Katamama

Katamama, which means “mama says,” is a true example of the blending of modern luxury and tradition in Bali. Opened in 2016, Katamama is a boutique hotel that attracts a young, hip crowd of mostly couples and friends. They’re attracted to the property’s proximity to the Potato Head Beach Club, and don’t mind the loud music that often bleeds over into the property. As for the decor, it was envisioned by Indonesian architect Andra Matin who built the hotel with local textiles and traditions in mind. Katamama is made up of 1.5 million hand-pressed Balinese bricks, Indonesian Grade-A teak wood, and hand-dyed custom textiles -- many done in indigo blue. The interiors are modern and chic with retro elements like old-fashioned record players and geometric designs and patterns of the '60s combined with the natural brick and stone elements of the hotel. Outside, the grounds are pristine and green with tropical trees and plants, a turquoise pool, and thatched umbrellas shading wooden loungers with comfy padding. Though the hotel leans toward the modernization of Bali, it tries to maintain traditional roots with three on-site temples and a priest who performs daily rituals for guests to witness. 

Katamama isn’t directly on the beach, but it sits just behind the well-known party destination of the Potato Head Bar. Guests at Katamama have private access to Potato Head Bar via a private walkway and they get priority booking for day beds. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops within a five-minute walk from the property. It’s a nine-minute walk to the Pura Petitenget Temple and a 15-minute drive to the 3D Dream Museum Zone. The Ngurah Rai International Airport takes 30 minutes to reach by car. 

Bursting with color and a mix of cultural and retro elements, the rooms at Katamama go above and beyond. Rooms vary slightly in decor, but they’re similar in that they have exposed brick walls, wooden floors, locally-dyed fabric, platform beds with white bedding, and colorful geometric wall art. Amenities are impressive and include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, kettles, and full cocktail bars. The mixers, coffee, tea, and some snacks are free, but alcohol costs a fee. Most guests don’t seem to mind the fee as cocktail handbooks are provided in all rooms and an on-call mixologist provides a fun experience for guests. Minibars or mini-fridges are not available in rooms. Some rooms have private balconies with seating, while Rooftop Suites offer rooftop terraces and private hot tubs. Pool Suites have private decked pools. Bathrooms are spacious; they come with walk-in showers and some separate tubs. All have toiletries and hairdryers. 

Katamama offers a nice selection of amenities for travelers looking for an upscale experience. There’s the outdoor swimming pool that has comfy loungers overlooking it, and a pool bar that services those who want a drink while sunning. As far as wellness goes, there’s a 24-hour small gym with a handful of cardio machines, medicine balls, and TRX bands, plus a modest spa for massages and beauty treatments. The hotel’s restaurant provides Spanish-inspired meals, especially tapas for lunch and dinner. It also has a free daily breakfast with Spanish and Indonesian favorites. Room service is available 24/7 and features an international menu. Cocktails are the lobby bar’s specialty, so it’s no surprise that they offer mixology classes. Staff also arranges yoga by the pool and coffee tastings. Wi-Fi is free throughout. The hotel isn't directly on the beach, but guests get VIP access and day bed priority to Potato Head Beach Club.