Sudamala Resort, Sanur, Bali

Having experienced the magic of Sudamala Resort in Senggigi, Lombok, my anticipation ran high for their Sanur resort – and it exceeded every expectation. From the moment we stepped through the entrance until our departure, we were enveloped in genuine Balinese hospitality. The resort's soul reveals itself through thoughtfully curated details: traditional architecture, manicured gardens, carefully positioned artwork, and striking sculptures that capture Bali's essence. The staff's attentiveness manifested in countless ways, from offering mosquito incense at dusk to sheltering guests with umbrellas during rain showers. The culinary journey at Ares Restaurant proved to be a highlight of our stay. The breakfast package, which I heartily recommend, presents an abundant à la carte menu featuring both Indonesian and Western cuisine. Each morning began with fresh fruit platters and an array of beverages, from freshly squeezed juices to aromatic coffee. Our lunch and dinner experiences were equally impressive, with the kitchen team demonstrating remarkable flexibility in accommodating special requests. What truly sets Sudamala apart is their commitment to excellence. When we noticed a minor service discrepancy and shared our feedback, the management team responded swiftly and effectively, demonstrating their dedication to continuous improvement. The resort's team deserves individual recognition. The gardeners maintain stunning landscapes, while the lobby and restaurant staff deliver consistently outstanding service. Several team members left lasting impressions: Kelvin, a trainee who enhanced our beach experience with his attentive service; Dewi at Ares, whose warmth and efficiency made every meal special; and Wida from the concierge team, whose deep knowledge of Bali and engaging conversations added rich cultural context to our stay. As I plan my next adventure to Sudamala's Labuan Bajo property, I'm already anticipating the distinctive charm and excellence that has become synonymous with the Sudamala brand. Two properties down, and my journey through their collection of exceptional resorts continues. A Practical Note for Sanur Visitors: - The location of the hotel is approximately 7 minutes walk from the beach and 10-15 minutes from a variety of restaurants close by. Icon Bali is the newly built shopping centre that's a short Grab/Gojek journey away. Grand Lucky is the large supermarket to visit for Indonesian treats. - For fitness enthusiasts staying at the resort, while the hotel's own gym is under construction, I highly recommend Paradise Bali nearby – a well-equipped facility that’s in close proximity. - As with any tropical paradise, insects are part of the experience. The warm climate of Asia means you'll encounter mosquitos, flies, and ants, particularly during evening hours outdoors. While the hotel expertly manages these natural visitors, you can enhance your comfort by requesting candles from the staff – they're particularly effective when dining or sitting outside. Consider packing citrus-based personal products as well.