Cakra Homestay Solo Mitra RedDoorz

Recommended, especially for people interested in music or batik. This place was an important centre for gamelan music and there are several musicians still living and practising there, who are very welcoming and showed me something of the amazing musical culture of Solo (aka Surakarta) and can organise cultural tours in English for a very reasonable fee. Also, an onsite Gamelan orchestra (instruments). Lovely unique, characterful hotel with large communal areas full of ornate antiques, including a gamelan room. Professional yet relaxed management made everything easy, with no hassle. I was offered tours to nearby rural sights. No restaurant, but close to many,. Also close to Batik markets. The room was basic but large enough. Wifi is good. Quiet sleep in a great central location. Be aware: it is not modernised, so the whole place is a bit neglected and run down. The room had furniture, (noisy) AC, wooden shutter-windows, and (so you can't have natural light and AC at the same time). It lacked modern facilities and was not very clean. Specifically: weak shower, no sink, one electric socket. Highly recommended if you come to Solo for an insight into the remarkable culture, rather than sparkling bathrooms. Great place to meet the locals.