Jakarta's CHEAPEST Metropark Apartments? (INSANE Deals Inside!)
Jakarta's CHEAPEST Metropark Apartments? (INSANE Deals Inside!)
Jakarta's "CHEAPEST Metropark Apartments"? Honestly, Is It Really Worth It? (An Insane Deal - Kinda?)
Okay, so I’m writing this from the… well, let’s just say the "budget-friendly" confines of a Metropark Apartment in Jakarta. The cheapest one. Yeah, I went for rock bottom. Why? Because I'm a travel blogger, I like to suffer for my art (and for you, dear reader!), and frankly, I was intrigued. The ads promise “INSANE deals!” Let’s find out if that's true, shall we? Brace yourselves, because this is gonna be a rollercoaster.
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(Disclaimer: This review is based on my personal experience, which may vary from others'. Also, I'm not a professional critic. I'm just…me.)
Let's Get Started: The Good, the Bad, and the Utterly Bizarre
Let me just start with the elevator. It's slow. Like, painfully slow. If you're on the top floor, bring a book. Or a motivational speaker. Actually, maybe both. I swear, I aged like a fine wine waiting for that thing to crawl up from the lobby. But hey, elevator, facilities for disabled guests. At least it had an elevator! (Gonna be honest, didn't check the accessibility properly, I’m able-bodied but I saw something that could be relevant in terms of wheelchair access though, but I'm not the expert!)
Accessibility: Okay, let's be real. Elevator = Check. But the actual accessibility? I saw a few things, but didn't fully assess it.
On-site Restaurants & Lounges (The Fuel): There are restaurants… and lounges. Well, "lounges". One’s more like a glorified lobby with some mismatched sofas. The other? A place that claims to be a restaurant. I tried the Asian breakfast one morning. Let's just say my stomach and I have a complicated relationship now. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was… well, it was there. The coffee tasted like sadness diluted with dishwater. And the coffee shop? Mostly empty. Though, I did see a guy furiously typing on a laptop – maybe a fellow reviewer? – nursing the same lukewarm coffee I was.
Here's where it REALLY gets messy:
Internet: The Eternal Struggle
Let's talk about the real issue: the Internet. The ads scream "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" Yeah, sure. In theory. In reality, it's like trying to herd cats with a wet noodle. I spent more time staring at loading circles than actually doing anything. I paid extra to get Internet [LAN] but it didn’t work. I was also hoping the Internet services and Wi-Fi in public areas would be better, but nope! It was a battle royale of dropped connections and buffering nightmares. Trying to upload photos for this review? Forget about it. (Just kidding… I eventually managed! You're welcome.) This is a major point for me. In the end, I gave up and went to the lobby to get Wi-Fi.
Rooms: More Than Meets the Eye (and the Budget)
My room… oh, my room. It's a non-smoking room, and I appreciate that (I don’t smoke, and it’s generally a plus). It had air-conditioning, which is a MUST in Jakarta. The air conditioning in public area was working, but so underpowered that I was sweating even in the lobby. As for Air conditioning, it was definitely working but so underpowered.
The rooms sanitized between stays. Honestly, I tried not to look too closely. But I did appreciate the Free bottled water, because anything is better than trying to drink from the tap. I checked the Room sanitization opt-out available. I did not opt-out.
Cleanliness and Safety (The Worry Zone):
Here's where things get… concerning. They claim to use Anti-viral cleaning products, and there's a sign saying they have Daily disinfection in common areas and the staff have Staff trained in safety protocol. There's Hand sanitizer EVERYWHERE. But… I wouldn't exactly say it felt spotless. The Rooms sanitized between stays. I was also unsure how good the Professional-grade sanitizing services were. I'm a worrier in the best of times, and I had to keep reminding myself to relax. There was also CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property.
I did appreciate the Fire extinguisher in the hall, though. Tiny comfort.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (The Stomach Trials):
I already mentioned the breakfasts. The Restaurants have a Room service [24-hour]. I ordered room service a few times and waited… and waited… and waited. The food, when it finally arrived, was… well, edible. I did see a Snack bar but I didn't try it. I also noticed Bottle of water because they ran out of it quickly once.
The "Spa" & Wellness (Don't Hold Your Breath):
Okay, so the website boasts a Spa. I used the Sauna and the Steamroom… and they were functional. Barely. Definitely not a luxury experience. The prospect of a Body scrub disappeared, and I’d be willing to bet the Body wrap, Foot bath and Massage are just as underwhelming. As for stuff like Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor], Spa/sauna - I don't have a high opinion.
For the Kids:
They have Babysitting service which is a bonus for certain type of people.
Services and Conveniences:
There is a Concierge, though I never really saw him. There is also an Elevator. They also provide Daily housekeeping I think it did a good job. There is Laundry service.
Okay, So, is it an "Insane Deal"?
Look, the Metropark Apartments are cheap. Like, really cheap. But you get what you pay for. If you're on a tight budget, need a base for exploring Jakarta, and can tolerate some… let's say quirks, then maybe. But don't expect a luxurious experience. Don’t expect the internet to be reliable. And definitely don't expect the “spa” to be a sanctuary.
For the traveler with a sense of humor, a low tolerance for BS, and a strong stomach, it might be an experience. For everyone else? Proceed with caution.
Final Verdict:
- Value for Money: Borderline. The price is appealing, but the quality is…let’s say, a work in progress.
- Would I Go Back? Maybe. If I was desperate and on a super-strict budget. But I'd bring my own Wi-Fi router and a strong dose of optimistic realism. The "insane deal" part is debatable.
- Overall Rating: 2.5 out of 5 Stars (but that’s mostly the price talking).
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Batumi's Hidden Gem: Mariinsky Boutique Hotel - Unforgettable Georgian Escape
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your polished brochure itinerary. This is real life in a budget-friendly Jakarta apartment, folks. Welcome to… Jakarta Jaunt: A Slightly Disastrous, Mostly Delicious Adventure (From My Cheap Apartment)
(Disclaimer: May Contain Sweat, Stinky Sneakers, and Questionable Decisions. Proceed with Caution. Also, I'm no travel agent, okay? Just a tired traveler with a penchant for nasi goreng.)
The Humble Abode: My Sewa Cepat Apartemen Metropark Murah (aka, My Jakarta Crash Pad)
Okay, first things first: Let’s be real. The "Murah" (cheap) part? Nailed it. The "Metropark" part? Well, it's a building. The "Sewa Cepat Apartemen" (short-term apartment rental)? Finally, a place where my credit card doesn't weep silently. It's not the Ritz. Let’s just say the view from my window… well, it exists. Think concrete jungle with a hint of laundry drying on balconies. But hey! AC works, and the wifi (usually) doesn’t make me spontaneously combust from frustration.
Day 1: Jakarta Jitters & Nasi Goreng Nirvana
- Morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM): Wake up, slightly disoriented. Jet lag is a beast. I stagger out of bed, convinced a rogue mosquito is trying to claim my left ear. Bathroom ritual: brush teeth, attempt to tame hair (impossible in this humidity), and cautiously decide against fully inspecting the shower situation until absolutely necessary. (Anecdote: Trying to figure out the water situation – Hot? Cold? Scalding lava? – was a true test of my patience. Let's just say I've perfected the "squeak-and-leap" shower technique.)*
- Mid-Morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Finally brave the outside world. Armed with my phone’s translation app (because my Bahasa Indonesia extends to “terima kasih” and “maaf”), I venture forth. First mission: Food. The aroma of street food is already intoxicating.
- Late Morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): This is where things get slightly chaotic. I attempt to navigate Jakarta traffic (think rivers of motorcycles, a symphony of honking, and a general air of controlled pandemonium). I somehow hail a Gojek (motorcycle taxi). My life flashes before my eyes. I arrive at the market, sweaty and slightly terrified. (Quirky Observation: The sheer volume of scooters! It’s like a metal swarm. And everyone seems to be carrying something – chickens, refrigerators, entire families. It's a performance art piece, really.)*
- Afternoon (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): The real magic happens: Lunch. I stumble, quite by accident, into a warung (small local eatery). And then, BOOM. Nasi Goreng. Pure, unadulterated, rice-y, chili-tinged, egg-topped heaven. I practically inhale it. Seriously, I think I made a noise. (Emotional Reaction: This isn't just food. This is love. This is why I travel. This is all the carbs and spice my soul craves.)*
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM): I drag myself back to the apartment, completely food-coma-ed, and collapse on the bed. Attempt to watch some Indonesian TV (mostly commercials, some of them bizarre). Contemplate the meaning of life. Maybe I'll just order more nasi goreng.
- Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Try, and fail, to be productive (aka, plan for the next day). Actually, I do manage to find a local convenience store stocked with instant noodles. A triumph of culinary proportions in itself.
Day 2: Exploring Kota Tua (Old Town) & the (Potential for) Disaster
- Morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM): After sleeping in a little cause of the noodles coma, and a slightly less horrifying shower, I aim for Kota Tua. (Old Town) I mentally brace myself for the transportation again. (Opinionated Language:. The public transportation is rough. And they don't care. But it means you get to smell the city, and you get to be part of the action. It's either get it or die.)
- Mid-Morning (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM): Kota Tua is a blast from the past, a crumbling beauty. I wander around, dodging tourists and the occasional persistent souvenir vendor (who, by the way, has me feeling bad for not buying anything). The colonial buildings are impressive, even in a state of mild decay. There's a museum. I'm not sure what I saw, but I looked at it. It was interesting at the time. (Messier structure and occasional rambles: I mean, museums are cool. But after a while, they all kinda blur together, right? Especially when you're jet-lagged and it's humid. I really wanted lunch.)
- Afternoon (12:00 PM – 2:00 PM): Lunch. I find a cute little cafe. Then I get the check. Oh, man. Did I know I was in a Michelin-star place? I think I just blew my entire food budget. *(Stronger emotional reactions (good or bad): The "cute cafe" was an absolute wallet-wrencher!!! I literally had panic sweat. This trip is going to be *ramen* for the rest of the week. (or maybe some more Nasi Goreng)
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Okay, back to the apartment. I need to regroup. And eat ALL the instant noodles to make my money back. I will recover. (Doubling down on a single experience: I consider trying another street food place and end up getting some more Nasi Goreng. My wallet wept, but my stomach sang for joy! I think I am addicted, I feel like I could sell my soul for this stuff.)*
- Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Try to get out of the apartment and make some friends. Watch TV. Get some more Nasi Goreng. Repeat the episode.
Day 3: The Temple of Borobudur??? (Maybe)
- (Rambling warning.) Okay, so, on paper, a trip to Borobudur Temple is on the cards. It's a long journey. Early start. Massive commitment. But… the allure of a sunrise over that ancient structure is (supposedly) worth it, right? (Opinionated language: I'm thinking I might just stay in the apartment. Just the thought of the journey is exhausting. Plus, more Nasi Goreng opportunities await!)
- Actually Happened: The Apartment and the Noodles! After sleeping in cause I don't want to go! I spent the day in the apartment, and it was glorious! Some people call me lazy. I call it 'strategic relaxation!'
- Evening (6:00 PM – 9:00 PM): I order some more food. It was delicious!
Day 4-7: The whirlwind continues. Some days I'm an intrepid explorer. Other days, I am one with my laptop and a seemingly endless supply of instant coffee. I wander the malls. I attempt to haggle (badly). I get hopelessly lost and have to be rescued by (bless them) the helpful locals. I discover a new street food cart.
- (Stream-of-Consciousness: I'm really, really good at finding food. Seriously! I swear, my nose is a GPS for deliciousness. I'm also developing a deep, profound respect for the drivers in Jakarta. They're… resilient. And the constant ding! of the Gojek app is now a comforting sound. I miss home, but I would also be okay with never leaving this city. I could stay here forever and eat Nasi Goreng. The End (maybe))*
Final Thoughts: The Imperfections are the Points
This trip? Not perfect. It's messy, sometimes frustrating, occasionally awkward, and definitely budget. But it's also a genuine experience. It's the smells of the city. The kindness of the people. The endless supply of nasi goreng. It’s real. And honestly? That's what makes it unforgettable.
So, yeah. Jakarta. Worth it. Just… bring your appetite. And maybe a roll of toilet paper. You never know.
Morzine Chalet Dreams: Unbelievable Fornay Apartments Await!
Jakarta's CHEAPEST Metropark Apartments: The REAL Deal (or Nightmare?) - FAQs You NEED!
Okay, seriously... are these Metropark apartments *actually* cheap? Like, REALLY cheap? Spill the tea!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because yes. They're ridiculously cheap. I mean, I'm talking "could-feed-a-small-army-for-a-week-with-the-rent" cheap. I snagged a studio (emphasis on 'studio' - more on that later) for practically nothing. It's the kind of price that makes you think, "Is this a scam? Am I going to wake up in a cardboard box?" I still half-expect a hidden camera crew to pop out sometimes. But no, it’s real. And that’s the first warning sign, honestly. Something's *gotta* give, right?
What's the catch? There's always a catch! Is it as bad as everyone says about the location?
Oh, the catch. Honey, the catch is *multiple* catches doing the cha-cha slide. First, the 'location'. Metropark isn't *centrally* located. It's... well, let's just say it's "outside the city, but still in Jakarta". Traffic is a beast. I swear, I've had better commutes in a clown car during rush hour. Prepare for the soul-crushing reality of Indonesian traffic EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. You'll become best friends with Grab and Gojek drivers, who will have you on a first-name basis. And yes, that includes late-night cravings and early morning meetings.
Then there's the "apartment" itself, or at least *my* apartment. Remember that "studio" I mentioned? Yeah, more like a glorified walk-in closet with a kitchenette and a bed shoved in. Imagine living in a particularly well-furnished shoebox. Seriously, I can touch every wall from my bed. It's... intimate. It's also where I spend most of my waking hours in Jakarta. And my cat, Mittens, spends even *more* time there.
**My personal experience: The Great Water Heater Debacle:** One time, the water heater decided to go full-on volcanic. Hot water, not lukewarm. More like molten lava. I swear I heard it *hiss*. Didn't work for a week and the management? Let's just say I’m pretty sure they lost the service request. I ended up showering in cold water for five days. Five. Days!! The cold water really woke me up. I also think I had mild hypothermia by day 3. It was a bonding (and shivering) experience with my neighbors.
Are the Metropark apartments fully furnished? Is the furniture any good?
Yep, they *usually* come furnished. "Furnished" is the operative word here. Think "hand-me-downs from your grandma's dusty attic". My "sofa" is… well, it exists. It's a testament to the resilience of foam and questionable fabrics. It's probably seen more wear and tear than my own social life. The beds aren't too bad, though, and the AC works at least (most of the time!), which is a must in Jakarta. Just don’t expect IKEA quality. You're getting barebones basics, folks.
Expect a lot of brown and beige. And probably a very dated TV. You might want to bring your own throw pillows. Or maybe just a whole new interior design scheme. But hey, at least it's a starting point, right? You can always start from scratch and redecorate.
What about security? Is it safe at Metropark?
Security is generally okay. There are guards, and there's usually a gate. Better than the empty apartment you might find somewhere else. But Jakarta, you know how it is. Don’t go waving money around at 3 AM, and you should be good. Common sense prevails. I've never had a problem getting into my own apartment safely, but always be alert. Better safe than sorry, especially those late-night Grab rides.
Okay, the amenities... tell me about them. What can I expect? Is there a pool? Is there a gym?
Ah, the amenities! The jewel in the crown, or maybe the "sparkly thing that distracts you from the cracks in the foundation" of the Metropark experience. Yes, there's a pool. It's usually… fine. Sometimes it’s clean, sometimes it's not. The gym? Well, let’s just say it’s there. Think slightly-used, possibly-ancient equipment. Don't expect a state-of-the-art fitness center. It’s enough to get a quick workout in if you're not fussy. Plus, you've got the glorious Jakarta heat to keep you sweating!
There are also convenience stores and laundry services. The "convenience" stores are, well… convenient. But don’t expect anything fancy, unless you count a good selection of instant noodles fancy. There's *usually* a minimart within a short distance. But hey, a 7-Eleven or Indomaret is usually nearby, so it's all good.
I will say, there’s a warung (small local eatery) nearby that makes *amazing* nasi goreng. It almost makes up for the water heater incident. Almost. The nasi goreng is a life-saver.
Should I rent an apartment at Metropark? Is it worth it?
That, my friend, is the million-dollar question. Here's the brutally honest truth: it depends. If you're on a *serious* budget, if you're okay with a bit of a commute, and you don't mind a bit...rustic living, then yes, it might be worth it. It's a trade-off. Cheap rent at the expense of some convenience.
If you’re a demanding person who expects pristine conditions, or needs to be in the heart of the action, run, don't walk, away. You'll probably end up crying in the bathtub (after a cold shower, thanks to your broken water heater) at 3 AM.
For me? It's been... an experience. I’ve met some really cool people, I've learned to navigate the traffic beast, and I've managed to furnish my tiny apartment with some decent finds. It's a constant adventure. Sometimes a frustrating one. But mostly, it's home. And for the price, I can't complain *too* much. Just keep a plumber's phone number on speed dial. And maybe invest in a decent water filter. You've been warned!
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