Just returned from a weekend in Jakarta to visit friends and family. Booked 2 nights at the Pullman down in Thamrin. Great location, right across from the major shopping malls. I've stayed at the Pullman in Bangkok (which is AWESOME) so was expecting something similar as my perception of the brand was set by that experience. Yeahhhh that didn't really happen so much!
Pulled up late Friday night; lobby and atrium was very "Pullman" like; very nice. Check-in was quick and efficient. Was given a room on the fifth floor in the old tower/main tower (whatever they call it) facing the street. I was located right across from the elevator; you literally walked out and went maybe 4 or 5 steps and that was my room. Ugh! I normally do not stay in a room in this situation and almost always return to the front desk asking for a room away from the elevator bank; for some stupid reason I didn't - perhaps I was just exhausted as it was nearly 1 AM at this point. I thought it would be ok...it wasn't and I paid dearly for it.
The room was very very dated looking; the interior looked like it hadn't been updated entirely - probably leftover remnants from the Hotel Nikko days. The bathroom was renovated I believe but it was small and the tub basin area looked like it needed a good scrubbing, The room was relatively clean, but for a Pullman I was extremely disappointed as to how it was appointed. I went to bed, only to be woken up at around 6 or something by people checking out early, and then again and again by people leaving/house phone ringing, etc. etc. There was also a constant "thumping" sound coming from the streets in the evening; I guess there was a loud club with a strong bass nearby! Bed was also quite uncomfy. Woke up and decided "yeah, I need to switch rooms."
Staff was very kind and helpful and gladly acceded to this request moving me to the 9th floor with a view of Menteng (opposite side). I asked for a room in the new tower but apparently my room type only existed in the older tower.
Anyway, new room: what a difference!
Gone was the noise. I was also put in a room that appeared to be more updated; it had some features and some lighting that my previous room didn't. Bathroom was also a bit cleaner although I noticed the coasters that they put the glasses on in the bathroom were disgusting; totally gross and like they hadn't been changed in ages.
Bed was still an issue; slept a bit better but was still sore the next morning.
I really want to give this hotel a better rating; partly because the staff is quite nice and the location is good, but for the price you pay; coupled with the fact that its also a Pullman - it just didn't really live up to my expectations. Perhaps they are going through updating the look of the hotel still from the old Hotel Nikko days. I think if I hadn't stayed on the 5th floor the first night, this would be getting better marks in my book...