Explore Indonesia's Guangzhou in a day: Novotel Semarang

Semarang is the fifth largest city in Indonesia and the capital of Central Java. The name itself has a strong connection with China. When Zheng He sailed to the West, he stopped here many times. Therefore, the local Chinese still keep the tradition of holding various commemorative activities during major festivals.

While in Solo, I heard that Semarang is very lively during the Lunar New Year. So I changed my itinerary temporarily, took a train north for two and a half hours, and arrived at dusk. I took a taxi to see the city. Except for the former Dutch colonial area near the station, which is still maintained, the rest is full of ruins and old trees. There are not many decent buildings, let alone any decent chain hotels.

I had no choice but to book this Novotel, located in the bustling city center, with main roads on both sides of the corner, and cars coming and going. It was destined to be a restless night. So I studied the direction of the windows and confirmed that I needed earplugs. Fortunately, there is a large shopping mall opposite the hotel.

The hotel's decoration style is very local, and it is also in disrepair. The public area is classical and old-fashioned, and it is conservatively estimated to have been in operation for more than ten years. The room is dim and dilapidated, and the floor is uneven. The bathroom smells bad, the metal parts are covered with rust, and the shower needs to be taken in the bathtub.

There are few benefits for Accor Platinum members. There is a lounge, but unfortunately, it is not open, and there is no remedy. The outdoor terrace pool on the third floor is irregular and mini, only suitable for playing in the water. Breakfast is arranged in the restaurant on the second floor the next day, and the food is sparse and not very fresh.

The overall experience is not good, comparable to an American motel. I also tried very hard to be objective and find some advantages, but I failed. Only the cost performance is acceptable. But in this city, all hotels have good cost performance.

Room-related:
Room number: 327
Official name: Superior Queen Room
Area: 32 square meters

Mattress: Zeesindo
TV: Toshiba

Basin and bathtub: TOTO
Toilet: Manual TOTO
Hair dryer: Ideal
Amenities: Large bottle Novotel custom

Electric kettle: Kris
Instant coffee: Novotel custom
Tea bag: Novotel custom
Bottled water: Cleo
Mini bar: None