Villa Ultima

We were ready to pay the full asking price upfront for a one to three month stay at Ultima, but after we’d already lost a week waiting, the owner asked for another $300. I don’t trust them and felt they were trying to squeeze more money out of us. We found it through Coconut Living, spoke with them several times over a week, and were initially given the advertised price and details. Then we were told the owner was in it and we had to wait a week, so we booked an Airbnb at considerable expense. We’d said we were happy to book if the place looked like the photos. Coconut Living arranged a meeting at the property, and we handed over copies of our passports. Everything had seemed professional until the extra charge came up. Also, be aware that security cameras face directly into the bedroom.

At the time we stayed, there were at least four security cameras, and three pointed straight at the pool, sun lounges and outdoor patio or cabana. The one directly above the sun lounges felt especially creepy. If you use that area, you’ll be in view. Families who don’t want their children watched by cameras may want to look elsewhere. The owner says the cameras are for guest security and face into the living area, not toward the pool. I have photos showing where they point, though, and I don’t see how cameras aimed at the pool would help unless a thief went swimming before breaking in. That makes the security explanation hard to believe.

Mifta, the housekeeper, was wonderful, kept everything very clean and was easy to reach. The Seminyak location was great too, about 10 minutes on foot to the beach and 5 to Seminyak Square.

The service was unreal. Mifta was so professional and such a great host, I’d recommend her again and again.