My Stay at Raffles Jakarta
Recently, I had the pleasure of staying at Raffles Jakarta, a luxurious gem nestled in the heart of the city, during a work trip - I was attending The Prestige Gala and the 75th U.S.A. - Indonesia Bilateral Relationship Gala, as well as some meetings and my bestie’s birthday. So I was very lucky to get to stay at the Raffles and from the moment I arrived, it was clear that this wasn’t just a hotel stay—it was an experience that celebrated the best of history, culture, and indulgent hospitality. It is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in the city as it is almost entirely decorated in Hendra Gunawan’s, one of the most renowned artist in Indonesian history, paintings and art style. The hotel’s interiors are a stunning tribute to Gunawan’s artistry, featuring bold colors, intricate patterns, and installations that capture the charm of rural life and nature. Walking through the hallways felt like stepping into a gallery, with every corner offering something inspiring to discover. I definitely felt the blend of art, history, culture, and luxury provided by the Raffles Jakarta during every experience of my stay.
Photographed at the Artist Suite by Antonius Jansen
The Artist Suite: A Sanctuary of Elegance
I was fortunate to stay in the Artist Suite, a stunning one-bedroom corner suite that offered panoramic city views. The suite was meticulously designed, featuring separate living and bedroom areas, a walk-in wardrobe that felt like a personal haven, and a spacious en-suite marble bathroom complete with a deep-soaking tub that I used almost every night to relax and unwind from my long days. The elegance of the interiors perfectly complemented the hotel’s artsy concept, providing a serene retreat amidst Jakarta’s bustling cityscape.
What truly set this suite apart was the meticulous attention to detail. Every element of the room was designed to enhance comfort and convenience. One of the aspects I adore about luxury suites is how they take exceptional care of guests. The staff went above and beyond, tidying up my makeup and jewelry, making the bed to perfection every night, and leaving thoughtful snacks to enjoy. These small gestures made my stay feel so personalized and special.
The Spa
Amidst my packed schedule, I indulged in a 90-minute massage at the spa, and it was absolutely divine. This was truly the ultimate escape - a soothing experience that re-energized me for the remainder of my trip. The skilled therapists and tranquil ambiance made this massage one of the best I’ve ever had, a must-try for anyone visiting Raffles Jakarta.
Nightly Delights
My culinary journey at Raffles Jakarta was a dinner at Butcher’s Table and the evening continued at the Writers Bar, where I savored Indonesian-inspired cocktails created by Pius from Cork & Screw. These unique drinks, made with local ingredients like nutmeg and kecombrang or torched ginger, offered a creative nod to the local culture that is both sophisticated and absolutely delicious. I have tried many Indonesian inspired cocktails, I must say the best ones are quite simple and doesn’t try too hard simply because the main ingredient shines by itself.
One of the most heartwarming moments of my stay was when the staff surprised us with a special celebration for my friend’s birthday at the Writers Lounge. The thoughtful gesture was accompanied by warm smiles and impeccable service, making it a memory we’ll cherish forever. Another delightful touch was the nightly fun facts about Jakarta left on the bed during turndown service. These little snippets of information added a layer of charm and curiosity to our stay, encouraging me to explore the city’s rich history and culture even more.
What truly set Raffles Jakarta apart was the incredible service. The staff were warm, attentive, and genuinely dedicated to ensuring every guest had an extraordinary experience. Additionally, the hotel’s location is highly convenient, making it easy to explore Jakarta’s attractions. It’s a perfect base for exploring Jakarta. Despite my packed schedule, the convenience of being so close to major attractions, shopping, and cultural sites made everything so much easier.
Raffles Jakarta is a haven where art meets hospitality, luxury meets convenience, and every detail is crafted to create a memorable experience. From the exquisite Artist Suite to thoughtful surprises and nightly fun facts, every moment was filled with warmth and care.
Though I missed the chance to try their tennis court, my stay at Raffles Jakarta was nothing short of fabulous and everything else about my stay more than made up for it - what a perfect excuse to come back again next time! Whether you’re visiting Jakarta for leisure or business, Raffles Jakarta offers a luxurious retreat that celebrates the best of Indonesian culture and world-class hospitality.