Birds of a feather flock together at The Phoenix

When I choose a hotel, location does matter. That is why I frequently stay in The Phoenix because it is in downtown Yogyakarta with easy access to everything. In addition to its prime location, this five-star hotel has no lack of charm too. 

 

The original building that was built in 1918 is a perfect example of 19th-century Indische architecture, a mixture of European Art Nouveau with Archipelago interests.

 

 The setting of the hotel captures the colonial essence with Javanese and Chinese decorative features, while the ambiance represents a classical era. 

 

Every corner has artworks, from antique wooden chairs to rock sculptures. Although the room is rather small by luxury standards, it is beautifully decorated using Javanese batik. I personally like their snacks in the mini bar because they are all my childhood favourites!

 

Another highlight is breakfast time. It is set in an open-air courtyard overlooking a water fountain and there is a live Javanese gamelan (traditional metallophones percussion) providing entertainment. An array of Western, Eastern and Indonesian food, including Jamu (Indonesian herbal medicine made from natural plants) are served in numerous varieties. No wonder it is always full, since they also open for non-guests.

 

However, having a spa session in MySpa is my favourite thing to do here. You can choose a handmade massage oil, such as lemon, ginger, or lavender. The therapists have so many years of experience that the massage is better than anywhere else, and if you can choose a therapist, Ms. Rini is the best one.