Silintong Hotel

The garden is the standout here, with flowers, ferns and other plants neatly spread across the grass. It’s well cared for by the gardeners, who also work as massage therapists. The hotel itself is easy to find in central Tuk Tuk, made up of two-storey western-style terraces. Walking through the garden gives the place a warm, homely feel, and there’s a pleasant restaurant with attentive service. The menu is in English and Bahasa, though most staff speak little English apart from the receptionist. The food is simple and a bit expensive compared with places outside. Tea with milk and sugar costs 15,000rp, and Indomee Goreng with prawn crackers and water is about 22,000rp. The menu could also be more familiar with vegetarian and other dietary needs. Room 21 was a letdown. Agoda listed air conditioning, but there wasn’t any. The furnishings were run down, lighting was dim and uneven at night, and there were only three power points, already needed for the TV, lamp and toilet plug. The TV only had local channels, with no cable. The toilet was among the better ones in Tuk Tuk, but there was no shower curtain. They provided soap, toilet paper and towels. Drinking water came in a flask, which you could refill at reception. There was no phone or room service. Still, the room had enough airflow to stay cool even in the hottest sun, and felt a little homely. The room’s back door opens to the garden, a nice place to sit except for the mosquitoes. I got bitten about six times in three minutes. Massage costs around 12,000 RP. I didn’t try it, but the therapists kept pushing their services, which wasn’t helpful. “The therapist is everywhere.” Service was generally good, and the garden adds a lot to the stay, though the rooms need refurbishment. I’d call it a moderate hotel for Tuk Tuk, and it could suit couples or families staying a few days.

The garden is lovely, though the rooms felt a bit spooky. Couples might prefer a weekend or holiday visit. On a weekday or in low season, I’d come with a group.

The panoramic view was lovely, and it was quiet while we were there. It’s a great place to bring family. They kept the property maintained through the pandemic, even after more than a year without income, which must have been tough.

A three-star hotel on Samosir Island, right beside Lake Toba. It’s peaceful, the scenery is nice, and the service is friendly enough. Seems suited to a honeymoon or a get-together.