Gusti Kaler House

The room was in perfect condition, and they clean it daily. Breakfast is good, with toast, eggs, and fruit, though if you’re used to a big breakfast like I am, you can pick up more at a nearby grocery store. The place itself is beautiful, with a green garden and birdsong. The family running it is lovely and helpful, and the location is great, near Ubud’s main road with its restaurants and shops.

It’s in a good area, but I don’t trust the owners. I left money in a white envelope on the bed by mistake. After leaving the homestay, I called and asked the owner to check for it. He said they hadn’t found anything, then ended the call. They didn’t ask me anything either. I’m sure the staff know about it.

The breakfast is free, you choose from a menu, and it’s a proper, filling meal with a little fruit salad. Coffee and tea are always available, with a thermos of hot water on the veranda. They also clean the room every day, which I’m not very used to as a backpacker. My husband and I stayed five days, after more than four months of backpacking, and this place felt like paradise. The traditional Balinese cottages sit among beautiful gardens; they’re spacious and very clean, and the bathrooms are clean and fairly roomy too. The ceiling fan is powerful, so we didn’t need to leave the windows open at night. Just keep in mind there are no screens on the four windows. I’d stay here again when I return!

The family here is so kind, and the breakfast is delicious, especially the omelet. It’s really cheap and close to central Ubud, but away from the motorbike noise. The only drawback for me is the air conditioning: you have to ask for a special room to get it. Go enjoy a peaceful stay here.