Bisma Jaya Bungalow

The rooms were spacious, and the balcony had a good view. There were lots of insects out there, though I can accept that in a forest full of greenery. The staff welcomed us and were friendly. Getting around the property after dark was difficult because there weren’t lights along the paths. In the room, I found a live cockroach in the washroom, the AC wasn’t working, and the fan rattled while spinning. Even after leaving the AC on for 8 hours, the room didn’t cool down. The location was great.

I stayed here for 8 months, loved it, and came back for another 6. The staff and management were friendly, helpful, and kind. They were always ready to help, even carrying heavy gallons of water upstairs for me with a smile. The property feels peaceful as soon as you enter, though the street outside is busy. The gardens are lovely and well cared for, and I especially liked the view from the second floor. It’s close to central Ubud and shops and restaurants are walkable. It’s also easy to get grab and gojek if you don’t ride a scooter.

This was my worst stay in Bali. The hotel didn’t provide basic things I expected: there was no hairdryer, and no drinking water. It’s the only hotel I’ve encountered in Bali that doesn’t offer complimentary water. Instead, they provide an electric kettle, so guests have to boil tap water. With Bali Belly being a serious concern for travelers, I didn’t consider tap water safe to drink. The breakfast service was just as frustrating. There were no drinks included, even though standard Balinese breakfasts include beverages, fruit, and a main dish. Guests are left to boil water in their rooms. The night before, I confirmed breakfast delivery for 9:00 AM. At 8:10 AM, staff banged aggressively on my door and demanded to come in, waking me abruptly. When I asked them to leave the tray outside, they refused, saying monkeys might steal it. They kept knocking until I opened the door.

The thin walls meant I could hear everything from the neighboring room, and the wifi was slow. Still, I loved the place, and the staff looked after me so well. It was quiet and peaceful, away from the main Street but close to the center of monkey forest. The room was clean, the pool and garden were nice, and the deck was lovely. Breakfast was good, the staff were super nice, and it was good value.