You’ll also hear this historic city called “Solo”. A royal capital, it’s found on the Indonesian island of Java and is the birthplace of the nation’s current president. Arts and crafts are big here (particularly batik) as are the performing arts, especially dance and puppetry. Learn about the local heritage at its Keraton Kasunanan museum — a former royal mansion filled with heirlooms — Mangkunegaran palace and the Danar Hadi museum, where you can see vibrantly dyed fabrics on display. And you can shop for handicrafts, as well as indigenous foods such as rice and fresh coconut, at Surakarta’s markets.
The Royal Surakarta Heritage Solo – MGallery by Sofitel
This elegant 150-bedroom property with antique furnishings and Javanese decor is evocative of a bygone era. Located a short drive from the palaces and close to excellent street food markets, it’s well-placed for tourists on the main artery of Surakarta. There’s an indoor/outdoor pool with the Tirtotedjo pool bar, catering for both the peak and wet seasons and the Mustika Spa. The Royal Surakarta Heritage has an all-day Srikandi Restaurant that serves a mix of western, Chinese and Indonesian dishes. King-sized and twin bedrooms are available across its superior, deluxe and executive categories.