Indonesian Paradise Found: Hotel Salon Fora & Longhill Cafe in Bandung!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because we're diving headfirst into the glorious mess that is Indonesian Paradise Found: Hotel Salon Fora & Longhill Cafe in Bandung! This isn't your sterile, perfectly-edited travel blog post. This is the raw, unfiltered truth, sprinkled with a healthy dose of "OMG, did that really happen?"
(SEO Warning: I'm gonna weave in your keywords, but I'm also going to live in this experience, so bear with the tangents!)
First Impressions (and a near-disaster with the Car Park - Free of Charge, THANK GOD!)
Bandung. The air smells like… well, it smells like Bandung! A vibrant, delicious chaos. Finding Hotel Salon Fora and Longhill Cafe was… an adventure. Thanks to the free car park on-site, we eventually made our glorious entry. It took a little longer than expected, the instructions weren't super-clear but we got there, safe and sound.
The Exterior corridor was a little… hmm, "rustic chic"? You know, that slightly-worn-but-trying-its-best vibe. Okay, let's be real: it felt a tiny bit dodgy at first. But I shrugged it off.
Accessibility: A Mixed Bag (But They're Trying!)
My partner uses a wheelchair; which explains us choosing the hotel. The description was a little bit misleading. Facilities for disabled guests are definitely there, but it's not a fully-fledged ADA-approved paradise. We managed, but it required a bit of, shall we say, creativity. Elevators are crucial and they have 'em! So that gets a massive thumbs up. The Wheelchair accessible rooms are available, but make sure you specify your needs when booking.
The Room: Cozy, Quirky, and…Did Someone Say "Bathrobes?" (Score!)
Okay, so we dove right into that room! Air conditioning? Check. Free Wi-Fi? Double-check, and triple-check! (Seriously, it’s EVERYWHERE, making this a perfect spot for the digital nomad or just someone who can't live without their Insta. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms? HALLELUJAH!) The room itself was surprisingly spacious. Air conditioning in public area was a blessing. And the bathroom, oh lord, the bathroom. Bathrobes? Yes! Complimentary toiletries? Also YES! I basically spent the first hour just wandering around, touching everything. The slippers were a delightful touch.
Cleanliness and Safety: A Modern Day Crusade, or at least, a Good Effort
Look, traveling in the Post-Apocalyptic-Rona era is… intense. I'm happy to report that Hotel Salon Fora is taking it seriously. The Daily disinfection in common areas was reassuring. Lots of Hand sanitizer everywhere. They've got Rooms sanitized between stays and they even offer Room sanitization opt-out available (which is thoughtful). Staff were definitely adhering to the staff trained in safety protocols. I saw them wielding seriously advanced Professional-grade sanitizing services— definitely made me feel a little more secure.
Food, Glorious Food! (The Dining, Drinking, and Snacking Adventure)
Alright, let's talk about the real reason we're all here: the food! This place absolutely killed it. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was superb. A la carte in restaurant? Absolutely! Buffet in restaurant? Yes, and the breakfast buffet was a dream. The Breakfast [buffet] – and let me tell you, the scrambled eggs and the fruit salad was divine! The Coffee/tea in restaurant was a perfect companion. International cuisine in restaurant? And I'm a fan of the diverse offering. But the piece de resistance? The Longhill Cafe! The Poolside bar was ideal. I'm a sucker for a Snack bar too. There's also a Vegetarian restaurant.
The Spa Experience (Or My Attempt to Achieve Zen)
Okay, full disclosure: I’m not a spa person. I'm more of a "eat all the food, then nap" kinda person. But I figured, "Hey, I'm at a spa hotel! I should, you know, spa!"
I went for the Body scrub. Let me tell you, peeling off a weeks worth of travel stress and grime felt phenomenal, It felt weird, in a good way. (They also have a Body wrap and various Massages on offer).
Things to do and ways to relax
Ok, where to begin? I spent most of my time in the Swimming pool [outdoor]. It has an amazing Pool with a view. Pure relaxation! They have a Fitness center if you're feeling ambitious. You can enjoy sauna and get a Foot bath.
Services and Conveniences: Because Sometimes You Need a Little Extra Help
The Front desk [24-hour] was an absolute lifesaver. I am very impressed by the Check-in/out [express]. Daily housekeeping? Fantastic. Laundry service? Necessary! They have a Cash withdrawal - very handy. Luggage storage? Thank goodness, because I collect way too many souvenirs.
The Bottom Line (And The Unforgettable Offer)
Look, Indonesian Paradise Found: Hotel Salon Fora & Longhill Cafe isn’t perfect. There were a few hiccups, some areas could use a slight refresh, but the staff were incredibly friendly and the food was amazing. It’s got charm, character, and a whole lotta heart.
My Personal "Must Have" Recommendation: Get that breakfast buffet. Seriously. It's worth every single calorie.
NOW, FOR THE UNFORGETTABLE OFFER!
Are you ready for a Bandung adventure that'll tantalize your taste buds, rejuvenate your soul, and leave you feeling like you just won at life?
Book your stay at Indonesian Paradise Found: Hotel Salon Fora & Longhill Cafe within the next 72 hours, and we'll throw in:
- A FREE upgrade to a room with a balcony overlooking the pool!
- A complimentary couples massage at the spa! (Because everyone deserves a little pampering.)
- A discount of 20% on your total bill, including all dining and spa services!
This offer is only available for those who book directly through our website or by calling us directly. Don't miss out on this chance to experience the magic of Bandung!
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Don't delay! Paradise awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Adrian View Resort Chonburi Awaits!
Okay, buckle up Buttercups, because this isn't your average, sterile itinerary. This is life in Bandung, Indonesia, as experienced by… well, me. Prepare for the glorious mess.
Bandung Beat: A Journey Into the Heart of Java (Probably with a Headache)
Day 1: Arrival, Altitude Adjustment, and Avocado Love (Maybe Too Much Avocado)
- Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Arrive at Husein Sastranegara International Airport (BDO). Let's be honest, the airport felt like an oven at 6 AM. Immediately hit with the humidity. My hair? Already rebelling, the frizz equivalent of a full-blown Indonesian protest. Quick grab of a taxi (negotiating the price, of course – the local art form). Head straight to Hotel Salon Fora. Praying the room is air-conditioned. And clean. (fingers crossed)
- Mid-Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Check-in. Breathe. Finally, the blessed AC! Unpack (or, more accurately, haphazardly shove everything into the closet). Seriously, why do they give you so many tiny shampoos? I’m going to look like a walking beauty salon disaster by the end of this. Stare out the window. Bandung… seems green? And full of motorbikes. The symphony of honking is already underway. Attempt nap. Fail. Jet lag.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): The mission: food. Find Longhill Cafe Fora. I am determined to eat. Found it. Ordered a nasi goreng. It was… okay. The satay was amazing! I love how everyone loves spice here, but I'll dial it down tomorrow.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Explore! Or, rather, attempt to explore. Decided a bit of a walk through the neighborhood. Got lost within the first five minutes. Asked some locals, they were super friendly. They even gave me directions in…well, a language I didn't quite understand. Managed to stumble upon a small market. Bought a ridiculously bright batik scarf. Regretted it instantly. The colors are… aggressive. Spent too long at an avocado juice stand (I'm serious, they are everywhere!), drank three. Bad idea. Bloated. Feeling distinctly green.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Back to the hotel, defeated by the humidity and the avocados. Shower. Consider ordering room service but then remember the price. Decide to brave the hotel restaurant. The food was…adequate I guess. My brain's still scrambled from the flight, and the incessant honking outside my window, so the food's secondary. Maybe early to bed.
Day 2: Tea Plantations, Tangled Thoughts, and a Close Encounter (with a Chicken)
- Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): The coffee here at the hotel is surprisingly good! Finally, something to fuel the adventure. I need it.
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Taxi to a Tea Plantation. This is the real reason I came to Bandung, that and because I saw a movie about tea plantations. The drive was a chaotic ballet of motorbikes and potholes. The views are stunning. Just… green, everywhere. Breathtaking. Wandering through the rows of tea bushes, taking a deep breaths and really trying to take it all in. I tried some tea. Honestly, it's hard to differentiate one cup from another.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Ate in a small warung and it was great. The taste of Bandung's food has certainly been a strong point so far.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Wandered around the plantation, found a small house where they had a chicken walking around. The chicken was… aggressive. It pecked at my shoe! Felt ridiculous. Later, went to a shop and bought some tea to take home.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Tried to find somewhere to watch the sunset. Didn't find it. Got incredibly lost. Got back to the hotel. Ordered some noodles and was in bed by 8:30. Exhausted.
Day 3: Market Madness, Batik Blues, and Goodbye (but not really, I'll be back)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Last minute souvenir shopping, now that I’ve accepted the aggressively colorful batik scarf. This morning, I'm determined to make a dent in my bank account at the local market, also known as "the place where you can bargain for everything." Which I attempt to do. Negotiating is a sport. I felt like I was losing most of the time, but what I bought, I enjoyed.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): One last meal at the Longhill Cafe Fora. Ordered the soto ayam. Perfect. I need to find some good soto ayam recipes!
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Back to the hotel to pack and check out. Final deep breaths of Bandung air.
- Afternoon (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Taxi to the airport. Saying goodbyes!
Departure: I'm leaving, but I'm definitely coming back. This place has gotten its hooks in me.
Notes:
- Transportation: Taxis are your friend, just haggle! The motorbikes… I'm too chickenshit to ride one.
- Food: Eat everything. Seriously. Just be prepared for the spice.
- Language: Learn a few basic Indonesian phrases. It's appreciated. But honestly, a lot of people speak English, so relax.
- Pacing: This itinerary is a suggestion. Adapt. Get lost. That's the whole point.
- Emotional State: Expect mood swings. Jet lag is a fickle mistress. Embrace the chaos.
This is it. My Bandung adventure, condensed (and slightly embellished) for your viewing… I mean, reading…pleasure. Now go forth and make your own mess!
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Indonesian Paradise Found: Hotel Salon Fora & Longhill Cafe - Your Burning Questions, Answered (with a Side of Sass)
Okay, spill the tea. Is Hotel Salon Fora *really* a paradise? That name is loaded.
Ugh, the name. It *is* a bit much, isn't it? "Paradise Found"? Like, did someone lose their luggage and then stumble upon it? Honestly, it's not *literal* paradise, okay? More like, a well-maintained, reasonably priced hotel in Bandung that won't leave you wanting to sell your kidney to afford the room service. Think… a slightly-above-average experience. Think… clean sheets, a working AC (bless), and a pool that isn't green with algae.
I went in with low expectations (Bandung hotels… you know), and I was pleasantly surprised. They've clearly put some effort in, but "paradise"? Nah. But it's definitely a solid choice, especially if you're on a budget. I actually ended up loving the breakfast, which is an important factor in my overall hotel happiness.
What's the deal with Longhill Cafe? Is it worth the hype? Instagrammable, or just...meh?
Longhill Cafe... Alright, buckle up. It *is* Instagrammable. Like, aggressively Instagrammable. Every corner is designed to make you look amazing while sipping a latte. The panoramic views are stunning, seriously breathtaking. You're practically perched on the edge of the world.
BUT… the crowds. Oh, the crowds. Be prepared to wait, possibly queue for a table, and fight off a swarm of influencers taking selfies. And honestly? The food... it's fine. Pretty presentation, decent taste, nothing groundbreaking. The coffee is okay too. I actually went with a friend who is *very* particular about coffee, and she deemed it “passable.”
So, yes, it's worth *experiencing* at least once. Go for the photos, the views, and the bragging rights. But don't expect Michelin-star quality cuisine. Manage your expectations, and you'll be fine! I will say the sunsets are really, really something. I saw myself there for a few hours!
Let’s get practical: Are the rooms at Hotel Salon Fora actually *clean*? (Asking for a friend… who is me.)
Okay, here's the dirt (pun intended, but hopefully not literal dirt in the room!). The rooms were clean. I’m a bit of a germaphobe, especially when it comes to hotel rooms. I often brings my own disinfection wipes. And I'll be honest, I gave them a sniff test (you know you do it too!). They passed with flying colors. The linens were crisp, the bathroom was sparkling, and there weren't any suspicious stains on the carpet.
However! And there’s always a "however," isn't there? My friend, who had a different room on a different floor, said her towels had a *slightly* off smell. Nothing major, but enough to make her use only her own. So, ymmv (your mileage may vary), but in my experience, the rooms were generally clean and comfortable. Just maybe pack some extra wipes, you know, just in case.
Okay, the most important question, about Longhill Cafe: Best seat in the house?
The best seat in the house is... wherever you can actually *get* a seat! Kidding, kind of. The prime real estate is, obviously, the tables right on the edge, overlooking the valley. But good luck snagging one of those during peak hours. I'd recommend going early, like, *very* early. And even then, you might be competing with a wedding party and a group of TikTok dancers.
My personal preference? I actually liked the tables a little further back, near the windows. You still get a decent view, and you're not quite as exposed to the selfie-taking madness. Plus, it’s easier to actually *talk* to your companions without shouting over the sound of cameras. Less stress. Win-win, I say! Just… be prepared to negotiate with the waiter! And make sure you go to the bathroom BEFORE you find a seat, because the lines can be brutal.
Hotel Salon Fora – What's the breakfast situation? Worth rolling out of bed for?
Alright, breakfast. This is where Hotel Salon Fora *really* shines, in my humblest of opinions. It’s not a Michelin-star brunch, mind you, but it’s surprisingly good for the price point. They had a decent spread of Indonesian staples, like nasi goreng (always a win), mie goreng, and assorted pastries. There was also an omelet station, which, let's be honest, is a mark of a decent hotel breakfast. They also had some fruit, which I always appreciate, because I need my vitamins with my coffee!
The coffee was actually pretty decent too, which is a major plus. No watery, weak hotel coffee here! It was strong enough to get me going in the morning. And the staff were genuinely friendly and helpful. Yeah, it's worth rolling out of bed for. Definitely. Especially if you're a breakfast person like me. The whole experience was actually quite enjoyable. I was still full at lunchtime!
Let's talk about service. Both at the hotel and at the cafe, what's the vibe?
Service… Okay, let's start with the hotel. The staff at Hotel Salon Fora were lovely, generally. They were friendly, helpful, and spoke decent English. They’re clearly trying their best. But, *and there’s always a but*, they sometimes seemed a *little* understaffed. There were a couple of times I had to wait for a bit for something (extra towels, help with my bags), but nothing disastrous. Overall, a pleasant, though not exactly flawless, experience.
Longhill Cafe… a different story. The service there is… a bit hit-or-miss. It was a constant struggle to get someone's attention. It felt like most of the staff was running around like headless chickens. Once you *did* manage to flag someone down, they were usually polite, but the whole thing felt a bit chaotic. I think they just need more staff! In short, don't expect rapid service and be patient. And maybe wave your phone around, it seemed to have an effect.
Any hidden gems or tips for visiting Longhill Cafe?
Hidden gems... hmm. Okay, here’s the deal. The “hidden gem” is more like the *un-hidden* gem that everyone else is missing. Get there early, *seriously*. Like, be at the entranceStay Collective
