Thetraveljunkie.org – Located at the gateway to Solo, “The Spirit of Java”, Alila Solo is set to become a city icon. A modern urban retreat distinguished by innovation design, attention to detail and bespoke service, appealing to both traditionalists and the well-travelled. This landmark luxury hotel is not only an ideal venue for business travelers and corporate retreats, but also a relaxing, resort-inspired escape for leisure travelers, offering a myriad of technology-driven facilities and amenities that are second to none in the region. A city steeped in ancient tradition and heir to the Mataram kingdom, Solo offers a truly enriching gateway and access to the many cultural and natural wonders of Central Java from misty and mysterious temples to exquisite batik textiles.
Pre-Arrival
Was there any pre-arrival communication by the hotel with myself via email or social media? Well, there were indeed, and I truly felt that my experience at the hotel started a few days before I checked in when I got the ‘pre-arrival’ email. I must confess I was quite intrigued and explored the options before I left home.
Did I try to engage the hotel via social media? Did the hotel interact with me and made me feel welcome/special? Absolutely – there was a very personal touch to the messaging and interactions, and once you get there, you realise that it is the hotel owner who looks after the social media which makes a world of difference.
Has the hotel tried to gather any personal information (e.g. preferences) prior to my stay? Yes, but as usual, I had no special requests.
The wow factor! What was the hotel decor style? I said a little ‘wow’ when I walked in and did not stop for a fair bit. The hotel is beautifully decorated and I loved it. When you walk in, you have a ‘museum wayang’ in front of you, and can turn right for the reception area with wonderful background, or left, to the restaurant and bar areas. And I loved the smell of Alila, lemongrass!
How quick and efficient was the hotel check-in? Very quick and efficient.
Was I addressed by name once reservation has been located? (it is all about the small details, some others are outstanding with this, and I love it, like I do when I board an airplane) Yes indeed and I have to say, the reception and concierge team were always super friendly throughout the stay.
Did I feel genuinely welcomed by the hotel staff? I thought everyone was lovely, very personable and very chatty (in a nice way) – I kind of felt at home!
Wi-fi – was I told anything about it? Was there a charge? Of course there was wifi. And of course there was no charge and very easy to use. It didn’t work so well in the room when I was on some conference calls, but when I enquired about it, it was reset and back to normal.
Room Experience
First impressions – decor, size and wow factor? Our room was beautiful and very spacious – yet incredibly cozy and comfortable. The moment I walked in, it was perfect.
Welcome amenity? I was surprised by a very happy birthday card and some cookies. A lovely touch.
The bed? Should have a blog post totally dedicated to it. It was very possibly one of the best beds I have had the pleasure of sleeping in.
Closet/Wardrobe – proper hangers or those annoying ones where you need a PhD to get them out one by one? All good in this department.
Bathrobes and slippers? I did wear it. I thought they were fantastic for photo sessions.
Coffee and Tea? We had a great mini bar and I obviously chose tea.
Free bottled water? Yes and replaced every day.
Power sockets in useful places – we have more and more devices and we know where we want them! By the bed, by the working area. Yes yes yes yes. Besides the docking station, there was sockets on each side of the bed.
Bathroom – decor, size and wow factor? It was quite spacious and it was stunning. Beautiful really. I do have a thing for bathrooms, as you know by now.
Bath, shower and taps – I am looking for Duravits and Hansgrohes (or other fab brands) around the world. How fab was the shower? Everything I could want and more – the bath did have a view and a half, we have a bathtub and had a phenomenal shower. I was even able to use it without guidance.
Towels – yes, please! How many and how soft and lovely? They were very good. No complaints there.
Toiletries – own brand, super brand, baby ones or proper ones? I shall find out! The toiletries by the ‘own brand’. I used the shampoo and it smelled lovely.
Amenity kit? All there, as one would expect.
Hairdryer – is it a human one, or just something stuck to a wall that only makes noise? It was a good one, as expected.
General thoughts:
From arrival in the stunning lobby with its monumental Batik Sculpture, Alila Solo holds more than one surprise.
How good and reliable was the wi-fi? It was excellent and to be honest, I did expect that!
Did the hotel interact with me via social media during my stay? Absolutely and we had quite a bit of fun.
Would I recommend it to my best friends? Absolutely. I think she/he would love it.
Would I stay again? Without a doubt – the hotel was very sexy, service was excellent, the location was unbeatable and good value.
Have you visited this hotel? What were your thoughts?
xxx
Happy Sustainable Travels!
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