Sheraton Yogyakarta: Cradle of Love
Text by Melani Semuel | Photos courtesy of Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort and Spa
We all need the occasional spark to reignite the passion in our relationship, and what better way to fan the flames of love than a romantic escape to Yogyakarta. So book your romantic getaway to Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort and Spa and take off on an unforgettable journey of love.
If I had to choose just one city in Indonesia for a romantic getaway, it would be Yogyakarta. More than just a cultural heritage centre, Yogyakarta also offers great natural beauty. Green rice fields cover much of the city outskirts and the mighty Mount Merapi looms over everything. This active volcano is one of the poles of a mystical straight line that connects the mountain, the Keraton and the Southern Sea, symbolising the power of ancient Javanese tradition. For those in search of spiritual enlightenment, Yogyakarta’s natural shrines must be visited. Mount Merapi is a popular destination and the one you should visit when you are in Yogyakarta, people hike up the mountain to meditate, camp or just experience a taste of rustic Javanese life.
Often called the “City of Art and Culture,” Yogyakarta is home to a stunning wealth of cultural and artistic treasures. There are magnificent temples, the ruins of palaces and monasteries, cultural events, art galleries, traditional performing arts and so much more. This is all part of the living culture of Yogyakarta, and colours the daily activities of the lives of its residents. Because of its cultural richness and rich heritage, Yogyakarta has long been known as the cradle of Javanese culture. I fell in love with the city the first time I set foot in it, and couldn’t think of a better destination when it came time to plan a romantic escapade.
For our romantic escapade we book our stay at Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort and Spa. Located in the beautiful tropical gardens with Mount Merapi as a natural backdrop, Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa is the ideal place to stay for both business or leisure. Close to numerous cultural attractions, such as the world heritage Borobudur Temple and the Keraton sultan’s palace, the resort is a world away from real life close to wonderful places just beckoning to be discovered.
The resort boasts 246, spacious, modern, Javanese-style guest rooms. The guest rooms offer views of the tropical garden or Mount Merapi, while the 16 Lagoon Access Rooms on the first floor provide privacy, tranquillity and balconies with direct access to a semi private lagoon swimming pool. After checking in, we are escorted to our lagoon access suite, the suite is spacious, designed in contemporary style and furnished with the latest conveniences. Because we stayed at suite room, we are entitled to exclusive benefits and special access to the Sheraton Club Lounge.
We wake up early the next morning as we have plenty of activities for today. We started the day by watching the sunrise at Borobudur Temple, a magnificent sight that is worth tearing ourselves away from the Sheraton’s gloriously comfortable beds. It is still dark when we arrive at Borobudur and begin the steep climb to the top of the temple. Breathless, we wait for the sun to begin its journey, breaking free of the horizon to climb across the morning sky in a breathtaking display of golds and yellows.
After ooh and aaah-ing from the beauty of the sunrise, we retreat back to the hotel for some breakfast. We felt so fresh after breakfast and ready to explore Yogyakarta. Yogyakarta has long been known as the cradle of Javanese culture, and Hyatt Regency Yogyakarta offers an array of interesting activities for you and your loved one, from Kaliurang ala Madam and the Meneer Tour to Wish Upon a Tree at Alun-Alun Kidul, where you walk through a grove of sacred trees with your eyes closed while wishing your dreams will come true. It is believed that if you can make it through the trees without running into them, your wishes will indeed come true.
Feeling tired from all the activities, we headed back to the resort and ready for some pampering. And staying at Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort and Spa, a visit to the well-known Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa is a must. The spa is very popular in Yogjakarta and my advice is to book early for your treatment. Indulge in the royal treatments at Taman Sari Royal Heritage Spa, which provides complete relaxation amid classic Javanese architecture and décor. Featuring a variety of traditional herbs and spices, its unique treatments were once a privilege exclusively for a select few in the Royal Palace. Keep on top of your fitness regime try out the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, specially designed to resemble Taman Sari Water Castle ruins.
The next day, we explore Yogyakarta. We take a trip to the mystical Mount Merapi then visit the famous Malioboro Street, where we have fun exploring the different offerings while being greeted with friendly smiles wherever we turn. From the famous gudeg to the sweet treat of bakpia, there are so many traditional foods that to savour that you can be certain that you will never go hungry in Yogyakarta. To experience some of the favourite dishes of the royal family, head to Bale Raos. Located near the Kraton, the Sultan’s Palace, the restaurant offers a selection of traditional dishes, complete with notes about which member of the royal family likes which dishes.
We also dropped in at Jejamuran restaurant, a vegetarian establishment where all the dishes are based on different types of jamur (mushrooms). I cannot believe all these dishes are made with mushrooms, they are so delicious and filling, and taste like they use real meat. It is definitely a unique experience and something you don’t want to miss when you are in Yogyakarta. We also visit House of Raminten, and as soon as we enter I know this is no ordinary restaurant. But you will just have to visit the restaurant yourself to experience its unique flair.
And, of course, the Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa itself is home to a seemingly never-ending range of culinary delights that will suit even the most discerning taste buds. Androwino Bistro offers a fusion of authentic Javanese cuisine with contemporary flavours west amidst modern décor, natural light, and rural views that create the perfect setting enjoy for delicious meal and special moments. On the top floor, Suko Wine Lounge is a unique place to complete your day with a glass or two from the international selection of wines with a fantastic view of and the hotel pool and the superlative Mount Merapi. Enjoy a romantic dinner on a private pendopo pavilion in Sheraton’s tropical garden, where you’ll get special treatment as the chef prepares a romantic dinner cooked to your order, and made for love.
Time certainly flies when you are having fun. We had a romantic escape in Yogyakarta. We love the city, and our stay at the Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort & Spa. There are so many things to do and to experience, but best of all is spending precious time with your loved one. We are definitely coming back.
Sheraton Mustika Yogyakarta Resort and Spa
Jl. Laksda Adisucipto KM 8.7
Yogyakarta - Indonesia
Phone: +62 274 488 588
www.starwoodhotel.com/sheraton
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