Grand Sinar Indah Hotel

Quiet rooms despite the busy streets, and close to all the food, clothes shops, restaurants, and bars I wanted. It also felt central for getting around, with plenty of couples and families staying there. A gem in the middle of a lively area. The hotel has its own charm and is in great shape for its age. For the money, you get more than the basics: two pools, a pool bar, good breakfast, clean rooms, comfortable beds, an in house massage shop, and more. The service went above and beyond, and I can’t fault anything. Good value, and I’d recommend it and return in a heartbeat.

Our family of four stayed for seven nights, and the staff gave us excellent service throughout. The girls loved the pools, the beach was a short walk away, and there were good, reasonably priced places to eat nearby. Our adjoining rooms were spacious, clean, and had everything we needed. We’ll definitely stay here again on our next Bali visit.

At about $38 a night, I knew this wasn't a five-star place, and the basics worked well. The air conditioning was excellent, the bed very comfortable, and the small bathroom had plenty of hot water. It can get musty, so I left the fan running most of the time and bought a damp absorber, which helped. Bali is muggy. The staff were cheerful and polite, the two pools and gardens were clean and lovely, and there was a security guard at the entrance. Back rooms are quieter. It's not on a busy road, though music from a venue across the road can be heard at night. Breakfast is basic: bread, jams, Vegemite, cordial, Nescafe or Bali coffee, a basic noodle dish in the main area, rice, and a protein that looked like fish. I didn't try the fish, so can't comment on it. They put out small amounts, but if something runs out, ask nicely and they'll gladly help. I asked for an omelette or pancake and some fruit, and enjoyed what they cooked for me. There's no bar on site, but room service is available, which I didn't use. The laundry at the hotel entrance is great. My room was tidied daily using the card for the door, and I got clean towels when mine were wet. Towels and sheets were clean and thick enough, though clearly well used. Beach towels were large, thick, and in good condition. If that bedding bothers you, honestly, book another hotel and pay more. A little kindness goes a long way, and you usually get the same in return.

I booked five nights and ended up staying three weeks. The staff made the place for me: friendly, polite, accommodating, and no forced smiles. They cleaned my room every day, and there was plenty of parking for cars and motorbikes. It's in a quiet, sheltered spot about 800 meters from Legian Beach, with huge rooms and large balconies protected from the sun. There are three pools, one big adults' pool at 1.6 meters deep and two that suit kids. The restaurant serves good, solid food, and there's a little supermarket across the road. For the price, this is hard to beat in Legian. WiFi is average at best, and the TVs aren't smart, though they do connect to WiFi. If you're on holiday and that's a dealbreaker, why did you leave home? Big thanks to the staff, you guys are amazing.