PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang: Bangka's BEST Kept Secret? (Luxury Awaits!)
PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang: Bangka's BEST Kept Secret? (Luxury Awaits!) - A Chaotic (But Honest) Review
Alright, buckle up, buttercups, because we're diving headfirst into Bangka Island and the supposed "best kept secret" that is PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang. I'm not gonna lie, I went in expecting…well, let's just say my expectations were set somewhere in the vicinity of "airport hotel with slightly better pillows." Boy, was I wrong. (And yes, before you ask, I did take a proper picture.)
First Impressions (and the Awkward Elevator Ride):
The drive to PIA was…well, it's Bangka. Getting there is part of the adventure. But the hotel itself? Suddenly, I'm in a tastefully designed lobby, all gleaming marble and hushed tones. The check-in was smooth, blessedly Contactless check-in/out made the pandemic life bearable, and the staff, bless their hearts, were genuinely friendly. No frosty, robotic greetings here. Just smiles, and a genuine desire to help. (They even offered me a welcome drink! Watermelon juice, surprisingly delicious.)
The Elevator, however… that's where the cracks started to show. It was small, a bit creaky, and definitely not the most glamorous part of the experience. But hey, it got me to my room, right? And really, a small elevator is a small price to pay for… well, everything else.
The Room: Sanctuary Found (and My Cat's Approval - if She Could Talk)
Okay, the room. My room, specifically. Let's talk about specifics. It was a Non-smoking room, thankfully (the smoke detector was a good thing to see). I chose a room with Air conditioning – a must in this climate – and it went above and beyond. The blackout curtains were a godsend for fighting off jet lag. I loved the Slippers they gave!
The Bed was a big deal. The Extra long bed was a godsend for this six-footer! The linens felt luxurious – crisp, clean, and inviting. There was a comfy seating area where I guiltily ate snacks. I liked the desk to work, the laptop workspace really helped.
The Bathroom was clean, well-lit, with a big mirror. The separate shower/bathtub setup was great, I particularly liked the bathtub, since it provided a perfect place to relax. They provided Bathrobes! The Hair dryer (thank goodness!) and a generous supply of toiletries kept me feeling human. The complimentary tea and coffee/tea maker were a lifesaver, especially after the aforementioned elevator experience. Free bottled water? Always a win.
Okay, minor gripe: The Internet access – LAN was a little clunky (remember those?). The Wi-Fi [free] was generally decent, but you know, sometimes the signal flickered out, especially in the evenings. No big deal, I'm here to relax. Still, you know, a small imperfection in an otherwise pretty flawless experience.
The Eats & Drinks (Because, Priorities):
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (a food diary):
- The Restaurant: The main restaurant offered a Breakfast [buffet]. And it was AMAZING. Asian breakfast options alongside the usual Western breakfast fare. Plenty of fresh fruit, pastries, and enough coffee to fuel a small army. I also loved the Coffee/tea in restaurant.
- Restaurants: There are also some Vegetarian restaurant options - good for my vegetarian friends!
- Dinner: I tried both the International cuisine in restaurant and some of the Asian cuisine in restaurant. Both were great. The A la carte in restaurant menu had something for everyone. Soup in restaurant, Salad in restaurant, and even some delicious Desserts in restaurant.
- Room service [24-hour]: This was a lifesaver more than once! Ordering a late-night snack was easy. A Bottle of water made it to my door!
- Poolside bar: This spot was perfect for a sundowner. The setting was gorgeous, and the cocktails were surprisingly strong.
- Snack bar: Okay, the Snack bar had the best stuff - super great for afternoon treats.
Things to Do (Beyond Napping): Relaxation and Rejuvenation:
- Swimming pool [outdoor]: I lived in that pool. Seriously, a Pool with view helped me clear my head.
- Spa: The Spa/sauna was absolutely divine. They offered a range of treatments, and I treated myself to the works. Massage? Yes, please. Body scrub and Body wrap? Don't mind if I do!
- Fitness center & Gym/fitness: I peeked in. Seemed well-equipped, but let's be honest, I spent more time at the pool.
- Sauna & Steamroom: These are the perfect complements after a good massage.
- Foot bath: Ah, a truly relaxing treat.
Cleanliness and Safety (because, Pandemic):
The hotel really knocked it out of the park here. I felt incredibly safe. I especially appreciated the following:
- Anti-viral cleaning products: Made me feel at ease.
- Daily disinfection in common areas: Peace of mind.
- Hand sanitizer: Everywhere you looked.
- Hygiene certification: Proof they knew what they were doing.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: They took it seriously.
- Rooms sanitized between stays: Important!
- Staff trained in safety protocol: Reassuring.
- Safe dining setup: The Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Safe dining setup all were really noticeable.
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter
Services and Conveniences:
- Air conditioning in public area: Important, considering the heat.
- Airport transfer: Relatively cheap to do.
- Cash withdrawal: Very helpful.
- Concierge: Super helpful with local recommendations.
- Convenience store: Convenient!
- Currency exchange: Super easy.
- Daily housekeeping: My room was always perfect.
- Doorman: Welcoming!
- Dry cleaning: Did not use.
- Elevator: Yes, there is an Elevator
- Facilities for disabled guests: Seemed well-equipped
- Food delivery: Available!
- Ironing service: Did not use.
- Laundry service: Did not use.
- Luggage storage: Convenient.
- Meeting/banquet facilities: I did not use the Meetings but they have a lot of this!
- Parking: Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site] - a relief.
- Safe deposit boxes: Always a must.
- Smoking area: Available
Is PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang Really a "Best Kept Secret"?
Look, it's no five-star resort with Michelin-starred chefs and butlers at your beck and call. But for the price? Absolutely. It's clean, comfortable, the staff is lovely, the food is great, and the facilities are excellent. It's a perfect base for exploring Bangka Island, and a wonderful place to relax and recharge.
Now for the Messy Conclusion:
PIA Hotel isn't flawless. The elevator could be better, and sometimes the Wi-Fi wasn't perfect. But, and this is a big but, the overall experience was fantastic. I'd recommend it. I'd go back! I'm already planning my return trip.
Final Verdict: PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang? Not just a "best kept secret," but a genuine gem. Book it, and prepare to be surprised. You won't regret it.
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Sorrento's Hidden Gem: La Casa dell'Orologio - You HAVE to See This!
Okay, buckle up Buttercup, because this isn't your sanitized, Instagram-filtered travel itinerary. This is the real Pangkalpinang, PIA Hotel chaos, warts and all. I'm a hot mess, and so is this schedule. Let's go!
My Pangkalpinang Pilgrimage: A Messy, Emotional Rollercoaster
Day 1: Arrival of Doom…or Delight? (Probably Both)
Morning (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM): The flight! Oh, the flight. Woke up at an ungodly hour. Coffee – strong, black, and desperately needed, spilled down my best travel shirt within seconds. Ugh. Airport security was a delightful ballet of me fumbling with my belt, my shoes, and my general existential dread. Real highlight: the guy in the "Bangka Belitung - Wonderful Journey" t-shirt gave me a knowing nod. Maybe he knew what was coming.
Late Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Landed! Pangkalpinang! The air hit me like a warm, humid hug. Or maybe it was just the jet lag. Dragging my suitcase (which, of course, has decided to stick its heel on the pavement every single step) to the PIA Hotel. First impressions: the lobby is actually quite charming, with that classic Indonesian charm. Check-in: successful! Room key: acquired! The room itself is… well, it's a room. Clean enough, I guess. The aircon is blasting arctic winds, which is probably a blessing, but I'll let you know.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Lunch! Wandering around Pangkalpinang's streets, the smells hit me. The glorious, spicy, fried things that makes my stomach rumble. Finding a local warung (small restaurant) and ordering Mie Koba (noodles with fish broth, the local specialty). Holy moly, my mouth has never known such happiness. The broth was a complex explosion of flavors, and the noodles were perfectly cooked (I'm currently writing this from the bathroom after realizing, I may have ordered something spicy. Send help).
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - 6:00 PM): First impressions? The city is vibrant, dusty, and filled with the constant hum of scooters. Exploring the local markets…a sensory overload in the best possible way. I managed to buy a questionable-looking fruit (durian), I'm too afraid to try it, but, hey, when in Rome, right? Okay, I'm terrified. I bought a batik scarf that will probably clash with everything I own (but I love it anyway). The heat starts wearing down my energy. I might need a nap.
Evening (6:00 PM - onward): Dinner at a local restaurant closer to the hotel. I ask for recommendations on local food, I swear, but the waiter misunderstood and brought me a plate of fried chicken. Delicious, though. Afterwards? Early night. Exhausted, overstimulated, and utterly charmed. The hotel pool has a very nice look.
Day 2: The Beach, the Batik, and the Battle with Boredom
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): After experiencing the food from yesterday I'm taking it slower this morning. Breakfast at the hotel. The buffet is, ah, let's say "varied." I stick to toast and a suspiciously green omelet. Headed out to Tanjung Pesona which is the beach. Oh, the beach! The sand is powdery, the sea is turquoise, and there's not a single soul in sight. Absolute bliss for about 45 minutes. Then, the sun decided to declare war on my pale, urban skin. The sun is ruthless. I apply sunscreen every 30 minutes, but I'm pretty sure I'm already turning a lovely shade of lobster. I spent most of the afternoon under a giant straw hat.
Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Had some freshly grilled seafood. Delicious! Overlooked the sea. A perfect meal. At least.
Afternoon (1:00 PM - 6:00 PM): Okay, now for something different. Exploring more of the city's culture and history. I tried looking for a batik workshop, but the address I had was wrong. Oops. I ended up wandering around in circles for an hour, sweating, and increasingly frustrated. I may have muttered a few choice words under my breath. Finally, found a small shop filled with batik. I bought a small piece to add to my collection. Feeling a little better now.
Evening (6:00 PM - onward): Dinner. The restaurant across the street had a special. I decide to just go there, and try whatever is offered. I order Gulai Kepala Ikan (fish head curry). Yikes. A whole fish head staring up at me. The waiter looked impressed with my fearless attitude. I take a deep breath and dive in (metaphorically). The taste is bold, spicy, and rich. Actually, it's phenomenal. I’m starting to think I’m getting used to some of this! Maybe this trip isn't so bad after all? Probably the best meal I had for years. I could eat that every day.
Day 3: Lost in Translation, Found in the Flavors, and Sayonara, Pangkalpinang!
Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): The durian. Remember the terrifying fruit I bought on Day 1? Well, it's now or never. I summoned my courage (and a friend to hold my nose). The smell is… well, it’s something. The taste, though? Exquisite! Creamy, sweet, pungent, and unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. A true flavor explosion! I'm amazed.
Late Morning (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Packing. Then another round of goodbyes. Checked out of the hotel. The air conditioning in my room seemed to be dying. I will miss it.
Afternoon (12:00 PM - 3:00 PM): Tried for some last-minute souvenir shopping and failed. Most of the shops were closed (lunch break? Sunday nap time? Who knows!). I decided to just buy a coffee and people-watch at a local cafe. The real highlight was observing a local family, they were so happy and content.
Late Afternoon (3:00 PM - onward): Airport, airport! More airport chaos. Got my seat on the plane. Feeling emotional. Pangkalpinang, you wild, crazy, delicious place. I had my doubts, but I'm leaving with a full heart (and hopefully, a full stomach). I'm already planning my return. This wasn't just a trip; it was an adventure. And I wouldn't have traded it for anything. Except, maybe, the ability to understand the local language. Indonesian, I'll get you yet!
Final Thoughts (aka The Rambling Conclusion) Pangkalpinang isn't perfect. The heat is relentless, the transportation is chaotic and the food might occasionally try to kill you. But that's the beauty of it. It's raw, it's real, and it's utterly unforgettable. This trip was a reminder to embrace the mess, to laugh at the mishaps, and to open your heart (and your stomach) to the unexpected. Would I recommend it? Absolutely. But be warned: you might get hooked! And hopefully, you won't end up looking like a lobster. Safe travels, everyone!
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Okay, so... is PIA Hotel Pangkalpinang REALLY Bangka's "Best Kept Secret"? Like, *really*?
Alright, deep breath. "Best Kept Secret" is a marketing thing, right? But... look, I'm gonna be honest. When I first saw the website, I thought, "Yeah, yeah, another hotel trying too hard." Then I actually *went*. And... um... yeah, *maybe*. It depends. It’s not like the Taj Mahal, I'm not gonna lie. But what I *wasn’t* expecting was the level of…charm. The staff, they’re incredibly polite. A little *too* polite at times, which, okay, fine, it's Indonesian hospitality to a T. But there's a certain genuineness there. They actually *seem* happy you're there. Contrast that with some of the snooty places I've stayed... bleh. So, is it a *secret*? No, probably not. But is it a *really pleasant surprise* that feels a little under the radar? Absolutely. Definitely a "secret" worth sharing with close friends (and now, apparently, the whole internet!).
What's the deal with the rooms? Are we talking actual luxury, or just... *pretending*?
Okay, let's get real. "Luxury" is thrown around a lot. I mean, did I get a butler? Nope. Am I complaining? Slightly. The rooms are *definitely* a step up. I’m talking spacious, clean, well-appointed. And the *beds*, oh, the beds! Seriously, I think I legitimately achieved peak sleep. I actually had to *force* myself to wake up. You know that groggy, "I don't want to adult today" feeling? Yep. That was me, every morning. (And yes, I totally over-slept one day and missed a planned excursion. Oops.) The bathroom? Modern, with a powerful shower. The only minor quibble (and I'm being nitpicky here) was the lighting in the room. Could be a little brighter for reading late at night, but hey, I used my phone's flashlight. So yeah, *actual* luxury? Not quite the Ritz-Carlton (but hey, this is Bangka, not Paris!). But it's definitely a luxuriously comfortable experience, and that’s more than enough for this traveler.
The food! Spill the tea! Is the hotel restaurant as good as people say? Or is it just… hotel food?
Okay, this is where things get interesting. Look, I've had some truly dreadful hotel food in my time. I’m talking rubber chicken, bland everything, and the faint scent of regret. The PIA Hotel restaurant? Significantly better. Breakfast buffet? Solid. Lots of local options, which is fantastic. The *nasi goreng* was fantastic. I ate it every single day. Don’t judge me. The coffee… okay, the coffee was a tad weak, but hey, I’m from Seattle, I'm a coffee snob! (And the staff was more than happy to brew me a stronger cup, if I asked.) Dinner? The a la carte menu was surprisingly good. Fresh seafood, well-prepared. I tried the grilled snapper one night and it was genuinely delicious. Did I have one or two slightly “meh” dishes? Sure. But overall, the food was a very pleasant surprise. And the service? Impeccable. Also, random, but they kept refilling my water glass constantly. I’m not sure how they did it, it was like magic.
What are the best things to do around the hotel? Beach bum or city slicker?
Bangka is the star here. This is Bangka, not Bali, and the beaches are *stunning*. Seriously, pristine white sand, turquoise water… the good stuff. You can arrange excursions through the hotel, which is convenient. I did a day trip to a few of the nearby beaches and, wow. It's that classic "postcard" beach experience. Pack your sunscreen, because the sun *burns*. And do I need to mention snorkeling? Seriously, incredible. The hotel’s well-located for exploring. It’s a bit out of the bustling downtown area, which means it's quieter, but a short taxi ride gets you to the main sights. I wouldn't say it's super “city slicker” focused, but I did a walking tour with a local guide (arranged by the hotel, naturally) and learned some fascinating history. Honestly, I spent most of my time just lazing on the beach and swimming anyway. Prioritize the beach. You won’t regret it. Just… watch out for falling coconuts. (Seriously, I almost got KO’d.)
Is the hotel noisy? I need my beauty sleep!
Okay, noise. This is important. Generally, it’s pretty quiet. The location is away from the main drag, which is a huge bonus. I’m a light sleeper, and I had zero problems drifting off. Now, there *was* one night… this is where things get messy, hang on. There was a wedding. A *loud* wedding. And they were blasting music until, I swear, 3 AM. I considered going down there and politely requesting they lower the volume, but that’s not really my style. So, I put in earplugs and eventually passed out. And, in the morning, I saw the same staff that served me the nasi goreng that morning going about without looking tired. So, maybe the staff doesn’t sleep either, but yeah, one night it was a bit much. However, I chalk that up to the occasional special event. The *other* nights? Blissfully quiet. If you're super noise sensitive, maybe request a room away from the event space, just in case.
What's the Wi-Fi like? (Gotta stay connected, right?)
The Wi-Fi? It was... adequate. Look, I'm not gonna lie, it wasn't lightning-fast. It's not like I could stream Netflix without buffering. But it was reliable enough for checking emails, browsing the web, and posting the occasional Instagram photo of a stunning beach sunset. (Priorities, people!) I’d rate it a solid 7/10. Could be better, but it got the job done. Honestly, I was more interested in unplugging and enjoying the view anyway. But if you absolutely *need* blazing-fast internet for work or whatever, maybe bring a backup plan. Or, you know, force yourself to *disconnect* and actually enjoy your vacation. I know, I know, a radical concept!
Anything REALLY bad about the PIA Hotel? (Gotta be some downsides...)
Okay, here's where I get real again. Let's be honest, everything has a downside. The location, while great for beaches, is a bit of a trek to get to from the airport5 Star Stay Find
