Bandung's HOTTEST Studio: Pasteur Gateway Gem (Travelio Apt)!
Bandung Bliss or Budget Blunder? My Unfiltered Take on Pasteur Gateway Gem (Travelio Apt)!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I'm about to spill the tea – the Bandung, Java, Indonesian tea, steeped in…well, let's find out! I just checked out of the Pasteur Gateway Gem (Travelio Apt) and, honestly, my brain is still whirring. This review is gonna be less a polished gem and more a messy, sparkly, totally-me-flavored diamond in the rough. Think raw and real.
First, the Basics (And the Pre-Trip Anxiety):
So, I booked the Pasteur Gateway Gem through Travelio. Call me a sucker for a good deal, or maybe just desperate for a break from the usual chaos of life. I'd been eyeing up Bandung for ages – that cool, mountain air, the volcanic scenery, the promise of amazing food. The thought of staying in an apartment, though? Eh, I was a little… nervous. My inner control freak likes hotels. You know – predictable, clean, staffed. But hey, adventure! Right?
Accessibility: Can Anyone Get In?
Okay, so I didn't personally need wheelchair access, but I'm always thinking about inclusivity. The listing mentioned "Facilities for disabled guests," which is a good start. There's an elevator, thankfully, which is crucial. But the real test is always the nitty-gritty details. I didn't see any ramps at the entrance (but I wasn't looking). This area could definitely be improved; a more detailed accessibility report would be invaluable.
The Arrival – Shiny and New…Or Just Shiny?
The complex itself is… impressive. Modern, sleek, and gleaming. The lobby is all glass and polished surfaces – you definitely have the illusion of grandeur. Check-in was… surprisingly smooth. Contactless, even! They have a dedicated desk, and the staff were friendly. They got me to my room within minutes of my arrival, which was great, because, you know, jet lag.
Room Sweet Room (Or, My Home for a Few Days):
My apartment itself was fantastic! Absolutely spacious. I booked a "High Floor" room, so I had panoramic views. Available in all rooms: Air Conditioning (thank GOD!), Free Wi-Fi, a comfy bed with an Extra long bed, a Seating area to lounge in, and a Closet big enough to get lost in. They also have a Refrigerator, so I grabbed some snacks and drinks from the convenient Convenience store on the ground floor. The additional toilet would have been great for sharing guests or just a late-night run! Alarm clock, Coffee/tea maker, complimentary tea, hair dryer, Ironing facilities, satellite/cable channels, a Shower, a bathtub, hot water and all the toiletries needed.
The view… chef's kiss Especially at sunset. I might've spent an embarrassing amount of time just staring out the window. It absolutely made it difficult to focus on any tasks.
Internet: Praying for a Smooth Connection
So, internet. This is crucial, right? Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! Yes! And it was… mostly reliable. There were a few hiccups now and then, typical of these types of places. The Internet access – LAN was also a great bonus, since it could be more stable. Overall, good, not great. (You'll need it to wake up with the wake-up service).
Food, Glorious Food (Or, Where Did the Restaurants Go?)
Okay, here's the first minor hiccup. The listing advertised several restaurants within the complex. A la carte in restaurant, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, breakfast service. I was picturing a bustling food scene! Turns out, the options were… limited. There were a few cafes, but nothing truly "restaurant-y" in the traditional sense. Breakfast [buffet] was nowhere to be found. There was a cute coffee shop Coffee/tea in restaurant, that made up for the lack of food in the apartment. I did see a convenience store that saved me, but the lack of immediate dining options was a tad disappointing. Room service [24-hour], saved my butt!
Relax and Rejuvenate (Or, Can I Afford the Spa?)
This is where the "Gem" part really shines. There’s a gorgeous Swimming pool [outdoor] with an incredible Pool with view. I didn't hit the spa, but they have a full range of goodies: Body scrub, Body wrap, Foot bath, Massage, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, and Steamroom. I peeked in, and it looked seriously luxurious. (And expensive). I definitely felt some post-indulgence envy. A Gym/fitness center, for those inclined to sweat, was available.
Cleanliness and Safety: Because Nobody Wants Bed Bugs
Alright, this is a major plus. Cleanliness and safety matters. The apartment was spotless! The staff seemed diligent about the Daily disinfection in common areas. Plus, I appreciated all the extra steps taken for hygiene: Hand sanitizer stations everywhere, Staff trained in safety protocol, and the option to have Room sanitization opt-out available, (though I left it on). Kudos for the Anti-viral cleaning products and the general feeling of security. A Fire extinguisher was visible and there were Smoke alarms.
The Little Things (That Matter):
- Services and Conveniences: Daily housekeeping was efficient and thorough. I loved having a Concierge – super helpful for arranging taxis. They even have Laundry service if you don’t want to do it yourself. There is also Luggage storage.
- For the Kids: Didn’t travel with any, but they do advertise a Babysitting service and Kids meal options. Good to know for future trips!
- Getting Around: I took the Taxi service from the airport. The Car park [free of charge] was a big bonus.
- Getting Stuff Done: There are Business facilities available if you need them.
The Ups and Downs – The Real Tea:
- The Wow: The view. Seriously, the view. And the apartment itself was spacious and well-appointed. The pool too!
- The Meh: The lack of on-site dining was a bummer. Also, the Wi-Fi could be a little spotty at times.
- The Wild Card: Finding a great Vegetarian restaurant in Bandung wasn't hard, but finding a great one close to the apartment? A different story.
Final Verdict: Would I Go Back?
Absolutely! The Pasteur Gateway Gem (Travelio Apt) is a strong contender. If you don’t mind a slightly limited dining experience, and you prioritize space, comfort, and stunning views, this place is a winner. Just remember to pack snacks! Score: 8.5/10 (Minus points for the food situation. Seriously, more restaurants, please!)
KLIA Airport Escape: Luxurious DanzaStay2@CoreSoHo Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your grandma's pristine itinerary. We're going to Bandung, Indonesia, to the Gorgeous Studio Gateway Pasteur Apt By Travelio, and it's gonna be a glorious, slightly chaotic, adventure. Prepare for the whiplash.
Bandung Breakdown: A Messy, Magical Itinerary (with Occasional Meltdowns)
Day 1: Arrival & Holy Cow, Where's My Luggage?!
- Morning (Pre-Dawn, Basically): Wake up at a ridiculous hour to catch the flight. Sleep-deprived, fuelled by instant coffee and the vague optimism of a fresh start. Secretly praying the plane doesn't fall out of the sky.
- Arrival (Bandung Airport, approximately 09:00 AM): Okay, beautiful! Sun is shining, the air smells spicy and good. Except wait. Where's my freaking suitcase?! Cue panic attack number one. Apparently, my carefully curated travel wardrobe has decided to take a scenic route… to, I don't know, Bali. This is not how I envisioned starting my Indonesian adventure.
- Getting to the Apt. (Approx. 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Finally found a taxi that doesn't look like it's about to fall apart. The traffic is… an experience. Horns! Scooters zipping everywhere! It's sensory overload in the best way possible. The driver, bless his soul, seems utterly unfazed by the chaos. He even pointed out some local landmarks, although I only really saw a whole lot of traffic. Arrive at the Gateway Pasteur Apt, which is Gorgeous. Whew. The apartment looks exactly like the pictures, which is a small miracle. Air conditioning is blasting, which is another small miracle.
- Afternoon (11:00 AM - 2:00 PM): The unpacking (or, the re-packing, since I only have a carry-on) is a disaster. Okay, this is not cute. I'm starting to miss my suitcase. But. Time for a shower! Time to freshen up and plan how to find food and explore.
- Late Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Head out to find some REAL food. This is when the real fun begins. Bandung is a total feast for the senses. The vibrant street food! The tantalizing aromas! The swarm of scooters that try to run you over every five seconds! I start with a local noodle dish, and promptly spill half of it down my shirt. Elegant, as always.
- Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Trying to get my bearings in the area. Feeling overwhelmed, then feeling okay, then panicking about the missing luggage again. Decided to walk around and get a sense of place. I find a bustling night market. The lights! The music! The delicious smells! The sheer volume of people is overwhelming. Managed to almost buy a souvenir but got distracted by a vendor selling, I swear, deep-fried crickets. I actually considered it. Went for ice cream instead. Good choice. The ice cream was divine. The night market was amazing.
Day 2: Coffee Culture & Volcano Views (and a Moment of Melancholy)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 11:00 AM): I need coffee. Desperately. Find a hipster coffee shop, the kind where the baristas have intricately sculpted beards and serious coffee-making faces. Order a cappuccino and try not to look like a complete tourist (failing miserably). Reading, enjoying the peace, and attempting to write a travel journal, which mostly consists of scribbled complaints about my missing luggage.
- Late Morning (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM): Decide to go to Tangkuban Perahu Volcano. The views are supposed to be spectacular. Hire a driver, which is way easier than the buses. The road is winding, the scenery is breathtaking. And then the volcano! The crater! The sulfur smells! It’s a little nerve-wracking, but also incredibly beautiful. A genuine moment of awe. Note: Wear a mask; the sulfur smell gets intense.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Lunch near the volcano. Try a local dish that I can't pronounce the name of. It's spicy, rich, and so good I almost cried. (The altitude might also be a factor.) The driver is great, tells me stories about his family and Bandung. Reminds me how lucky I am to have this adventure.
- Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Back in Bandung, feeling a touch of melancholy. Missing my life back home, missing my friends, and yes, missing my clothes. Take a walk, feeling a bit lost. It's moments like these when you realize you're truly alone, and the isolation can be kind of comforting.
- Evening (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Dinner at a local warung (small restaurant). Ordered what looked interesting and hoped for the best. It turned out to be amazing! Maybe I don't need that suitcase after all. Maybe this messy adventure is exactly what I needed. Try to be better at letting go of the plan and just, you know, live? The night sky is unbelievable. The stars are like diamonds scattered across black velvet.
Day 3: Shopping & Scams (and the Triumph of the Human Spirit)
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Determined to find some new clothes. Hit up a local shopping mall. This is where the "lost suitcase" situation becomes truly desperate. I try on some clothes, and then promptly realize I'm not quite the right shape for the local sizes. It's a moment of truth: I'm not as young as I think I am, or as effortlessly cool. (Maybe it's the jet lag talking.)
- Afternoon (12:00 PM): The moment I've all been waiting for, I go for lunch at a local food court on which is filled with authentic local food.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00PM): Get caught in what might be a scam. A friendly local approached me, offered to help me with directions, then started trying to sell me something I didn't need. I get extremely suspicious, then politely, but firmly, decline the offer. Note to self: Trust your gut. Be polite, but be firm.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Head back to the apartment, feeling frustrated, but also strangely invigorated. Call home for a chat. The apartment suddenly feels like a haven.
- Evening (6:00 PM - 9:00 PM): Decide to cook dinner in the apartment. The kitchen is compact but has the necessary appliances. The triumph of human adaptability! I'm actually cooking! My small victory. I made something that vaguely resembles food. Drink a celebratory glass of water. Watch some local TV, which is completely unintelligible, but strangely comforting. Realize, with something akin to a small burst of happiness, that I'm having a good time.
Day 4: The Grand Finale (Or, Running out of Time)
- Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Last-minute souvenir hunting. Browse the street markets again. Somehow, I find the perfect souvenir. And I'm broke. Bargaining ensues. The vendor is a pro. I manage a slight victory. (It involved some desperate charm and a lot of hand gestures.)
- Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM): One last Indonesian lunch. The perfect end, and then, wait! I remembered to buy a gift for my mum!
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Packing. The most dreaded word of the trip. This time, I’m prepared, I think. It's a combination of sadness and gratitude that I can't quite describe.
- Departure (4 :00 PM ONWARDS): The airport. Final goodbyes to Bandung. The plane. Back home. (Hopefully, my suitcase has reappeared).
Final Thoughts (Or, The Messy Aftermath)
Bandung: a city of chaos, beauty, and unexpected delights. The air smells of spice and adventure. I'm bruised, a little broke, but also incredibly grateful. The missing suitcase? Still missing. Honestly, it doesn’t matter. I survived. I was a disaster, I lost my way (literally and figuratively), I embraced the mess. And that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? The imperfections, the unexpected detours, the moments when you trip, fall, and then, somehow, get back up again.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Maybe next time, the suitcase will arrive. Maybe not. Either way, Bandung, I'll be back.
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Pasteur Gateway Gem (Travelio Apt) - Bandung: The REALLY Real FAQs!
Is this place ACTUALLY as good as the photos make it look? (Because, let's be real, we've all been catfished by a hotel before...)
Okay, deep breaths. The photos? Mostly true. BUT... let's just say my expectations were THOROUGHLY tested. The views? Stunning. Utterly jaw-dropping, especially at sunset. You'll spend the first hour just wandering around, gaping like a goldfish. The apartment itself? Nice, modern, all that jazz. *But*... and this is a big but... my first impression, walking in after a CRAZY chaotic journey from the airport (more on that later), was a slight funk of "this apartment has seen some things." Like, maybe someone's socks battled it out with a rogue durian. It faded quickly, thankfully. So, generally speaking, YES, it's good, and yes, the photos are pretty accurate, but don't expect a pristine, sterile environment. It's living, y'know? Humans live there before you.
How's the location? Is it actually convenient, or just "convenient-ish"?
Pasteur is… Well, it's Pasteur. Close to the airport, which is a HUGE win after a transatlantic flight – trust me, you'll want that. Close to the toll road, which is also good, UNLESS there's a major traffic jam, which... happens. I'm not going to lie, my first attempt to get an online delivery of some *emergency* instant noodles (hangry, don't judge) was a saga worthy of a Tolkien novel. The delivery driver was LOST. Repeatedly. Ended up having to go *meet* him, several streets away. So, convenient-ish. It's great for access, but Bandung traffic is a beast. Download Grab or Gojek and arm yourself with patience. You'll need it.
The pool! Everyone's talking about the pool. Is it Instagrammable or a crowded, chlorine-smelling death trap?
Alrighty then. The pool. Here's the truth bomb. The pool? Totally, absolutely, gloriously Instagrammable. Picture this: sky-high views, infinity edge (sort of), and the distant rumble of Bandung life. I took, like, a HUNDRED pictures. Okay, maybe more. But… it *can* get crowded. Especially during peak hours and weekends. One afternoon, I swear I saw a whole family of toddlers engage in a full-blown water war using those floating rubber ducks. Pure chaos. But, still… worth it. Get there early, or go later in the day when some of the masses have cleared out. Bring your own towel! And maybe some noise-canceling headphones if you're after peaceful relaxation. You’ll thank me later.
What's the deal with the kitchen? Can you actually cook, or is it just for show?
There's a kitchen, which is a HUGE plus if you’re staying longer than a day. However, “kitchen” is perhaps a generous term. It’s more like a kitchenette. Basic amenities, like a fridge, a microwave, and a few cooking implements. I tried, I *really* tried, to make some eggs one morning. (My inner Gordon Ramsay apparently didn't travel with me). Suffice it to say, scrambled eggs are not my forte, and the smoke alarm *may* have gone off a few times. But… hey, at least I had eggs! It's definitely functional for basic meal prep. Stock up on groceries if you plan on staying for a bit and enjoy the local markets; fresh fruit is amazing.
Okay, let's talk about the actual stay. What was the WORST thing about your experience? Spill the tea!
Alright, here comes the honesty bomb. I’m still trying to recover from the sheer *drama* of arriving at the apartment. My flight was delayed. Then, the Grab driver got lost (again, Bandung traffic!). I finally arrived, weary, sweaty, and desperate for a shower, only to find... the key situation was a disaster. The instructions weren't clear. I rang the number provided a dozen times, feeling like I was trapped in a low-budget thriller. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, a very kind (and obviously exasperated) representative from Travelio showed up. He was incredibly apologetic, but the damage was done. I missed my pre-booked massage, the sun was setting, and I just wanted to crawl into bed. So, yeah. Double-check the key situation *before* you arrive. Seriously. Do it. Get confirmation. Screenshot the instructions. Do whatever you need to do to avoid a key-related trauma. It’s the only real downside, honestly.
What's the Wi-Fi like? Because, let's face it, we're all addicted.
The Wi-Fi? Pretty solid. I was able to stream Netflix without any major buffering issues, so that’s a win in my book. I even managed to hold a few Zoom calls (thank goodness, because my boss would NOT have let me get away without those). Occasionally, it dipped, but nothing major. It’s not lightning-fast, but it's dependable enough for work and entertainment. Just don't expect to download a whole movie in five seconds. That's just unrealistic.
Any hidden gems or unexpected delights at the Pasteur Gateway Gem?
Okay, this is my absolute favorite part. Behind the lobby, there's a little *kios* where the staff sells fresh coffee and basic food. I speak ZERO Indonesian, and the ladies there spoke zero English, but we managed to communicate through a mixture of frantic hand gestures and Google Translate. They sold the most amazing *nasi goreng* (fried rice) for a ridiculously cheap price. Pure comfort food. And the coffee? Strong and delicious. Seriously, go check them out. They were the unsung heroes of my stay. They're the reason I actually survived the key fiasco from that first day. Pro-tip: learn a few basic Indonesian phrases; it goes a long way. "Terima kasih" (thank you) is a good start.
Would you stay there again? Be brutally honest!
Yes. Absolutely. The key issue was a pain, but the stunning views, the location (despite the traffic), the pool, and those amazing ladies at the *kios* totally redeemed the experience. I'd go back in a heartbeat. Just... maybe I'd pack an extra key, just in case. And a translator app. And maybe, a small emergency supply of instant noodles. You know, just in case.
Any advice for surviving a stay at the Pasteur Gateway Gem?
Where To Sleep In
