Calling all Jakarta parents! Is this hotel a paradise or a 'battlefield'?
qponx
2026-02-25
Planning a family staycation in Jakarta? The DoubleTree by Hilton might be your spot, boasting the city's largest resort-style pool and a massive breakfast buffet. But this family paradise can turn into a "battlefield" during holidays with major crowds and long waits for the elevator. This review weighs the amazing amenities against the noisy, crowded reality, helping you decide if this popular hotel is the right fit for your family's getaway.
Every time I come to Jakarta, getting stuck in traffic makes my heart so restless I just want to Anjay. But this time during check-in, the front desk handed over that warm chocolate welcome cookie[1], and I instantly felt healed. Alright, this classic move from DoubleTree by Hilton, I'm still a big fan.
Pretending to be in Bali for a Day 🌴
Seriously, the most Mantap thing about this DoubleTree is definitely that resort-style pool, which is said to be the largest in Jakarta[2]. The water is super clean, it's surrounded by lush greenery, and to Nongkrong by the pool all afternoon really gives you the illusion of being able to chill at a Bali resort. It's also extremely friendly to fitness enthusiasts—they even have a proper CrossFit gym, and the equipment is well-maintained.
The breakfast is also worth mentioning. The buffet selection is ridiculously huge, from Indonesian fried rice to freshly made Omelettes, and all kinds of fresh fruit, it can basically satisfy everyone's appetite[3]. If you come with the whole family, young and old, you definitely won't have to worry about what to eat for breakfast.
But, for some real talk…
Perfect? Doesn't exist. The biggest complaint about this hotel is the two elevators. Come on, for a place this huge, waiting for the elevator during peak hours is basically a survival game, especially when there are tour groups checking in, you could be waiting until the end of time[4].
Also, this place is super family-friendly, so during Indonesian public holidays or long weekends, the hotel is packed with families with kids. If you're looking for a quiet place, you might find it a bit noisy, as it instantly turns into a massive "battlefield"[5]. Although the breakfast has a lot of options, it gets super crowded during peak hours, which diminishes the experience, and sometimes you might find some dishes a bit greasy, with inconsistent quality.
Editor-in-Chief's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls (Recommended to save!)
Overall, if you're on a family trip with kids, or on a business trip and want to relax a bit, this is definitely a good choice in the center of Jakarta. But if you're looking for a romantic getaway for two or extreme quiet, you might want to reconsider.
- 1. Noise-sensitive folks, steer clear: If you're seeking absolute quiet, you must, must, MUST avoid Indonesian public holidays and long weekends!
- 2. Be Zen about waiting for the elevator: Be mentally prepared, especially during breakfast and checkout peak hours. Either travel during off-peak times, or just... be more patient.
- 3. Confirm a non-smoking room: This hotel has smoking floors. If you're sensitive to the smell of smoke, make sure to add a note when booking and double-check with the front desk for a non-smoking room[6], otherwise it will really ruin your mood.
- 4. Choose your restaurant wisely: Friends have mentioned that the Sea Grain restaurant in the hotel isn't great value for money[7]. You can save that money and explore the more authentic Indonesian food around the Cikini area.
- Jakarta's largest resort-style pool has Bali vibes with clean water & greenery, perfect for an afternoon of Nongkrong. [1]
- Forget Anjay traffic. The warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in is a sweet surprise that instantly melts away stress. [2]
- The massive breakfast buffet has it all: Indonesian fried rice, Omelettes, & tons of fresh fruit. Something for the whole family! [3]
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