Review The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana Hotel Amman Jordan

AMMAN : My stay at The Boulevard Arjaan by Rotana

THE BOULEVARD ARJAAN by ROTANA

Travellerczech’s Rating: 7/10


Jordan is the ultimate destination for true adventurers and the capital city of Amman is the gateway to some of the world’s most breathtaking sights!

Dead Sea, the lowest place on Earth, ancient Petra, sandstone mountains of Wadi Rum desert, or Amman’s historical Citadel…just to name a few…

CLICK HERE FOR WADI RUM DESERT GUIDE 

Amman and Jordan are the best to visit between October and April. Pleasant temperatures guarantee good traveling conditions but expect higher prices and more visitors. If you aren’t a big fan of crowds, travel outside the weekends, school and national holidays.


OVERVIEW :

Modern, luxurious and vibrant Boulevard complex is a home to four Arjaan Rotana hotel buildings.

That brings a bit of a challenge when you don’t know, in which one you staying. I recommend checking beforehand to avoid unnecessarily running around like I did.

Also, security is tight, so be patient with all the metal detectors, X-ray machines, and checkpoints.

The area, with its huge canopies and exposed architectural elements, reminded me of Parisien Centre Pompidou. It really is a pulsating promenade with yummy eateries, shops and covered shopping mall where the locals gather to be seen…

 


LOCATION : 9/10

The Boulevard is centrally located complex in close proximity to all points of interests. To discover everything Amman has to offer, jump into one of the many taxis outside.  In less than fifteen minutes drive, you can be dining in the fabulous Sufra restaurant, or discovering the historical Citadel.

Distances :

  • 45 minutes from/to Queen Alia Intl. Airport
  • 10 minutes to Rainbow street
  • 50 minutes to the Dead Sea
  • 4 hours to Aqaba
  • 3 hours to Petra
  • 4 hours to Wadi Rum

ROOMS : 6/10

“The Classic Suite” I was staying in, is a spacious 76sq-meter luxury apartment. It is fully equipped with living area & kitchenette, separate bedroom, a vast bathroom and balcony.

I have to mention the bed, one of the most comfortable eveeeeer … what a blissful sleep!

Despite the suite being so enjoyable, the Wi-Fi was continuously on and off and didn’t work in the bedroom.  There was also noise disturbance from the street and I had to use earplugs. Perhaps ask for a room facing the inner Boulevard.

There is enough, practically located sockets for charging devices and good selection of TV channels.

Main Classic Suite amenities  :

  • Kitchen with microwave, fridge & washing machine
  • Two flat TV’s
  • Deposit Box
  • Complimentary water
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • A/C
  • Toiletries
  • Tea/Cofee Maker
  • Slippers and Iron

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SERVICE & FACILITIES : 7/10

  • Let’s look at the facilities first…

Both, the rooftop swimming pool and Bodylines health club are excellent! To dive into the pleasantly heated water after a hard gym session it’s just delightful.

Enjoy panoramic city views from the pool deck, accompanied by freshly made lemonade, or relax in the sauna and steam room. Massages are also available to book.

The gym is professionally equipped and includes two classrooms.

  • Now, the service…

I found the staff to be slightly standoff-ish, it was almost like they didn’t want to engage with the guests. English language knowledge could be also improved.  There is a definitely plenty of room for improvement.

The diamond amongst all the coal was Dalia, working at the Margaux café. She couldn’t have been more helpful, friendly and engaging. The rest of the team could learn a lot from her!

 


FOOD & DRINKS : 8/10

Café Italia & Café Margaux are two restaurants serving the hungry hotel guests.

I can only comment on the French Café Margaux. This is all-day dining restaurant, serving anything from a buffet breakfast to the beautiful local crispy Chardonnay JR Classic…a MUST TRY 🙂

The restaurant has a cute French countryside inspired indoor seating and outdoor terrace, in case you want to watch the world passing by.

Breakfast is simply delicious. Fresh & local produce food accompanied by an exciting selection of fresh juices and hot beverages … the best way to start the day!


VALUE FOR MONEY : 8/10

The price for all this space and luxury is more than fair. Not to mention the attractive location, great breakfast and modern facilities. Service and Wi-Fi could be improved, but I would definitely choose to stay here again.


THANK YOU FOR VISITING

travellerczech.com

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YOGYAKARTA : My stay at Hyatt Regency Hotel

HYATT REGENCY / YOGYAKARTA / INDONESIA

Travellerczech’s Rating : 8/10


Yogyakarta is a bustling town and one of the most popular destinations on the Indonesian Island of Java. Surprisingly, almost unknown to foreign travelers, the Yogyakarta region offers unique historical monuments, beautiful nature and many thrilling activities to satisfy all adventurers!

I have spent seven days discovering this wonderful part of the planet and still haven’t explored all the places I was planning too. There is just so much to see…

CLICK HERE FOR MY TOP 8 AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN YOGYAKARTA

To find the ideal base for your travels is one of the most important tasks, to begin with. Let me make this easy for you! Check below my latest review of the superb Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta hotel!


OVERVIEW :

Just a quick left turn from Palagan street transports you into a lush Indonesian paradise. Wooden carved structures, ponds full of colourful fish, bubbling waterfalls and lava stone stupas. As far as the eye can see, lush gardens and tropical greenery becon you in, along with the smiles and genuine welcome by the friendly hotel staff.

I choose to stay in the Club room, where you can enjoy private Lounge access and special check-in with the help of Mrs. Yaoyon and Saraswati. They will also guide you through special amenities and added benefits that come with a Club room.

Consistently rated No 1 on Tripadvisor, the hotel itself is spreading over a vast 22ha of gardens, golf course and tropical pools with water slides. This beautiful setting will help you completely forget about the outside world.


LOCATION : 8/10

The hotel is only 30 minutes drive from Adisucipto International airport, just far enough away from the busy center, but easily reachable by taxi, or complimentary hotel shuttle within a few minutes drive. Also, the main shopping malls are a 15 minutes drive away.

  • Adisucipto airport is served by 14 Airlines ( Garuda, AirAsia, Silk Air, Lion Air, Citilink etc)

You can walk outside onto the Palagan street with many shops, restaurants, pharmacies and grocery stores. To be honest, except for my pre-planned tours, I have hardly felt the need to leave the resort. It is just so relaxing.


ROOMS : 7/10

I stayed in a Club room. It is 36sqm in size, with spacious hallway and bathroom. This type of room has complimentary access to the Club lounge, which also acts as a private check-in and concierge facility for club room guests.  I highly recommend this room option.

Club Room includes : 

  • access to club lounge with unlimited food and drinks from 5-7pm every evening
  • very comfortable beds
  • mini bar
  • fast complimentary Wi-fi ( I could stream movies online )
  • free bottled water
  • safe
  • bathrobe and slippers
  • ironing board
  • tea/coffee making facility
  • toiletries box
  • AC
  • bathtub and spacious shower corner

The rooms are a little bit old-fashioned, with a simple decor that could do with a little refresh. Having said that I found them to be clean and beds to be very comfortable.

There are enough sockets for re-charging all your devices.

There are four Room categories to choose from :

  • Standard & Deluxe Rooms – 30sqm (with outdoor patio on the ground floor)
  • Club Room – 36sqm (with Lounge access)
  • Suite – 144sqm (if you’d like to spoil yourself)
  • Presidential Suite – 150sqm (if you’d like to really really spoil yourself 🙂 )

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SERVICE & FACILITIES : 9/10

The sprawling resort has almost too many things to offer. Make sure you plan your tours with some time to spare, so you have time to enjoy the hotels facilities and unwind by one of it’s charming pools.

The service is superb and exceeded my expectations. Everyone is smiling, ready to help in a  friendly professional way. They have a cute little trick…during check-in, they take a photo of you which is logged on the system, and for the rest of your stay, everyone will greet you by name. It makes you feel like a very valued guest.

Hotels main facilities :

  • free-form pools with water slides, surrounded by manicured tropical gardens.
  • 9 hole golf course
  • jogging trail
  • spa including Jacuzzi, Sauna etc.
  • tennis courts
  • tour desk
  • batik store
  • club lounge
  • “secret garden” with statues and a tree house
  • small fitness room
  • complimentary shuttle to Downtown Yogyakarta

The only reason, I didn’t give top marks for the facilities is the underwhelming gym and not so comfy sun loungers.

GARDENS & POOL AREAS:

With water slides, stone bridges, and beautiful lush gardens, it is so easy to forget about the outside world. Small food kiosk with snacks and to order menu from the restaurant available.

SPA:

I’ve had the exceptional Javanese massage. The rooms are a bit dark, but the temperature was perfect, treatment great and little sweets at the end sooo good!

FITNESS ROOM :

Very small, with basic equipment.  I enjoy to workout during my trips but must have improvised a lot. At least there are some free weights. ( up to 20kg )

I found a gym about hundred meters away to the right from the street entrance if you are looking for something a bit better.


FOOD & DRINKS : 9/10

Kemangi Bistro is the epicentre of the hotel and serves  breakfast, lunch and dinner. It has indoor and outdoor areas, which is especially great for a breakfast overlooking the pool or sipping cocktails in the early evening.

There is also Bogey’s Terrace on the Golf course & Paseban Lounge in the lobby, serving snacks, coffee and cocktails.

Another place to recharge after a long day of exploring is the Club Lounge, as mentioned previously.

CLUB LOUNGE :

The best place to unwind for Club Rooms guests. Don’t’ miss the happy hours (5-7pm), when complimentary food and drinks are offered, together with a live cooking station, to sample some local delicacies.

KEMANGI BISTRO :

All day restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner in the form of buffet or á la carte.

I really appreciated the huge and ever-changing variety of international and local food. Every day was something new to taste and try.


VALUE FOR MONEY : 10/10

Simply excellent! Seriously, you get luxury accommodation in the best rated hotel in the region for far less than you would pay in Bali, Langkawi or Phuket!

…tell them I sent you 😉


THANK YOU FOR VISITING

travellerczech.com

COME BACK SOON & don’t forget to follow us

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Motiongate Theme Park Dubai The Hunger Games Lionsgate Zone

MOTIONGATE : The Hunger Games “land” is now OPEN !


The world of Hunger Games, best selling novels and movie trilogy ( 2008-2010) is now become a reality.

You can experience the post-apocalyptic Panem at Motiongate theme park in Dubai. ” Labeled” as Phase 2 of the theme park expansion is due to be open officially soon, but both major rides are in technical rehearsal and intermittently available to park guests.

Mack manufactured launched roller coaster Capitol Bullet Train and 3D flight simulator Panem Aerial Tour are truly enjoyable, state-of-the-art attractions and will fully immerse you in the world of 12 Districts of Panem.


Let’s have a closer look at both rides :

  • Panem Aerial Tour

The ride queue starts with the infamous poisoned white roses as a direct reference to the evil President Snow. Movie music, together with displayed props, clothing and images work well and there is plenty to look at while waiting for your flight.

A safety video hosted by Effie Trinket is a nice introduction to the quirky world of Capitol city, before  proceeding to the waiting room with 5 doors. They lead to the loading room with ride vehicle consisting 5 rows/6 seats per row.

This vehicle moves forward to another room with a 360 circular shaped projection. Passengers get to go on a 3D flight tour of the Capitol, but of course, things doesn’t go as planned and there is wild chase through the city. The vehicle moves very smoothly and wind effects makes the experience much more realistic. The journey feels very immersive and well designed.

My only comments will be towards the sharpness of the projections, it should be more crisp and vivid. Hopefully this will be fixed as the ride is still in technical rehearsal.


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  • Capitol Bullet Train 

Motiongate’s 4th coaster is from German ride maker Mack. Train has 10 rows with 2 seats in each.

Safety lap bar makes the ride very comfortable and more exciting. After exiting the loading station, the entire train moves to the left when it joints to the actuals track.

At first, it gets slowly launched towards the main loop. It rises only half way up and rolls backwards onto the vertical part of the track, for some awesome air time ( the best seats are in the very last row ).

Right after, the train receives full power push from the lines induction motors and accelerates into the full loop and rest of the track. There is one more loop and air hill, but the ride is quickly over.

The ride could be bit longer and faster, but that’s just me 🙂


Few more photos from around the Lionsgate area


THANK YOU FOR VISITING

travellerczech.com

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INDONESIA : 8 AMAZING REASON’S TO VISIT YOGYAKARTA

Yogyakarta region and it’s main city was almost unknown to me until a few months ago, when I came across an amazing photo of Borobudur temple while browsing online.

A little bit of “googling” later, and I’m wondering, why this place isn’t one of the world’s top destination to visit…

Luckily for me ( and you ), it is still mostly unknown to foreign visitors, so I could sample the real Indonesia, far away from the crowds of the more popular locations.

Travelling around central Java is adventurous, thrilling and very satisfying. It is safe, easy & also “friendly” to your wallet. It’s almost unbelievable to see, how much this region has to offer. Not forget to mention great food and friendly locals…

Discover my list of 8 BEST places to visit below!

Don’t forget to check 3 Day Yogyakarta Trip itinerary at the end of this post !


  • 1. EXPERIENCE SUNSET at BOROBUDUR  TEMPLE

Borobudur is one of the most unique places on the planet and world’s largest Buddhist monument.

It’s history begins in the 9th century and the complex includes over 70 stupas with hidden Buddha statues inside.

To take a postcard perfect photo isn’t easy. You need to be lucky with the weather, patient with the crowds and skilled with photoshop 😉

But it’s absolutely worth it, the crowds thinning as the sun settles down and you can fully enjoy the majestic surroundings and magical atmosphere.

Definitely one of the highlights of my trip!

INFO :

TRAVEL TIME : 1,5 hrs from Yogyakarta

TICKET : 325.000 IDR ( incl. drink )

TIME TO ENJOY : approx. 2 hours

DRESS CODE :  No open shoulders, shorts below the knee ( you can rent sarong there )


  • 2. DISCOVER PRAMBANAN TEMPLE

Located in central Yogyakarta means, you don’t have to travel too far, to discover this amazing Hindu temple dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva gods.

The central 47m high temple is truly impressive and the entire place offers great locations for taking photos and discovering the surrounding grounds.

To find a quieter area, exit the main temple podium through the gate on the left side and find yourself in ruins covered site, offering the perfect views and angles with no other visitors.

INFO :

TRAVEL TIME : 20min from central Yogya

TICKET : 325.000 IDR ( incl. water )

TIME TO ENJOY : 1-2hrs

NO DRESS CODE


  • 3. ZIP LINE IN KALIBIRU NATIONAL PARK

Don’t miss Kalibiru National Park for splendid views and thrilling adventure park.

Zip line, climb and challenge yourself in this hill-top obstacle course. Nothing beats the adrenaline rush while swishing up amongst the tree tops and being stopped in the middle for a quick “hanging in the air” photo opportunity.

If you are a keen Instagrammer, this a place for you ! You can choose from many “stations” and obstacles and the staff will take photos of you, which will be downloaded to your phone afterwards.

If you are Iphone user, better bring USB to download photos!

 

INFO : 

TRAVEL TIME : 1,5hrs from Yogyakarta

TICKET : 10.000 IDR + Pay per activity and extra photos 80.000 for 8pc’s

  • the entire system is a bit confusing as no one speaks english. Be patient and start at the rock climbing station. From there you can do all the activities and also download photos ( 8 snaps) to your phone at the end. Staff lunch break 12-1pm so come before or after. Long queues!

TIME TO ENJOY : 2hrs ( could be more, depends on the waiting lines )

DRESS CODE : Sport clothes, sport shoes


  • 4. GET LOST in TAMAN SARI WATER CASTLE & UNDERGROUND MOSQUE

Ideal place for a leisurely stroll, away from hustle and bustle of Yogyakarta. It is peaceful, quiet and if you come during weekdays, not too busy.

The actual castle isn’t big, but don’t miss the surrounding areas, including picturesque streets with batik shops, restaurants and of course the underground mosque with its dark corridors.

It’s not easy to find it all, so get lost in the tiny colourful streets and explore. But not to worry, there is plenty of friendly locals, that will point you in the right direction.

INFO : 

TRAVEL TIME : 10min from central Yogyakarta

TICKET : 16.000IDR

TIME TO ENJOY : 1-2 hrs

NO DRESS CODE


  • 5. HANG OUT at TIMANG BEACH ROPE BRIDGE & GONDOLA

I was really lucky to arrive to Timang Beach during storm. It really added to the rough spirit of this fantastic location and also, there was absolutely no one else 🙂

Raw nature, deafening waves crashing against razor edged cliffs and sea spray hitting my face.

I loved it. You can choose to travel on the small rocky island in hand pulled gondola, or cross a 100m long rope bridge on foot.

I would recommend the bridge. It takes much longer to cross, offers unique photo opportunities with waves reaching up to 20m in height and it’s really spine chilling experience.

INFO : 

TRAVEL TIME : 2hrs from Yogyakarta

TICKET : 100.000IDR for Rope bridge / 10.000 for Wooden podium

50.000 bike ride from near by village ( 15min necessary ride )  / Jeep ride optional

TIME TO ENJOY : 1-2hrs 

DRESS CODE : comfortable clothes, no flip flops or sandals


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  • 6. EXPLORE GOA JOMBLANG CAVE

Definitely one of the most thrilling experience’s of my life! Conquer your fear of heights and descent into “Jurassic World”.

To only way to get inside the mysterious Jomblang Cave is via 80m deep descent on a hand pulled rope similar to abseiling.

Only 60 adventurers is lowered all the way down every day. The entire procedure feels very safe and all equipment is quite new. Nonetheless, hanging in the air with 80m of nothingness below me, was terrifying.

The reward comes soon after walking through pitch black muddy cave into a “dome” with waterfall of light.

Nature created breathtaking show which is the best to see between 11.30-12.30 and on sunny day only. Honestly, I haven’t seen anything like this before. It was simply incredible!

INFO :

TRAVEL TIME : 1,5 hrs from Yogyakarta

TICKET : 450.000 IDR 

TIME TO ENJOY : 4hrs

  • only 60 people/day so better pre-book and arrive before 9am.
  • the full experience lasts 4 hours.
  • you will get dirty and very wet ( take extra clothes and towel )

DRESS CODE : comfortable clothes ( you will get rubber shoes and all equipment )


  • 7. DON’T MISS UNDERWATER PHOTOSHOOT AT UMBUL PONGGKOK

In three words…SO MUCH FUN!

Umbul Ponggkok is a natural spring lake in Klaten town. It’s a a bit bizzar place with crystal clear lake, lots of fish and “daily” objects thrown in the water to take a photo with.

Once you figure out how this place works ( a bit complicated due to language barrier ),  dive into the fresh cold waters, put snorkel on and let the underwater world pass by.

You need to pick your desired photo objects at the booth and “photo crew” goes with you to style and take fantastic fun snaps of you. You can download all the photos to your phone afterwards.

INFO :

TRAVEL TIME : 1,5hrs from Yogyakarta

TICKETS : 15.000IDR / Snorkel rental 13.000IDR / Photo shoot : 250.000 IDR

  • you can rent all underwater equipment

TIME TO ENJOY : 1-2hrs

DRESS CODE : Swimwear


  • 8. PLAY GOLF, DINE & enjoy a SHOW at the HYATT REGENCY HOTEL

Do you fancy to show off your best shirt, or lovely dress?

Delicious Indonesian themed dinner buffet with intriquing Ramayana Ballet show is your best bet!

The one & only place to do so, is at the finest hotel in the region…Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta.

It’s spacious grounds hiding 9-hole golf course and also tennis court and Spa.

Why not make it a day? Play golf and enjoy great food with a show after the sunset…

FULL REVIEW OF HYATT REGENCY YOGYAKARTA COMING SOON !

 

INFO : 

TRAVEL TIME : 20min from central Yogyakarta

PRICE : 165.000 IDR

TIME TO ENJOY : dinner 2-3 hours

DRESS CODE : smart casual


  •        3 DAY TRIP ITINERARY SAMPLE :

DAY 1 : Prambanan + Kalibiru + Borobudur

DAY 2 : Roa Gomblang + Timang Beach

DAY 3 : Taman Sari Castle + Umbul Ponggkok

  • To reach all destinations, hire a skilled driver with a comfy, AC car – prices around 500.000IDR/day – try Danar : 0062  813 9282 9086
  • Note, charge for using toilets is 2000IDR ( everywhere ), so have small change!
  • Shopping in Yogyakarta :   Ambarukmo Plaza / Hartono Mall / Jogyakarta City Mall
  • 3 Best Restaurants  : Sasanti / Gojah Wong / Abyagiri
  • I was travelling to Yogyakarta from Dubai with Singapore Airlines and Silk Air.

THANK YOU FOR VISITING

travellerczech.com

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