Po Hotel Semarang

Right in the center of the city, PO Hotel Semarang combines upscale rooms with shopping, since it connects directly to Paragon City Mall. The hotel is on historic Jalan Pemuda and was previously known as Crowne Plaza. It’s a prominent five-star property with a modern, elegant feel.

The helpful people in a few departments and the location were the main things that kept this from being a one-star stay. We first came here in 2014, when it was still Crown hotel, and remembered it fondly. Returning in 2025 was disappointing, especially given the maintenance problems and how our late check-out request was handled. Our check-in was quick, and the room view was exciting enough that we missed some defects at first. On a rainy day, water leaked through the window. We reported it to the front desk, but got no follow-up. By Christmas Day it was worse. Bella from Housekeeping came to inspect, took notes, and brought three bathroom mats because the carpet by the window was getting wet. We didn’t ask to change rooms since we were leaving the next day, and I’ve worked in hospitality, so I wanted to be considerate during the busy season. Still, Adi at the front desk immediately turned down our request for a one-hour late check-out without checking the system. After the issues we’d already reported, that was especially disappointing. Some staff were attentive and helpful: Bunga, Bella, and Dio from HK; Mutia, Gebby, Adi, Davit, Sofi, and Nadine at the eggs station from F&B at Gris Restaurant during breakfast; Ferlita, Aurelia, and Anastasia from FO; and Solikhin from Concierge.

The room was roomy, spotless, and comfortable, and the friendly, attentive staff made the stay even better. We had a wonderful time at Po Hotel Semarang. It all went beyond what we expected, and we’d definitely come back.

The rooms and facilities were pretty average, with leaking ceilings and a poor shower. That had nothing to do with the staff, though. Everyone was so welcoming and accommodating, and I especially enjoyed meeting the lovely Nabila. The warm, kind people were the hotel’s saving grace.