Sudamala Suites & Villas

Like many of the resorts in Sanur, Sudamala Suites & Villas is dressed in a contemporary Balinese design that's readymade for relaxation in an upscale tropical atmosphere. This easy-to-find hotel has thatched roofs, wooden furnishings, and an al fresco lobby building surrounded by tons of green fronds and reflecting pools of water. From grassy garden courtyards to art-lined marble corridors and elevated wooden walkways, the hotel is easy on the eyes. The ArtSpace gallery often hosts exhibitions by local and expatriate artists, making it popular with clientele seeking to use the beautiful space to display their work. With comprehensive wedding/event planning packages on offer and access to a full-service spa, private beach, and beautiful pool, the hotel attracts couples and honeymooners looking for a relaxing stay in Sanur.

Sanur is an old beach town on the island's east coast that's a quiet alternative to wild Kuta. Quiet and catering more to older travelers, the thin strip of beach which has been jokingly monikered as "Snore Beach," given its quiet vibe -- is only a five-minute walk away. The hotel has its own beach area that's a 10-minute walk away, and free bicycles are available to access it in less than five minutes. A similar walk leads to the town's main tree-lined street, Jalan Tamblingan, which runs parallel to the beach and is dotted with restaurants, warungs, and other local shops. The famous ninth-century Prasati Blanjong pillar at the Pura Blanjong temple is only a five-minute walk from the hotel and is the town's main tourist draw, aside from its proximity to neighboring islands like Nusa Lembongan. It's a 14- to 24-minute drive to Benoa Harbor, where tourist boats to said islands can be accessed. However, cheaper, closer, and (admittedly) wetter boat alternatives cast off frequently from Sanur Beach itself. These boats take about a half hour to arrive at the popular Nusa Lembongan, depending on the tides and weather. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 20- to 40-minute drive from the hotel, depending on traffic and route.

The 34 spacious rooms are split halfway between suites facing either the courtyard or the pool. The decor echoes that of the rest of the hotel: natural colors, stylish local details like patterned tiling, and rustic wooden furnishings create a contemporary Balinese look. High-ceilinged rooms have both ceiling fans and air-conditioning, and some even have thatched roofing that adds to the hotel's authentic flavor. Each en-suite bathroom is at least partially open-air, with large rainfall showers, plenty of counter space, hairdryers, toiletries, and robes. Studio Suites and the Two-Bedroom Villa also include a separate tub and two vanity sinks; the latter room type features separate living and dining rooms, as well. Other standard features include minibars, coffee/tea facilities, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and safes. Higher-category rooms have upgraded espresso machines or extras like walk-in closets.

The hotel complements its upmarket style with a number of great features. There are two relaxing garden courtyards, one hosting regularly scheduled cultural entertainment, while the other holds the outdoor swimming pool, which is heated and lined with plenty of seating. The hotel also reserves a private strip of the beach with chairs, umbrellas, and towel service, and for relaxation option that's closer to home, the Sudajiva Spa offers massages and treatments. Local and foreign artists are always hosting exhibitions in the hotel's 2691-square-foot ArtSpace, which is also available for events like weddings and business functions. A dedicated event-planning team offers comprehensive packages for events in the Arja Artist Lounge and Natah Saji Courtyard, as well. The terraced Ares Steak & Pasta restaurant provides catering for such events, as well as the a la carte American/Indonesian breakfasts, plus lunch and dinner. Free bicycle rentals, sunscreen, and other beach-going amenities are available at the front desk, as are paid services like laundry, tours, and airport shuttle arrangements. On-site parking is free, though it's limited. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.