet services, Wi-Fi in public areas).
Relaxation and the Spa-tacular Dreams (or Mild Disappointments)
Okay, now for the fun stuff! Padang Paradise promised relaxation! Let's see…
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: They’ve got a Swimming pool [outdoor]! Score! It was actually pretty lovely, overlooking the rice paddies, which was surprisingly breathtaking. Then there was the promise of a Spa, Sauna, and Steamroom. I got excited. I dreamt of body wraps and massages! But here’s the thing… the spa seemed… well, let's say it wasn't exactly operational at the moment. I asked about a Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, the friendly but slightly confused staff led me down a dark hallway and, well… let's just say that part of my relaxation experience was a little underwhelming. However, they did offer a mean Foot bath at the reception. Verdict: The pool is great. The spa…let's hope it gets its act together soon. (Keywords: Spa, Sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor], Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, Foot bath).
Fitness Center: Oh, and there was a Gym/fitness! I peered inside. It looked… adequate. A couple of treadmills, some weights. Nothing fancy, but it'll do if you are trying to burn off some calories. Verdict: Didn’t use it, didn’t see anyone else use it. (Keywords: Gym/fitness, Fitness center)
Cleanliness, Safety, and the COVID-Era Reality
Okay, let's get serious for a sec. Pandemic, and all, right? I care about this.
Cleanliness and safety: They seemed genuinely committed to it! I saw staff constantly cleaning. Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and a noticeable emphasis on Hand sanitizer. They offered Room sanitization opt-out available and the Rooms sanitized between stays. They even had staff, Staff trained in safety protocol. Seriously impressive. They're also following Physical distancing of at least 1 meter. Verdict: A+ for trying, definitely felt safe. (Keywords: Cleanliness and safety, Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Staff trained in safety protocol).
Safety features: Felt secure! CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property. They got Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, Smoke detectors, 24-hour security, and Safety/security feature! Verdict: Peace of mind. (Keywords: CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarms, Smoke detectors, Security [24-hour], Safety/security feature).
Food Glorious Food! (and the Occasional Culinary Mystery)
Oh, the food! This is where things really get interesting.
Dining, drinking, and snacking: They've got a Restaurants! I was so excited! They boasted Asian cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant! The A la carte in restaurant, Buffet in restaurant, Breakfast [buffet], Coffee/tea in restaurant. Also a Bar and Poolside bar with a Happy hour. I love the Snack bar too! I was in heaven!
The Breakfast [buffet]? A mixed bag. Some days were a triumph of Indonesian flavors, other days… well, let's just say the scrambled eggs were an experience. But hey, the coffee was good, and the service was friendly!
Then there's Room service [24-hour] which is a HUGE plus! I ordered a Bottle of water which they brought up immediately. I am a fan of the Desserts in restaurant! Also a lot of Salad in restaurant! Verdict: Food adventure! Be prepared to embrace the unexpected. Definitely try the local dishes. And the coffee, I mentioned the coffee, right? (Keywords: Dining, drinking, and snacking, A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar).
Special Dietary needs: They’ve got Alternative meal arrangement, Vegetarian restaurant. No worries. Verdict: A+ Flexibility! (Keywords: Alternative meal arrangement, Vegetarian restaurant).
Services, Conveniences, and the Little Things That Matter
Services and conveniences: They’ve got a ton! Air conditioning in public area, Cash withdrawal, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Smoking area, Terrace, Xerox/fax in business center, Air conditioning, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, Ironing facilities, Mini bar, Safe box, Slippers, Towels, Wake-up service, Window that opens. But there's more!
The Concierge was super friendly and helpful, always ready with a smile. Cashless payment service was available. Daily housekeeping was efficient and thorough. They even had a Convenience store which was handy for late-night snack runs. I used Dry cleaning, Ironing service, Laundry service and they were on-point! Verdict: They've thought of almost everything, and the staff are genuinely lovely. (Keywords: Air conditioning in public area, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Convenience store, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Safety deposit boxes, Smoking area, Terrace, Xerox/fax in business center, Air conditioning, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, Ironing facilities, Mini bar, Safe box, Slippers, Towels, Wake-up service, Window that opens).
For the Kids: No kids, so I couldn't test this directly. They had Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal, which looks good on paper! Verdict: Family-friendly, though further investigation is needed. (Keywords: Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal)
The Bedroom - Your Personal Oasis (Mostly)
Okay, let’s talk about the rooms!
Escape to Paradise: Your Own Blue Mountains Tiny Home Awaits!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups. Because this ain't your typical travel doc. This is gonna be a messy, honest, and hopefully hilarious adventure. Picture this: me, bleary-eyed, probably still trying to figure out how to operate the coffee machine, landing in Padang, Indonesia, with a reservation at RedDoorz Syariah @ Jalan Andalas. I chose this place mostly because, let's be honest, the price was right and the reviews weren't catastrophically bad. Now, let's see if my gut feeling was correct, or if I'm in for a week straight of questionable plumbing and questionable choices!
Day 1: Padang Panic and Finding My Feet (and Maybe My Luggage)
7:00 AM (Give or take an hour…or two): Ugh, the flight. Let's just say those tiny airplane peanuts were the highlight. Finally, I stumble out of Minangkabau International Airport. My luggage? Mysteriously absent. Wonderful. Panic levels: Moderate. I blame the pre-flight cocktails. (Don't judge me, travel is stressful!)
8:00 AM: After a frantic search that feels like forever, I finally found the Airport Taxi, a rather grumpy-looking man with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth and a surprisingly reliable car. The drive to RedDoorz was a whirlwind of vibrant colours, chaotic traffic (motorbikes! EVERYWHERE!), and the lingering scent of…well, I'm not entirely sure, but it smelled like a new adventure.
9:00 AM: Check-in at RedDoorz. Okay, the lobby is…basic. Let's just say it's got that "budget traveller chic" vibe. The receptionist, a very sweet but slightly overwhelmed young woman, informs me my room is ready… but my luggage remains on a different continent. Sigh.
10:00 AM: Room inspection. Okay, the bed looks clean. The air conditioning is…functioning, although it sounds like a dying walrus. The bathroom? Well, let's just say I'm hoping I don't develop a phobia of squat toilets. And the view…? Honestly, I think it's a wall. But hey, it's a roof over my head, and I'm trying to be optimistic.
11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: Explore! Well, sort of. I ventured out, desperately searching for a convenience store and, crucially, toiletries. (I really need deodorant. And maybe a toothbrush.) The streets of Padang are a sensory overload – the calls to prayer echoing from mosques, the constant buzz of motorbikes, the incredibly friendly locals who keep trying to sell me things in a language I barely grasp. It's exhilarating and exhausting all at once. I managed to snag some instant noodles, which is now my staple diet, and a bottle of water. Success? Yes.
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Lunch at a local "warung" (small restaurant). I pointed at a steaming plate of food because I had no idea what I was ordering, but it looked delicious and I was starving. Turns out it was Nasi Padang (rice with various sides). It was AMAZING. So much flavour, so much spice. This is what I came here for! I nearly broke my back trying to take pictures, but it's all worth it. I swear, this could be the food-version of heaven. It was so, so, good. I'm still wondering if I can go back again.
3:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Let's be honest, this was a nap. I crashed hard. Jet lag, luggage woes, and spicy food all took their toll. Woke up at sunset, with plans to grab some dinner again, with the aim of hitting the streets.
8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Wandered around. Saw some pretty lights. Got slightly lost. Ended up in a very busy night market, filled with more food stalls! This time I opted for something slightly less adventurous. I ended the day with a delicious piece of fried chicken and a bottle of water! The perfect ending to the kind of day I've had.
10:00 PM: Back to the hotel. I'm exhausted, but also strangely happy. My first day in Padang has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, panic and delight. And tomorrow? Who knows. Hopefully, my luggage will arrive. And hopefully, I'll figure out how to navigate the traffic without getting flattened by a motorbike. Wish me luck!
Day 2: The Beach, Betrayal, and The Best Smoothie of My Life
7:00 AM: Wake up feeling like I've wrestled a rhinoceros. Ugh, the bed is hard. I'll never get used to the bed here. Breakfast (instant noodles, again, thanks to the convenient store).
8:00 AM: I finally manage to hail a ride, getting to the beach. The driver seems to know all the shortcuts, which is equal parts thrilling and terrifying.
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: The beach! Pantai Air Manis. It's stunning. Powdery sand, turquoise water, and the kind of scenery that just makes you breathe deeply and feel good. I spent hours just wandering around, trying to get some pictures. I even tried to get into the water, but it was a bit cold. Plus, I am still without my luggage!
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: Lunch at a beachside warung. I ordered grilled fish. I was betrayed! I trusted the vendor to give me some great fish, but it seemed to be a bit burnt. Nonetheless, it was the kind of thing you'd only get in the moment.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM: The Smoothie Revelation. I was feeling a little down about the fish, so I spotted a little stall selling fresh fruit smoothies. And, oh. My. God. The mango smoothie. It was the nectar of the gods. Thick, creamy, bursting with flavour…it was the best smoothie I've ever tasted in my life. I'm seriously considering moving to Padang just to have that smoothie every day. I mean it.
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Back to the beach! I chilled a bit longer, then spent hours, just people-watching and taking in the atmosphere. It was paradise, despite everything.
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Back to the hotel to take a shower. To my surprise, I felt much better. Went to the local store because it was the only thing that I knew near the hotel, and it was still full of stuff that I needed.
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Hit the streets and grabbed some dinner (rice and another food item that I didn't know).
8:00 PM-9:00 PM: Walked back to RedDoorz. The air was warm and sticky, but at least I'm not going to the airport tomorrow. I am just going to enjoy my stay.
9:00 PM: Fell asleep.
Day 3 - 7: The Whirlwind Continues (and the Search for the Perfect Adventure)
- I don't plan every detail because it will be the essence of this adventure.
- I will visit places and learn.
- I will meet unique people.
- I will taste flavors.
(Details to be filled in as I go! But trust me, it'll involve more food, more adventures, and a whole lot more chaos. Let's see how the hotel, the food, and (eventually) my luggage hold up!)
Unbelievable! This Blitar Hotel Blew My Mind (SUPER OYO 91618 Review)
Unbelievable Padang Paradise: RedDoorz Syariah's Hidden Gem - Maybe? (Let's Be Honest!)
Alright, alright, buckle up, buttercups. You're probably thinking, "RedDoorz Syariah? Padang? Paradise? Sounds a bit...much." And honestly? You're not wrong. I mean, I've seen better, I've seen worse. Let's just say my stay at the Unbelievable Padang Paradise (yes, that's really what they call it, bless their hearts) was...an *experience*. Here's the messy, honest truth in FAQ format.
So, what *is* the "Unbelievable" about this place? Was it, you know, actually unbelievable?
Okay, that title is a bit of a stretch. "Unbelievable" might be a bit optimistic. I think what they *meant* was, "You won't *believe* the price!" (Which, to be fair, was pretty darn good). But the "unbelievable" part? Let's just say my first impression involved a somewhat enthusiastic swarm of mosquitos. They were *unbelievably* persistent.
But hey, it's a RedDoorz. You're not exactly expecting the Ritz, are you? You *are* expecting a bed, hopefully a clean one, and a roof over your head. And on those fronts, well, it delivered. Kinda. More on that later...
Alright, mosquito armies aside, how's the location? Is it actually near anything?
Ah, the location. It's... Padang-adjacent. Let's put it that way. "Near" depends on your definition of "near." It was a bit of a taxi ride (or a very sweaty, dusty motorcycle ride, your choice!) to the main attractions. But hey, it was quiet! *Too* quiet, perhaps. Sometimes I think the crickets serenaded me at night just to make sure I wasn't *completely* alone. (I'm a sucker for a good cricket choir, though, gotta admit.) Probably a good thing for a Syariah hotel, all that peace and quiet! Less temptation, you know?
The upside? Killer sunsets. Seriously, the sunsets were genuinely *unbelievable*. Maybe that's where the name came from? Or maybe it's just the golden hour over the rice paddies. Either way, worth it. Absolutely worth it. I took so many pictures, my phone practically begged for mercy.
Let's talk about the rooms. Cleanliness? Comfort? Did you find a friendly cockroach roommate?
Okay, this is where things get...interesting. Cleanliness? Well, let's just say I've eaten off cleaner floors (not suggesting I *did*, mind you). The bedsheets looked clean *enough*, which is probably all you can ask for at this price point. I did spot a suspicious stain on the duvet cover that I *chose* to ignore. Ignorance is bliss, people! Ignorance is bliss.
Comfort? The bed was…a bed. Firm. Very firm. Like, probably the same firmness as the rice fields. I'm not saying it was *uncomfortable*, but I wouldn't exactly call it a cloud. My back complained a little. But hey, I'm not exactly getting any younger. And no, thankfully, no cockroach roommates! Though I swear I heard a tiny mouse scurry across the ceiling one night...
Syariah-ness? What did that involve? Were there any rules you weren't expecting?
Right, the Syariah thing. This is important. No alcohol, obviously. Which, fine, I can live with. I wasn't exactly planning on throwing a rager. But! Make sure you're dressed appropriately, because the staff are very aware of the rules. I saw some women in Western-style clothes get a good, hard look. I’m guessing the staff were just doing their job. I got a tiny bit of a side-eye myself for my ripped jeans. (Hey, they’re stylish now!) This is fair play, though. If you are after a Syariah hotel, you should expect it. I guess my rule-breaking jeans were the surprise!
The "gender separation" was interesting, too. Weirdly, I saw a couple of people sharing a room who may or may not have been married, and the staff seemed okay with it. I definitely did expect a little more strictness, to be honest. I didn't ask, of course, but clearly it wasn't enforced with the same rigor I would have expected. I guess they had to make some exceptions for westerners like me. I think it's a good sign!
Food! What about the food? Did you survive? (Padang food is amazing, by the way.)
Okay, YES. Padang food is *divine*. Absolutely, gloriously divine. The hotel itself didn't have much. Breakfast was... well, let's just say it wasn't the highlight. A sad plate of instant noodles and some questionable coffee. But! There were *amazing* warungs (small local restaurants) nearby. Like, incredible rendang that melted in my mouth. Spicy curries that made my nose run in a good way. And the nasi padang (the stacked, help-yourself-to-everything meal) was a revelation. I'm pretty sure I gained five pounds just from inhaling the food.
The trick is to get out there and *explore*. Don't rely on the hotel's food. Venture forth! Find the local warungs. Your taste buds will thank you. And trust me, you *will* survive. You might even thrive.
Staff? Were they friendly? Helpful? Did they speak English?
The staff were... well, they were trying. Let's just say that. English was a bit of a challenge. My Indonesian is... nonexistent. We communicated mostly through a combination of smiles, pointing, and the occasional frantic use of Google Translate. I think they were genuinely trying to be helpful, though. They smiled a lot! And that, sometimes, is enough. Sometimes.
One particularly endearing incident involved me desperately trying to explain that my air conditioning wasn't working. We ended up miming furiously and using a lot of hand gestures. They eventually brought in a mechanic or something. It still didn't work *perfectly*, but hey, at least they tried, right? They're definitely trying their best with what they have.
Would you go back? Honestly.
