RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai: Jakarta's BEST Hidden Gem Hotel?
RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai: Jakarta's BEST Hidden Gem Hotel? - A Messy, Honest, and Actually Really Good Review (With SEO, Obviously)
Okay, alright… let's dive into this. RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai. Jakarta's "BEST Hidden Gem Hotel?" That's a bold claim, and honestly, the phrase "hidden gem" is thrown around more often than free Wi-Fi. But after a recent stay… well, let's just say I'm intrigued. And I'm hungry for nasi goreng. (Good thing the hotel has that, right?)
First Impressions (and Let's Be Real, Location, Location, Location):
Finding this place was… an experience. Jakarta traffic is a beast, people! Seriously, the taxi ride alone could add years to your life (in stress, not quality). But, finally, bam! Cipete Damai. The area itself? Charming. It's not the glitz and glamour of some other areas, it’s got a more local, lived-in vibe. That's a huge plus, if you're into escaping the usual tourist traps.
Accessibility – A Mixed Bag, but Improving:
Alright, I'm gonna be upfront. Accessibility is a work in progress. The hotel has facilities for disabled guests, which is excellent. Elevator? Check. But when it comes to specific details, the devil is often in them. I noticed some minor challenges navigating certain areas, and it's crucial for them to provide the specifics (like ramp gradients, bathroom layouts, etc.) to truly cater to all guests. They could up their game here - and they *should*.
Oh, the Internet! (And My Digital Sanity):
Let's talk about the internet. Because we need to. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Hallelujah! And it actually worked! Sure, the Internet access – LAN is there, but, let's be honest, who uses those dusty Ethernet cables anymore? The Wi-Fi in public areas was also pretty solid, which is essential for checking emails, planning your next Indonesian adventure, and maybe, just maybe, avoiding work for a little while.
Food, Glorious Food (Because, Jakarta):
This is where RedDoorz Cipete Damai really shines. Seriously, I spent half my time just eating. The Asian breakfast was a lifesaver – seriously, the nasi goreng was LIFE – so many variations, and you know what? Even at 6am, the coffee was good. The Western breakfast was also available for the unadventurous (or those with a serious pancake craving). They have an a la carte restaurant and Buffet, so it's there for everyone. The Asian cuisine in restaurant makes it a plus!. There is also Coffee/tea in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, Soup in restaurant. They need to add more veggie food.
The Room: My Cozy Jakarta Nest (and the Occasional Mosquito):
My room was… comfortable. Let's start there. Air conditioning, check. A desk for when I pretended to work, check. Free bottled water: I drank so much! I even had an in-room safe box for my passport, which gave me peace of mind. The separate shower/bathtub was also nice to have, and the hair dryer was a lifesaver. Smoking area.
Cleanliness and Safety - The COVID Era Reality Check:
This is important, obviously. RedDoorz gets it. They were on top of their game with all the Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Sanitized kitchen and tableware items. They had Hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. They’ve also implemented Physical distancing of at least 1 meter and have Staff trained in safety protocol. It gave me confidence.
Spa and Relaxation – My Happy Place:
Okay, I’ll admit it. I'm a sucker for a good spa. And RedDoorz, surprisingly, delivered. The massage was top-notch. My knots were… melted away. They had Spa/sauna, Sauna, and a Steamroom. They really have it all.
Things to Do (Beyond Eating and Sleeping):
I'm not gonna lie, I didn't do too much exploring, but they offer the essentials:
- Gym/Fitness: If you're feeling energetic, go for it!
- Swimming pool: A welcome escape from the Jakarta heat, though the view wasn't mind-blowing.
The Rest of the Stuff (The Details That Matter):
- Airport transfer: A huge convenience, especially after that hellish taxi ride.
- Car park [free of charge]: Bonus points for free parking!
- Doorman : Very useful.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Super important.
- Laundry service: A lifesaver for travelers.
- Room service [24-hour]: Midnight nasi goreng? Yes, please!
The Not-So-Perfect Bits (Because Nothing's Perfect):
- The View from the pool: It could be better.
- The occasional mosquito (seriously, bring bug spray!).
- Some areas could use a little more attention to dust and overall maintenance.
The Final Verdict (And My Emotional Response):
Alright, the big question: Is RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai a "hidden gem?" Honestly? Yes. With caveats. It's not a flawless five-star experience, but it's a genuinely good hotel that offers incredible value for your money. The amazing food, the comfortable rooms, the friendly staff, and the convenient location make it a fantastic choice, especially if you're seeking a more local experience.
Would I go back? Absolutely. In a heartbeat. The food alone is worth it.
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my disastrous, delightful, and definitely-not-perfect adventure at RedDoorz Plus @ Cipete Damai in Jakarta. Think of it less as a polished itinerary and more like a scrapbook exploded with a whole lot of caffeine and questionable decisions.
Day 1: Arrival, Heatstroke, and a Questionable Noodle Bowl
7:00 AM (ish) - The Great Airport Shuffle: Landing at Soekarno-Hatta. The humidity slapped me in the face like a wet fish. Honestly, I'm already sweating just thinking about it. Navigating the chaos of the airport – the crowds, the taxi touts, the sheer sensory overload – felt like a level on some kind of Indonesian-themed video game. I probably should have learned more than "terima kasih" (thank you) and "satu" (one) before I arrived.
8:00 AM - Taxi Tragedy: Okay, so the taxi situation was… an experience. Got ripped off, probably. The meter was a blur of multiplying numbers, and I'm pretty sure the driver took the scenic route. Lesson learned: pre-book a trustworthy transfer next time. Or maybe just invest in a good sun hat.
9:30 AM - RedDoorz Revelation… or Maybe Regression?: Arrived at the RedDoorz. The lobby wasn't exactly what the online photos promised (a few less smiling faces, a few more dust bunnies), but hey, I'm adventurous! And the AC was blasting, which was all that mattered at that moment. The room itself… well, it was a room. Cleanish. Tiny. But for the price, I wasn't complaining (much). First impressions: functional, not fabulous.
11:00 AM - Food Adventure: Decided to be brave and venture out for lunch. Found a little warung (local eatery) down the street. Ordered what I thought was chicken noodles. What I got was… well, it was noodles. And some sort of unidentified… thing… in the broth. Pretty sure I saw an eyeball looking up at me. Ate it anyway. Maybe I should have stuck to the hotel's instant noodles.
1:00 PM - Poolside Panic (Maybe): After struggling to open my hotel door, I decided to relax and lay in the pool. However, I was a little embarrassed to wear my swim suit, so I went back to my cozy room.
2:00 PM - Nap Time (of the Century): The heat had officially won. Passed out in a sweaty heap on the bed. Woke up at 6:00 PM completely disoriented, wondering where the day had gone. Did I dream it all?
7:00 PM - Regrettable Snack: Found a mini-mart nearby. Bought some "mystery" snacks. One tasted vaguely of coconut and… something else I haven't yet processed. The other one was just… weird.
8:00 PM - Attempted Exploration: Tried to walk around the Cipete area. Got lost. Gave up. Jakarta at night is a symphony of scooters, street food smells, and general organized chaos. It's also dark. Very dark.
9:00 PM - Back at Base: Safe and sound (and hungry) in the hotel. Debriefing in the hotel room about what to do and what not to do.
9:00 PM - Journaling and planning the adventure: Taking a deep breath and planning the next day by writing in my journal.
- Mood: Tired, slightly nauseous, and questioning all my life choices.
- Rating of RedDoorz Plus @ Cipete Damai: 3/5 stars. It’s a place to rest your head. And escape the sun.
Day 2: Temples, Traffic, and a Triumph (Maybe?)
8:00 AM (ish) - Awakening: Woke up early from all the thinking last night. Decided to have a more complete breakfast this time.
9:00 AM - Borobudur Bound (or so I hoped): Okay, ambitious me. I booked a day trip to Borobudur Temple. The traffic. Oh. My. God. Hours spent inching forward in a sea of cars, horns blaring, the sun beating down. The journey was an utter test of patience. I swear, the driver was as stressed as me!
1:00 PM - Temple Trouble: Finally arrived at Borobudur. And let me tell you, it was stunning. Absolutely breathtaking. But… it was also packed. Tourists everywhere. The sheer number of people felt overwhelming, like I was some kind of ant in a giant ant farm. Didn't have time to do any reading or history. Just took a few pictures and left.
2:00 PM - Local Experience: Decided to find some lunch in the area. This time, I actually pointed at something on the menu and asked. Success! Delicious fried rice with chicken. Small victories, people.
3:00 PM - Back To The Hotel: After a long day.
4:00 PM - Rest Time: Had to rest after the long day.
7:00 PM - Food Adventure: Tried to eat at a local restaurant. The menu was in Bahasa Indonesia, no English. Decided to take the taxi back to RedDoorz.
8:00 PM - Netflix and Chill: Layed in the bed, ordered some delivery, and started watching Netflix.
Day 3: Shopping, Street Food, and (Finally!) Fun
9:00 AM - Sunday Morning: Woke up and decided to take it easy and relax at the RedDoorz. So I decided to take a bath and enjoy the morning.
10:00 AM - Shopping: After a nice bath, I decided to go shopping for souvenirs.
12:00 PM - Street Food Frenzy: Okay, this was the highlight! Found an awesome street food market. Sat on tiny plastic chairs, devoured amazing sate, and tried (and loved!) the es teh (sweet iced tea). The chaos, the colors, the smells – pure sensory bliss. This is what I came to Jakarta for!
2:00 PM - Strolling through the area: Took some time to understand the Cipete area. I walked around and learned what's what.
4:00 PM - Back to the Hotel and relaxing: Finally finished relaxing, packed my bag, and got ready to leave.
5:00 PM: Saying goodbye to the hotel and to the trip and catching the plane home.
Final Thoughts:
Jakarta. It's a place that throws you into the deep end and expects you to swim. It's chaotic, challenging, and sometimes a little bit terrifying. But it's also incredibly vibrant, full of life, and unexpectedly rewarding. The RedDoorz was… well, it was a place to sleep. But the food, the people, the sheer energy of the city… that's what I'll remember. And maybe, just maybe, I'll come back one day. But next time, I'm definitely learning more than "terima kasih." And pre-booking a decent taxi. Until then, Jakarta, you magnificent, messy, wonderful city, you.
Tangerang Getaway: Luxurious Comfy Studio Awaits!
RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai: Your Jakarta Secret? Maybe... Let's Talk. (Honestly.)
Is this place REALLY a hidden gem? Like, actually?
Okay, so "hidden gem" is a marketing trope, right? I'm cynical by nature. But… Cipete Damai? Yeah, it kinda *is*. Found it when I was desperately trying to escape the hellscape that is Central Jakarta at rush hour – needed a *break*, you know? And honestly? Yep, it felt like slipping into a slightly calmer Jakarta. It’s not *perfect* perfection, which I'll get to (oh, *I'll* get to...), but compared to the usual Jakarta hustle... yeah, gem-ish. Finding it was a small victory, like locating the last Oreo in a bag – pure, simple joy, just a little less sweet.
The location – is it *actually* convenient? Or are you just saying that?
Okay, "convenient" is relative. Are you picturing a hotel steps from the Monas? Then, no. Definitely no. But here's the deal: Cipete is *chill*. It's got that cool, almost-expat vibe. It's got those amazing cafes that make your Instagram followers jealous (me included). The MRT station is close enough to jog to, if you're feeling energetic (I wasn't). Grab is your best friend, though. Trying to *walk* the entire distance? You're gonna have a bad day. A very, very sweaty, bad day. And trust me on this one – the Jakarta humidity is *not* your friend. I tried it once. Never again. I felt like a sad, slightly damp lettuce leaf.
Tell me about the rooms! Are they… clean? Because hygiene is important, okay?
Look, I’m a clean freak. A total germaphobe. I travel with my own hand sanitizer and Lysol wipes. So, yeah, cleanliness is HIGH on my list. Were the rooms *spotless*? Maybe not hospital-grade, BUT they were definitely acceptably clean. Noticeable? Yes. Did it trigger any immediate panic attacks? No. Which, for Jakarta, is a win. They’re basic, the kind of place where you focus on how much you're saving in cash. But look, after a long day of negotiating prices at Pasar Mayestik, all I really wanted was a bed that didn't scream "mystery stains." And it delivered. The shower pressure, however, was a bit…optimistic. Like, a gentle drizzle of hope. But hey, you can't win them all, right?
What about the service? Are the staff… friendly? (Because sometimes, Indonesian service is… a *thing*.)
Okay, here's the thing. Indonesian service *can* be a cultural minefield. Sometimes it's over-the-top solicitous, other times it’s… well, less enthusiastic. The staff at Cipete Damai? They were genuinely nice. Not overly gushy, which I *appreciate*. Helpful. Smiling a lot, which is always a good sign. One time, I had a total meltdown because I couldn't get the Wi-Fi to work (first world problems, I know, but deadlines, people!). The girl at the front desk (I think her name was Ani?) helped me, super patient. I felt like such a Karen. Her English wasn't perfect, and my Bahasa is… laughable. But we got there. And that, in a city that throws you curveballs all the time (traffic, anyone?), is a small victory.
Breakfast? Is breakfast included? Because I need my morning carbs.
Ugh, breakfast. Okay, here’s my slightly-critical take: It was… basic. Like, really, *really* basic. Pre-packaged bread. Instant coffee (shudder). A few sad-looking pastries. But, look, you get what you pay for. And Cipete Damai is about budget. It's not the place for a gourmet breakfast experience. The upside? There’s a *fantastic* little warung (local eatery) like, a 2-minute walk away that has ridiculously good nasi goreng at ridiculously cheap prices. *That* is where I got my morning carbs. So, skip the hotel breakfast if you have even a *hint* of a foodie sensibility. Seriously. Just do it. Your tastebuds will thank you.
Anything I *shouldn’t* expect at this place? What are the downsides?
Okay, let's get real. This isn't the Ritz. It's a budget hotel. So, don't expect a swimming pool (nope). Don't expect a concierge. Don't expect a view (mine faced a brick wall, which, okay, I can live with, but still). The walls are thin-ish, so if your neighbour decides to have a karaoke night at 3 AM... well, good luck. And honestly? The air conditioning was a bit… variable. Sometimes it worked beautifully, sometimes it sputtered like a dying wheeze. That was a bit annoying. But for the price? You choose your battles in Jakarta. And I’m not here to complain, at least not *too* much. But hey, don't go in expecting luxury. Go in expecting functional, affordable, and a decent place to crash after a long day of navigating the chaos. And in that regard, it did the job.
Alright, give me the *real* lowdown. Would you *recommend* it?
Okay, the ultimate verdict. Would I go back? Probably. Maybe. Definitely. It depends on my budget, where I'm aiming for, and what I crave for. If I needed a clean, relatively quiet, and affordable place to stay in Jakarta, particularly in that area? Yes, I would. The location is genuinely nice, the staff are friendly, and it's a good base for exploring that part of the city. But I'm not recommending it to a hotel snob! If you're expecting five-star treatment, you'll be disappointed. If you can roll with the punches, embrace the slightly frayed edges, and appreciate a good value, then give RedDoorz Plus Cipete Damai a shot. It's not perfect, but hey, neither am I. And sometimes, that's exactly what you need.
Any insider tips? Anything I should know *before* I go?
Okay, *tips*. First: Pack earplugs. You never know. Second: Download the Grab app *before* you arrive. Seriously. It's a lifesaver. Third: Bring your own coffee. The hotel coffee is… well, you've been warned. Fourth: Explore the neighbourhood! Cipete is amazing. Those cafes I mentioned?Comfy Hotel Finder
