Puri Sading Hotel

Even when we rolled up during low season in 2017, this compact little property was buzzing with life -- much like the town that sits just outside the hotel's front doors. Much of that action centers on the hotel's pool, which serves as the physical centerpiece of the hotel and is surrounded by sunbathing travelers all day. Others make their way to the small poolside bar for cocktails, before jumping in for a splash. Given the hotel's layout -- and despite only having 22 rooms -- it feels quite lively and upbeat, though never rowdy. Instead, guests socialize with one another, or take some time out on their balconies and terraces, most of which also look out onto the shared pool area. There aren't too many public interiors, other than the simple restaurant (which is open to the public). As such, things stay mostly quiet at night, particularly as the pool isn't open 24 hours a day. Expect to see mostly mature couples and some families here, most from Australia and Europe.

This hotel sits on a prime piece of real estate right in the heart of Sanur. There are numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes in any direction up and down Jalan Danau Tamblingan, and swish Three Monkeys Sanur is just a couple minutes down the road on foot. Hardy's Sanur Square, which serves as the de facto center of town and is a decent place to pick up everything from souvenirs to food, is only a 10-minute walk from the property. As the property sits on the west side of Sanur's main road, you'll need to walk to the beach, though that's also easily accessible within 10 minutes on foot. For even more authentic bites, head north to the Sindhu Night Market, which is -- again -- only a 10-minute walk from the hotel. Nightlife can be low key in Sanur, so if you're after boozy clubs, you'll need to hop in a cab to Seminyak or Kuta, which can take up to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Budget 30 minutes to reach the airport, though the trip can take less time when traffic is light.

Despite having a few different categories to choose from, the size and style of rooms at Puri Sading is largely the same across the board. Expect to see dark wood-veneer furniture, an abundance of tan and off-white hues, vibrant purple accents walls, and textiles that pick up the same violet hue in attractive ways. Despite the modern appearance, some of the furniture was looking quite worn during our 2017 visit. Standard features include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and a couple bottles of free water. The main difference in the room categories is where they are located in the hotel and the quality of their balconies or terraces. If you want privacy when you're sitting outside, opt for second-floor units, particularly those at the back of the hotel away from the pool. Otherwise, despite all balconies having chairs and tables, the atmosphere will be a bit less private. All bathrooms have walk-in rainfall showers that are separated by shower curtains, though counter space is limited. Toiletries and towels are provided.

Features are fairly limited at this small hotel, though there is enough on-site to keep most guests glued to the hotel day and night. Of course, the hub of the action here centers on the hotel's pool, which has both deeper and shallower ends, and a decent amount of lounge chairs. Pool towels can be used for the beach as well and are free. A poolside bar slings tropical drinks and other cool beverages. There's also a simple restaurant that's open to the public and serves international, Indonesian, and Chinese dishes. It's open for all three meals, and breakfast is a buffet or a la carte affair (though it's not included in all rates). The hotel has two bicycles that can be rented, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.