Bandung's Chicest Minimalist Studio: Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! (Travelio)
Okay, deep breaths, let's dive headfirst into reviewing Bandung's Chicest Minimalist Studio: Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! (Travelio). Buckle up, buttercup, because this ain't your typical hotel review; this is a travel confession. We're going full-throttle honest here.
First Impressions: The Driveway Drama & Minimalist Magic
So, picture this: Bandung traffic. Let's just say it's an experience. Finally, finally, we pull up to Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! (Travelio). The building itself… it feels… new. Clean lines. The entrance isn't exactly grand, no sweeping lobby, but hey, this is a studio, right? It's all about the inside, baby.
- Accessibility: This is where the review gets a tiny bit messy because I didn't explicitly check for wheelchair accessibility. They do have an elevator (essential!), and the facilities listed do mention 'Facilities for disabled guests'… BUT I didn't see any specific ramps or features in the common areas. It's something to confirm directly with Travelio if you absolutely need it. (I'll update this if I ever get a chance to go full recon mode)
- Check-in/out [express]: Yes. Like, practically blink-and-you'll-miss-it fast. Which is exactly what you want after surviving the Bandung traffic gauntlet.
- Check-in/out [private]: I think I remember having a brief chat with the staff, but mostly, they're efficient. No lingering. No forced smiles. Just smooth service.
The Room: Where Minimalist Meets… Well, Me.
Okay, confession time: I'm not a minimalist. I aspire to be, but my life is usually a delightful explosion of books, half-finished projects, and questionable snack wrappers. So, walking into my studio was… an adjustment. But a good one.
Available in all rooms:
- Air conditioning: Crucial. Bandung can get humid. Saved.
- Alarm clock: Check. Although, honestly, I used my phone.
- Bathrobes: Unexpectedly plush. I felt like a pampered celebrity! (In my studio… go figure).
- Bathroom phone: Uh… okay. Didn't use it. But it was there.
- Bathtub: YES! I love a good soak. (See "Massage & Spa" below for my deeper experience)
- Blackout curtains: A godsend for sleeping in.
- Carpeting: Clean and comfy.
- Closet: Perfectly adequate.
- Coffee/tea maker: Essential. Caffeine is a must-have in my life.
- Complimentary tea: Excellent touch.
- Daily housekeeping: The room sparkles like a diamond.
- Desk: Good for getting some work done (if you're into that sort of thing).
- Extra-long bed: Perfect for sprawling out after a long day.
- Free bottled water: Always appreciated.
- Hair dryer: Worked fine.
- High floor: (Thankfully)
- In-room safe box: Secure.
- Internet access – LAN: Fine.
- Internet access – wireless: Free and perfectly functional.
- Ironing facilities: Essential. I tried to look presentable.
- Laptop workspace: Yep.
- Linens: Clean, crisp, and comfy.
- Mini bar: Stocked, but I didn't partake. (Bandung street food, duh!)
- Mirror: Check.
- Non-smoking: Hallelujah.
- On-demand movies: Didn't explore; too busy exploring Bandung!
- Private bathroom: Obviously.
- Reading light: Useful.
- Refrigerator: Handy for keeping drinks and snacks cold.
- Safety/security feature: Good.
- Satellite/cable channels: I barely glanced.
- Scale: Existential dread and weigh-ins! (Kidding… mostly.)
- Seating area: Nice.
- Separate shower/bathtub: YES!
- Shower: Worked.
- Slippers: Nice touch.
- Smoke detector: A good thing to have.
- Socket near the bed: Essential for charging your phone.
- Sofa: Comfy.
- Soundproofing: Pretty good. Didn't hear any ruckus.
- Telephone: Didn't use.
- Toiletries: Basic, but adequate.
- Towels: Soft and fluffy.
- Umbrella: Thankfully, didn't need it.
- Visual alarm: Not needed, for me, but good to know its there!
- Wake-up service: Didn't use my phone's alarm.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Excellent.
- Window that opens: Fresh air is always welcome.
Additional toilet: Not available.
The studio's design is clean. Modern. Calming. It felt surprisingly spacious. One small imperfection? The lack of art on the walls felt a little… sterile at first. But I got used to it. It's a blank canvas, ready for you.
Let's Talk Comfort & Safety (Because, You Know, The World)
Cleanliness and safety: They take this seriously. Everything was spotless.
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Good to hear.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Reassuring.
- Doctor/nurse on call: A comfort.
- First aid kit: Always a good thing.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere.
- Hot water linen and laundry washing: They've thought of everything.
- Hygiene certification: Nice to know.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Especially great right now.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: Pretty easy to keep.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: Peace of mind.
- Room sanitization opt-out available: Choice!
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Again, excellent.
- Safe dining setup: Felt safe.
- Sanitized kitchen and tableware items: Important.
- Shared stationery removed: Sensible.
- Staff trained in safety protocol: They seemed informed.
- Sterilizing equipment: Excellent.
Other security:
- CCTV in common areas: Always appreciated.
- CCTV outside property: Security is key.
- Fire extinguisher: Always good.
- Front desk [24-hour]: Peace of mind.
- Non-smoking rooms: Yay!
- Safety/security feature: Excellent.
- Security [24-hour]: Peace of mind.
- Smoke alarms: Always good.
The Amenities: Massage Me (Please!)
This is where Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! shines… partially. It doesn't have vast, sprawling amenities, but what it offers is thoughtful.
- Spa/sauna: No sauna, but I did get a great massage! (More on that below).
- Massage: Oh, YES. This was… heaven. After a serious trek through Bandung, I went for a Swedish massage. It was divine. The masseuse was skilled, and the room… well, clean, calming, and dimly lit. I drifted off to sleep. Definitely a highlight.
- Swimming pool: No pool (which is a slight bummer).
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: From Basic to Brilliant?
The food situation at Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! is a mixed bag.
- Breakfast [buffet]: Didn't have a buffet available, a pre-set menu only.
- Breakfast takeaway service: Perfect for a quick start to the day.
- A la carte in restaurant: Available.
- Asian cuisine in restaurant: Yes.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant: Check.
- Restaurants: There ARE restaurants.
- Happy hour: I'm pretty sure I missed it. But Bandung had so much more to discover!
- Room service [24-hour]: A lifesaver, especially after exploring.
- Snack bar: (Probably not exactly a bar, more like options).
- Vegetarian restaurant: Yes.
The Verdict: Should You Stay at Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem! (Travelio)?
Yes. Absolutely. Especially if you’re looking for a clean
KL's HOTTEST New Suites: VieSuite @ VerveSuites - MidValley Luxury Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into my potential Bandung escapade. This isn't your glossy magazine itinerary, this is real life, flaws and all. We're talking Minimalist Studio Galeri Ciumbuleuit 1 By Travelio, and let's see if I can actually survive it without my usual brand of utter chaos.
Bandung Blitz: A Mostly-Organized Adventure (Maybe)
Day 1: Arrival and the Great Noodle Quest (and Existential Dread)
Morning (ish) - The Travel Hustle: My flight touches down in Husein Sastranegara International Airport. (Oh, the drama of airports! Always a symphony of screaming babies and confused tourists. I'll try to be a good tourist, I promise.) I've arranged a Grab car. Praying it's not a jalopy driven by a guy who thinks he's in Fast & Furious: Bandung Drift. I'm already mentally prepping for potential traffic. It's a love-hate relationship with traffic…I hate it, but I'm always in it.
Afternoon - Check-In (and the Great Luggage Struggle): Arrive at Galeri Ciumbuleuit. This is where the minimalist studio is. "Minimalist" can mean so many things. Here's hoping it means "clean, well-lit, and with decent Wi-Fi," and not "a glorified shoebox with a futon." The unpacking might be a disaster. I'm inherently messy. Like, I'm surprised I haven't accidentally packed my entire life into a suitcase. Hopefully the AC's working. Bandung can get a tad warm…. and humid..
Late Afternoon/Early Evening - The Noodle Pilgrimage: Okay, this is the important part. This trip hinges on finding the perfect mie kocok. (It's Bandung's own noodle dish, people! Get on board.) My research has led me to [Insert potential Mie Kocok place here - I haven't actually decided yet! I'm still comparing reviews and staring longingly at photos. The indecisiveness kills me.] The anticipation is REAL. I dream of rich broth, tender noodles, perfectly cooked meatballs, and that crunchy, spicy sambal. If I don't find the perfect bowl… well, let's just say my mood will be inversely proportional to the happiness of my stomach. This is the foundation. This is everything.
Evening - Cultural Exploration (or Netflix and Chill, Depends): If the noodle gods smile upon me, I might venture out to explore a bit. Maybe the Braga area. Or, alternatively, if the noodle experience is less than divine, I'm fully prepared to retreat back to the room, fire up Netflix with a ridiculous guilty pleasure movie, and order a pizza. The room better have good wifi, or I will riot.
Day 2: Tangkuban Perahu Volcano (and the Fear of Heights/Earthquakes)
Morning - The Volcano Trek (Maybe): Okay, a bit of a tough one, the Tangkuban Perahu volcano. I'm slightly terrified of heights. And volcanoes. And the earth moving in unpredictable ways. But the photos are breathtaking! I'll probably book a day tour. The drive is supposed to be scenic, so yay for that! I can handle scenic! As long as the mountain doesn't suddenly decide to, well, erupt. I might need to bring a small supply of anxiety medication and possibly a spare pair of underwear. Just in case.
Afternoon - Volcano Views and Souvenir Mayhem: Assuming I survive the volcano, there's bound to be souvenir shops. I have a weakness for kitsch. Expect me to come back with a questionable t-shirt, a hat, and a bunch of random trinkets that'll end up gathering dust on a shelf. I'll probably try to barter, fail miserably, and end up paying double. It's a gift.
Late Afternoon - Coffee Culture: Bandung is known for its coffee shops. Time for some serious caffeine intake to counteract any remaining volcano-induced anxiety. [Insert Potential Coffee Shop Here - again, research in progress! I'm looking for something with a great atmosphere and seriously good coffee.] Perhaps a little people watching while I'm at it.
Evening - Street Food Adventures (and the Risk of Food Poisoning): Time for some street food! I'm a glutton for punishment, apparently. I know there's a risk of, uh, digestive issues, but the smells! The flavors! How can I resist? I'll probably stick to something cooked on the spot, and hope for the best. Wish me luck. And maybe bring some Pepto-Bismol. Just in case.
Day 3: Farewells (and the Sadness of Leaving Good Food)
Morning - Leisurely Wake Up (if possible): Okay, realistically, after two days of adventure and the potential digestive chaos, I'll need some serious rest. Trying to stay in bed a bit longer. Maybe order room service/Grab food.
Mid-Morning - Last Bandung Brunch: One last meal, of course! I'm thinking something light, but filling. [Insert Potential Brunch Location Here - I'll leave this to my gut feeling].
Afternoon - Souvenir Round-Up and Airport Run: Last frantic souvenir hunt! My luggage is already bursting at the seams. The final, frantic dash to the airport…Praying for minimal traffic, no lost luggage, and a flight that doesn't get delayed.
Evening - Departure and the Post-Trip Blues: Saying goodbye to the Bandung. The post-trip blues are real. And the immediate craving for more mie kocok. Until next time, Bandung!
Notes and Disclaimers:
- This itinerary is a mere suggestion. I'm notoriously flexible (read: flaky).
- Food recommendations are subject to change based on my whims, mood, and the availability of said food.
- Bad weather, traffic, or unexpected inconveniences may completely derail plans. Expect it.
- I'm prone to getting lost, so be prepared for the possibility of me wandering aimlessly.
- This itinerary is not designed for the faint of heart, or the easily offended.
- I'm operating on a budget (of sorts). But you know, I'm not above splurging on amazing food!
- This entire experience is to be documented with photos and videos. Get ready for a social media overload!
- The most important part of the trip is to discover the beauty inside the city.
- I feel that traveling to Bandung alone is a perfect move.
There you have it. My Bandung survival guide. Wish me luck. And send noodles.
Unbelievable! This Shuozhou Hotel Blew My Mind! (Renmin Square Gem!)
Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem (Travelio): The Unfiltered Truth (and Maybe Some Regrets)
Okay, spill the tea: Is Ciumbuleuit 1 Gem really as 'chic' as the pictures make it seem?
Let me tell you a story. I arrived, jet-lagged to high heaven, convinced I’d found my minimalist paradise. Picture this: I'd envisioned myself, zen-like, sipping jasmine tea on the balcony, composing the great Indonesian novel. The reality? I tripped over my suitcase (minimalism doesn't include a designated luggage zone, apparently), cracked the tiny mirror above the desk (oops!), and spent the first hour battling the AC, which sounded like a disgruntled robot. Still… the view *was* pretty spectacular when the clouds actually parted. So, yeah. Chic-ish. Expect some real-world imperfections, people.
The location: Ciumbuleuit. Cool or Commute-astrophe?
However... the traffic. Oh, the traffic. Bandung's traffic is legendary, a national sport. Getting *anywhere* during rush hour is an endurance test. One morning, I swear, I spent longer in a Gojek (motorcycle taxi), inching forward, than I did actually *doing* whatever I was there for. So, proximity to cool stuff? Yes. Easy to access it? Hmmm... pack snacks and a good playlist.
What's the deal with the "studio" part? Is it actually a tiny, claustrophobic box?
It had enough space for one person and their excessive number of shoes (ahem, guilty). Two people? Probably doable if you're really, *really* in love and don't mind bumping elbows. More than that? Run. Just run. You'll end up fighting over closet space, and trust me, that's never a good look.
Let's talk amenities! What's included (and what's mysteriously missing)?
But here's where things get interesting. One trip, I discovered the coffee machine was missing. Panic set in. I'm a coffee fiend, a walking caffeine addict. I called, I emailed, I may have even subtly hinted at a life-or-death situation. They *did* send a replacement, eventually. But the delay... those agonizing hours of coffee withdrawal... Yeah, that was a low point. So, double-check the listing and maybe pack your own French press just in case.
Sometimes the television signal is a bit… patchy. Don't expect to binge-watch Netflix in pristine HD. And the toiletries? You might find yourself wishing you’d brought your own shampoo. Pack essentials!Is it worth the price? Budget-friendly or bank-breaking?
I once booked it during a high-season period (rookie mistake!). The price was significantly higher than expected. And, you know what? I still went for it. Why? Because the other options at that price point… well, let’s just say they involved more floral patterns and less… architectural interest. Weigh the pros and cons. Consider your budget meticulously. And, most importantly, check the weather forecast. Because spending a fortune to stare at a wall of grey isn’t exactly the peak holiday experience now, is it?
What's the vibe? Quiet and serene, or a party destination?
During my visit, I was kept awake by what I *suspected* was a couple arguing in the unit next door (mostly assumptions based on the raised voice of a man and the sound of a door slamming). It didn’t ruin my whole stay, but it did shatter the carefully curated illusion of tranquility. So, if you are a light sleeper prepare to have your ears plugged, especially if the walls are thin!
Any hidden gems or quirks to watch out for?
The "quirk"? Well, on one occasion, the lock to the door was a bit... temperamental. It took me a solid ten minutes of jiggling the key and muttering under my breath (again, a jet-lagged state), before achieving entry. It was all part of the adventure, right? But now I always bring a friend to open the door!
Would you recommend it? The final verdict!
