Sumatra

Right on the coast and perfectly located in the center of Padang, The Pangeran Beach Hotel is the perfect spot to relax and unwind. Here, Indonesian hospitality meets quality amenities and guests can either explore the town and marvel at its colonial architecture or simply enjoy the facilities. The rooms are clean, spacious and modern with big windows allowing for lots of natural light, while the private bathrooms are well-stocked with fresh towels and toiletries. After a day at the beach or exploring the town, hungry diners will enjoy a leisurely meal at Angso Duo restaurant, which serves a variety of traditional local dishes as well as a range of Chinese and Western favourites. The hotel bar is the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink before or after dinner. The outdoor pool enjoys views of the ocean and guests can either get active with a workout in the fully-equipped fitness center or get pampered with a massage at the spa.

The first hotel in western Sumatra to boast four stars, the Pukaso Hotel in Bukittinggi offers world-class hospitality amidst stunning Indonesian scenery. Spread across five hectares of lush garden, with the Merapi and Singgalang mountains in the background, it is beautiful and peaceful, with the city landmarks of Jam Gadang less than two miles away. Across 165 rooms including deluxe suites and one presidential suite, the decor is modern with a traditional twist. All rooms are fully-equipped with satellite television and mini-bar and each has its own private balcony; additionally, all bathrooms are en-suite with a shower or tub. Authentic local cuisine is served in the hotel’s two dining rooms and nightly performances light up evenings at the Parenai Theater restaurant. Guests can relax around the outdoor pool or work out on the jogging track and in the fitness center while other recreational facilities include billiards, giant chess and mini basketball.

In the very heart of Sumatra, Bukittinggi attracts tourists from all over the world, looking for a little Indonesian hospitality. With its elegant sweeping spires, the Royal Denai Hotel is the perfect retreat. Nestled on the hillside with views of the mountainous scenery, the hotel’s rooms and suites are sprawled among lush gardens. Accommodation is clean and comfortable with en-suite bathrooms and room service available 24 hours a day. The on-site restaurant serves a range of Indonesian dishes made with local ingredients and for lighter bites, there’s a charming coffee shop. Whether for lounging around and soaking up the sun during the day or for a refreshing dip before dinner, the outdoor pool is a great spot for relaxing; what’s more, there’s a separate area for the kids to splash about, to ensure the tranquil atmosphere is maintained.

Travelers to the picturesque town of Kersik Tuo will be wowed by the stunning scenery that surrounds the area, from the green and verdant national park and its sprawling tea fields, to the towering peak of Mount Kerinci. For a real taste of the local culture, a stay at Subandi Homestay is a must. The simple but cozy and welcoming house has four rooms available, each of which sleeps two people. Accommodation is basic but the rooms are clean and cheerfully decorated and the windows afford unparalleled views of the mountain directly opposite. The friendly owner not only speaks excellent English, but regularly delights his guests with his vast knowledge of the local flora and fauna so that intrepid explorers will be well-prepared before they head out to tackle the soaring heights. Meals are available and guests get the chance to enjoy traditionally prepared family recipes in what feels like a real home.

Surrounded by lush fields, rice paddies and with misty mountains in the distance, Sipirok is a dramatic and romantic destination. Visitors to the area will be immediately delighted and impressed by the authentic Indonesian exterior of the bungalows at Torsibohi Hotel with their jaunty roofs pires, geometric tiling and chalet-style porches. The rooms are simply decorated with wooden cladding for a cozy atmosphere, the beds are comfortable and decked with fresh linen. Guests hungry from a day of exploring will enjoy the authentic Indonesian cuisine served up in the Torsibohi restaurant, often accompanied by traditional entertainment by local musicians. Those traveling with children or with a sense of fun will enjoy the playground set in the midst of the cottages, on the green grass.