New Kuta Hotel

This sprawling four-story hotel is an impressive thing to behold from the outside, with numerous balconies dotting its pale yellow facade. Long marble walkways and stairs flanked by greenery, a decorative pool, and trees lead to the entrance of the U-shaped building. Inside, the lobby is likewise huge, a plus when groups gather here, though perhaps a bit stark and cold for the average traveler. Sofas and chairs with bright-green or mustard cushions are clustered inside and out on the terrace, which offers nice views of the tropical setting and the ocean in the distance. Additional seating around the property, such as thatched-roof gazebos, are nice spots for pausing and enjoying the views. There's no direct beach access, but the ocean is visible from a number of spots around the property. With a variety of accommodations from rooms to suites, the hotel appeals to both couples and families. It also attracts groups who make use of its events spaces for meetings and weddings -- keep in mind that these groups mean that the vibe here can be less than quiet at times. 

Despite the name, this hotel is nowhere near the loud tourist hustle of Kuta town, which is over 30 minutes away by car. This hotel is located in a remote area in Pecatu, Uluwatu, on a hilltop that offers lovely views of the ocean. There's little in the immediate area, and tit's far more laid back than its cousins to the north -- this part of bali is known for its surf breaks and dramatic seaside cliffs. Dreamland Beach is a six-minute walk from the hotel, as is the Klapa Beach Club, which doesn't earn raves for its food and drink, but sits directly on the sand overlooking the water. The New Kuta Green Water Park and the New Kuta Golf Course can both be reached in about 10 to 15 minutes on foot, or a few minutes by car. The ancient Uluwatu Temple is a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Budget a 35 to 40 minute drive to reach Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Rooms are simple, but bright and pleasant, with tile floors, neutral color schemes accented by citrus green and yellow, and two-tone modern furniture. The look is quite plain, and a bit of a let down given how sharp the hotel looks from the outside. Additionally, while the furniture has clean, contemporary lines, it does show a good deal of wear. 

All rooms are air-conditioned and have balconies with wicker patio furniture. Views are of the mountains or ocean and golf course, and some views are much better than others. A large cabinet in each room holds the TV (some tube-style), as well as coffee/tea facilities. Some rooms have mini-fridges. Suites add living areas, minibars, and kitchenettes with sinks, two-burner stovetops, and microwaves (kitchen equipment must be requested). Family Rooms can accommodate up to five people. Bathrooms are on the small side, but they offer above-counter sinks, tiled showers, toiletries, and magnifying mirrors. 

The Penthouse Suite, the most luxurious at the hotel, adds more style with boldly patterned wallpaper, woven rugs, and colorful silk pillows, and its bathrooms are large with soaking tubs. Maintenance and housekeeping are frequent complaints here, and insects can also be an issue. Guests have suggested requesting rooms facing the garden, not the road, for a quieter stay. 

The hotel is well-equipped for meetings and weddings, with three meeting rooms and a grand ballroom that can hold 600 people. Outdoor space by the pool also can be reserved for private events. The pool area is a lovely space with poolside daybeds, cushioned lounge chairs, and umbrellas for relaxing and enjoying the view. Dine restaurant and bar also overlooks the pool, and lots of potted tropical plants add to the ambiance. The daily breakfast buffet is free and includes cold and hot items such as omelets and fruit. International and local dishes are served up for lunch and dinner, and 24-hour room service is available. A business center offers computers and printers for guests to use, and there's also a fitness center on-site. Spa treatments can be arranged.