InterContinental Bali Resort

The INTERCONTINENTAL is in a quiet location in an area of other resorts, and the recognized name brand does a lot to keep this hotel popular. However, it's not all labels and flash here, and the hotel has a ton of features that help make it one of Jimbaran's most popular resorts year after year. The resort's buildings are done with nods to traditional Balinese design, and have peaked red-shingled roofs. Countering this, the lush grounds are filled with palm and teak trees, shrubs, and frangipani flowers. The Japanese-style Bonsai garden with lotus ponds is a particularly idyllic spot -- perfect for couples in search of romance. Interiors have a refined and uncluttered Balinese aesthetic, though the look is traditional and classic throughout -- don't expect swish contemporary decor at this InterContinental outpost. With its kids' club and children's pool, the resort is a good option for families with children, but couples benefit from the romantic feel, good dining, and array of facilities and amenities. 

INTERCONTINENTAL Bali Resort is on Jimbaran Bay, next to the Jimbaran Fish Market, and a short walk from cafes, restaurants, and shops. Otherwise, guests will need wheels to see the rest of Bali's sights. Garud Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park is a 10-minute drive from the resort. The park features a 75-foot (23-meter) statue of the Hindu god Vishnu. New Kuta Green Park features a water park, bungee jumping, and paintball -- it's a 20-minute drive. The center of Kuta is a little under a 25-minute drive from the resort for nightlife and shopping malls. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a little under a 15-minute drive from the resort.

Rooms at the INTERCONTINENTAL are arrayed in six separate wings, helping to make things feel a little more intimate than the resort actually is. The 417 regular rooms, suites, and villas have a Balinese look with modern details. Hardwood floors, Balinese art and artifacts, hand-made furniture, and hand-woven textiles combine to create a high-end feel, though it's not quite as luxurious as one might expect from this caliber of hotel, and the art and colors can look tired. Rooms utilize ample wood and bamboo, and some feature Javanese face masks and wood carvings. Space is ample: rooms range from 527 square feet (49 square meters) to 4,069 square feet (378 square meters). All rooms come with free bottled water, coffeemakers, minibars, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels plus private balconies or terraces, some with bay views. Some rooms feature a combination of DVD players, sofa beds, espresso machines, and jetted tubs. Club InterContinental and Executive Rooms come with 24-hour butler service, an exclusive swimming pool, and a dedicated 24-hour lounge with refreshments. The spacious bathrooms are done in marble across the board, and come with premium bath products plus separate tubs and showers. Rooms at the resort are all non-smoking. 

Without a doubt, one of the biggest draws of this hotel's many features its white-sand beach, which is attractive, even if it gets a little narrow at high tide. Keep in mind that the loungers tend to get taken early when the resort is full. Beach activities include volleyball, soccer, and a water-sports center. The resort has six excellent swimming pools for all guests. The main pool is 35 meters long, overlooks Jimbaran Bay, and features water polo and water aerobics. Also on site are a Balinese bath pool with water spouts; a traditional Balinese pool with water fountains; a children's pool; and two "fun pools" with water fountains. There is one additional pool for the exclusive use of Club InterContinental guests. The spa offers a wide range of treatments, and also features a sunken hot tub, steam room, sauna, outdoor relaxation area, and beauty salon.

An extensive kids' club is one of the hotel's most popular family features. It's for kids aged 4 to 12, and stays open late. Unfortunately, it's not free for most guests. Grown-up activities include Balinese cooking classes, sunrise yoga, and Balinese dance. Two lighted tennis courts, a 24-hour fitness center, boutique shopping arcade, and concierge desk are on site. The resort serves an extensive breakfast buffet (for a fee), with hot and cold, Western, Asian, and Indonesian items. Restaurants include an authentic Italian and Japanese restaurant, a beach bar and grill with sunset views, and a poolside pavilion specializing in seafood and cool drinks. Like many Bali luxury resorts, food and drink prices are a bit high. 24-hour room service is available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Airport transfers are included with higher-category bookings.