Hotel Sinar Bali Legian by ZUZU

The so-called “poolside bungalow” didn't even have a view of the pool, just a solid block wall from the window. The room was filthy: dirty floors, stained sheets, and brown towels that should have been white. There was mould in the wet areas, the icebox was frozen over with ice, and there was no kettle. The shower doors were hanging off the wall.

A quiet green pocket around the pool, with the busy city just outside the alley. The staff were so friendly and lovely that after a couple of days it felt like we'd known them for ages. It's a little piece of paradise in a busy city, a great place to calm down and enjoy both sides. 10/10, would come again!

I knew it was cheap and didn't expect much, but I couldn't manage more than one night. Everything felt old. The TV didn't work properly, there was no kettle or free tea or coffee, and breakfast was below average. My poached eggs arrived raw, with water still on the plate. I don't understand the 7-9 star reviews I'm seeing. I asked for a refund and was told no because I'd booked online instead of directly. I usually book with hotels directly, so I looked into it and found that the only way to book this hotel is online through a third party, even when you use the hotel's own booking platform. Cheap or not, a few extra dollars can get you somewhere better.

We checked in for an 8 night stay, and on the second night the bathroom flooded with worms in the water after I showered. It was still flooded the next morning. Reception said they'd sort it, but when we returned after a day out, the bathroom was filthy and smelled of sewerage. After repeatedly asking them to deal with the room, we were moved. Then the water became a daily issue. In the mornings there was no water from the taps or shower, and the toilet wouldn't flush. I asked reception every day, and each time they said they'd fix it, but it never was. One evening, as we were getting ready to go out, it still wasn't working. Other guests told us they had the same problem, so it wasn't just our room. I wouldn't recommend staying here if you want to shower, brush your teeth, or flush the toilet. The beach is in a great location, at least.