Tangerang Paradise: Luxury 2BR Parkland Ave Gem (Travelio)
Tangerang Paradise…Or Is It? A Messy, Honest Review of the Parkland Ave Gem (Travelio)
Alright, buckle up, because here's the real deal on this "Luxury 2BR Parkland Ave Gem" in Tangerang, courtesy of Travelio. I'm not holding back. I've got opinions, and a caffeine addiction to fuel them. Let's dive into the abyss, shall we?
Accessibility & Getting There (The Struggle is Almost Real):
Okay, so "accessibility" is a spectrum, right? Listed as 'Facilities for disabled guests' - maybe. Seriously, I didn't see a dedicated ramp at the entrance. Inside the elevator was fairly spacious, which is a plus. But the overall vibe? Not exactly a red-carpet welcome for anyone in a wheelchair. I'd definitely call ahead and grill them about specific access points.
Getting Around:
The car park…well, there's a free one! Praise be! It's a bit of a free-for-all, though, so good luck finding a spot during peak hours. They also had valet parking, which, let's be honest, is tempting when you're fried from a long trip. Airport transfer is a definite YES if you’re not keen on navigating the local traffic.
On-site Goodies (Potential for Paradise?):
- Restaurants & Lounges: They boasted "Restaurants," "Poolside Bar," "Coffee Shop," "Snack Bar," and a plethora of cuisines (Asian, Western, International). Theoretically, you wouldn't need to leave the premises, which is a HUGE win if you're lazy like me. I mean, Asian breakfast? Buffet? Sign me up!
- Ways to Relax (Spa-tastic?): This is where things get interesting. Pool with a view? Yes, please. Sauna? Steamroom? Spa? Full-on spa offerings? My inner sloth was already planning its escape. The promise of a Body Scrub and Body Wrap had me practically salivating. I really really really wanted the full spa experience, I was imagining a stress-melting massage. Turns out, the facilities were, let’s say, slightly less decadent than the description suggested. The pool did have a nice view, though. And the staff, bless their hearts, were trying their best. But the whole experience… it just didn’t quite reach the "luxury" level. Think "trying to be fancy" rather than actually being fancy.
So, About That Pool… (A Love-Hate Relationship):
The pool was nice. Seriously, the view was stunning. But… and this is a HUGE but… the pool area just felt a bit neglected. The loungers weren't exactly plush, and there wasn't much shade beyond the few umbrellas. I spent half my time squinting, which is never the ideal scenario for relaxation. The pool didn't really feel like it was being kept up. The water was clean, but the atmosphere felt like something was missing. Which, let's be honest, bummed me out a bit. I had visions of lounging poolside with a cocktail, looking effortlessly chic. Reality? Sweltering, squinting, with a half-melted ice cream.
Cleanliness & Safety (The Germaphobe's Rundown):
I am, shall we say, thorough when it comes to cleanliness. This place gets points for trying. Hand sanitizer dispensers everywhere? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Hygiene certification? Apparently! I saw anti-viral cleaning products being used, and the rooms were supposedly sanitized between stays. They even had a doctor/nurse on call. My germ-weary heart sighed a little easier.
- Room Sanitization Opt-Out Available: Okay, this is a good option. I can get on board with this, as being able to avoid unnecessary cleaning products is a win.
- Rooms Sanitized Between Stays: This is what you'd expect, and makes it a little better. But let's be honest, this should be standard.
- Shared Stationery Removed: A tiny win, but a win nonetheless. I am a big fan of no shared pens.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (The Foodie's Verdict):
Breakfast…ah, the breakfast. They advertised "Breakfast [buffet]," "Asian breakfast," "Western breakfast," and "Breakfast in room." The buffet, I have to say, was a bit of a mixed bag. Some things were genuinely delicious, but some… well, let's just say they weren't exactly winning any culinary awards. I took my breakfast to the room a few times, which was nice to do without having to deal with other people. The a la carte in the restaurant was decent. I did have a fantastic coffee there, at least.
- Happy Hour: It did happen. This is good.
- Room Service [24-hour]: A lifesaver when you're jet-lagged and ravenous at 3 AM!
Services and Conveniences (The Stuff That Matters):
- Concierge: Helpful.
- Daily Housekeeping: Okay, this was solid. The rooms were always tidy.
- Dry Cleaning and Laundry Service: Huge. Essentials.
- Elevator: Essential for the lazy and/or mobility-challenged.
- Food Delivery: Excellent. Because sometimes you just want pizza.
For the Kids (A Family-Friendly Fiasco?):
Okay, they say they're family-friendly. Babysitting service is listed. Kids facilities too. And Kids meal! I'm not convinced. There didn't seem to be a lot to actually do for kids.
The Room Itself (My Humble Abode):
My 2BR "gem" was… well, it was fine. The size was good. It had "Air conditioning," "Coffee/tea maker," "Internet access – wireless" (thank the Wi-Fi gods), "Mini bar," "Refrigerator," and "Safety/security feature." The bed was comfortable enough, but the decor… let's just say it was a bit generic. It really felt like it was trying to be luxury, but it just missed the mark.
- Internet: They offered "Internet access – LAN," "Internet access – wireless", and the holy grail - "Wi-Fi [free]". This is a win, I am dependent on this.
- Additional Toilet: A BIG plus, seriously.
- Blackout Curtains: Crucial for sleeping in, which is a BIG win for this review.
- Bathtub: My tired bones appreciated this.
- Slippers: Little touches like this are a win.
Overall Impression: (The Bottom Line):
Tangerang Paradise (Parkland Ave Gem) is… okay. It's not a total disaster. Some aspects are good. The staff genuinely tries to be helpful. The location is pretty decent, from what I could tell. However, it just feels a bit overpriced for what you actually get. It promises luxury, but delivers more of a… comfortable, slightly underwhelming experience.
My Final Score: 6.5/10. Could be better, definitely not terrible. Would I stay again? Maybe, if the price was right and I really needed to be in Tangerang. But I'd go in with tempered expectations. And maybe pack my own extra-fluffy bathrobe. And definitely my own sunscreen. Because, let's face it, you can't trust anyone with your sun protection.
**Metroplace Olympic: Hong Kong's Hidden Luxury Gem (You Won't Believe This!)**
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this itinerary isn't your perfectly-planned, Instagram-filtered travelogue. This is the REAL deal. This is me, probably fueled by instant coffee and a vague sense of adventure, trying to navigate the glorious chaos that is… Tangerang, Indonesia, specifically, the 2BR Parkland Avenue by Travelio. Here we go!
Subject: Tangerang Tango: A Messy, Wonderful Dive into the Unknown (AKA My Itinerary. Ish.)
Accommodation: 2BR Parkland Avenue by Travelio (Fingers crossed it’s as advertised)
Day 1: Jakarta Airport Panic & Apartment Ambush
- 6:00 AM (give or take an hour, because jet lag is a real monster): Land at Jakarta Soekarno-Hatta (CGK). Pray to the travel gods that my luggage actually arrives. My flight was bumpy, and I'm already convinced the airline lost my favorite socks. Vital. Just vital.
- 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM: Customs, currency exchange (because IDR is a whole different ballgame!), and the mad dash to find a decent taxi. Finding transportation in a new country is always a test of one's nerves. I'm not particularly good at tests.
- 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM: Taxi ride (or potentially a bus, depending on my budget and desperation level) to Parkland Avenue. This is where the adventure truly begins: deciphering Indonesian traffic. Wish me luck, I'll need it.
- 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM: CHECK-IN. (The critical moment.) Let's hope the Travelio people are on their game and that the apartment doesn't resemble a crime scene. (Okay, maybe I'm being dramatic, but you never know!) Finding the keys, navigating the lobby…the thrill is real.
- 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Apartment Inspection & "Oh My God, I Need Coffee" Phase. I will thoroughly investigate everything: the bed, the bathroom (cleanliness is paramount, people), the view (hopefully not of a brick wall), and, most critically, the Wi-Fi situation. Then, I'll rummage for that blessed instant coffee. Survival is key.
- 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM: First Tangerang Feast! My goal is to find a local warung (small, family-run restaurant). Seriously. I want street food. I crave the chaos. I'm dreaming of nasi goreng, sate, and the potential for a mild stomach upset (part of the experience, right?). This is where my language skills (which are almost non-existent) will be put to the test. Expect awkward hand gestures and a lot of smiling.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Naptime. The jet lag is real. My brain is fried. This is non-negotiable.
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Explore. Get my bearings. If I'm feeling ambitious, maybe walk (or a very short Gojek/Grab ride) around the neighborhood. Discovering the local vibe is always fun (and potentially disorienting).
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Back to the apartment. Shower, charge my phone, and attempt to reconnect with reality (and the internet).
- 7:00 PM: Dinner. Hopefully, I can navigate a local supermarket and pick up some snacks, in case the dining options are limited. Back to the apartment, collapse, and read a book or watch Indonesian TV (if I can figure it out. I have low expectations.)
Day 2: Shopping, Temples and Taste Buds
- 8:00 AM (ish): WAKE UP! (or at least, attempt to)
- 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Serious Shopping: I want to visit a local market (pasar). This is where the REAL culture is. I'm picturing mountains of fresh fruit, spices that will blow my mind, and a genuine experience of Indonesian life. Prepare for potential bargaining battles and utter confusion. (fingers crossed there is a decent restroom to make this experience enjoyable)
- 11:00 AM -1:00 PM: Lunch. It's time for something new. Looking for a restaurant that is a place not to be missed or it could be the place to get something to get something that is not to be missed.
- 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Exploring the local area
- 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Temple visit.
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Return to Parkland Avenue, chill, and plan tomorrow's culinary adventures.
Day 3: Riverside rambles and farewell food
- 9.00 AM Breakfast
- 10.00 AM - 12.00 PM River exploration.
- 12.00- 1:00 PM The Best Lunch Ever
- 1:00 - 3:00 PM Last Call to find the best souvenirs
- 3:00 - 5:00 PM Back to the apartment. Pack, shower, prepare for the departure.
- 5:00 - 7:00 PM Last Supper: Must-Have Dishes
- 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM: Airport Transfer
- 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM: Check-in, Security, and Praying for On-Time Departure. Reflect on the awesome, chaotic, and possibly slightly embarrassing adventure.
The Emotional Rollercoaster:
Okay, let's be real. This trip will probably involve:
- Moments of Pure Bliss: The first bite of something incredible. A moment of connection with a local. Gazing at a stunning view.
- Moments of Panic: Getting lost. Dealing with language barriers. Realizing you've accidentally eaten something you shouldn't have. Missing a flight (shudders).
- Moments of Frustration: Bad Wi-Fi. The heat. The traffic. Trying to find a decent coffee shop.
- Moments of Humorous Self-Reflection: Realizing how utterly clueless you are at times. Laughing at your own mistakes. Embracing the absurdity of it all.
The "I-Want-To-Do-It-But-Probably-Won't" List:
- Learn some basic Indonesian phrases. (Might get around to this. Maybe.)
- Attempt to haggle with a street vendor. (I'm not good at this, but I'll try!)
- Try Durian (the smell alone is terrifying, but…)
- Do a cooking class. (If I have time, and the energy, and the courage.)
Final Thoughts:
This isn't just a trip; it's an experiment. A messy, imperfect, potentially delicious experiment. I'm going to stumble. I'm going to get lost. I'm going to make mistakes. But that's the point, right? To get out there, to experience something new, to embrace the chaos, and to come back with stories (and hopefully, some amazing food memories). Wish me luck. I'm gonna need it. See ya on the other side! (Or, more likely, at the nearest warung).
Escape to Paradise: Riverstone Lodge, Harare's Hidden Gem
Okay, spill! Is this Tangerang Paradise place *really* paradise? Luxury 2BR Parkland Ave Gem... sounds a bit much, doesn't it? (Travelio, you know...)
Alright, alright, deep breaths. Look, the marketing department at Travelio probably had a field day with the "Paradise" thing. Let's just say it's... *aspirational*. It's not like you're walking into a deserted island with a personal butler and a hammock woven from unicorn hair. But… (and this is a big but), it's *pretty darn good* for the price. I mean, I've stayed in places that smelled vaguely of mildew and despair for *more*. So, yeah, "Paradise" is a stretch, but "Comfortable, stylish, and a hell of a lot better than the average hotel in Tangerang?" Absolutely. Think polished floors, a decent view (depending on the floor, obviously), and the joy of having an entire apartment to yourself. That alone deserves a little "Aaaaahhh" of approval.
The "Luxury 2BR" part… what's the deal? Enough space for a family of five and a pet dragon? (Asking for a friend… and maybe myself.)
Two bedrooms, people! Let's be clear. TWO. So, yeah, comfortably sleeps a small family, or two couples, or a friend group who are willing to share. Don't try to cram in a dragon. I'm not sure about the pet policy (double-check that, seriously). One of the bedrooms was, like, surprisingly large. I almost *froze* in shock the first time I walked in and felt the vastness. The other… well, it’s smaller, perfectly adequate, but not Versailles. Think function over fancy. Plenty of room, though. You won’t constantly be tripping over each other’s luggage. Unless you're REALLY bad at packing. (Like me. I'm talking mountains of clothes. I always pack mountains of clothes.)
Parkland Ave… where exactly is this in relation to, say, actual *things*? Like food, shops, maybe a beach (a girl can dream, right?) and can i use Grab or Gojek there?
Alright, geography time. Parkland Avenue, as far as I can tell, is in a relatively… up-and-coming area of Tangerang. You're probably not going to be stumbling out of the door and onto a pristine white sand beach. But, you'll be close to a lot of restaurants and shops. I found a fantastic little *warung* (local Indonesian eatery) that was, like, a three-minute walk away, serving the best nasi goreng I've ever had. I went there every. Single. Day. The people were lovely. And yes! Definitely Grab or Gojek! Seriously, it’s a lifesaver. Traffic can be a nightmare, but those apps make getting around a breeze. It's the best thing since sliced bread (and much more useful, actually). You know, makes Tangerang feel less…remote?
Travelio? Are they… reliable? I've heard… things. Like, scary things.
Okay, Travelio… a mixed bag, right? That's putting it politely. I wince when I think of some of the reviews I've read. My experience? Mostly okay. The check-in process *was* a little clunky. Weird, I had to contact the host twice to confirm the check in time. The support line was… a bit slow to respond, but they eventually sorted it out. I have to admit, it got me a bit worked up. When I finally managed to check in, everything was as advertised. Clean, tidy, with all the promised amenities. (Except, maybe, for a bottle opener. I had to improvise with a lighter. Don't judge.) So, "reliable" in the sense that I *did* get a place to stay, but maybe manage your expectations. Don't expect perfect. Be prepared to troubleshoot a little. And definitely screenshot all your booking confirmations. Just in case. Trust me on that.
Tell me about the kitchen! Can I cook? (or just eat more nasi goreng?)
The kitchen! Yes! You *can* cook. Mostly. It's not the kitchen of your dreams. It's not a professional chef's kitchen. It's a functional kitchen. Don't expect a fully stocked pantry of spices and essentials. But! There's a stove, a fridge, and basic cookware. I made a quick scrambled egg (which I promptly burned – but that's probably my fault, not the kitchen’s fault). You COULD do simple meals. Or, you know… stick to the incredible nasi goreng from the warung three minutes away. I'm leaning towards the nasi goreng option myself. Seriously, it was THAT good. Forget Michelin stars, this place was a paradise.
What about the Wi-Fi? Because, you know, Instagram. My life depends on it. (Kidding… mostly.)
The Wi-Fi… Okay, the Wi-Fi. It was… okay. Not blazing fast. Let's just say it didn't ruin my Instagram feed. I could stream videos (eventually), and I managed to upload my daily photo of the nasi goreng (priorities, people!). But if you're planning a massive Zoom meeting, or need to work remotely on a project that requires a lot of bandwidth… maybe tether to your phone. Don't expect miracles. The Wi-Fi is functional. It's not going to win any awards, but it got the job done. And honestly? It was kind of nice to disconnect a little.
Is there a pool? Because, you know, vacation. And swimming.
YES! There's a pool! And it was… alright. Not the most stunning pool I've ever seen. But it was clean, and refreshing, and a welcome escape from the Tangerang heat. Think community pool, not resort pool. There weren’t hordes of screaming children (a definite bonus in my book!) and I managed to find a sun lounger. So, yeah, a solid "Thumbs up" for the pool. Bring your sunscreen!
Anything… quirky? Any weird things you noticed that would make me laugh? Or cry? (Hopefully not cry.)
Okay, prepare yourself. Let's dive into the quirky. First of all, the air conditioning. One room blasted arctic gusts. The other gently wafted lukewarm breezes. Seriously, it felt like entering a completely different climate. I spent the first night alternating between shivering and sweating. Then the TV. The remote didn't work at first. I panicked. I NEEDED my mindless telly time. After about 20 minutes of fumbling it turned out the batteries were loose. A tiny detail, but it nearly sent me over the edge. Oh. The bathroom mirror,Cheap Hotel Search
