Kubu Kedungu Villas

The 10 days went by much too fast. I’ve stayed here two years in a row and had the same lovely view each time. It’s peaceful, with no hotels next door and at least a mile from the busy road. The beach is 400m away, and you can take a charming 2 km walk through the rice paddies to Tan-a-lot by the back way. I walked most places, though sometimes I rode on the back of a scooter. People are friendly. The surfing beach is isolated and only reached by one road; I don’t surf, but it’s good there, and I had a local lesson one day. I recommend it if you want peace and quiet. Breakfast was perfect, with croissants, fruit, and great coffee by the salt pool or in the room. I’m not into nightlife, but you have to drive to get to it, and a scooter is the way to go. I spent my time reading, getting a salt pool massage, taking long walks on the beach and to Tan-a-lot (sp?) temple, then sipping beer at a restaurant.

The meals and place to stay were wonderful, and the whole trip felt comfortable and full of local culture. Dan and his staff made me feel so relaxed. I got to join a Gamelan practice and see a traditional wedding and other ceremonies. It took a flight across the world to get there, but it was a trip of a lifetime. I highly recommend going.

The staff were pleasant, though they tried to shortchange us when giving back change from our takeaway. Breakfast wasn't great either. The place felt overpriced, with worn furniture, no hot water in the shower, and a leaking toilet. Toiletries ran out and were never replaced.

Getting food means a walk through the village dogs, which is inconvenient when the place is already so out of the way. The hotel details are misleading, and it doesn't have the facilities it claims to offer. The villa seems like it may once have been nice, but now things are broken and the staff don't seem to care. It's really expensive for such a shabby place that needs a lot of attention.