Komaneka at Bisma

This property is surrounded by tropical foliage and rice fields, and overwhelmed with green. Parts of the resort are on the Campuhan River, meaning that the sounds of flowing water can be heard in this retreat-like setting. The external surroundings, woodwork, and pathways are well-maintained, and the gardens beautifully manicured. Some of the tropical trees are labeled, which adds an educational component to a meander around the grounds. 

From the moment of arrival in the open-air lobby -- which makes nice use of natural wood and surrounds a fountain that's designed to evoke rice paddies -- guests are made to feel welcome. The friendliness of the staff never seems to abate; they seem to have a sixth sense for anticipating every needs and learn the names of their guests, which include solo travelers, couples, and families.

Situated in town, the Komaneka at Bisma is about a 15-minute walk to the Puri Lukisan Museum -- the oldest art museum in Bali -- and to Pura Taman Saraswati -- the Ubud Palace. The Ubud Market is about 20 minutes away on foot, and the Ubud Monkey Forest is within a half hour's walk. Abundant nature and the Campuhan River surround the property, but it's still less than a five-minute walk to the main road in Ubud. The hotel also operates a shuttle that takes guests to the town center and to  the other Komaneka hotels -- where Bisma guests receive full privileges. 

The 32 rooms range from Suites  to larger Duplex Pool Villas (with private pools). All rooms have contemporary furnishings that blend with the natural surroundings, and balconies or patios. Light plays into the decor with lots of floor-to-ceiling windows that take advantage of the tropical sun and maximize jungle views. There's abundant use of natural or teak wood on the bed frames and wall accents, and the marble floors convey sleek simplicity.

Fruit baskets and flower petals on the bed and in the bath are nice touches upon arrival. Other thoughtful extras include mosquito repellent, straw hats and bags, umbrellas, bottled water, flip-flops,  and cookies -- which are replenished daily.  All rooms have flat-screen TVs that are connected to Apple TV,  free Wi-Fi, minibars, air-conditioning, and electric kettles.

Bathrooms are almost like separate suites unto themselves, with deep-soaking bathtubs (with candlelit sconces mounted above), separate rainfall showers, double sinks, and plush robes. Be aware that the wall separating the bathrooms is glass, which might compromise privacy.

There's daily housekeeping, and nightly turndown service includes Balinese nightgowns and delivery of a bedside story -- a short screed about the culture that concludes with an inspiring message. 

The stunning infinity pool seems to continue beyond the property into the jungle. It's a gorgeous setting for relaxing on the plentiful sun chairs that surround it on the wooden deck. The poolside bar means cocktails are always at the ready. There is a smaller wading pool below -- generally used as a children's pool for the younger set.

The full-service spa, where sounds of the Campuhan River trickle in, has a beautiful open-air lounge. Treatments range from massages to facials to body wraps. 

The fitness center isn't huge -- it has a few pieces of cardio equipment, dumbbells, a weight bench, and a balance ball. Yoga mats are also available, and classes are sometimes offered.

The restaurant specializes in authentic Indonesian cuisine, and 24-hour room service is available. Daily afternoon tea, which is served with local fruits, is included in the room rate.

The resort's meeting room can be used for business or receptions. The library room has computers and a printer for guests' use, as well as reading materials and comfortable couches. There's also an on-site boutique.

The hotel offers free tickets to the Neka Museum, and staff can arrange such activities as cycling trips, trekking through the local rice fields, and Balinese cooking lessons.

Weddings can be held in the beautiful open-air Wanasmara Wedding chapel area; the high-ceilinged wooden structure comfortably seats small wedding parties. Weddings here also include use of a nearby preparation suite -- where the bride and groom can get ready -- and an outdoor stage area as well.