Guest Reviews

Tugu Malang: "Very Unique Hotel in East Java, Indonesia"

The Hotel Tugu Malang in Malang, East Java, Indonesia, is a perfect way to see the "non-touristy" side of Indonesia, but still experience first class service and one of the most unique properties we have ever stayed at. The hotel is situated in a beautiful mountain town in eastern Java that is very close to the spectacular and often active volcano, Mount Bromo. The hotel offers much, much more however, and is a great way to get a taste of Javanese culture that is sometimes hard to find in big cities like Jakarta. We spent only two nights at this lovely hotel, but will definitely return to continue our exploration of this culturally rich area. The hotel itself is filled with truly exotic works of art and furniture, including Ming Dynasty pieces that would likely be in a carefully guarded museum in the United States. During our stay, we took the "candi" or "temple" tour on the first day, and found it as a great way to view the surrounding countryside, as well as to see some really amazing Buddhist and Hindu temples built in the 1200-1300 AD period. The next morning, we took the traditional market tour and traditional cooking class which was really the highlight of our stay. After getting a personalized tour of a nearby traditional food market with the amazing array of fruits and vegetables native to Java, we finished the tour by preparing three traditional Javanese dishes under the careful supervision of the hotel cooking staff. The dishes turned out perfectly, and opened our eyes to the possibilities of traditional Indonesian recipes. For the quality of the surroundings and service, our stay was significantly cheaper than you will pay in the much more traveled locations like Bali or Jakarta. In short, it was a very unique and enjoyable experience, and probably ranks as our "best ever" hotel experience.

Rak Ko Jae Seoul: "A nice respite from a busy life and city"

Rak Ko Jae was truly a peaceful respite after a long day of travel to South Korea. I had read lots of reviews and expected the experience to be a little more... interactive perhaps? Really, this was a pretty solitary experience as we seemed to be the only ones there and only had contact with the staff at meal times. The hanok was smaller than I expected and very quaint. I woke up at 5am and actually WANTED to get out of bed and go outside and just sit and breathe the fresh air and listen to the sparrows sing and fly around me. It was so peaceful and quiet and still. (...) I highly recommend Rak Ko Jae, but I would also say to expect a very quiet and somewhat uneventful experience while you stay. The uneventfulness of our stay was a treat, and we didn't leave once between check-in and check-out! They even reminded us that check-out was 15 minutes away... we were aware, just trying to soak up every bit of our time there.

Villa Mathis: "A 5* hidden retreat … Yet so close to the action"

"I've now stayed here twice as after the first trip, I was so wow'd by the place, I couldn't wait to stay again! The villas are really original in their layout. It's kind of a 'complex' but also kind of private villa-esque! There's several large pools with a handful of very private and secluded (lovely, lovely) villas around each of them. And the whole complex is set over huge grounds! To the point where I actually kept getting lost trying to find my way out! Which is why I say the place is a lovely mix ... Complete privacy, seclusion, lovely grounds and beautiful villas ... but yet, you can still go to the 'complex's' bar, restaurant or main pool to socialize with others ... Or just people watch!! The villa is about 15 mins drive to central Seminyak - so not far at all. And the staff are more than helpful in arranging taxi's or there's the shuttle bus that they have which will take you wherever! The other great thing about this place is the staff! Despite being very discrete, they are always around to cater to whatever it is you need. Nothing is too much trouble. Frank, the manager, is wonderful. He was there to greet me on arrival, showed me round and made me feel very welcome. And in the evenings at the bar - he was there offering advice on what to do, things to see ... As well as once again, making me feel very welcome and at home. A true star ... who I felt genuinely enjoyed what he did! Thanks Frank! Oh and whilst we're on the topic of the bar ... Please order a Pina Colada! Wayan, the barman ... Genius with cocktails! All in all, this place is great! I've stayed in many villas in Bali - love the place! - but this had the benefit of that private villa feel but with the option of 'complex' facilities should you wish to be a bit more social! And of course, as is often the case, it's the staff that make it! Suksma to Frank and the team "

NOEL RODRIGO’S LEOPARD SAFARIS: "Amazing stay in Yala"

"My girlfriend and I stayed for 2 nights in February as part of a bigger trip around this amazing Island. The stay was excellent, the boys really looked after us and ensured we had the best safari experience. We were extremely lucky enough to see leopards on 3 out of our 4 drives! We didn't spot one on our last drive but we saw a bear instead which made up for it! On top of all the wildlife the food was incredible, definately one of the big plus points! Huge thanks to Danu, Saj and Praneeth for all the knowledge and experience they contributed - it made the trip even more special. "

Inle Princess Resort: "Birmanie Merveilleux Voyage"

"Ce fut Magique, hors du temps, Extase au coucher du soleil, panorama et nature à couper le souffle. Le personnel est très disponible et toujours à l'écoute. La visite des jardins flottants est incontournable Dépêchez-vous d'y aller..... Room Tip: Coté Lac, pour la vue Stayed February 2017, traveled with friends"

Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge: "Best place in Nepal to relax and enjoy the scenery and environment"

What kept me going on the tough 14-day trek up to Lo Mantang in Upper Mustang was the promise of relaxing and recovering in the peace and quiet of TM's Pokhara Lodge. My four days up at the hilltop lodge, with its chirruping birds and fluttering butterflies, fabulous views of icing sugar mountains in the mornings and twinkling lights at night, were wonderfully restoring. This was my third visit and, as ever, the staff were so caring and the comfort and cleanliness, delicious meals and drinks were just as I had remembered. And I really enjoyed the good company of Marcus and the other guests. Thank you to you all for looking after me and for making me feel very special on my birthday. Staying at your lodge sums up everything I love about Nepal.

Maison Polanka: "Best hotel of our trip!"

"Maison Polanka is an incredible place. On our first evening there, we had a glass of bubbles as we watched the sky slowly turn to dusk and listened to the birds, the cicadas and the nearby monks singing -- total perfection. It was such a treat to be taken care of so well and in such a stunningly beautiful environment. We stayed for five nights in the Khmer house, which was great. Plenty of space, nice amenities, and kept nice and cool by the fans and AC. The staff worked with my husband to plan a fantastic birthday dinner for me, setting up a romantic private dining experience surrounded by candles and even ordering in a special birthday cake. We would recommend Maison Polanka to any traveler who is looking to experience Cambodia in serenity and luxury and in the care of a wonderful staff. Our biggest thanks to Cathy, Julie, Cune, Tuy La, Kong, Da, Som, Osa, Chan, Rithy, Seam, Sam, Sopharin, Thy, Sarin, Sopha, and the rest of the amazing team behind the scenes that make it such a special place."

David’s Kitchen: "Great ambience, lovely host"

Enjoyed our meal here Some of the best service I've experienced in a while Food was tasty and cocktails pretty good David was extremely welcoming Very grateful And loved the personal touches Bravo

Amata Lanna: "Great cozy stay"

Had a wonderful stay at Amata Lanna. We were greeted with excellent service with many smiles. We felt very comfortable and cozy here. Only 12 rooms ensure a boutique experience. It seemed very authentic. Rather than staying directly in Old City, we opted to stay here for a less touristy feel. Short walks (2 blocks) put you at the edge of the old town- where you can find restaurants, massage, laundry, pharmacy, 7-11, etc. Also within 2 blocks is the Anantara hotel which is very upscale (pricey), but has a great “Secret Service” bar and restaurant that we indulged in. Also, the night market is a must see and only 2 blocks as well.

Maison Polanka: "Amazing! A paradise!"

"This was my second visit to Madison Polanka and it did not disappoint. From the minute you walk through the gate, you are greeted with peace, tranquility and beauty. The staff greet you by name, go out of their way to be helpful in every way but are not intrusive. They are thoughtful to your every need. Whether it be a cold towel when you arrive back from town, a cup of tea after your massage or buying you goggles from town when you have forgotten yours. No request is too little. This is by far the best boutique hotel I have stayed at- ever! The food is above expectation. Breakfasts are served next to the pool and lunch and dinner are a'la carte. The fish amok is amazing. Free, well maintained bikes are available for a 15 minute cycle into town, which include water, locks and ponchos during the rainy season. There is also the Friends restaurant, Marum a 5 minute walk that has beautiful food and is a NGO project. The Khmer house is out of this world, and would definitely recommend for a special romantic getaway. The rooms inside the house are also all beautiful and would thoroughly recommend. I really can't say enough about this place. You must go! Special thanks to Cathy the manager and Lawrence."