Anumana Ubud Bali

Named after the Hindu god Hanuman, this hotel is just one of the many stylish properties that have sprouted near the Sacred Monkey Forest in recent years. The small scale here makes it feel intimate, and the style is a notch above the many low-frills homestays and anonymous city hotels that crowd the narrow streets all around. The governing aesthetic here is contemporary Balinese, so expect to see details like Garuda statuary alongside sleek hardwood furniture, vibrant art, and sharp patterned fabrics, all rendered in a minimalist and muted fashion. This isn't a sedate property at all. During our visit we spotted young families frolicking in the lagoon pool, couples lounging in the poolside daybeds, and tourists from across Ubud carousing in the streetside restaurant. That does all translate to a bit of noise during the day, though at night it's mostly calm. With its small size and broad appeal, the hotel is frequently near capacity, even in low season, and guests come from many walks of life (though the retiree set generally gives this property a pass). 

While some travelers might prefer to be closer to the hustle along Ubud's main road, a stay here puts travelers near a number of smaller warungs and cafes, and one of the town's major sights. The Sacred Monkey Forest is just a three-minute walk from the Anumana, meaning travelers won't have to idle in traffic to get there. There are tons of places to eat, shop, and drink within a five-minute walking radius, and even more upmarket boutiques along Monkey Forest Road, within a 10-minute walk. Those preferring to center their chi should head to Yoga Barn, one of the town's most famous spots for yogis, which is a five-minute walk from the hotel. Some of the best gamelan music in Ubud takes place at Balai Banjar Ubud Kelod, which hosts one of the only all-female orchestras in Indonesia on select nights. It's a 15-minute walk up Monkey Forest Road to reach the music, while the town's main drag is about five minutes beyond that. The hotel also runs a shuttle to the main road. Budget up to 90 minutes to reach Bali's airport, as traffic can be a nightmare. In fact, allow plenty of time to navigate the Ubud region as well, as its main roads are clogged with cars well into the evening.

These are some of the most pleasant contemporary rooms that we've found in central Ubud. Despite differences in size and amenities, the style is the same across all categories here. The style is minimalistic, to be sure, with white tile floors, off-white walls, and warm hardwood tones making a fresh impression. The borderline garish monkey paintings somehow look charming and quirky alongside woven bamboo paneling, and the bird-basket pendant lighting completes the modern look. All rooms include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, minibars, electric kettles, flat-screen TVs, safes, and trendy open closets that hold kimonos and slippers. Welcome baskets of tropical fruit are also provided, and rooms have furnished balconies or terraces. The most popular units lead directly into the lagoon pool, while two rooms have plunge pools that are separate from the main pool (though not entirely private as they are visible from the rest of the hotel). Other rooms have glimpses out onto the rice fields behind the hotel. 

Bathrooms are done in a similar modern style, with glass walls that can be closed off by blinds. They have attractive marble vanities, plenty of counter space, a good array of toiletries, and roomy showers. We did spot a bit of wear and mildew in bathrooms, though this is almost unavoidable in Bali and they're in far better shape than other hotels that we've visited. It is worth noting that noise tends to travel within the hotel, especially between connecting rooms. 

The hotel doesn't have a ton of features, though its offerings are similar to other mid-range and upscale properties in Ubud. Some perks are especially nice, including the lagoon pool, which is a favorite among past guests and was ringed with sun-seekers during our visit. There are a number of seating areas, including stylish egg-shaped day beds that add a dash of romantic privacy. Keep in mind that this hotel draws lots of families, so there will be kids playing in the water on most days. The hotel's restaurant, Uma, is a popular spot among hotel guests and travelers to Ubud. It serves a large menu of Indonesian and international cuisine, and the breakfast features buffet and a la carte options (for a fee). We spotted groups of travelers and hotel guests spending plenty of time here during our visit, and entertainment takes place on select nights. A lounge is upstairs for cocktails. There's currently a lone spa treatment room, but a proper spa should be open by mid 2017. There's also space for yoga on the roof. A free scheduled shuttle runs to Ubud's main road, which is helpful given Bali's heat. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. This is an elevator property, which isn't common in Ubud.