INAYA Putri Bali Resort

Like many in Nusa Dua, this resort is huge and spread out over a large area. However, unlike many of the properties in this part of Bali, the style here is fresh and modern, and a sharp step above the cookie-cutter upscale and luxury resorts that fill Nusa Dua. The giant open-air lobby is designed after a traditional Balinese rice barn known as a "jineng," which are used for storing and drying rice. The high-pitched ceiling towers above the gleaming marble floor. Sofas and chairs that are upholstered in bold modern fabrics are dotted about the area, as breezes come in from the sea. Like the best Bali resorts, though, most of the action takes place outside and near the water, whether it's the pool or the beach. Keep in mind that guests should be prepared for long walks, as it is quite a distance from the entrance to the rooms. The majority of guests here are from China and Indonesia who arrive in big tour groups. Couples also make their way here, especially honeymooners.

This hotel is located right on the beach in Nusa Dua. It's surrounded by other resorts and hotels, mostly upscale and luxury properties. It's not quite in the center of the action, though most things to see and do are within an easy walk or drive. Mengiat Beach is about five minutes away on foot. Golfers can reach the Bali National Golf Club in about 15 minutes on foot, and shoppers can be at the Bali Collection shopping center in about the same amount of time. The Museum Pasifika also is about a 15-minute walk, and the Devdan Show at Bali Nusa Dua Theatre is just a little bit farther. For guests who prefer not to walk, the hotel provides a free shuttle. Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport is about a 25-minute drive from the hotel. 

The hotel offers rooms, suites, and villas, all decorated in a modern Balinese style with lovely wood accents and detailing. Mid-tone wood accents, vibrantly patterned fabrics, and sharp sculptural art all come together to create spaces that are laid-back, but refined. Color schemes are neutral -- mostly beige, cream, and white -- with blue accents in some. Fresh blooming orchids are a nice touch.  Even the entry-level Deluxe Rooms are spacious, with 48 square meters of space (517 square feet). They feature sitting areas with a loveseat and ottoman, plus a desk and chair. Amenities in all include flat-screen TVs, minibars, air-conditioning, Nespresso-style coffeemakers, and free Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are modern and nicely designed, with above-counter sinks, walk-in showers with rainfall showerheads, deep soaking tubs, and hairdryers. Robes and slippers are provided. Pool access rooms, on the ground floor, have sliding glass doors leading directly to a terrace and the pool. Suites add more space, both indoors and out, and some have beautiful views of the ocean. Suite guests also get special perks such as a foot ritual on arrival, butler service, and free breakfast, tea, and cocktails. Villas are even more luxurious and have their own private plunge pools with a tropical garden, as well as access to the lagoon pool. 

Among the resort's three restaurants is Homaya, which serves regional fare for dinner with a focus on fresh seasonal ingredients. A long communal table sits in the center of the restaurant. Gading Restaurant, the largest food venue, is the place for breakfast and international fare throughout the day. The Ja'Jan Bistro is a lovely open-air space with elegant drapery and upholstered arm chairs. It serves snacks, beverages, and light fare for lunch and dinner. Ja'Jan by the Sea provides roving food carts serving barbecue and cold drinks on the beach. There's also a lounge in the lobby that serves drinks and tapas. 

As is typical in Nusa Dua, this resort offers a huge pool complex. Here, it spreads over three levels, with the largest at the top. Lounge chairs are lined up all around on the pool deck, and even some in the water, but there are no umbrellas. Guests who prefer shade over the sun can sit under a shelter. The wide, sandy beach also is equipped with shaded lounge chairs for guests to use, and there are more chairs set up on the grassy lawn by the beach. Trees provide additional shade.

The Gaya Inaya Spa offers a variety of treatments that draw from nine local indigenous cultures. Among the offerings are massage, facials, wellness treatments, and aromatherapy body wraps. Guests can opt to have treatments in their rooms. Daily resort activities include beach and power walks, soccer, pool games, water exercises, and arts and crafts. The free morning yoga is particularly popular.

The hotel has several events spaces including a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 900 for receptions, as well as smaller meeting rooms and outdoor spaces. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.