Yogyakarta's Hidden Gem: Collection O Andono Hotel Review (You WON'T Believe This!)
Yogyakarta's Hidden Gem: Collection O Andono Hotel Review (You WON'T Believe This!)
Yogyakarta's Hidden Gem: Collection O Andono Hotel Review (You WON'T Believe This!) - Messy, Honest, and Utterly Captivating!
Okay, listen up, wanderlusters and budget-conscious explorers! You know how hotel reviews can be…stuffy, predictable, and about as exciting as watching paint dry? Well, chuck that notion right out the window, because I'm about to drop a truth bomb about Collection O Andono Hotel in Yogyakarta (Jogja, for the cool kids) that'll make you scramble for your booking app. This isn't just a hotel; it's an experience. And let me tell you, it's a wild one.
Accessibility - A Mixed Bag, But Mostly Okay, Actually!
Right, so accessibility. This is important. Wheelchair accessibility… well, it's a bit of a mix. Some areas are genuinely good, with elevators and ramps (yay!), but others… let’s just say you might need a sherpa. Don't expect picture-perfect, fully compliant everywhere. But honestly? For the price point, and the vibrant energy of Jogja itself, it's a decent starting point. The elevator is a life-saver, especially if you end up with a room on a higher floor (which I highly recommend, more on that later). Facilities for disabled guests are listed, but it's worth calling ahead to confirm specific needs. Honesty is the best policy here, and the staff seem genuinely eager to help.
Internet? Oh Honey, You're Armed.
FREE WI-FI IN ALL ROOMS?! Screaming internally YES! And not just that, but it’s actually… decent. I mean, I'm not expecting lightning-fast fibre optic, but it handled my constant Instagram uploading, video calls to my mom, and the necessary doom-scrolling with surprising grace. Internet Access (LAN) is also available. (Remember LAN? My inner geek did a little happy dance.) Internet services overall are pretty solid. So, if you need to work (shudder), you can. If you need to procrastinate by watching cat videos, the Wi-Fi gods have got your back. Wi-Fi in public areas? Yup, also available. Score!
Cleanliness and Safety - They're Trying, Bless Their Hearts!
Okay, let's get real. This is Indonesia, not Switzerland. But the hotel is clearly making an effort. They have anti-viral cleaning products, a hygiene certification, and staff trained in safety protocol. They're doing daily disinfection in common areas. Room sanitization opt-out is available if you are eco-conscious. Rooms are sanitized between stays. Hand sanitizer is everywhere. I saw staff diligently wiping down surfaces, and that gave me a sense of relief. First aid kit? Check. Doctor/nurse on call? Listed. They seem to take it seriously. The safety/security features like CCTV in common areas and outside property and 24-hour security are a plus, adding to the peace of mind. Smoke alarms? Fire extinguisher? Absolutely. That said, they don't go overboard; it's not clinical. It feels lived-in and comfortable.
The Rooms - Cozy, Comfy, and With a View (If You're Lucky!)
My room? Oh man, it was perfect! Air conditioning? Yes, thank the travel gods! Blackout curtains? Essential for catching those precious Zzz's. Free bottled water? Hydration is key, people! A coffee/tea maker? My mornings were saved. The bed was comfy, the pillows fluffy and everything was clean and fresh. The bathroom was compact but functional, with a separate shower/bathtub. The toiletries were basic, but did the trick. Plus, I had a view! Seriously, ask for a high floor room, and you might just get a breathtaking view of the city, especially at sunrise. Extra long bed? Yes, that's a welcome touch. The in-room safe box. Yup. The TV had satellite/cable channels, but let's be honest, you're in Jogja! Watch the city.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking - Food, Glorious Food!
Okay, foodies, listen up! The hotel boasts a restaurant with Asian cuisine, and they offer Asian breakfast. They also have a Western breakfast, and Western cuisine in the restaurant. Breakfast is buffet style. There's a coffee shop. Let me tell you about the breakfast buffet: It's not Michelin-star stuff, but it's a solid spread. There’s always a good selection of local dishes, fresh fruit, and the coffee is surprisingly decent. You might find yourself accidentally going back for seconds, and thirds… (I did). Breakfast in room? You can do that. There is a Snack bar and a Poolside bar which is convenient. Desserts in restaurant? Oh yes! Happy hour? Well, you've got to ask! You can arrange alternative meals if you need to, and there’s a vegetarian restaurant nearby.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax - Spa? Yes! Sauna? Yes! Pool with a View? DOUBLE YES!
Alright, let's talk relaxation. After a day of temple-hopping and batik shopping, you'll need it. The outdoor pool is a lifesaver, and yes, it absolutely does have a view! Seriously, imagine sipping a cocktail with the skyline as your backdrop. Pure bliss. They have a sauna and spa. Spa/sauna? Yup! Massage? Oh yes. They even offer a foot bath. The fitness center is there too, but honestly, with the heat, I barely made it out of my room. They have all the facilities for that, though the amenities are basic.
Services and Conveniences - The Little Things that Matter
The staff are fantastic. Seriously, they're kind, helpful, and genuinely want you to have a great stay. They offer daily housekeeping, laundry service, and dry cleaning. There’s a concierge, and they even do currency exchange. (Super helpful, because airport rates suck.) A doorman? Check!. They have a gift shop (for those emergency souvenirs). There’s luggage storage. They have a car park (free of charge). They can arrange airport transfer. Cash withdrawal is available. They have a convenience store. Contactless check-in/out? Good! They have facilities for disabled guests, an elevator, and are family-friendly.
For the Kids - Family-Friendly, But Bring Your Own Entertainment!
Family/child friendly? Yes! Babysitting? Listed. Kids meal? Listed. The hotel is family-friendly, but it's not specifically geared towards kids. There are no dedicated kid's facilities or playgrounds. So, if you're traveling with little ones, pack some activities to keep them entertained.
Getting Around - Easy Peasy
This is a city you should explore. They don't have pets allowed, but they do have airport transfer, car park (free of charge), car park [on-site], taxi service, and valet parking. They want you to get out and explore the city.
The "Oh My God" Moments - The Real Story!
Okay, so here's the real juice. There was this one night… I'd had a particularly grueling day (in the best way possible, exploring ancient temples and haggling over batik). I was exhausted, and just wanted to crash. But as I entered my room, and I opened the curtains BAM! The view! It was the city lit up at night, glittering like a thousand fireflies. I literally gasped. And, then I fell in love with the hotel and, well, Jogja.
The Imperfections, Because Nobody's Perfect (Including Me!)
Look, this isn’t the Four Seasons. There’s a slightly faded charm, a few minor maintenance issues (a slightly wobbly table leg here, a wonky light switch there). The soundproofing isn't perfect (you might hear some street noise). But honestly, that sort of rough-around-the-edges character is part of what makes it so appealing. It's authentic. It's real. And it's a far cry from those sterile, soul-sucking chain hotels.
My Unsolicited Advice - Seriously, Book It!
Do it! Book Collection O Andono! This hotel is a freaking steal. It's a fantastic base for exploring Jogja. It's clean, comfortable, and the staff are lovely. The pool is amazing. The breakfast is decent. And the price is unbelievable.
The Offer: Your Jogja Adventure Awaits!
Ready to experience the magic of Yogyakarta? Book your stay at Collection O Andono Hotel today and enjoy:
- Complimentary Welcome Drink: Kickstart your adventure with a refreshing local beverage upon arrival.
- 10% Discount on Spa Treatments: Unwind and rejuvenate with a relaxing massage or body treatment.
- Free Breakfast for the First Two Days
- **Early Check-in/Late Check-out (Subject to
Yogyakarta Ramble: Collection O & Dreams (Maybe) - Let's Get Messy!
Alright, buckle up, buttercups! This isn't your meticulously planned, Insta-perfect itinerary. This is me, hopefully surviving Yogyakarta, armed with nothing but a slightly-too-powerful camera and a questionable grasp of Indonesian. And, of course, a booking at Collection O Andono Hotel. Wish me luck.
Day 1: Arrival & (Attempted) Orientation - Where's My Bag?!
8:00 AM (ish) - The Jakarta-Yogya Shuffle: Ugh, the airport. Already feeling the existential dread of air travel. The flight itself was blessedly uneventful, except for the screaming toddler who decided my knee was the perfect percussion instrument. Seriously, kid, chill. But yay! LANDED! Yogyakarta airport, here I come!
9:00 AM (ish) - Taxi Tango & Hotel Hunt: "Collection O Andono?" I mumbled to the taxi driver, feeling like a right tourist already. He gave me the nod that meant, "Yeah, lady, I know where you're going." We bumped and swerved through traffic that seemed to have a personal vendetta against order. Finally, finally, the hotel. It looked…clean! Phew.
9:30 AM (ish) - The Check-In Chaos: So, first hurdle: my attempt at ordering a "nasi goreng" through the Grab (I think that was the name) app, which went a bit like a comedy routine, was also the time I realized that my luggage didn't arrive. Oh joy. A friendly staff member, a woman named Dewi, was super helpful. She promised to call the airport for me like a superhero. This is a good start.
10:00 AM (ish) - Room Revelation & First Impressions: The room is… small. But clean! And thank God for the air conditioning – it's already scorching out there. The bed looks comfy enough for a good nap after all that. The mini fridge, though! Stocked with all sorts of sugary drinks. Excellent! I'm a sucker for those little snacks.
11:00 AM (ish) - The "City Map" Fiasco: Fine, I'll admit it. I haven't actually done any research. "Just wing it," I thought, like some free-spirited travel guru. Now I'm staring at a map that might as well be hieroglyphics. "Where's the Malioboro Street, again?" Ugh.
- Anecdote: I tried to ask someone for directions, gesticulating wildly and trying to remember my (very limited) Bahasa Indonesia. This kind woman's response? A patient smile followed by "English?" Bless her heart.
12:00 PM - Lunch Attempt & Street Food Anxiety: Found a place a few blocks from the hotel. Chicken rice on the menu. It looked…suspiciously delicious. My stomach decided to do a nervous tango - okay, okay, I'll try a bit. I think I'll live.
1:00 PM - The "Nap, or No Nap?" Dilemma: Jet lag is hitting HARD. Tempted to just collapse on the bed. But must. See. Things. Or at least try to.
- Quirky Observation: The cicadas are SO LOUD. Like, a constant, buzzing, high-pitched orchestra. It's either incredibly annoying or incredibly beautiful. Jury's still out.
3:00 PM - Malioboro Street Meanderings (and Getting Lost): Okay, so. Malioboro Street. A sensory overload. People, carts, vendors hawking everything from batik shirts to questionable bootleg DVDs. It's vibrant, I'll give it that. Absolutely crowded. Managed to get utterly, gloriously lost within minutes. My inner direction sense: utterly useless.
5:00 PM - Attempted Sunset (and Failing): Located a rooftop restaurant that promised sunset views. The view was…partially blocked by a building. But hey, the Bintang beer was cold. Tiny victories, right? This place is a test in patience, I'm sure.
7:00 PM - Finding Food, Again: Okay, I'm hungry and tired. Found a little warung (small local restaurant) after wandering for ages. This time, the food came almost with a waiter with a smile.
- Emotional Reaction: The friendliness of the people here is genuinely overwhelming. Everywhere I go, smiles and helpfulness just pour forth. I'm starting to feel like I don't deserve it! (But I appreciate it, obviously.)
8:00 PM - Back to the Hotel (and Praying for Luggage): Exhausted. Back in my tiny, air-conditioned haven. Praying my bag turns up tomorrow. Maybe I'll actually learn how to use this city map. Or maybe I'll just embrace the beautiful chaos.
Day 2: Temples & Tummy Troubles (Fingers Crossed!)
7:00 AM - Breakfast (and Luggage Still Missing, Sigh): The hotel breakfast is free! And decent! Some kind of rice porridge with a fried egg. Decidedly better than the airport food. And still no luggage… Feeling frustrated now.
8:00 AM - The Borobudur Pilgrimage - My First REAL Adventure! Okay, finally committed to an activity. Booked a day trip to Borobudur Temple. It's an UNESCO World Heritage site (told you I hadn't researched properly!). Apparently, it's stunning. I hope so!
10:00 AM - Borobudur: Majestic & Mind-Blowing! Woah. Just…woah. Borobudur. The scale of it is unbelievable. Climbing up those ancient stone steps, the air is thick with incense, the carvings are intricate, and the view! The sun streaming through the stupas… I actually got choked up. Honestly, it's breathtaking. I understand why it's on everyone's list now.
- Anecdote: Found out too late it would be hot. I am now dealing with a bit of a sunburn. But how could I pass up the opportunity to learn about Buddhism?
1:00 PM - Lunch (and a Dodgy Sate): Lunch on the way back… I'm adventurous, right? Ordered some sate (grilled meat skewers). Pretty sure I saw a chicken bone in there. I'll be fine! (Famous last words.)
3:00 PM - Prambanan Temple Complex: Another temple! And another jaw-dropping experience. If Borobudur was about the scale and the spirituality, Prambanan is about the artistry. The details! The relief carvings! And it’s a Hindu temple, so a complete contrast. I am loving the contrast.
5:00 PM - The "Tuk-Tuk" Ride of Doom: Decided to take a tuk-tuk (a motorized rickshaw) back to the hotel. Big mistake. He drove like a maniac. I really need to find an actual taxi.
6:00 PM - Food Crisis (or, "My Stomach's Revenge"): That dodgy sate. Yeah. Think I'm starting to feel the effects. Cramps. Regret. The bathroom is my new best friend.
7:00 PM - Desperate Measures & Herbal Tea: Ordered soothing herbal tea from the hotel, hoping to calm the demons within. No more street food for me, at least for tonight!
8:00 PM - Luggage Update (Still MIA): Still no bag. Dewi is a rock star, though. She's doing everything she can. Starting to resign myself to the fact that this might be the story of my trip.
Day 3: Culture, Chaos, and (Maybe) Closure
9:00 AM - A New Hope (and Breakfast): Still alive! Stomach feels a bit better, thank you, ginger tea. Breakfast? Same as yesterday, but with a newfound appreciation.
10:00 AM - Kraton Yogyakarta: Decided to dive into culture. The Kraton (Sultan's Palace) is next on the agenda. It's a fascinating peek into Javanese royalty and traditions. The gamelan music is haunting.
12:00 PM - Batik Workshop: Found a batik workshop. Tried my hand at wax-resist dyeing. My creation is… unique. Pretty sure it looks like a Jackson Pollock painting. It's the thought that counts! This is so messy the instructor can barely believe it!
1:00 PM - Lunch (and a Prayer): Found a safe, clean-looking restaurant. Ordered something bland. Playing it safe with the stomach. Praying for recovery.
3:00 PM - Shopping for Souvenirs (and More Chaos): Malioboro again. Armed with a shopping list, this time. Negotiating prices. Getting totally ripped off on a few things, for sure. But hey, it's all part of the experience, right?
**4:00 PM - The "Gudeg" Experiment
Collection O Andono Hotel: You Won't Believe (But Maybe You Will!) - A Messy FAQ
Okay, spill the beans! What's the BIGGEST surprise about Collection O Andono?
Alright, alright, buckle up. The biggest surprise... is that it actually *works*. Seriously! I went in expecting the budget-hotel blues – you know, the usual suspects: questionable hygiene, lukewarm water, and sheets that haven't seen a washing machine since the Clinton administration. BUT! It isn't *that* bad. Okay, so it's not the Ritz, but for the price? For Yogyakarta? It's... surprisingly decent. It's like finding a twenty-dollar bill in an old pair of jeans. You're not going to get rich, but you're suddenly a whole lot happier.
Describe the rooms! Are they *really* as Instagram-worthy as those photos?
Okay, let's be honest. Those photos? They're… *enhanced*. The rooms are… functional. The aesthetic is vaguely minimalist-chic that someone clearly found on Pinterest and thought, "Yeah, I can do that!" My room? Well, it wasn't *exactly* the pristine white box of serenity I’d imagined. The paint job in some areas looked a bit rushed. And the "view" from my window showcased a very interesting (and noisy) ventilation system. But, and this is crucial, everything *worked*. The AC blasted cold air (a lifesaver in the Yogyakarta heat!), the bed was comfy enough to pass out on after a day of temples, and the shower – bless its little heart – dispensed hot water. It's like getting off a long, gruelling bus ride through Indonesia; yeah, you aren't going to be in the best shape, but you're alive, and that's what matters.
Let's talk about the location. Is it a nightmare to get around?
Location-wise? It’s a mixed bag. It's not *right* in the heart of the chaos, which is a *huge* plus. You're not going to be dodging becaks (rickshaws) every five seconds. However, walking anywhere interesting is probably ill advised. And that's not *just* because of the searing heat, folks. You'll need a scooter, a Grab (ride-hailing app), or a serious understanding of Yogyakarta's public transportation. So, plan accordingly. Thankfully, Grab is super cheap, so the location still scores pretty high. My advice? Embrace the apps, or get ready for a sweaty trudge.
The breakfast! Tell me everything! Was it edible?
The breakfast... okay, so, here's where things get... interesting. It's included (yay!). It's a buffet (double yay!). But, let's just say it's not a Michelin-star experience. Think standard Indonesian hotel breakfast fare: nasi goreng (fried rice), mie goreng (fried noodles), some questionable pastries, and a never-ending supply of coffee. Now, I'm a simple guy. I love nasi goreng. And the nasi goreng at Andono? It was…fine. Filling? Absolutely. Memorable? Not particularly. Did I get away with feeling like I'd got food poisoning? Yes. It's a solid 'meh' overall. It's the kind of breakfast you eat because you *have* to, not because you *want* to. But hey, it's fuel for temple-hopping, right?
What about the staff? Were they friendly? Helpful? Did they speak English?
Ah, the staff! They're… lovely. Genuinely. They were, without fail, friendly and tried their best to be helpful. Some spoke decent English, others less so, but they always managed to communicate, usually with a smile and a lot of pointing. I tried to get a scooter rental arranged, and it took a little bit of translation. But eventually, it was booked for me. It just took an extra minute or two. It’s a good reminder to slow down, be patient, and embrace the lovely chaos of Indonesia. They definitely made the stay more enjoyable, even when I was lost in translation.
Okay, be honest. Would you stay here again?
Okay, here's the truth bomb. For the price, for the location (once you're Grab-savvy), and for the fact that it offers a clean room and working AC, yes, I would. I wouldn't be thrilled. I wouldn't jump up and down with joy. But I'd book it again. It's a solid, budget-friendly option that gets the job done. It's not glamorous. It's not luxurious. But it's… okay. And sometimes, "okay" is all you need. Especially when you're saving your money for all the amazing food and temples Yogyakarta has to offer. Just bring earplugs, and maybe your own pillow. You’ll survive. You'll be fine.
Any deal-breakers? Anything that would make you run screaming?
The biggest deal-breaker for me? The *noise* at times. Seriously. The walls aren't exactly soundproof. I could hear EVERYTHING. People chatting in the hallway, the occasional barking dog, and this relentless *hum* from… I don’t know what. The AC, maybe? Or perhaps a disgruntled ghost? Whatever it was, it could be *relentless*. So, if you’re a light sleeper, pack earplugs. Trust me on this. Really, pack earplugs. And also, don't expect a view, and maybe lower your expectations in general. The lack of a strong in-room Wi-Fi can be a hindrance, too. I had to go into the lobby's general area to get a signal, which was annoying if I needed to get something done.
Okay, tell me one thing you *loved* about this place. Just one.
Okay, fine. I *loved* the little balcony in my room. It wasn't much. Just a small space with a chair and a view of… a wall. But, in the morning, with a cup of instant coffee from the room and the sun peeking over the buildings, it was actually a nice place to chill out and be in the moment. It really was. Small pleasures. And after a long day of temples, a nice place to rest and get ready to relax after the day's adventure. Small but, oddly comforting. It's the little things, you know?
Any tips for making the most of your stay?
Absolutely! Here's my insider's guide to surviving (and maybe even enjoying!) your stay at Collection O Andono:
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