Beyond Bali A quick fifty minutes flight from Denpasar you will find yourself in the busiest city east of Jakarta, the cradle of civilisation known as Yogyakarta or Yogya the first capital of Indonesia. Steeped in tradition and history the city remains young at heart with over 100 universities where students from all over Indonesia of different ethnic backgrounds and religion gather to pursue knowledge. The city was one the seat of power producing the magnificent Borobudur Monument and Prambanan - even today Yogya produces master craftsmen, painters & philosophers. With Mt Merapi volcano to its north and the Indian ocean to the south this peaceful ancient city connects you to old traditions of the Javanese culture dating back to the 8th century to the hustle and bustle of the modern day. Shop on the famous Malioboro Road or watch the silversmiths at Kotagede, this bustling city is one of the friendliest and warmest Ive been to. No wonder it is the second most visited after Bali. Why not get off the tourist most trodden track to Bali and visit this amazing city. Like Bali there is shopping galore but not so in your face. Its cheap and affordable due largely to the young university population. I would recommend a minimum 2-3 nights. You wont be disappointed. WHERE to Stay Built in 1918 for a wealthy Chinese spice trader The Phoenix Hotel Yogyakarta has had a colourful history. Changing hands from Dutch to Japanese to housing the Chinese Consul this stunning hotel officially came under the upscale Accor MGallery collection in 2009. Elegance is the correct description for this establishment. With its 144 rooms and suites infused with asian and european decor all with mod cons, you cant but imagine the history that only only now echoes through its walls. There are two sections to the hotel, the back (new) is usually reserved for western travellers used to larger rooms where the domestic tend to stay at the front. No matter where you stay you are in absolute comfort. The Phoenix perfectly sits in within the history of the city, you feel apart of it all. Food is exquisite - I cannot begin to describe breakfast. I wanted to stay an extra night so I could try all the food there. From fresh juices made specifically for - cold/coughs, blood pressure, low cholesterol , coconut water to Asian cuisines, breads, pastries, pancakes, egg stations and cheese platters. I could go on but its making me hungry. Treat yourself for a few nights you will sleep soundly in large king size beds, pampering in the spa or relax by the pool. After a day exploring the temples and Mt Merapi this definitely is a place you want to come home to with friendly, helpful staff.
Posted on: Tue, 25 Nov 2014 10:18:20 +0000
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