Indonesian Paradise: Your Minimalist Makassar Royal Escape Awaits!
Indonesian Paradise: My Makassar Royal Escape - The Good, the Bad, and the Surprisingly Sexy Sauna (Seriously?)
Okay, so, "Indonesian Paradise: Your Minimalist Makassar Royal Escape Awaits!" – that's the name, right? Sounds…well, ambitious. I mean, paradise and minimalism? Sounds like a recipe for either nirvana or a very depressing beige room. I booked a few nights at the Indonesian Paradise in Makassar, and let me tell you, it was a ride. Buckle up, buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea, the coffee, and maybe even a bit of the spa water.
First Impressions (And the Accessibility Angle - Because, Let's Be Real, Important Stuff First!)
Getting there? Easy Peasy. Airport transfer was a breeze, and thankfully, they actually had the car park [on-site] for my perpetually cramped little rental. Now, the accessibility… this is where things get a little…mixed. The elevator was a godsend, especially since it’s a high-rise. I didn't scrutinize every nook and cranny, but from what I saw, the public areas seemed wheelchair accessible. That said, I’m not a mobility expert, so definitely double-check with the hotel if you have specific needs.
The Rooms: Minimalist…and Surprisingly Cozy?
My room? Ah, the room. It lived up to the "minimalist" part. Clean lines, muted tones, a definite lack of clutter. At first, I was like, "Where's the stuff?!" But then… I kind of dug it. My room, had Air conditioning (thank GOD), Air conditioning in public area (essential), a super comfy bed (I'm an extra long bed kinda gal, and it fit!), a closet, blackout curtains (sleep is sacred!), a desk for working (yes, even on vacation), and the all-important Free Wi-Fi. Also, and this is huge – Complimentary tea and Free bottled water. Little things, but they make a difference. Daily housekeeping was on point too; my room was always spotless. The only downside in the room was the Internet access – LAN, seems to be unnecessary in the age of Wi-Fi.
I was really glad to see non-smoking rooms, although there was a Smoking area for those so inclined. More good sleep news! The Soundproof rooms really did the trick. I slept like a log.
Food, Glorious Food (And the Occasional Mishap)
Dining? Alright, here's a breakdown. They have Restaurants, plural! And good options. I’m an Asian cuisine in restaurant kind of person, but I also wasn't opposed to Western. The Asian breakfast, was surprisingly good, and actually better than the Western breakfast. There was a Breakfast [buffet] but also Breakfast in room which was really appreciated. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was always hot and plentiful. The A la carte in restaurant was also pretty tempting. And OMG, they have a Desserts in restaurant option. Okay, I definitely gave in on that one.
Now, the hiccups. Service could be a little slow at times. One morning, my Breakfast takeaway service order got completely lost. Rude? Yes. However, the staff were genuinely apologetic and comped my next meal. The Snack bar was my goto for light bites during the day. I enjoyed the Poolside bar I really recommend it after a long day exploring.
Relaxation Station: Sauna Serenity (Wait, What?)
Okay, confession time. I'm not a huge "spa person." I'm more of a "beach bum" kinda gal. But I figured, hey, Spa, Sauna, Steamroom, might as well. And…damn. The sauna was surprisingly…amazing. The dry heat just melted away all the stress. And the Pool with view was exactly what you'd expect from it. I spent a good hour just staring at the city, contemplating the meaning of life (and possibly ordering another cocktail from the Poolside bar). They also offered Body scrub and Body wrap, but I am not interested in that. Honestly? The Spa/sauna experience almost made me a convert! The Gym/fitness was a nice touch, but I got more than enough exercise exploring Makassar!
Cleanliness and Safety: Keeping the Germs at Bay (and my Anxiety Level Manageable!)
Look, traveling during… gestures vaguely at the world… means safety is paramount. Indonesian Paradise scored big here. They had all the right boxes ticked: Anti-viral cleaning products, Hand sanitizer everywhere, Daily disinfection in common areas, and the staff were definitely Staff trained in safety protocol. They also had Rooms sanitized between stays and Rooms sanitized between stays. I did see Professional-grade sanitizing services in action. The Safe dining setup was also appreciated, as were the Individually-wrapped food options. My germaphobe tendencies approved. They even had Fire extinguisher, CCTV in common areas, and CCTV outside property.
The "Things To Do" Stuff: Exploring Makassar (Or Not!)
Honestly? I spent a lot of time just lounging around the hotel. There's a Terrace, perfect for people-watching. I did a bit of sightseeing, but honestly, after the Pool with view and the killer Sauna, I was pretty content. There were Meeting/banquet facilities, but I didn’t use them.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Make a Difference
They had a Concierge, Cash withdrawal, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Dry cleaning, a Convenience store, and Doctor/nurse on call. Little things, but super useful. I particularly appreciated the convenience of the Cashless payment service.
The Verdict: Should You Book?
Okay, here's the deal: Indonesian Paradise isn't perfect. It's not a five-star, ultra-luxurious resort with a private island (though, wouldn't that be nice?). But it delivers. It's clean, comfortable, surprisingly stylish (in a minimalist way), and the staff genuinely seemed to care. The sauna? Unexpectedly brilliant. The price? Reasonable. And the location is great for exploring Makassar.
My Recommendation:
Book Indonesian Paradise: Your Minimalist Makassar Royal Escape Awaits! if:
- You appreciate a clean, modern aesthetic.
- You want a relaxing base for exploring Makassar
- You crave a good sauna experience.
- You like free Wi-Fi!
Don't book it if:
- You demand over-the-top luxury.
- You need constant hand-holding and a relentless attention to detail.
- You're terrified of…wait for it…minimalism!
Special Offer for YOU (Yes, You!):
Book your stay at Indonesian Paradise within the next 7 days and receive a complimentary spa treatment of your choice (excluding massages, because I'm not sure what you are into). Get ready for your own Makassar Escape!
Enfield's Hottest 1-Bed Flat w/ Balcony & Parking! (Skyvillion)
Okay, buckle up, buttercups! This isn’t your grandma’s meticulously planned itinerary. This is my stab at a Makassar adventure, and frankly, I have a feeling it's gonna be a beautiful train wreck. We're staying at that minimalist 2BR Royal Makassar By Travelio. Let's see if minimalist can handle me.
Makassar Meanderings: A Highly Unreliable Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Noodle Hunt (aka, "Where's the Ayam Goreng??")
- 8:00 AM (ish) - ARRIVAL! Ugh, airports. Delayed flight (surprise!), now I’m crammed next to a guy who seems to be very invested in the aerodynamics of his plastic water bottle. Finally through customs. Bags? Praying to whatever travel gods are listening that I haven't lost my passport AGAIN.
- 9:30 AM (or when the taxi actually arrives) - Taxi to the Royal Makassar: Okay, finding a trustworthy taxi in a new place is like finding a unicorn that loves to haggle. Praying the driver doesn’t try to “scenic route” me into debt. Internal monologue of panic about currency conversion, mental math skills failing me already.
- 10:30 AM - Check-in, Settle Down (if possible): The Travelio place. Minimalist? Sounds like code for "no amenities, bring your own everything." Praying the AC works. My mood swings at the moment are directly correlated to the indoor temp. Unpack? Nah. First, the assessment. Does the Wi-Fi work? Crucial. Then, the balcony – view? Vibe check. Okay, not too shabby. Clean enough. Slightly relieved sigh.
- 12:00 PM - Noodle Quest Begins: Alright, I've heard Makassar is all about the seafood. But first, I’m on a serious mission for Ayam Goreng (fried chicken). I read about this legendary place, something called “Mama’s Kitchen” or whatever. Finding it might involve getting hopelessly lost and asking every single local, but that's half the fun, right? (Famous last words, I’m sure). Imagining the crispy, golden skin. Drool. I'm absolutely starving.
- 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM - The Noodle Hunt Continued (and the "Lost in Translation" Comedy Hour): Okay, Mama’s Kitchen is probably a myth. Ended up at a tiny warung (local eatery). The menu is a scroll of indecipherable Indonesian words. I point, I smile, I pray for edible. The language barrier is real. I think I ordered… something. Maybe a noodle soup? The waiter seems to think my attempt at Bahasa Indonesia is hilarious. And you know what? He’s probably right.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Beach Daydreaming in Losari Beach: Losari Beach is where the locals go. This isn't your pristine white sand beach; more like a chaotic, vibrant waterfront. Street food vendors yelling, kids playing, and everyone just being. It’s beautiful in its messiness. I’m craving something cold and sweet. Maybe the Es Pisang Ijo, which is the famed Makassar dessert. Tried to get this, but the vendor understood absolutely nothing I was saying. I'm clearly not a local. I walked over and just pointed at the green things.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner, Sunset, and a Bit of Melodrama: Found a restaurant with an oceanfront view, hopefully with enough food to feed a small army. The sunset colors are insane. Wow. Even I, the perpetually cynical traveler, am impressed. Deep, emotional breath. Maybe this trip won't be a disaster after all. But then, the fish I ordered arrives, and it’s… well, let's just say I'm suddenly very grateful for hand sanitizer. (And the fact that I ordered the Ayam Goreng to go earlier).
- 9:00 PM - Bedtime (or attempting to download Netflix): Back at the minimalist apartment. The Wi-Fi is agonizingly slow. Attempting to stream anything resembling entertainment is a battle against buffering. Resigned myself to old-fashioned reading. Maybe I'll actually get some sleep? Doubtful. Jet lag is a beast.
Day 2: Fort Rotterdam and the Intricate Street Scene (and Possibly, More Food Fiascos)
- 9:00 AM - Wake Up…Or Not? The bed is surprisingly comfortable. Jet lag be damned! Managed to sleep…sort of. Still, I need a decent coffee, stat. Otherwise, expect a grumpy travel companion. Mentally preparing myself for another interaction with the outside world.
- 10:00 AM - Fort Rotterdam Exploration: Going to this Fort Rotterdam. It’s historic and apparently beautiful. I hope it lives up to the hype. Hoping the guide will speak a decent amount of English. If not, get ready for interpretive dance, the history lesson version!!
- 12:00 PM - Lunch (… Praying It’s Edible): Time to eat again before I can even digest the last meal. Found some street food I will regret or love.
- 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM - The Street Scene & Shopping: Time to get lost again. I'll try and find a good souvenir and practice my negotiation skills (aka, my ability to look convincingly desperate for a bargain). Wandering through the markets, the sensory overload almost got me!
- 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Back to the Beach (Maybe): Considering going back to Losari Beach to watch the sunset again. Or, maybe I will just stay in and eat my Ayam Goreng.
- 7:00 PM - Dinner & The Great Book Debate (aka, My Brain vs. The Novel): I have a book, and a lot of it to read. This is a war, and I am ready to battle.
- 9:00 PM - Bedtime.
Day 3: Departure (and a Final Farewell to the Ayam Goreng Dream)
- 8:00 AM - Breakfast (last ditch effort to find good food!): I found a cafe to grab breakfast and coffee. This morning I'm determined!
- 9:00 AM - Packing (or pretending to pack): So. Much. Stuff. Somehow, I've acquired a collection of trinkets and questionable food items.
- 10:00 AM - Last-Minute Souvenir Scramble: Forgot something! Gotta run!
- 11:00 AM - Farewell Makassar (and airport chaos): Taxi to the airport. Praying for a smooth flight home.
- 1:00 PM - Home (or wherever the plane lands): Exhausted. But also, strangely…happy. Makassar, you were a mess. You frustrated me, you delighted me, and you certainly fed me. I’ll never forget the Ayam Goreng I never fully got. But you know what? I wouldn't trade it for anything.
Post-Trip Ramblings:
- Food Review: Overall, a mixed bag. Some truly amazing tastes (when I could decipher the menu), some less so. The quest for the perfect Ayam Goreng continues. Rating: 6.5/10 (potential for improvement).
- People: The most amazing people I've ever met. They are all so unique!
- Mood: A rollercoaster. From pure, unadulterated joy to "I just need a nap and a hug." But, overall, a solid, positive experience.
- Would I go back? Absolutely. (As long as someone promises me real, actual, consistently good food.) And maybe, just maybe, they'll have figured out how to get the Wi-Fi working properly.
So, like, *What* IS the "Stuff" we're even talking about? And why aren't we using more descriptive terms?
Ugh, okay, you caught me. "Stuff" is… intentionally vague. It's the placeholder for *everything*. Look, sometimes you just *don't* wanna commit. Maybe we're talking about my epic quest to find the perfect sourdough starter (currently failing spectacularly). Maybe we're talking about the existential dread of folding fitted sheets. Maybe… maybe it's the sheer, unadulterated joy of a perfectly ripe mango. It's all stuff! It's life! And by being broad, we can go anywhere we want. Plus, I like keeping people guessing. Makes things more exciting.
I'm new here. Where do I even *begin* with all this "Stuff"? Is there a roadmap? A guide? SOS, send help!
A roadmap? A guide? HAH! Bless your heart. This is the antithesis of a roadmap. Forget guides, forget instructions. We’re winging it. Think of it more like… being hurled into a chaotic, slightly-too-warm swimming pool. Just… go with the flow. And the occasional rogue inflatable flamingo. And the unexpected seaweed. You'll figure it out. Probably. Eventually. Maybe after a panic attack or two. Welcome aboard!
Okay, so, like, what’s the DEAL with that sourdough starter? You mentioned… *failing spectacularly*... spill the tea!
Alright, alright, the sourdough. *Sigh*. It started so innocently. I named her "Mavis," you know, a nice, old-lady-ish name, thought it would encourage her. For weeks, I meticulously followed instructions, feeding her this, feeding her that. She bubbled! She rose! I thought I was a bread whisperer! But then… disaster. One loaf, dense as a brick. Another, a weird, sour, flavor that I *think* might have been mold. And, oh god, the *smell*! It’s like a barnyard mated with a brewery in my kitchen. I've tried EVERYTHING. Different flours, different water… maybe Mavis just hates me. I'm seriously considering giving her a stern talking-to. It’s a whole *thing*. I'm half convinced she's plotting my demise. But I can't give up, right? The *dream* of perfect Sourdough... it haunts me at night.
What's the *weirdest* "Stuff" you've ever encountered? I'm talking truly bizarre, mind-bending stuff.
Oh, you want weird? Buckle up. Hands down, it’s gotta be the time I found a perfectly preserved, full-grown *spider* in a box of raisins. *IN* the freaking raisin. Like… how?! It was terrifying. Truly. I nearly threw up. I'm still not sure what happened to the spider (after screaming for a solid five minutes), I just burned the evidence. The raisin box, the raisins, and the memory (almost). But then I tried to tell my partner about it, and they laughed, the audacity! That made it even more disturbing. It wasn’t just a spider anymore; it was the *universe* telling me something deeply unsettling… I now buy my raisins in bulk from multiple companies.
Favorite "Stuff"? C'mon, give us something positive!
Okay, okay, I get it. Need some sunshine. My absolute favorite "Stuff"? The feel of a really, *really* good book in my hands. You know, the kind that smells like paper and possibility? The weight of it, the turn of the pages, the way it pulls you in and doesn't let go. Ugh, *chef's kiss*. And right now, I'm reliving the complete joy of listening to a podcast episode that was as brilliantly written, witty, and intelligent. That combination of words that made me laugh out loud, sometimes even out loud on the bus. And then I get to share it with you all. Honestly, it's why it's all worthwhile. Well worth the existential dread over fitted sheets, anyways.
Least favorite "Stuff"? Gotta know!
Fitted sheets. End of story. They're demons, little fluffy, impossibly-shaped demons that *always* end up twisting into a tangled, lumpy mess. I will never understand the physics involved in folding them. Never. I have accepted my defeat. I've considered just throwing them away and sleeping directly on the mattress. Someone tell me if that is more comfortable...
Any advice for navigating the "Stuff" of life?
Hmm… advice? From *me*? Well, here's the thing. Embrace the chaos. Laugh at the absurdity. Don't take anything too seriously, especially yourself. And when you find a perfectly ripe mango, savor it. And maybe, just maybe, share it. Because, let's face it, we're all in this messy, glorious, "Stuff"-filled life together. Now, if you excuse me, I have to go check on Mavis. Wish me luck… and pray she doesn't try to "rise" up...
Is there any "Stuff" you hate more than folded fitted sheets? Is there something that truly, deeply triggers your fury?
Oh, oh, OH YES. This is where the gloves come off. The thing that really makes my blood boil? People who *slowly* walk in front of you on the sidewalk. I mean, the SLOW WALKERS. The people who meander, who amble at a glacial pace, completely oblivious to the human beings trying to get somewhere. I experience a rage that borders on the primal. It's like, do they *know* they're causing gridlock? Do they *see* the desperation in your eyes as you calculate the optimal route to navigate around them? Nope, they're too busy… enjoying the scenery, probably. The *scenery*! Meanwhile, I’m late for everything, all because of a leisurely stroll. Argh! I'm getting worked up just thinking about it.
What's the *strangest* thing about this whole operation?
That... I'm enjoying this. That spilling my guts to the Internet, cataloging the hilarious and horrible parts of my daily life isHospitality Trails
