By Rafa A. Ramadhan – senior writer at Alveo
Discover the elegance of four historic hotels in the Paris of Java
Bandung, a popular Indonesian tourist spot, captivates with attractions, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine. Situated at 708 meters above sea level, it draws visitors from Jakarta due to its cooler climate. Influenced by Dutch colonialism, the city showcases well-preserved Dutch and European-style buildings, including repurposed and abandoned ones. The city is also home to historic hotels, blending history and hospitality, offering a glimpse into Bandung’s past and present.
Hotel Savoy Homann
The Hotel Savoy Homann is a remarkable example of French-inspired art deco design, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious materials. Originally established in 1880, it has undergone transformations over the years, incorporating various architectural styles such as baroque, art nouveau, gothic revival, and modern international styles. The hotel gained historical significance as the venue for the 1955 Asian-African Conference, hosting influential leaders like Soekarno, Nehru, and Zhou Enlai. With 185 rooms in different wings, including the Tower Wing, Millennium Wing, Garden Wing, and Asia Africa Wing, the hotel offers a range of options from Deluxe to Homann Suite, with prices starting at Rp 600,000. Amenities include pools, a fitness center, spa, kids’ playground, and a business center. Located on Jalan Asia Afrika, it provides easy access to nearby attractions such as the Great Mosque, Square, and Jalan Braga.
Hotel Grand Preanger
Originally a Priangan planter’s bakery, Hotel Grand Preanger in Bandung has a captivating history. After bankruptcy in 1897, it was transformed into a hotel by Dutchman W.H.C Van Deeterkom, named Preanger Hotel. In 1929, with Soekarno and architect C.P. Wolff Schoemaker’s help, it underwent an art deco renovation. Notable guests like Charlie Chaplin and Amelia Earhart have stayed there. This five-star hotel, located in Bandung’s 0KM area, features 187 rooms with rates ranging from Rp 599,000 to Rp 5.8 million. It offers facilities like an outdoor pool, spa, and Secret Garden. The Brasserie Restaurant provides an exquisite dining experience. Positioned at the junction of Jalan Asia Afrika and Jalan Naripan, near Hotel Savoy Homann, it allows easy exploration of Bandung’s history by walking along Asia Afrika Street.
el Royale
This unique art deco hotel on Jalan Merdeka has a history to tell. Originally known as Hotel Van Hegel and built in 1924, it was owned by Anna Marie Meister. Later, it was taken over by H.E.K. Ruhiyat and renamed Hotel Panghegar before settling on its current name.
Today, eL Royale is an elegant hotel with 439 rooms featuring impressive amenities and a classic art deco interior. Room rates range from Rp 700,000 to Rp 7 million, subject to change based on occupancy and seasonal fluctuations.
Guests can indulge in a variety of beverages at the Lobby Lounge, including tea, coffee, cocktails, and mocktails. Pakuan Café offers a delightful fusion of international and Sundanese cuisine with warm hospitality. The Sky Lounge, located on the 19th floor, offers breathtaking views of the city, prominent landmarks, and the majestic Tangkuban Parahu Mount to the north. It’s also a prime spot for observing airplanes at Husein Sastranegara Airport.
Hotel Gino Feruci Kebonjati
This hotel holds a significant historical legacy, dating back to 1884 when it was originally constructed as the Landhuis residence complex for local Chinese residents. Combining Dutch and Chinese architectural elements, the hotel has undergone several name changes over the years, including Hotel Toeng Hoa, Hotel Sangkuriang, and Hotel Surabaya. Nevertheless, the original front building has been preserved throughout.
With 109 guest rooms categorized into Superior, Deluxe, Suite, and Grand Suite options, the hotel caters to various accommodation needs. It also provides meeting rooms and a ballroom for business purposes, all at attractive rates. The King Dynasty Restaurant offers a splendid dining experience, serving delectable Indonesian and international cuisine alongside refreshing beverages. Guests can also enjoy entertainment at the D’Dragon Lounge and Karaoke, adding to their fun-filled moments.
For relaxation, My Place Spa offers rejuvenating massage and spa services. Conveniently situated on Jalan Kebonjati, this four-star hotel is a mere 5-minute drive from Stasiun Bandung and a 7-minute drive from the city center.
Originally published in 3S Magazine, 2023