LOCATION:
Grand Mercure Yogyakarta is located along Jalan Jenderal Sudirman. It is walking distance to the Tugu Monumen on Jalan Mangkubumi, as well as Jalan Malioboro.

From Adisucipto Airport, it takes about 15 minutes by taxi to get to this hotel. Taxi rates are between Rp10.000 to Rp20.000.

DESCRIPTION:
On first impression, the lobby is rather ordinary-looking. Nonetheless, the hotel opts for minimal features at the reception counter, hence you will see objects are put far in between. The reception area itself is embellished with Javanese-style wooden cabinet, along with large chandeliers on the ceiling.

The main entrance is somewhat impressive, although one could not enjoy it entirely due to its very close location to the busy street of Jl Sudirman. In general, the hotel uses soft-colour scheme for its walls and windows. The lobby is also adequately equipped with glass windows to create a sense of spaciousness.

There is a special desk at the lobby that promotes the hotel's spa offering. Within the lobby area also are the hotel's two main restaurants - Paprika Restaurant and 1918's Terrace Bar.

The Paprika Restaurant provides an array of Eastern, Indonesian and Western dishes. There is an open-kitchen showcase inside the restaurant where in-house chefs will parade their culinary skills to the patrons. Meanwhile, the 1918's Terrace Bar overlooks the hotel's open-air courtyard and water fountain. It offers mostly cocktails and beverages for a decent and mellow good time.

MY VERDICT:
Marvelous architecture. Great price, centrally located to almost everything Yogyakarta has to offer. The guest services are just as good and friendly.