Crystal Bay Pool View Bungalow

The rooms were clean and comfortable, and there’s a great pool. The beach is only minutes away and is good for swimming. Staff were really friendly, too. You’re right in the jungle, so expect all the jungle sounds. The entrance is still being renovated, so walk a few more meters before judging the place. The road here is a bit tricky, so take care if you’re riding a bike. The bathrooms have no windows, which lets some insects slip into the room, so be ready for a few friendly visitors.

The beaches didn’t look like the pictures, perhaps because it was rainy season, and there was a lot of garbage on the streets and shore. The island roads were crowded with vans trying to get through narrow, winding stretches. The bungalows are in the forest, reached by a very narrow dirt road. Inside, the bathrooms were damp and the AC was noisy. There were no restaurants apart from the villa’s, and its food was just below average. Without a driver, getting around is impossible unless you’re very confident on a scooter. This visit didn’t match what the photos promised, and there are much nicer places to see in Indonesia.

The service was excellent, especially Made, who was really nice, friendly, and helpful. Breakfast and the food at their little warung were good. It’s a quaint, cute spot, a bit out of the way but still within walking distance of the island’s swimmable beaches, including Crystal bay beach. The new bungalows under construction look unsightly, though they were less noisy than the wildlife in the mornings. There were a few small room design issues, plus some problems with lighting and plugs. The air con and WiFi worked well.

The pool won me over, and the room was clean with friendly staff. It’s about a five-minute walk to the beach, with a mini mart nearby. Awesome hotel, highly recommend it, and I’d gladly return.