Villa Blubambu: Luxurious peaceful Bali villas
PEACEFUL gardens, meticulous service and tranquil villas – and all for prices well below what you would expect from one of Bali’s more expensive neighborhoods. It’s no surprise that so many satisfied guests rave about and return to this Seminyak hideaway.
The tropical garden is the centerpiece of Villa Blubambu, and it’s where guests meet for breakfast. It’s laid out on an open plan but still fosters a private atmosphere thanks to its well-placed floral arrangements and trees. The freshwater pond is stocked with fish. There are two swimming pools on the property, and an Indonesian bale (something like a gazebo) for massages or simply admiring the view. Daybeds, lounges and a wooden hammock also populate the garden.
The property is centrally located in Seminyak, but it’s off the beach and can therefore offer highly competitive rates in a neighborhood that set the standard for an up-market Balinese getaway. Shops, spas and beaches are just a few minutes’ walk away.
What makes it special?
The accommodation options at Villa Blubambu may be referred to as guesthouses, but don’t let this throw you off. The property is well-maintained, with nary a loose screw or dingy corner. Hot water is consistently on offer; linens are crisp; and the service staff are quick to attend to guests’ needs. Strictly speaking, this is not resort living. Instead, it offers many of the luxury trappings of the luxury experience infused with the personality and intimacy of a bed and breakfast. Guests want for nothing during their stay, and when they leave, most feel like they know Mathieu, the owner, personally.
What to expect?
When you arrive at the villa, you’ll most likely be greeted at the gate by the proprietor, Mathieu. He can also arrange to have you picked up from the airport, which is about a 15 drive away. It’s worth mentioning that some guests despair en route to the property, as they leave the up-market center of Seminyak and descend into the alleyways of a slightly more dilapidated neighborhood. But all doubts dissipate at the property’s entrance. Step through the gates to find paradise restored.
Guesthouses are equipped with air conditioning and fans, leaving you plenty of leeway in climate control. They also have 32-inch flat-screen TVs, king-sized beds, private open-air showers and shaded terraces with access to one of the swimming pools. Guests have access to a full roster of facilities and amenities, including daily breakfast in the garden. An hour-long in-room massage cost only US$9 as of 2012.
What is there to do?
The property doesn’t open up right on the beach, but guests are only a ten-minute walk away. Seminyak’s beaches are a bit quieter than those in Kuta, especially during the day when tourists are out exploring other neighborhoods. In the past ten years, this area has grown from a (some would say sleepy) backwater to the spa and upscale shopping capital of Bali. For those who plan on indulging in either of these activities, this is the place to be based.
Seminyak and Petitenget beaches are closest, and their essentially an unbroken strand of gray sand. Legian and then Kuta beaches are farther south. Pura Petitenget, the local Hindu temple, has been in operation since the 16th century, and the beachside rituals performed are worth a look for avid temple-goers or first-time visitors.
This is also prime launching ground for tours of the entire island. You best bet is to coordinate your outings with Mathieu, who is more than happy to help you set your itinerary, charter a driver and get your bookings in order.
What’s the damage?
The rates for this guesthouse are highly affordable, especially in the up-market neighborhoods of Seminyak. During the low season (January 11 to June 30 and October 1 to December 14), rates are set at US$115. They increase to US$130 during the high season (July 1 to September 30) and US$140 during peak season (December 15 to January 10). Guests are required to book a minimum of two nights’ stay during the low season and three nights’ stay during high and peak seasons.
To find out more or contact the owner click here.
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