Satriya Cottages

This classic hotel is about 30 years old, making it one of the oldest in Kuta, and while it has a bit of charm and everything is well-kept, the style will look a bit dated to most travelers. Owned by locals, it's a budget-friendly place with traditional Balinese character that makes quite a first impression. Stone columns and statues mark the entranceways, and the lobby features ornately carved wooden statues and furniture, as well as stone and bamboo columns. Cushioned wood and rattan seating provides various places for guests to sit within the exuberantly appointed space. There's nothing fussy or pretentious here, and it's one of the area's more well-liked options. The large garden and spacious pool area are a bit unique for a property that's located right in central Kuta, and are a big draw for guests. Satriya Cottages is particularly popular with Australian tourists, as it's only a three-hour flight from Perth, and many of those who stay here are repeat guests. Others include couples, families, groups, and individuals looking for a well-priced option near the beach and in the heart of the Kuta action. 

This hotel is located in the center of Kuta, about a two-minute walk from the beach and four minutes from Beachwalk Mall. It's on a small one-way road that leads from Legian Road to the beach, and for those looking to hit up Kuta's party meccas, it doesn't get more central. The immediate road outside can get traffic-jammed at times, so walking is best. There are tons of shops, markets, restaurants, and bars within walking distance, and the area can get rowdy at night. Both Jalan Poppies 1 and 2 essentially flank the hotel, and are both packed with nightclubs and all manner of watering holes. Waterbom Bali water park and the Discovery Shopping Mall are both just five minutes away by car, or 20 minutes on foot. Expect a 15-minute drive to Ngurah Rai International Airport, just south of the city.

The hotel offers three rooms types: Standard, Superior, and Deluxe, and each has a king or two twin beds. Rooms are basic, but offer a blend of traditional Balinese accents and more modern details -- for the most part. Unfortunately, there is a bit of disparity from room to room. The most pleasant rooms have dark wood-veneer furniture and contemporary plush seating. Some of these -- like the spacious Deluxe Room that we visited -- feature rich wooden carved doors known as Gebyok, and its worth noting that the most modern rooms are in the hotel's back building. Other rooms have more plain light wood-veneer furniture and generally outdated seating, like simple wooden armchairs. All rooms are done with light tile floors and white walls hung with abstract and modern Balinese art. 

Standard features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee makers, and balconies or terraces with nice teak furniture. Half of the rooms face the garden, and the other half face the pool area, but all stay quiet despite the central Kuta location. Bathrooms may offer interesting Balinese details such as carved mirrors and above-counter wooden sinks. Bathrooms in Deluxe Rooms offer deep soaking tubs accented by statues and stones. Toiletries, robes, and slippers are provided.

This hotel has all of the features that are expected for a three-pearl hotel in central Kuta, though some rise a bit above what's normally on offer at other mid-range options in the area. The pools, in particular, are a highlight. The main pool features a swim-up bar and has a whirlpool area. It's suitable for swimming laps, but there are also cushioned wicker lounge chairs shaded by umbrellas on the pool deck. Large statues spray water in the pool, and palm trees and other greenery provide tropical touches. Twice a month, this pool is the site of a Suckling Pig Party, which features Balinese dancers and music. A second smaller pool also has lounge chairs for relaxing poolside, and some of the rooms in the back building have direct access to this pool. 

The 90 Degrees Restaurant serves Western and Indonesian fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including a free breakfast buffet daily. Reviews are mixed. There's also a bar, which frequently hosts live music. The two-level space is open-air and casual, with wooden tables for dining, and cushioned wicker sofas and chairs for relaxing in the bar area. Massage services are available in the garden, as are manicures, pedicures, and other treatments. Several areas on the property are suitable for hosting weddings. The hotel has a tour desk to help arrange excursions and the front desk is staffed around the clock -- they can arrange everything from laundry services to luggage storage. Wi-Fi and parking are both free at the hotel.