Kupu Rare Secluded Slice Villa

We chose this villa for our mother’s 80th birthday, and it worked really well for a family with older relatives and kids. The rooms give everyone space, while the lounge and dining areas are big enough to gather in. Breakfast together each morning was a nice way to plan the day. Ray and Putu know a lot about what to do and see, which made decisions less stressful. Among all the villas in Bali, this one stood out for its attention to detail and ease of use. We wouldn’t stay elsewhere. The service from Ray and his team at Villa Kupu Kupu (which means “butterfly”) was amazing, with quick communication and nothing feeling like too much trouble. Putu and Ita, the villa managers, surprised us with a cake and flowers, which was thoughtful. Putu also set us up with his friend Tude for a day trip to Ubud. His English is excellent, and he kept us entertained the whole way. It was around $60 AUD and fantastic value. We loved the volcano and the cat poo coffee place. The villa was immaculate, very well equipped and felt very safe. There’s a lockable gate in a high-walled compound. The air conditioning is icy cold, both pools were refreshing and filtered water comes from a tap. Eat Street in Seminyak is just a one-minute walk, with loads of cafes, supermarkets, restaurants, day spas and reputable money changers. We recommend the exchange in Seminyak Square, about five minutes away. Carla’s Day Spa is cheap and amazing, Cocomart has beer and snacks, and Chandi, Batik and Ginger Moon are excellent restaurants. Ray also owns Shima teppenyaki restaurant, which we rated 10/10 for service, authentic food and lovely ambience. The chefs are highly skilled teppenyaki experts with 15 years of training, and watching them was a lot of fun. We liked it even more than Sardine across the road. For high-end pampering at a good price, Sundira Day spa across from Shima is another recommendation.