The elegance and promise of "Sido Mukti" batik

In Solo, for a marriage proposal according to tradition, the suitor wears a garment made from a batik whose pattern, known as Manah, expresses determination and conviction, while the betrothed wears a batik whose pattern, known as Rante, evokes the unbreakable strength of a chain. These fabrics document numerous family and social events to such an extent that some are forbidden outside the royal circle. Their technique and patterns are a product of traditional craftsmanship and a culture that have disappeared over time and which reach in Java, from where they originate, a level of refinement and sophistication unequalled elsewhere. This craftsmanship known as the ‘resist' technique requires infinite patience; it consist of covering the fabric with wax then applying the colours one by one in the precise positions of the desired shapes and patterns, where the wax has previously soaked into the cloth.

It is clear that in Solo, as elsewhere and more often than one might think, traditions survive through many rituals and symbols despite globalisation, because they have not lost their significance and are still part of the Art de Vivre. In the same way, the Best Western Premier Hotel Solo combines, with skill and elegance, the best of modern comfort and a captivating Javanese identity. What is more, the hotel is situated at the heart of the city's business district and just a few steps from the Kraton, the ancient palaces of Surakarta, which are both royal palaces and crucibles where some of the most refined traditions of an ancient Art de Vivre were born and are now carefully upheld. One would hardly be surprised then that the architect of the Best Western Premier Hotel Solo chose to decorate the facade of the building with an elegant traditional batik motif called "Sido Mukti" which represents the wish for long-lasting happiness and prosperity... The red-brown metal decoration is enhanced by a belt of blue glass to stunning effect, particularly when the building is illuminated after dark.

Inside, the setting makes use of the most luxurious and elegant elements of the Indonesian Art de Vivre; the ornate mirrors in the lift, the decor in the restaurant, the exotic materials the bedroom doors are made out of, the quality of the dark marble and the panelling, and one of the most beautiful emblems of the hotel, the granite-top reception with its copper front worked with the delicateness of lace.

Yet the Best Western Premier Hotel Solo is rooted firmly in the 21st century and offers facilities of the highest standard in order to meet the demands of an international clientele. The original purpose of the building was to accommodate a bank, of which the hotel has retained some of the features as well as the plush character and discreet atmosphere. The magnificently decorated and furnished rooms are exceptionally large and bright. They all offer beautiful views over the tops of the Merbatu, Merapi and Lawu mountains. On the top floor, the sports and well-being facilities and the pool have a rare quality and faultless charm. Buwana...My Spa, the spa and treatment centre, is worth a special mention for its ability to adapt each treatment offered to the needs and demands of each of its visitors.

Many travellers are touched by the calm and serenity of Java. The island, one of the most densely populated in the world, has retained an Art de Vivre based on balance between the past and the future, and harmony between its extremely varied influences. The Best Western Premier Hotel Solo is a worthy representative of this wisdom.

Best Western Premier Solo

Jalan Slamet Riyadi No 4 - 6, Solo, Indonesia - 57111

Phone: +62 271 666 111 Fax: +62 271 666 530