Alam Jiwa Ubud

Just a heads-up, since I haven't seen other reviews mention it: there are lots of lizards and insects around the property because it's right in the middle of nature. That's why I took off a star. Otherwise, it's a good hotel. The rooms are spacious, the staff are very hospitable and helpful, and there's a shuttle to the city center. Breakfast is good and can be brought to your room at no extra cost.

Birdsong, greenery, and a river right behind the room make this a lovely spot close to nature. On a lucky day you can even see the volcano way off in the distance. It feels like being in a village while still having cafes and shops nearby. The staff are friendly and greet you with a smile. Breakfast is nice and can be served in the room, and there's a shuttle to the central area.

I’ve stayed at Alam Jiwa six times now, and it was the first place I stayed in Ubud. For the price, it’s hard to beat: you get a huge half-villa, enormous beds and bathrooms, a private balcony, and a water garden with fish and lotus flowers. There are peaceful rice field views, a pool, breakfast and afternoon tea included, traditional architecture, and Hindu traditions like daily offerings. Most of the staff have been there since at least our first visit in 2019. They’re very friendly and help arrange tours and activities or suggest restaurants. Though it’s in busy, noisy Nyuh Kuning near the Monkey Forest, the hotel feels tucked away from the commotion. Getting to central Ubud is the main drawback. The Palace and Yoga Barn are a long walk, so you may want to rent a scooter or use scooter or car taxis. The hotel also has a car that can take you places and pick you up again, but I think that costs extra. Otherwise, settle in and enjoy.

Alam Jiwa feels peaceful even though it's close to everything, and the Balinese-style surroundings are beautiful. There are good cafes and restaurants nearby. The service was wonderful, everyone so friendly and helpful, and a big thank you to Menik and the rest of the staff for making our stay special. We enjoyed the varied breakfast on our balcony every day, sitting back with the view. The showers were hot, and my husband liked the bathtub. We didn't use the free daily Ubud shuttle, but it's available. I really loved staying here.