The Jayakarta Bali

The property opens onto Legian Beach at the back, just across the road, and JL Werdakara at the front. Our room, 318, was a short walk from the back pool, though reception is a bit of a walk from the front. Service was great from check-in to departure, and the location is excellent. There are two pools, with a bar at the main one, and three places to eat: the main restaurant, the spot by the pool, and the restaurant at the back pool. Breakfast was nice. Our room had a good-sized bed, working air conditioning, okay hot water, a roomy bathroom, a veranda with two chairs, and a fridge that worked well. It was serviced daily, with two free bottles of water each day. The shower is in the bath, which could be difficult if you have mobility issues. The room was usable but needs an upgrade. For the price we paid, our stay worked out well and we had no problems.

The pools were good, but the slippery tiles had the kids and me sliding around and felt like a death trap. The restaurant meals and buffet were good, menu prices were reasonable, and the Balinese dinner show at night was well worth it. Most staff were friendly and attentive, though a few of the younger ones seemed distracted by each other. The hotel is very dated, but the location is its best feature. Our room was small, and the shower was so tiny it only fit someone under five feet. It had two settings, hot and scalding. We were given a room at the very top, far away and up all the stairs, with two young kids. I had asked for an extra bed and cot, but neither was there when we arrived, and there wasn't room for them besides the standard bed and cot anyway. We had booked rooms together with family. This was my fifth Bali trip, and sadly I wouldn't stay here again.

The breakfast buffet was fantastic, and the themed dinner nights had amazing food for the price. The resort also made my 60th birthday special: on our first night, the restaurant staff sang happy birthday and brought out a cake. I loved the pool, especially the quieter one away from the larger pools. It was about 95% adults, a nice place to escape the kids and pool bar music when we wanted some quiet. The spa was fabulous too. I had a three-hour session and loved it. I had booked a one-bedroom apartment, but after I complained, they moved me to a deluxe hotel room, which was much better. Be aware that the apartments are in a separate block at the front, on JL Padma Utara, across from Fat Buddha and other bars with very loud music late into the night. The music is great, just not when you're trying to sleep. The rooms aren't soundproof, and you can hear voices from the karaoke bar two doors down. The resort and booking sites should describe these rooms as noisy. After moving, I really enjoyed my stay.

Good value for both the accommodation and amenities, and great for families. My room was a good size, though the shower pressure wasn't very good. Breakfast had lots of options, and the staff were friendly and helpful. The beach is right across the road, but the shops are a bit of a walk. I'd stay again.