The tropical paradise of Bali, offers many accommodation options to suit every traveller. From luxurious resorts nestled amidst lush greenery to homestays in the heart of traditional villages, Bali presents a diverse range of choices that will leave you spoilt for choice. This guide will take you through these options so you can be fully informed before you book.
The types of accommodation in Bali
1. Private Villa
Private villas are exactly what they sound like – villas exclusively for you, no sharing with strangers or owners. In Bali, the majority of private villas provide housekeeping, either on a daily basis or according to your preference, some villas even have a chef! Air Bnb, Booking.com and TripAdvisor have a large list of private villas.
You will notice that most of the private villas in Bali embrace traditional Balinese architecture, which means that the kitchen and living room areas are typically open-air. Just imagine your living room without the fourth wall – that’s essentially it. While these open spaces offer a unique living experience, it’s important to note that they can attract bugs, bats, and geckos, along with reaching high temperatures. However, the bedrooms in private villas are typically completely sealed, and usually fitted with air con units, providing a comfortable and protected sleeping environment.
Another notable feature of private villas is the presence of ventilation holes. These uncovered squares at the top of the walls act as natural ventilators for the rooms. As a result, some of these accommodations may not have air conditioning, leading to very warm temperatures during the daytime. On the bright side, most villas in Bali come with a private pool in the backyard, so you can keep cool and enjoy a relaxing dip.
A few questions to ask yourself when deciding if you are happy to stay in an open villa:
- Are you afraid of spiders, geckos etc? -will their presence in the open area make you uncomfortable
- Is the pool in the sunlight? – some pools are in the shade, search Google/trip advisor for photos
- Can you handle the heat? – think about not having AC
- Is there security? – break-ins are not frequent but they do occur, how secure is your villa?
Recommended Private Villas in Bali
2. Studios & Apartments
Studios & apartments in Bali are perfect for travellers/tourists who want to be self-contained and are happy to share a pool. Most apartment blocks also have security.
Recommended Apartments in Bali
3. Hotels
From Surfing to yoga and health resorts, you will certainly have a trip of a lifetime. When it comes to accommodation options, resorts and hotels in Bali rank among the best for families. Regardless of your budget, you’ll find a wide range of choices to suit all kinds of needs. These establishments provide round-the-clock reception and security services, with CCTV surveillance in public areas, offering you peace of mind throughout your stay.
Another great aspect of staying in a hotel or resort in Bali is the Balinese hospitality. Prepare to be treated like royalty and receive plenty of helpful tips about your location, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience.
Recommended Hotels in Bali
4. Homestays
Looking for a true authentic experience? A homestay allows you to stay with a local Balinese family, either within their home or in a separate building on the home compound. You will learn so much about the Balinese way of life, you may be invited to take part in a ceremony, cook traditional food, visit a market and go hiking.
Recommended Homestays in Bali
Here is a list of websites where you can find homestays for your Bali adventure.
5. Hostels / Losmens
Hostels (or losmens in Bali) are budget-friendly options to meet like-minded people. Here to surf, party, work or be a yogi? There will be a hostel for you.
Recommended Hostels in Bali
6. Unique Stays
Imagine waking up in a treehouse to the sounds of the jungle or in a bubble dome surrounded by lush green rice fields, there are some amazing accommodations on the island of Bali. If you are looking for something a bit different then you are in the right place.
Areas to Stay in Bali
Canggu: surfing, trendy cafes, co-working spaces and upscale restaurants.
Uluwatu: large sandy beaches, beautiful clifftops, epic surfing.
Ubud: rice fields, temples, culture, food.
Kuta / Seminyak: both are similar, very touristy with a lot of western bars/restaurants, and many budget-friendly accommodation options.
Nusa Penida – diving, hiking, stunning white sandy beaches and turquoise water.
Sideman – vast rice terraces, Mount Agung
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