Villa Des Indes I

Villa des Indes is a beautiful villa in the heart of Seminyak - in a quiet street of luxury villas a short walk from the beach (now thankfully spruced up with the arrival of nearby 5 star hotels and beach clubs), fabulous restaurants like La Lucciola and Bambu, and beach clubs Potatohead and KuDeTa. forget sparse lines, glass and steel - this place is more about conjuring up a sense of colonial life in the tropics. Only colonial villas didn't come with a huge pool like this one does! There is plenty of space to lounge about in - the grounds are extensive and the rooms are very accommodating. There are 2 large suites with lounge areas and outside showers, although the smaller rooms in a more recent 2 storey villa are brighter and more modern. The staff are very accommodating - especially Pandi and Esta (I probably have the spelling wrong sorry!) always on hand to rustle up a bit to eat or of course cocktails. A good tip is to bring your own alcohol - they will mix cocktails for you and this makes it much cheaper. I'd thoroughly recommend this place for an indulgent way to enjoy Bali!

Tucked out of the way in a fairly optimum location, this is really a hidden gem. Well maintained, amazing service, just a beautiful space to spend some time with friends. We were advised on arrival that a number of celebrities have stayed. They light the candles at the entrance way every evening, so leaving and returning is itself an experience. The staff cannot do enough for you, and will organise scooters, table reservations, relaxing massages in the gardens and pretty much anything else you can think of. The bar is open anytime you're up, with a fridge big enough to fit anything you bring with you from duty free, although the duty free at Bali airport is not the cheapest in the area, so I recommend stocking up on your exit airport if you wish to take advantage of this facility.