RedDoorz Surabaya's Secret Weapon: SMESA Edotel Syariah!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're diving DEEP into the RedDoorz Surabaya's Secret Weapon: SMESA Edotel Syariah! – and trust me, it's a wild ride. Forget those sterile, corporate hotel reviews; this is real talk, from a real person who stayed there. And honestly? It's…complicated. Let's break it down, warts and all.
First Impressions: Landing in Surabaya & the SMESA Charm Bomb
Okay, so landing in Surabaya is a sensory overload, right? The heat, the traffic, the constant beeping…it's intense. Finding the SMESA Edotel Syariah, nestled somewhere in the city, already felt like…an adventure. (Seriously, I swear my Grab driver took a scenic route. More on the accessibility struggles later.) But once inside, a wave of calm washed over me. The lobby is surprisingly… Islamic Chic? It's clean, bright, and the staff are genuinely friendly. Think less "stuffy hotel chain" and more "welcoming oasis."
Accessibility: The Good, The Bad, and The "Hmm…"
- Accessibility (Physical): This is where it gets a little…tricky. The website says they have facilities for disabled guests, but the reality on the ground? That's a mixed bag. The lobby and common areas are generally okay, but I didn't see obvious ramps everywhere. Navigating the hallways? A little tight for a wheelchair, I'd wager. The elevators were thankfully present (essential!), but the details of the rooms weren't quite clear. So if you need specific accessibility amenities, definitely call ahead and confirm. Don't just rely on the website!
- Location, Location, Frustration: Getting to the place? That's another hurdle. Public transport is a chaotic but vibrant experience. Finding an accessible taxi might be difficult.
- Check-In/Out [Express/Private/Contactless]: They offer all those! But I preferred a normal check-in to chat and get to know the hotel and staff a bit better.
Rooms: Sanctuary, Sort Of…
My room (I snagged one with a window that actually opens, hallelujah!) was… pleasant. Not drop-dead gorgeous, but definitely clean and comfortable. The air conditioning worked like a champ (essential in Surabaya!), the bed was comfy, and the blackout curtains… chef's kiss for those post-adventure naps. Shout out to the little things: complimentary tea/coffee, a mini-fridge (crucial for those midnight snack runs!), and a surprisingly effective hair dryer. I did have to ask for an extra towel, but they were on it immediately.
- Available in All Rooms: Okay, let's run through the checklist: Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub (phew!), Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed (bonus!), Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor (maybe?), In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella (thank goodness!), Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens (double yay!).
- Missing a bit?: The shower pressure wasn't amazing, and the Wi-Fi, while free, sometimes went a bit flaky. But hey, it is what it is.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure (Maybe?)
The pandemic has changed everything, and SMESA Edotel Syariah takes it seriously. Hand sanitizer stations everywhere, staff wearing masks, and visible cleaning happening constantly. I saw them using Anti-viral cleaning products, and the Daily disinfection in common areas was definitely apparent. My room had a Room sanitization opt-out available, which I appreciated. More details: Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Hand sanitizer, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Staff trained in safety protocol.
Dining: A Culinary Adventure (With Some Quirks)
- The Breakfast [Buffet]: Okay, the breakfast. A mixed bag. They do have a buffet, which is a win in my book. It's an Asian breakfast with a focus on local dishes, some international options, and of course an Asian cuisine in restaurant. I loaded up on Nasi Goreng (fried rice) one morning, and I have a strong desire for it to this day. But…and this is a big BUT…it wasn't always hot. Sometimes the food was a little…lukewarm. Breakfast takeaway service is offered too.
- Restaurants: There's a restaurant on site that offers A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant. Don't expect Michelin-star quality, but the flavors were authentic, the portions were generous, and the prices were incredibly reasonable. I did enjoy the Coffee/tea in restaurant, so make sure you enjoy them!
- Room Service: 24-hour room service? YES, PLEASE. That's a lifesaver when you're jet-lagged and just want to collapse in your room with a plate of noodles.
- The Overall Vibe: The Poolside bar is great, but I'm not sure I've been around one for long enough to enjoy it.
Things To Do & Ways to Relax (Or Not):
- Pool with View: Okay, the outdoor pool. Excellent. Clean water, and lovely views. A perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring. Swimming pool [outdoor] also exists.
- Fitness Center/Gym/Fitness: There's a gym, which is a big plus for fitness fanatics. But it's basic. If you’re a serious gym rat, might want to pack some travel weights.
- Spa & Sauna: They offer spa services. Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom. I didn't have time to try them out, but the descriptions sounded heavenly!
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
- Wi-Fi [free] in all rooms! (Yes, I'm shouting this because it's GOOD.)
- * Internet Services: They do offer internet services!
- 24-hour Front Desk: Helpful and efficient.
- Laundry/Dry cleaning: Useful for longer stays.
- Gift/souvenir shop: For last-minute presents.
- Food delivery: Just in case…
- Luggage storage: If you arrive early or leave late.
- Airport transfer: Easy, convenient.
- Car park [free of charge]
- Daily housekeeping: The room was always spotless.
For the Kids: Family-Friendly, but…
- Baby sitting service
- Family/child friendly
- Kids meal
So, what's the Secret Weapon?
Honestly? The SMESA Edotel Syariah's secret weapon is it's vibe. It's not trying to be a five-star luxury hotel; it's aiming for comfortable, convenient, and religiously sensitive, and it mostly succeeds. It's got a great location (once you get there), good amenities, and a genuinely friendly staff.
The Verdict: Worth a Stay?
YES (with caveats). If you're looking for a clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly stay in Surabaya, the SMESA Edotel Syariah is a solid choice. Just be mindful of the accessibility limitations, and go in with realistic expectations. Embrace the quirks, enjoy the local experience, and you'll have a great time.
But here's the kicker:
The Offer – Your Personalized Surabaya Adventure Awaits!
Alright, fellow adventurers! Ready to experience the SMESA Edotel Syariah? Here's my offer to get you there:
Book your stay by [Date] and get:
- A FREE one-hour massage: Unwind after those hectic Surabaya days.
- 10% off all spa treatments: Time to treat yourself!
- Complimentary airport transfer: Get to the hotel hassle-free.
- A welcome drink at the poolside bar: Cheers to your adventure!
- Upgraded room (subject to availability): Fingers crossed for a better view!
This offer is only available through this review! Mention the "Surabaya Secret Weapon" deal when
Escape to Paradise: Pousada Marques, Your Unforgettable Paraty Getaway
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to plunge headfirst into my Surabaya adventure. SMESA Edotel Syariah? Mitra RedDoorz? Sounds fancy. Let's see if it feels fancy. This isn't your meticulously planned travel brochure, folks. This is… me, in Surabaya. And things will get weird. Prepare yourselves.
The Surabaya Shuffle: A Chaotic Chronicle
(Day 1: Landed and Largely Lost)
- Morning (Arrival & Initial Impression): Surabaya. The air? Thick. The humidity? Huggable. The Uber driver? A blur of rapid-fire Indonesian I only understood about 10%. The airport? A welcome change after the usual airport feeling. SMESA Edotel Syariah… Well, it looked promising from the pictures, but let's be real, hotel photos are notorious liars. I was hoping for a serene, spiritual retreat. Instead, the check-in process involved deciphering a sign written in a language that looked Arabic but definitely wasn't – I swear, I nearly pulled a hamstring trying to figure out my room number. The lobby? Decorated like my grandma’s wedding back in the day but still with a modern touch, but the staff were great and friendly so I was happy!
- Afternoon (Room Debrief & The First Lunch): My room… was… a room. Clean-ish. The air conditioning worked, a godsend, and the view overlooked a somewhat depressing parking lot. I unpacked, wrestled with the TV remote (another language barrier triumph!), and decided I needed sustenance. Lunch was a gamble. I wandered out, determined to find 'authentic Indonesian food'. Ended up at a warung (small local eatery) I could barely communicate at (thank you google translate!) and ate something that was probably chicken with rice. I think. Either way, it tasted amazing! The spice level, however, was… intense. My mouth feels like it is burning now!
- Evening (Trying To Be Cultured, Failing Gloriously): I decided I was going to "experience" Surabaya. First stop, I wanted to see the Submarine Monument. I took a taxi, the driver didn't speak much English, but we bonded over the fact that we were both lost. After that, I needed a bit more food, so I ordered food, it came and seemed alright. I have no clue what it was. Oh well. Then I went back to the hotel. Before I went to bed, I drank some water and thought about going for a walk. It was dark out, I was exhausted, so I went to bed.
(Day 2: Exploring and Exasperation)
- Morning (Breakfast & A Stroll): Breakfast. Free breakfast. The holy grail of budget travel. It was a buffet. I'm not sure if what I ate was considered safe. I'm pretty sure I had a bowl of rice porridge and a strange, sweet, bread-like thing. Fuel for the day… hopefully. Refreshed, I went for a walk. The street was chaotic, beautiful, and borderline dangerous all at once. Motorbikes buzzed like angry bees. The air was thick with the smell of… everything. I found a small park and spent a good 30 minutes just people-watching. I love people-watching.
- Afternoon (Triumph & Tragedy at Tunjungan Plaza): Tunjungan Plaza! The biggest mall in Surabaya (apparently). I was determined to buy souvenirs. It was an overwhelming sensory experience. So many shops, so many people, so many things I didn’t need. I bought a batik scarf that I'll probably never wear, a weirdly shaped ceramic thing, and nearly had a panic attack in a crowded electronics store. The highlight? Finding actual decent coffee. The tragedy? I got lost. Really lost. Wandering around like a zombie, slowly losing my mind, with the air conditioning blasting. I spent a good half hour trying to find my way back out. Finally, I found my way out and went back to the hotel. Now, I'm exhausted and I can barely think about the day!
- Evening (Dinner & Delusions of Grandeur): Tonight’s dinner was a success! I went to a restaurant recommended by the hotel staff. I didn’t understand the menu, so I pointed at things that looked good and hoped for the best. I ordered a dish with chicken that tasted like heaven! I actually took a risk, and I've never been happier. I would feel very comfortable eating that again! Back at the hotel, I’m feeling this crazy burst of optimism. I want to do something BIG tomorrow! Maybe a day trip? Maybe learn some Indonesian? (Spoiler alert: neither of those things will happen.)
(Day 3: Back to Basics & Airport Anxiety)
- Morning (The Struggle is Real): Woke up, didn't feel optimistic, or like I was going to do anything big, or learn Indonesian. Back to breakfast – more porridge. I think I'm developing an addiction to that sweet bread-like thing. I will miss it.
- Afternoon (The Farewell Feast, Or, More Chicken): Feeling a little melancholic now that I'm leaving. I hit up another local warung, same as day 1. Chicken and rice. Comforting, familiar, and probably filled with enough chilli to power a small city. I was craving more, and I got myself another portion! I love chicken.
- Evening (Goodbye Surabaya & Airport Shenanigans): Check out at the hotel. Smooth sailing. The airport. Always a mess. Finding the right gate, the endless security lines. Suddenly, I realize I'm out of Indonesian Rupiah. The ATM is broken. Panic mode: activated. I frantically went to a money exchange and begged the attendant to help me, and got my money just in time! I boarded the plane. I am finally on my way home. I will not come back until I have some Indonesian-friends to help me in my journey.
Reflection:
Surabaya? Messy. Chaotic. Beautiful. Overwhelming. And I loved it, despite – or maybe because of – all the imperfections. SMESA Edotel Syariah? Well, it was a place to sleep, shower, and occasionally eat slightly questionable food. And did I regret? No, not at all. Would I come back? Absolutely. But maybe with a slightly better grasp of Indonesian. Or not. Maybe the chaos is the point.
Escape to Paradise: Coco Fresco's Unbeatable Tibau do Sul Getaway
RedDoorz Surabaya’s SMESA Edotel Syariah: The FAQs You *Actually* Need (And Want!)
Alright, alright, settle down! Planning a trip to Surabaya? Thinking of checking out RedDoorz's SMESA Edotel Syariah? Look, I get it. The whole "syariah" thing might throw you. So, let's cut the corporate fluff and get down to brass tacks. I've stayed there. I've *lived to tell the tale*. Here's the lowdown, in my own words, with the occasional rant and possibly a tear or two.
1. What *IS* SMESA Edotel Syariah, Anyway? Is It Like, Totally Strict?
Okay, let's be honest, the "syariah" part of the equation gave me pause too. Basically, SMESA is a hotel run by a vocational school, aiming to teach hospitality. And "syariah" translates into... well, a more religiously observant environment. Think no pork, no alcohol, and prayer times announced over the PA system. I'd heard whispers... *whispers*... of no couples in unmarried situations. Honestly? It felt a little intense initially. I was picturing disapproving glares the second I crossed the threshold.
But then… I got there. And sure, the front desk staff was all super polite and, yes, wearing headscarves. But my first impression? **The lobby had AC!** And wifi! And the coffee machine looked *promising*. So, the initial fear? Subsided. It’s more about promoting an ethical lifestyle than policing your every move. They're not gonna be peeking under your sheets, but they will remind you of prayer times. (Which, for a perpetually late person like myself, was actually kinda useful.)
2. The Rooms: Are They... Clean? (And Do They *Actually* Have Wifi?)
Okay, this is critical. Because let’s face it – a RedDoorz experience can be wildly inconsistent. The quality of the room can be a total roll of the dice. So, the rooms at SMESA? Surprisingly decent! The one I stayed in was definitely clean. Like, properly clean. The white sheets weren't stained, the bathroom didn't smell like a wet dog, and the AC WORKED. Yes! (This is a big win, trust me.)
And the wifi? Yes! It actually worked! I was able to stream (ahem, legally, of course) some Netflix, and, more importantly, upload pictures of my food to Instagram. The ultimate test, right? I didn't experience any major connectivity issues.
Okay, so maybe the decor wasn’t exactly “interior design magazine-worthy” – think functional, not flashy – it was all perfectly acceptable. It was a relief, honestly.
3. Breakfast: Is It Edible? (And Is There *Anything* for a Non-Meat-eater?)
Ah, breakfast. The make-or-break moment for any hotel stay. Honestly, I wasn't holding my breath. I mean, it’s a vocational school, not a Michelin-starred establishment, right?
The breakfast buffet was... serviceable. There was a selection of rice, side dishes, and fruits. I think I saw some kind of noodle soup or something. The food was decent. Remember, this is Indonesia – flavorful doesn’t always equal gourmet. The egg station was a bonus! They made omelets and fried eggs and other egg-related things!
And yes, there were veg options! I'm not vegetarian, but I tend to avoid meat during breakfast. There were enough options for me not to starve. Honestly, I was worried about the dietary restrictions due to the syariah nature of the hotel, but there were enough vegetables.
My own breakfast experience, though… Okay, so here’s a story. I was running late (surprise!), and I grabbed a plate haphazardly. I piled it high with things, and, in my haste, I accidentally took a generous serving of… *something*. I took a bite. And my eyeballs almost rolled out of my head. It was *SPICY*. Like, "fire-breathing dragon" spicy. I spent the next ten minutes alternating between gulps of water and gasping for air. Moral of the story: proceed with caution and *always* test a tiny bite first.
But overall, compared to the prices, the breakfast was really good.
4. Location, Location, Location! Is It Convenient?
It is really convenient if you wish to go to the airport. The hotel is fairly near the airport. The location is pretty decent too because it's near a hospital, and a commercial area.
It's also fairly easy to get around. You can use Grab, the local ride-hailing app, or taxi.
5. The Staff: Are They Actually Nice, or Just... Polite?
Okay, this is a big one. Hospitality can be tricky. Sometimes you get the overly-charming staff who are faking it. Sometimes you get the totally aloof staff, who couldn’t care less.
At SMESA, the staff were genuinely *kind*. Not fake-nice. They were helpful, patient with my terrible Indonesian, and always smiled. They seemed genuinely interested in making sure I was comfortable. I remember once I accidently tripped, and I thought I had the ultimate embarrassment. But no, the staff came to my rescue. They were just so helpful!
It wasn't perfect. (Perfection doesn't exist, let’s be real). But the staff were, for the most part, fantastic. And that made a huge difference.
6. The "Syariah" Thing: Is It a Dealbreaker?
Okay, the big question. Honestly? It depends on you. If you're super attached to your nightly beer or bacon, then maybe, just maybe, it's not the place for you. But if you're open-minded and want to experience a different side of things, go for it.
I did have a little moment of awkwardness when I ordered a soft drink at the restaurant. I'm pretty sure the waiter looked at me, then at my water bottle, before awkwardly looking away. Okay, probably just my paranoia.
Honestly, though, the whole “syariah” aspect wasn't a huge deal. It’s like, a gentle reminder to be mindful and respectful more than a constant barrage of rules.
I liked it. I felt like I was part of the local experience.
7. Would You Stay There Again?
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