Shopping spree in Jakarta with kids? Don't book Ascott Jakarta until you read this
qponx
2026-02-25
Planning a Jakarta shopping spree with the family? Ascott Jakarta's prime location next to Grand Indonesia is a shopaholic's dream. The spacious, apartment-style rooms with kitchens are perfect for families. But hold on—this review reveals the full picture. Discover the pros and cons, from its unbeatable convenience to its dated facilities and hit-or-miss service. Find out if this popular spot is truly the right choice for your trip before you book your stay.
Girls, if you're coming to Jakarta with one goal in mind: Shop! Then the location of this Ascott Jakarta is simply a godsend. Let me put it this way, you just go downstairs, cross the street, and you're at Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia. Right next to it is Thamrin City[1]. It feels like the entire prime shopping district of Jakarta has become your personal walk-in closet. This location is truly Mantap! 🛍️
Is the room a pleasant surprise or a nasty shock?
The moment I swiped my keycard and pushed the door open, I was truly shocked! This isn't a hotel room, it's basically a huge apartment. The living room is spacious enough for a whole family to comfortably Nongkrong and chat at night[2]. It even comes with an open-plan kitchen and a washing machine[3]. For families with kids or friends planning a long stay, it couldn't be more convenient. Doing laundry, heating up a late-night snack—it completely feels like home.
BUT! Here comes the twist… This "at-home feeling" also includes the "sense of age" of an old building. 🤷♀️ You can tell the furniture is quite old. The shower drain in my room was a bit clogged, the washing machine only washes and doesn't dry[4], and the biggest turn-off was the faint, musty smell coming from the air conditioner[5]. For anyone sensitive to smells, this could be a deal-breaker. Anjay, the experience is like opening a blind box—half surprise, half shock.
Service and Breakfast, I Have to Be Fair
The service here is also a bit hit-or-miss. The housekeeping aunties and uncles are super nice. They thoughtfully arrange the kids' stuffed animals[6], which is really heartwarming. But the front desk... emmm... during peak hours, check-in is so slow it makes you question your existence[7]. Calling the front desk is basically like calling into the void—no one ever picks up[8].
As for the breakfast, reviews are also polarized. Some people find it plentiful and delicious, but personally, I thought the selection was limited and the taste was pretty average[9]. It's at the level of "edible, but not worth waking up early for." If you don't have to eat the hotel breakfast, the options downstairs in the mall are endless, you know!
A Guide to Avoid Pitfalls: So, Who Is This Place For?
Alright, enough talk, let's get straight to the guide!
You should go for it, if:
You should think twice, if:
Overall, if you think of it as a "spacious but old and worn-out downtown apartment" in an excellent location and manage your expectations, you might just have a good experience. Hope you all manage to book a flawless room! ✨
- You're a shopaholic: The location is unbeatable. Use it as your base camp for a shopping spree; you can drop off your bags anytime and go back for more.
- You're traveling with family: You need a large space with a kitchen and washing machine. The value for money for a family trip is really high.
- You're bringing your "fur baby": This is a pet-friendly hotel[10], so you can bring your beloved pet on vacation with you.
- You're a perfectionist + a neat freak: If you have high standards for the condition of facilities and room smells, this place might disappoint you.
- You need a stable internet connection for work: The room Wi-Fi is spotty[11]. Business travelers, please be cautious.
- You're looking for a perfect service experience: Be mentally prepared, as the service level here is quite inconsistent.
- Steps from Grand Indonesia, Plaza Indonesia & Thamrin City. Jakarta's prime shopping district is your personal closet [1].
- Huge apartments have living rooms for Nongkrong, plus an open kitchen and washing machine[2][3]. A dream for families or long stays.
- It's pet-friendly[4]! Bring your furry friends along for a Jakarta vacation.
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