Balinea Villa Spa

I was here for about three months, and as a solo traveler I always felt safe. The staff are lovely, professional, and ready to help. The place is clean and has a calm, relaxing feel. I’d gladly come back and recommend it. Thanks to the lovely owners and everyone on staff.

The place felt like the Balinese villa I used to imagine as a kid, with that lovely woven rattan smell throughout. It’s clean, tidy, and homey, a real hidden gem. I booked the suite through Agoda, and we liked it so much that we extended our stay. Sorting out the extension was easy, and I’d stay at Balinea again if I return to Bali. Our suite was spacious, with an outdoor dining area beside the jacuzzi. The jacuzzi was comfy for a long soak, and you could switch the bubbles on or off. There was a microwave, dishwashing sink, fridge, and a huge two-section wardrobe. The TV had Netflix, and, if you’re Indonesian and need a guling to sleep well, they actually provide two guling! The semi-outdoor bathroom had greenery around its slightly open shower, but it still felt safe and private within the villa. We were near the kitchen, so topping up water from the dispenser was convenient. The shared kitchen had a stove, tea and coffee, and a coffee machine guests could use anytime. There were plenty of tables and chairs for eating, sitting, or working, and the WiFi was genuinely fast. The pool is open 24/7, and there are other services too, though we didn’t try them because we were out exploring Bali most of the time. Putu greeted us when we arrived. All the staff were warm and kind, including Bli Putu and Mbok Yuni. Whenever we were heading out, someone would ask if we wanted the room cleaned. The service was so good, and we felt at home. They even responded quickly and helped us find a package we’d accidentally left behind. And two cats liked wandering by our room or sunbathing. I loved them, especially the adorable, well-behaved one with the pink collar.

This is my second visit, and Balinea is such good value for the money. It’s a small, comfortable property that’s very well looked after. The staff are brilliant, with good English and even better humor. They seem to vanish until you need them. There are also two resident cats, both bossy, chatty, and hilarious, and I spotted two nesting birds. The location is peaceful but close to what you need, including the beach, entertainment, and supermarkets. The pool is bigger, longer, cleaner, and quieter than pools at 4-star hotels around here. Most of the time I had it to myself. My room is spacious and quiet, with a firm mattress and a good choice of pillows. I think I’ve slept better here than anywhere in Bali. Each room has a private little veranda screened by greenery, just six steps from the pool. My outdoor bathroom is spacious and fully private behind a tall wall, with a small garden. Mine has parakeetflower plants, Heliconia sp, about three metres tall. The WiFi is fast, stable, and reaches well. Guests can use the hot, normal, and cold water dispenser around the clock, along with tea and coffee. I like this approach, with less waste from bottles and paper cups. There’s also a well-equipped outdoor kitchen for everyone, and umbrellas are provided for each room. I have to remind myself this isn’t a hotel.

I keep coming back to this charming eight-room place. The pool is one of the best in Bali. It’s a good fit if you want quiet sleep and a chance to relax, away from the party scene and traffic. They’re working on some small improvements, and the price for what you get is excellent.