Puri Ganesha Villas

We hardly moved from Villa Sepi: up for the scrumptious breakfast, onto the daybed, into the pool, back to the table for lunch, then back to the daybed and pool. We spent two lovely days soaking up the sunshine, eating yummy food, and enjoying great service. The four-hour trip was absolutely worth it, though I'd suggest breaking it up with a stop in the hills for food if you can. We ate every meal at the Villa, brought over by our two lovely helpers at the arranged times, and sometimes had afternoon tea too. The food was amazing, with simple ingredients, stunning flavors, and beautiful presentation. Even if you're not into raw or healthy food, you can appreciate it. They could provide pretty much whatever you needed. I had to hit the pool often to work off the extra calories. The pool is a perfect size and a dream to lounge beside, like something from a magazine. The sea is about 50 yards away, but coral makes it hard to swim straight out from the beach. For swimming, you'll need to walk along the shore to find a good entry point. You can snorkel nearby or take a trip to the local marine park. I'd suggest staying a good week to fit in some of the trips on offer. Villa Sepi has a master suite upstairs and a twin room downstairs. The downstairs bathroom is huge and open air, which is lovely, though that bedroom is a bit dark at the back of the Villa. The master bedroom is roomy, airy, and a delight, with a stunning view. You could lie in bed and watch the sun come up. Its bathroom is smaller, so families may want to mix and match. The shower plumbing can be hit and miss, and the water is a little salty and sulfurous, but water is short on the north side of the Island and it adds to the place's mystique. It's not too perfect. Furnishings, lamps, and cushions are lovely, and there are plenty of magazines and books. Diana and Gusti are great hosts, always busy with something. Their nearby educational project is worth a visit. It shows how tourism can have a positive local impact when people can engage locally and ownership is local rather than corporate. There are lots of interesting day trips, food-focused or outdoors. It's a delightful, super-relaxing place for lounging in a beach shack and eating simple food. If you're super fussy and neurotic, maybe it's not for you, or maybe it is ;) I'd recommend it to honeymooners or couples after somewhere quiet. There's a one-bedroom honeymoon villa at the end of the beach where you could hardly get out of bed. It's also good for families of all ages, and child help can be provided. If you want peace, rest, and to be looked after, come here.

Paradise, a gorgeous private four-villa boutique resort with a divine Shabby Chic feel. The layout is lovely, the food excellent, and the pool is the best temperature. They also have homemade spices and marmalades from Allthingsnice Spice Company. Two nights wasn't long enough. Great for a restful holiday or brainstorming sessions.

The houses are beautiful and simply decorated, the staff are very helpful, and the food was great. They use as many local ingredients as they can. If you want high quality, no stress, and great service, this is the place. I highly recommend it. Be sure to meet the owner too, she's an interesting person with lots of insight about the island.

For me, real luxury is something out of the ordinary, beyond high-tech comfort. Puri Ganesha has an outstanding location, peace and privacy, and villas with the charm of another era. The decor mixes colorful pieces and Balinese antiques, and the private pool facing the sea was the best ever. The vegetarian food is tasty and fresh, and the arak cocktail is addictive. Service is discreet, efficient, and helpful. Above all, Diana is a rare person, full of knowledge, charm, and fantasy. Thanks to you and your lovely staff for sharing your paradise!