Hotel Jakarta, Amsterdam
“Hotel Jakarta offers a tranquil escape along the picturesque Javakade, combining serene river views with eco-friendly accommodations and exceptional service.”
Location: Nestled along the tranquil Javakade in Amsterdam, Netherlands, Hotel Jakarta offers a serene escape from the city's bustling centre while remaining conveniently accessible. Its picturesque location overlooking the river IJ provides a peaceful setting for a comfortable stay. While the hotel is slightly removed from the city centre, the nearby tram stop and ferry terminal offer convenient transportation options, allowing guests to explore Amsterdam's attractions with ease. The scenic views and quiet surroundings contribute to the hotel's charm. (Score: 7/10)
Accommodation: During our stay in August, we opted for the Junior Suite at Hotel Jakarta, a cosy retreat featuring modern amenities in a slightly compact space of 34 square metres. While the room lacked a separate seating area, the open bathroom adorned with a rain shower, separate bath, and double sink added a touch of luxury. The French balcony offered picturesque views of the river IJ, creating a peaceful ambiance. The room's design was sleek and contemporary, reflecting the hotel's eco-friendly ethos. (Score: 7/10)
Dining: Cafe Jakarta, the hotel's main dining venue, delighted us with a buffet breakfast included in all bookings, featuring a satisfying selection and made-to-order eggs. However, the dining area's limited space, especially during colder months when the outdoor terrace is closed, can lead to congestion during peak times leaving you either waiting for food to be replenished or waiting in line to get to the front. The transition to serving traditional Indonesian cuisine post-11 am offered a unique culinary experience, allowing guests to embark on a flavourful journey. The SkyBar on the 8th floor and the lobby bakery added delightful options for dining and snacking. (Score: 6/10)
Amenities: With a focus on natural wellbeing, WellCome Wellness invited us to unwind in its indoor pool overlooking the river IJ, small fitness center, and sauna. While the amenities offered relaxation opportunities, they may be considered modest compared to other luxury hotels. However, the serene ambiance and scenic views from the pool area enhanced the wellness experience, providing a tranquil retreat within the city. (Score: 6/10)
Service: The hospitality of Hotel Jakarta's staff was excellent, evident through their warmth and attentiveness. They ensured a seamless check-in process and maintained the rooms impeccably throughout our stay. Their friendly demeanor and willingness to assist enhanced the overall experience, making us feel genuinely welcome and cared for during our time at the hotel. There wasn’t a feeling of above and beyond service here that you would find in more luxurious 5* hotels. (Score: 7/10)
Value for Money: Hotel Jakarta offers excellent value for money, particularly considering the comfortable accommodations, commendable service, and satisfying dining options. While the rooms may be compact, this is characteristic of Amsterdam accommodations, and the overall experience remains outstanding. Guests seeking a tranquil retreat with good amenities and attentive service will find Hotel Jakarta to be a worthwhile choice for their stay in Amsterdam. (Score: 8/10)
Overall Experience: Hotel Jakarta presents a compelling option for travellers seeking a comfortable retreat away from the city centre's hustle and bustle. Its tranquil location, coupled with commendable service and satisfying dining options, makes for a pleasant stay. While the rooms may be compact, this is characteristic of Amsterdam, and the value for money remains excellent. We departed satisfied with our experience and would gladly return for another short city stay.
Final Scores:
Location: 7/10
Accommodation: 7/10
Dining: 6/10
Amenities: 6/10
Service: 7/10
Value for Money: 8/10
SK ESCAPES RATING: 7 / 10