5 Leisurely Destinations Within 30 Minutes of Makassar in Sulawesi, Indonesia

It's easy to throw in shopping sprees between meetings and corporate affairs when you're staying at Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang in Makassar. The hotel, which is located in the centre of the city, is close to a number of commercial hubs that display everything from luxury brands to locally prepared panaceas. But if you're looking for a relaxing or educational vacation, Makassar will not disappoint. Here are some of the places you can check out.

1. Losari Beach
A 20-minute car ride from Continent Centrepoint Hotel in Makassar will take you to Losari Beach. The sandy stretch in the middle of the city offers a very nice view of the sunset. Food stalls can also be found in the area after dark.

2. Fort Rotterdam
This historical destination was put up during the Dutch colonial period in the 1670s. From 1700 to 1900, the fort served as a thriving trading post for the Dutch East India Company until it was integrated into a Dutch East Indies colony. World War II transformed the fort into a camp for Japanese war prisoners. Today's visitors can tour Fort Rotterdam's castle, museums, and book store. It is about 12 minutes by car from the hotel.

3. Pulau Khayangan
If you wish to get away from the city, you can visit this island which is just 20 minutes from the centre of Makassar by boat. Here, you can spend the day getting a tan, strolling the white sand beach, and seeing different sea creatures. Fishing can be done near the island's port and some establishments also rent out jet skis and other water sports equipment.

4. Pulau Samalona
You can also take a tropical holiday at Pulau Samalona. This beautiful island and the colourful reefs and diving spots that surround it are but a 30-minute boat ride from Makassar.

5. Trans Studio
This indoor theme park, which is just a 20-minute drive from the hotel, is said to be the third largest of its kind in the world. Aside from rides and games, visitors can also enjoy the malls, restaurants, and marina housed in this building.

Getting In and Around the City
There are 3 ways of getting around during your vacation. First is by becak, a minimalist cycle rickshaw. You can also ride the petepete or angkot, a minibus used for public transportation, or take a taxi. Since Makassar serves as southern Sulawesi's main port, you can use a traditional pinisi boat to get into the city. Alternatively, you can also take a plane to Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport, which is just a 20-minute taxi ride from Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang - Makassar.

Makassar, Indonesia: A Prime Destination for Leisure and Recreation

For holidaymakers and business travelers looking for an idyllic Indonesian hotel, Makassar in the province of South Sulawesi is the best place to go. Considered as the largest city in the eastern part of the country, it enjoys a central location in the archipelago, allowing you to delight in a number of wonderful experiences. So if you wish to spend your next vacation in this top destination, it will not hurt if you'll take note of the following relevant travel information.

Where to stay

Begin your getaway by checking in at Continent Centrepoint Panakkukang - Makassar, a prime hotel that provides great retreat for any visitor in town. Here, guests can access a coffee shop that serves international dishes, a well-equipped business center and meeting areas, and cozy living spaces ideal for rest and relaxation. And because the hotel is located amid the bustling streets of Makassar, its guests can also conveniently access points of interest, like Panakkukang Mall, and Panakkukang Square.

What to see

A few minutes' drive away from Continent Centrepoint Makassar Hotel, you'll reach the well-known Losari Beach. Regarded as the longest esplanade in Indonesia, this scenic tourist spot welcomes you into a calming place where you can relish laid-back moments. Past the beach’s northernmost end, you'll also find the Paotere Harbor — a 14th-century port that reflects the heritage of the locale. This harbor is flocked by several restaurants that offer delectable seafood dishes.

Where to dine

But if you want to truly satiate your cravings for seafood, the best dining option would be the Surya Super Crab at Jalan Nusakambangan. Located just a 5-minute drive from the Paotere Port, this restaurant serves scrumptious lunch and dinner. Their best-sellers include Padangnese Sauce Crab and Blackpepper Sauce Crab. For vegetarians, it is recommended to have a taste of their Lohan Cai and Baby Buncis.

Where to enjoy

After savoring an appetizing meal, head on to Trans Studio and sweat out by engaging into an array of activities. Famed as the world's third largest indoor theme park, this family-friendly attraction features amusement rides and entertainment sites, like the Lost City, Magic Corner, Tsunami Island, and Cartoon City. One of the park's highlights is the Studio Central, a 1960s-themed theater that showcases the glitz and glamor of Hollywood. Set along Jalan Metro Tanjung Bunga, Trans Studio is easily accessible to some hotels in Panakkukang.

Where to shop

Cap your urban escapade by buying some souvenir and novelty items that you can bring home. The best shopping centers in town are found at Jalan Somba Opu. Here, you'll find a wide range of traditional handicrafts, such Kalimantan baby bak, Malukan pearls, Javanese batik, Balinese carvings, Bugis silk sarong, and Lombok pottery. Make sure to get any of these local products before you go back to your hotel in Makassar.