Escape to Paradise: Makassar's Marina Beach Bliss Awaits at Hotel Marina!
Escape to Paradise: Makassar's Marina Beach Bliss Awaits at Hotel Marina!
Okay, buckle up Buttercups, because you're about to get the real lowdown on Hotel Marina in Makassar. This isn't your slick travel blogger's take; this is messy, honest, and probably punctuated with a few swear words (sorry, Mom). We're talking about a review overflowing with personal quirks, genuine opinions, and the kind of details you actually want to know.
Let's be honest, booking a hotel can be a crapshoot. You scroll through the pictures, read the generic descriptions, and hope for the best. Well, I'm here to help you cut through the BS. So, is Hotel Marina really an "Escape to Paradise"? Let's dive in.
Accessibility & All That Jazz (Because, Seriously, It Matters)
Right, so let's start with the important stuff. Accessibility. I can't speak as a person with disabilities, but I've got a good eye for things, so here's the breakdown. Based on the information, it seems like they have Facilities for disabled guests, which is a good start, and an elevator. That's key! However, it doesn't specify what exactly the features are (ramps, accessible bathrooms, etc.), so I'd highly recommend contacting the hotel directly to clarify. You know, before you show up and get a nasty surprise. Wheelchair accessible: Not specifically stated, but the elevator offers some hope. CCTV in common areas and outside property: safety first is a good sign, but I have no idea if they are active, but there are these things.
Cleanliness & Safety, the COVID Edition (Because, You Know, The World is a Mess)
Okay, so Covid. The whole point of these safety systems, are not guaranteed. While the hotel claims to be taking it seriously, with things like Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment, and a doctor/nurse on call. That's a LOT of buzzwords. So in the end, it is up to you and is just a guideline.
I personally find it a bit overwhelming that they've removed shared stationery and also have cashless payment service, it makes me feel like they have a good attitude. Cashless payment service, is good, no one carries wallet, but I don't know whether is a good thing. They do have first aid kits and a fire extinguisher, which are important.
The Room: Is It Paradise or Just A Room?
Alright, let's talk rooms. Based on the info, they seem pretty well-equipped: Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens. Good stuff.
The Wi-Fi [free] is a huge win, but don't expect lightning-fast speeds. Air conditioning is essential in Makassar. I like the complimentary tea, because I get thirsty often. I personally like the bathtub, and for a big guy it makes so much more relaxing. The extra-long bed, is also good, but not essential to me.
Food, Glorious Food! (And My Stomach Rumbling)
Okay, food. Where do I even begin? The info is stacked with options: A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant. Whew!
Okay, so the restaurants and coffee shop are good, because you have options. the Asian breakfast and Western breakfast is also good, as is the buffet in restaurant. You can't go wrong with a buffet, but there are so many buffet, I'm not sure whether it is good or bad.
The "Marina Beach Bliss" Part: Things To Do & Ways To Relax (Because You Deserve It!)
Alright, are you ready to do something nice? The hotel is offering these things: Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor].
Okay, if you are not a big guy, this is a good place to be.. I'm a bit lazy and just want to chill, so the swimming pool [outdoor] is a yes for me. A pool with a view, even better! I have never done a body wrap or sauna. Maybe I am missing out. Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Make A Big Difference
Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center.
Now here is a bunch of options for you to choose. I find it convenient that there is a convenience store.
For the Kids (If You're Traveling With Tiny Humans)
Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal. Kudos to the hotel for thinking about families! That babysitting service could be a lifesaver.
Getting Around (Because You Can't Stay Inside the Whole Time)
Airport transfer, Bicycle parking, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking.
Overall Vibe: Is It Worth It? (My Gut Feeling)
So, is Hotel Marina an escape? Look, it could be. The location near the beach sounds promising, and the amenities are decent. But, to claim it to be the "bliss"? Well, that depends on your expectations.
My Honest Opinion (and Why You Should Book)
Hotel Marina has a lot going for it. The amenities are nice, and the potential for relaxation is definitely there. But the real selling point? The accessibility options, the safety measures, and the overall variety of amenities.
The Offer (That's Actually Compelling!)
Escape to Paradise (Maybe!) - Book Your Makassar Getaway at Hotel Marina Now!
Are you ready to trade the daily grind for sun, sand, and possibly a little bit of bliss? Then book your stay at Hotel Marina now and experience the best of Makassar!
Book Now and Get:
- Free Wi-Fi Everywhere: Stay connected, brag about your tan, and upload your selfies like a pro.
- A Pool With a View: Dive into relaxation with our stunning outdoor pool, the perfect antidote to a sweltering day.
- Dining Delights: Breakfast, lunch, dinner – we've got you covered with a wide array of dining options to satisfy every craving.
- Amenities that Amaze: Spa offerings, fitness center, and all you need!
- Flexibility & Peace of Mind: Book with confidence.
Limited-Time Offer: Book your stay before [Date] and receive a complimentary [Specific Perk - e.g., a free cocktail at the poolside bar, late check-out, a discount on spa services].
Click here to escape! [Insert Booking Link Here]
Don't wait! Makassar is calling, and your escape to paradise (potential paradise!) awaits.
Kalangan Farms: Alibaug's Spicy Mango Paradise Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup. Here’s my attempt at a travel itinerary for Collection O 91414 Hotel Marina Beach Makassar, Indonesia, a.k.a. the place where I’m supposed to be having a relaxing time (we’ll see about that). Prepare for the mental equivalent of a bumpy, overstuffed becak ride.
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Bed-Sheet Incident (aka, "I Can't Sleep!")
Morning (ish): Arrive at Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport (UPG). The flight was a nightmare. Like, genuinely nightmarish. Stuffy air, screaming toddlers, and the guy next to me snored with the force of a small volcano. Luckily, I'd pre-booked a transfer, because navigating Indonesian traffic after a flight is a skill I don't possess. The driver? A whirlwind of smiles and Indonesian pop music. Instantly better.
Late Morning/Early Afternoon: Check into Collection O 91414 Hotel Marina Beach. Okay, first impressions: It's…functional. Cleanish. The lobby smells vaguely of disinfectant and something sweet. The room? Small, but hey, it has AC. Which is a godsend because, Makassar is HOT.
The Great Bed-Sheet Incident: I get in the bed, ready to collapse. But guess what? I can't. The sheets… they're rough. Like, sandpaper rough. I lay there, plotting a passive-aggressive complaint to the front desk (I'm sure I’ll chicken out later). Honestly, I spent like, an hour wrestling with the sheets, trying to get comfy. This is going to be a fun trip.
Afternoon: Okay, food. Always the solution. I ventured out, got utterly lost (no surprise there), and stumbled upon a little warung (small local eatery). The food? So good! I ordered something the size of my head (I have no idea what it was called)—a mountain of rice, chicken and various unidentifiable, yet delicious sauces. I managed to get the waiter's attention and order a huge bottle of water, too. I paid 5 bucks for the most delicious meal I've had in a long time. I wanted to take a nap again after, but I knew I'd be up all night again.
Evening: Okay, the sheets. Still fighting them. I did get out of bed, wandered around the hotel again, and attempted to catch the sunset over the water. It was…okay. The sky's colors were gorgeous, but the view was blocked by cargo ships and the general grunginess of a port city in sunset. I didn't take a picture but the experience was worthwhile. That beach is not a beach you want to go swimming in. I ordered room service – a watery instant noodle dish. I feel a deep, abiding respect for anyone who can consistently eat instant noodles. I spent most of the night just sitting on that bed, staring out the window… wishing for a softer mattress. And a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Banting's Adventure and the Quest for Decent Coffee
- Morning: Okay, I got a bit of sleep, finally, but the sheet situation is still a low-grade annoyance. I should ask for a new set, but… fear. I also woke up starving. I decided to go to the hotel's "breakfast." My only expectations were coffee.
- The Decent Coffee Quest: The coffee was instant. INSTANT. I nearly cried. I'm a coffee snob, okay? Coffee is life. I asked the server if there was actual, brewed coffee. "No, sir," he said. "Only instant." I left. I wasn't going to be subject to that nonsense. The quest began.
- Late Morning: After a long search, I found a local coffee shop, and it was heaven. Proper coffee, even a little snack, oh it was a dream come true. I settled in, people-watched, and felt my soul slowly rehydrate. I'm thinking I'll become a regular.
- Afternoon: I felt the need to "do" something, so I signed up for something called "Banting Adventure". I'm still not entirely sure what that is. Turns out, it's a local tour of a tourist attraction, an island. I'm not a "tour" person, usually. The tour was actually amazing. Beautiful beaches, snorkeling with fishy things. Honestly, it was a bit amazing. It was so hot I felt the need to remove all my clothes, several times. I felt extremely comfortable in my skin for the first time in a long time.
- Evening: Back at the hotel and utterly exhausted. Dinner was a disaster. A place I wandered in, ordered something, it wasn't what I had ordered, it was too spicy. I gave up. Room service again. The instant noodles were good, this time. I think I'm getting used to it. The bedsheets…well, you know.
Day 3: The Emotional Rollercoaster and the (Maybe) Softer Sheets
- Morning: I did it. I actually did it. I spoke to the hotel staff. I asked for different sheets. They looked at me, a little like I was a crazy person, but they agreed.
- (Maybe) Softer Sheets: Back in my room, a new set of sheets. I ran my hand over them. They were softer. The level of joy I felt was…embarrassing. Small victories, people. Small victories. I'm going to sleep like a baby.
- All Day: I don't know. I'm going to wander around again. Be a little less of a tourist, or be more of one, or get lost, or discover a new coffee shop, or find a street artist, or sit on the beach for an hour. See what happens. I have absolutely no plan.
- Evening: Back in my room now, the sheets are wonderful, I had such a good sleep. And the hotel, they have some good coffee now. Maybe I should stay an extra night. I'll see. Maybe.
Final Thoughts:
This trip isn't exactly what I expected. It's messy, imperfect, and a little bit exhausting. But it's also kind of…wonderful. Sometimes, it's the small things. A decent cup of coffee. Softer sheets. The joy of recognizing a smile, a person. Or, you know, the sun setting.
Escape to Paradise: Unforgettable Grace Amphawa Hotel Experience
So, what *is* this "Escape to Paradise" thing, exactly? And does it *actually* feel like paradise?
Alright, alright, settle down. "Escape to Paradise: Makassar's Marina Beach Bliss Awaits at Hotel Marina!" That's the official tagline, *right*? Honestly, it's a bit of a mouthful, isn't it? But hey, marketing, gotta love it. The gist is: Hotel Marina in Makassar promises you a relaxing getaway right on the beach. Spoiler alert: It's both more and less than that. More in the sense that the view from the balcony… *chef's kiss*… stunning. Less in the sense that, well, let's just say "bliss" requires a certain level of, shall we say, *selective* sight. (More on that later about the beach... and the seaweed.)
Alright, beach time then. Is the beach actually *good*? Because I've been burned before... literally.
Okay, the beach. Let's get real. It's... *there*. It's a beach! You can, and probably *should*, wade in the water, especially during the late afternoon when the sun is going down. The water isn’t crystal clear like those Instagram photos you see of the Maldives. It's... well, it's Makassar waters! But the sunset? Magnificent. Just... be prepared. There's *some* seaweed, not gonna lie. And sometimes (and I'm talking *sometimes*, not always, but still) you might have to do a little seaweed dodging. Think of it as an impromptu obstacle course. Adds to the… *charm*? Mostly, I’m saying that the water is nice, but don’t go expecting the same pristine conditions as you'd get on some faraway desert island or if you want a perfectly clear water, go at the resort's swimming pool. Otherwise, it's all good though!
Tell me about the rooms! Are they actually *clean*? (This is a big one for me, I’m a germaphobe.)
Okay, the rooms. This is where things get… interesting. Clean? Well, let's put it this way: they *try*. The housekeeping staff are lovely, truly. They seem to work exceptionally hard. My room was generally okay, but I will never forget finding a slightly… *questionable* stain on a pillowcase. Look, these things happen, right? I might've panicked a *teeny* bit. (Okay, I may have called reception and asked if all the pillowcases were like that. I may have sounded a little *hysterical*. Don't judge me, I'm a traveler!) But honestly, after a quick chat with the staff and a fresh set of pillowcases, everything was fine. It's not a 5-star hotel, people. Manage your expectations. Bring some wet wipes. And if you’re super sensitive, maybe pack your own pillowcases. The beds are really comfy, though. And the air conditioning? A lifesaver.
What about the food? I love me some grub. Is the food *good*? Any recommendations?
The food. *Ahhhh*, the food. This is where Hotel Marina *really* shines. The breakfast buffet is decent. Do not sleep on the fruit platter! Oh and the coffee? Surprisingly good. Now, for recommendations, the *real* magic happens during dinner. I swear, I had a grilled fish there that was *divine*. I honestly might have eaten it for three nights in a row. Order it, I beg you. Also, try the local dishes. The staff is happy to guide you. And make sure to grab some of the local fruits at the market, next to the hotel (when you have spare time, of course). However, I am not very fond of the hotel's restaurant during the day. The kitchen is a bit understaffed there, leading to longer waiting times. I'd recommend going elsewhere to eat during the day.
So, aside from swimming and eating, what is there to *do*?
Honestly? Not a *ton* at the hotel itself. It’s not a resort with endless activities. They have a small pool, which is fine for cooling off. You can get massages, which I highly recommend, because who *doesn't* love a massage? The best part? The view, I'm *still* saying this. You can also rent a motorbike, which is the way to get around in Makassar. Then you have the Old Makassar that is pretty interesting, with its colourful houses, forts, and hidden restaurants. Or you can just, you know, sit on your balcony, watch the sunset, and… do absolutely nothing. Which, sometimes, is the best thing of all. It’s the chill life. Embrace it!
Is there anything REALLY annoying about staying at Hotel Marina? Be honest.
Okay, *real* talk? The Wi-Fi can be a bit dodgy. Prepare to get disconnected, especially if you're trying to stream something. And you know what they say: "If you want to get away from people, you can’t be connected to people." Also, maybe the noise. During certain times of the day the kids are playing around the pool. In addition, some rooms face into the streets, and in the morning, you may be hearing some traffic. It's not a dealbreaker, but pack some earplugs, just in case. The other thing? The occasional power outage. (Happens sometimes in Indonesia, you know?) But honestly, that’s part of the charm (sort of). Embrace the unexpected, right?
Would you go back? And would you recommend it?
Hmm. Would I go back? You know, I actually think I would. Despite the seaweed and the questionable pillowcase, and the dodgy Wi-Fi. The staff are genuinely kind, the location is fantastic, and the food is amazing. It's not perfect, by any stretch, but it has this… *vibe*. Yes, I'd recommend it. But with the caveat that you manage your expectations and go with an open mind. It's not a luxury resort. It's a solid, comfortable place to relax for a while. And that view? Totally worth it, and makes the good outweighs the bad.
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