The bustling Monday morning en route to the Halim High-Speed Rail Station, East Jakarta marks my first voyage to Bandung in five years - and my very first via WHOOSH. Oblivious at this point, lots of firsts were to greet me throughout this short and sweet escape.

One fact I need to bring forth is that I’m unwell. Down with a fever creeping in and out; an irritating sore scratching my throat; and unimaginable drowsiness. “What a way to go on vacation… I need to magically restore my health,” I whimpered to myself. I tightly clutched to the saying, “Nature heals you”, and braced myself.

Marriott Bonvoy: Your Pathway to Charming Bandung

The comfortable seat in coach number five has ample leg space and reclines to a satisfying degree for the 9:47 AM departure. The WHOOSH’s speed quickly accelerates up to its maximum of 350 km per hour. Entertaining chats with my seatmate astonishingly end as we hear the announcement of our arrival at Padalarang Station in merely 30 minutes. Impressive, the group of six cheers on.

Bountiful breeze at Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers

“Good morning, welcome to Bandung,” warmly expresses a driver from Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers to take us to the picturesque Dago Valley.

Bandung is a dazzling city that seamlessly intertwines natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern urban life. It takes nearly 40 minutes from Padalarang to the brisk highlands and landscaped gardens of the five-star oasis. That’s when the roads aren’t too crowded with locals going about their days oozing their notable calming demeanour.

A refreshing welcome drink concocted of turmeric and citrus is exactly what I need while we process our check-ins in the timeless elegant lobby. Decades have passed since the hotel’s initial establishment but its traditional and contemporary Art Deco aesthetics are preserved.

Lunchtime finds us at Feast Restaurant for a true Indonesian culinary palate tour. Marriott Bonvoy hotels and resorts across Indonesia offer "Loka Rasa", a celebration dedicated to showcasing Indonesia's affluent culinary heritage that features 10 authentic dishes curated by five culinary experts.

Locals crave authenticity. In retrospect, expats gain the true Indonesian culinary experience this way. From Sop Iga Bakar, Lontong Sayur, Soto Ayam, and Nasi Goreng, to Sate Ayam, there’s an Indonesian soul food domestic travellers grew up adoring and foreign travellers become devotedly enchanted.

Internally squealing with joy, I opt for the Lontong Sayur, a traditional rice dish made of cut-up lontong (rice cake) pieces drenched in coconut milk soup with shredded chayote, green bean, tempeh, tofu, hard-boiled egg, and complemented with sambal and crackers. Creamy, flavourful, and comforting.

To top it off is a glass of Bacino (bandrek-cappuccino). “Bandrek” is a traditional Sundanese drink made from ginger and brown sugar, often enriched with other spices. Bacino is a speciality here where they fuse Bandrek into a typical cappuccino recipe minus the coffee. Overall, the perfect meal to have when one is unwell.

Cooking memories come next. The hotel’s culinary team prepares a stretch of cooking appliances; electric stoves, cutting boards, knives, spatulas, etc. as well as dried and fresh ingredients by the lush Towers Garden. “Today, you are cooking nasi goreng (fried rice). I’m sure everybody here likes their nasi goreng distinctively so please curate your own version,” says the Sous Chef.

Adorning an apron and chef hat, we scramble to the shallots and cloves of garlic. Jokes of having our creations to be rated by the chef draw everyone’s motivation to make the best fried rice the chef has ever tasted - at least something that isn’t too deprecating for his taste buds. Giggles penetrate the serious ambience as everybody lays their sets of eyes strictly on the cooking station; throwing in rice, condiments, eggs, chicken, and other ingredients their hearts set out.  

I prefer mine sweet with a generous drizzle of sweet soy sauce, just like how my mother makes it, depicted by her Javanese roots. Cube-like carrots catch spectators’ eyes amongst the syrup-brown shaded rice surrounded by chicken skewers, a sunny-side-up egg, and a gallop of sambal on the side.

“Behold, my rendition of Nasi Goreng Jawa!” I gleefully present to the dining table. We savour in three different versions; one’s spicy, savoury, and mine, sweet.

Time flows like a river below the garden, winding through the landscape of our lives, carrying moments downstream to an unfortunate cancellation of a sunset yoga session.

Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers features 156 rooms and suites designed with a balance of modern comfort and a touch of local culture in mind. I settle in my room; virtuous, minimalistic, splashed in grey decor lightly dim to embody a relaxing sensation to wash off the zest outside. I slid the balcony’s door to further revel in Dago’s famed soothing breeze. From comfortable rooms and mountain-view suites to exclusive access at  Towers Lounge, Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers is the perfect place for business and family stays.

Fully-equipped business facilities are conveniently offered for big groups with a total of 12 function rooms, as well as a ballroom, a multipurpose room, an outdoor area, necessary equipment, and high-speed internet.

For leisure, families are in for an even more special stay here. The little ones are encouraged to run free around the garden. That’s not all - gather for daily kids activities at the Playground & Kids Club led by the recreation team. Feed the Koi fishes in their pond, feed the rabbits beside the club, saddle on a horse as it treks around - parents are allowed to gather with their sweet blessings here. Side-by-side activities for Kids and Parents are nonetheless available.

Exceptional recreational amenities such as Shine Spa, a swimming pool (a kids’ pool is also present), and a 24-hour fitness centre are for child-free quality time. But specifically for Platinum Elite Members and/or guests staying at the Towers Building, the Towers Lounge is the place to be.

For a second I forget about my throat’s unpleasantness as I sip on the spriceful rum-based cocktail by the outdoor terrace. Slowly, mist emerges, covering the tall green leaves swaying slightly by the cool gust. Towers Lounge follows a more international take on the cuisines on display. It’s differentiated from Feast Restaurant to provide exceptional and personal experience. Just like that the sun serendipitously bids farewell.

A three-course dinner is localised. This time, fried finger bites are placed in the centre while we await our appetiser, the soury and wholesome Asinan Bogor. The main dish is a plate of sumptuous Nasi Bakar grilled superbly, with sides of fried tempeh, tofu, and chicken, along with a burning sambal.

To hush the umami is Colenak, a traditional Bandung dish made from grilled cassava cake, typically dipped in a sauce of brown sugar and grated coconut. The word "colenak" is a combination of "dicocol" (dipped) and "enak" (delicious) but the hotel takes another approach introducing ice cream atop.

The pool area is merely lit by lamposts gleaming in restful yellow. My room is colder than the outdoors. Air-conditioned off, I hastily get ready for bed after taking my medicines for a deep slumber until 2 AM to switch it back on.

Some of my travel companions agreed to a morning stroll beyond the hotel’s compound the next day. Despite my eagerness to tag along, I reckon it’s unwise to comply so I take my time recollecting my soul amidst the plushing pillow and comforter.

“I should get some vitamin D,” I ponder. I wander through the open-air corridors towards the flight of stairs in between the Koi pond and garden. My roaming continues to the edge of the garden, overlooking a side of Dago Valley where houses and hotels are adjacent to more greens. Tranquil and revitalising are two words to best describe this sunbathing session.

Merely 10-15 minutes away is Bandung Zoo. The hotel and conservation spot have been collaborating for some time now by bringing educational fun for both younglings and adults, making it an ideal family-friendly destination.

Bandung Zoo (Taman Satwa Bandung) has been a popular attraction since its inception in 1930 in hopes of improving animal welfare and enhancing visitor experience. This vast home of various animals includes both native Indonesian species and exotic animals from around the world. The zoo focuses on conservation, education, and recreation, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about wildlife and environmental safeguarding. It features spacious enclosures, a children's playground, and picnic areas.

Bandung Zoo’s serenity and breeziness are like no other zoos I’ve visited in Indonesia. We feed the binturong some fruits before exploring the 14 hectares on a buggy. Families can schedule a visit to Bandung Zoo through the hotel by informing the team to arrange the visit before arrival.

My fever miraculously vanished.

Lively hours at Courtyard by Marriott Bandung Dago

Driving further downhill on the famed Dago Street in the heart of Bandung is the contemporary comfort and convenience of Courtyard by Marriott Bandung Dago. It’s situated in a livelier part of the city where four- and two-wheeled vehicles roam the streets of factory outlets, museums, and eateries that Bandung is highly favoured by tourists. It’s as if I step into civilization again.

Entering the lobby I’m captivated by modernity. Courtyard by Marriott Bandung Dago is idyllic to gather your MICE and social events at one of the 18 meeting rooms, including a ballroom accommodating up to 800 pax for standing parties. They’re passionate about serving the first hotel designed specifically for business travellers. Their strategic location and meeting facilities differentiate holding a MICE event from other hotels in Bandung.

However, leisure seekers aren’t dismissed. Guests who seek leisure or family time during the holiday seasons and weekend getaways are welcome. This chic hotel provides all the essentials for a relaxing yet productive stay, with their inviting, flexible spaces.

Kids’ activities such as doughnut decorations, balloon crafts, and colouring are provided every weekend so that the little ones are kept on their feet. There’s also a kid’s club where they can play to their contentment without bothering their parents occupied in meetings.

Courtyard is committed to supporting their guests and keeping them always moving forward “because when they succeed, Courtyard succeed”. Splash in a refreshing swim in the swimming pools for adults and kids, unwind at the rejuvenating spa, stay active in the fully equipped fitness centre, or indulge in one of the three culinary hotspots (MoMo Café, The Lobby Lounge, and Bar@Dago).

Our lunch this time around is at the all-day dining MoMo Café. A spread of Indonesian and Western are served a la carte and for buffet only at certain times. Its private setting is nonetheless decent. Depending on where you’re seated, you can catch a glimpse of the joy outside by the pool. Whoever’s not staying overnight, furthermore, can relish in an all-you-can-eat breakfast here for Rp100,000++ per person, or opt for the selection of à la carte dishes.

An hour more until we venture out. Beyond are nearby attractions such as the iconic Gedung Sate Museum, trendy factory outlets on Jl. Riau for an indulgent shopping spree, and a plethora of Bandung's vibrant food culture.

I jump on the wide, grey couch placed directly in front of the windows, the portal to Bandung city life. Up to 192 rooms are accessible to book here, divided into seven different room types, ranging from standard (Deluxe) to Premier, Executive Suite, Premier Suite, Corporate Suite, Courtyard Suite, and Royal Suite. Each room has hints of modern artistic flair but is designed to be rejuvenating by the moment the moon’s ray gleams the night airglow.

The hotel assists guests with the necessary information regarding the adjacent tourist attractions. For better and smooth navigation, simply ask their help to book, rent a car, or call a cab for your travel. We relaxed at The Lobby Lounge while we wait for our ride. An array of coffee and pastries are served here, perfect for a pick-me-up before we go exploring.

We make our way to Braga Street, one of the attractions travellers are recommended to visit by the hotel. Late afternoon means more and more flock to the surrounding area towards the hotspot. On the weekends, no vehicles are allowed to roam the street, alas, we’re here on a Tuesday but that doesn’t hinder our adventure.

Heaps of trendy cafes, intricate antiques, and glamorous clothing stores are open. We enter a store with a photo booth where we struggle to fit, squatting and tip-toeing so that everyone’s faces are visible in the two printed photo strips. Soon after is a quick stop at Prima Rasa, a popular bakery and souvenir shop selling brownies, bread, traditional snacks, and plenty more.

I check my watch upon our return to the hotel and it’s already nearing dinner time! I make a quick outfit change for a leisurely evening at Bar@Dago, open every Thursday to Saturday from 5 PM to midnight. Every Friday and Saturday, it serves the all-you-can-eat “BBQ at the Terrace: South East Asian Grill at Bar@Dago” from 6-10 PM while live music serenades foodies for Rp160,000 nett per person.

We are blessed to taste the tempting grilled BBQ menu on our final night in Bandung. Everyone gathers by the BBQ station at the outdoor dining corner, choosing their preferred skewers to be grilled and drenched in sauces of our liking. Beside is a pasta station serving Carbonara and Marinara sauces on fettuccine, linguine, and penne.

Inside is a spread of more Western delights such as sauteed mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, a myriad of cakes, and more. Bar@Dago is open to the public. It’s a wonderful spot to sip on hand-crafted cocktails, beer buckets, coffees, or mocktails when the idea of taking off is overwhelming.

Reeling more into the Bandung night breeze, I head up to my room where the bed softly calls me to rest while tuning into the 90s movie “Death Becomes Her” on TV. I calmly fall into a deep slumber without my knowledge.

Our final day in Bandung calls for a historic stroll into the city’s past. We make a stop for a guided tour at the Indonesian Postal Museum after a 10-minute ride. This museum covers the history of Indonesia’s post and communications, including transportation means and historical stamps collected from abroad and across the country.

Just within the corner is Gedung Sate Museum, a historical building dating back to the colonial era which later became the West Java governor’s office. Its blend of Art Deco and traditional Indonesian styles showcases the history and culture of West Java through various exhibits, including photographs, artefacts, and educational displays.

With a full tank back at MoMo Café, we eventually head to the Bandung Station to test the feeder train that connects to our WHOOSH ride home. That’s 20 minutes of ease and a power nap for 30 minutes until we make it back to the metropolitan city, Jakarta.

Suddenly, I’m feeling all better. Perhaps a change of scenery and crispy air at Bandung are the required remedies.

Marriott International promotes tourism

Marriott International is on a mission to inform guests regarding the destinations nearby. Bandung, like other Indonesian cities, is nature’s glory. But this city is also abundant in history and art. An outstanding collection of Dutch colonial buildings, traditional Sundanese performances, and lively markets filled with local crafts and textiles are present. Travellers can dive into Bandung’s artistic flair by discovering its captivating art scene, ranging from unique galleries to colourful street murals, or indulging in a culinary escapade that highlights the region's delightful flavours.

Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers believes that highlighting local attractions encourages guests to explore and interact with the surroundings, which enhances their connection to both the hotel and the city, potentially leading to more positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations. Besides Bandung Zoo are popular destinations Taman Hutan Raya Juanda and Tebing Keraton.

Moreover, Courtyard by Marriott Bandung Dago reckons guests ought to be informed about the nearby destinations as a means to support their needs aside from the available activities within the hotel. They support local tourism and local businesses. Elite members can benefit from the special gift amenities, ie. their collaboration with local businesses called Comring and Coffee Drip.

Bandung offers something for every traveller - a note that Marriott Bonvoy emphasises. With its endearing hospitality, varied attractions, and convenient proximity to Jakarta (especially with WHOOSH), Bandung emerges as an essential destination for anyone wanting to experience the finest of Indonesia.

Sheraton Bandung Hotel & Towers
Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No.390, Bandung City, West Java 40135
Tel:  +62 22 2500 303 
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Courtyard by Marriott Bandung Dago
Jl. Ir. H. Juanda No.33, Tamansari, Bandung Wetan Regency, Bandung City, Bandung, West Java 40116
Tel: +622 4211 333 
Website
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