Conrad Bali

This resort is spread out on a beautiful seven-hectare beachfront property filled with tropical plants, meandering pathways, and pools and fountains. It's a calm and tranquil place with a definitively romantic streak, plus a sleek and sexy modern look that starts upon entering the hotel. The huge covered entrance leads into an equally huge lobby done in sharp dark woods and stone. The architecture blends contemporary lines with traditional Balinese forms, and everything has a low-slung and clean look. Rooms and suites are situated in four separate buildings, with the suites having their own entrance and lounge area. Thatch-covered huts dot the manicured grounds, between palm trees and green lawns. The property is popular for weddings and other events, which sometimes can overwhelm the facilities. It's most popular with couples, though plenty of families pass through as well, in addition to a handful of other leisure and business guests.

This hotel is located right on the coast of Nusa Dua at Tanjung Benoa. The whole Nusa Dua region is essentially a massive area of resort development, and much of what's on offer in the area is housed at other hotels and resorts. As such, there's not much within walking distance of the hotel, but golfers can get to the Bali National Golf Club in about 10 minutes by car. The Bali Collection Shopping Centre is about a five-minute drive, and the hotel provides free shuttle service there as well. It will also take about five minutes to reach Museum Pasifika, which exhibits Pacific Islander art and is a popular local sight. Those seeking something a little more natural should check out the Waterblow, which is a natural rock formation on the sea that creates geyser-like water spouts -- it's a 15-minute drive from the hotel. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel.  

The hotel's rooms and suites are decorated in a bright modern style, with just a few Balinese accents and a look that's a bit more sedate than some of the authentically local hotels elsewhere on the island. Expect to see dark wood furniture, rugs atop dark hardwood floors, and a color scheme of blue and tan accented by peach (in some). Bamboo accent panels add a bit of local flair, as does the occasional piece of sculptural wall art. While things are mostly well-kept, some guests have noted that some rooms do look a little worn or tired. Standard features include flat-screen TVs, DVD players, pillow menus, minibars, air-conditioning, and safes. Unfortunately, in-room Wi-Fi is only available for a fee. All rooms have a balcony or terrace, and Lagoon Rooms open directly to the lagoon pool. Family Rooms have a king-size bed and two twins. Some of the rooms have a window between the bathroom and sleeping area, but modest guests can close the blinds. Bathrooms are modern, with marble floors, granite countertops, separate showers and tubs, hairdryers, and upscale amenities. Suites are housed in their own wing with an adult-only pool and separate entrance and lounge.  

While there are plenty of features on-site -- like most hotels in this region of Bali -- the large lagoon pool is a highlight. It meanders along three of the hotel's buildings and is lined with palm trees and tropical plantings. Some rooms open directly to this pool with their own lounge chairs. Alternatively, the main pool is also quite large, and cushioned lounge chairs and umbrellas are lined up on the deck. While the pools are lovely, it's hard to top the hotel's stretch of beach, which is wide and lined with a handful of sun beds and lounge chairs. Beach activities include water sports, volleyball, and soccer, and there also are on-site tennis courts. The fitness center is open 24/7 and is well-equipped with cardio and weight training equipment. Yoga and other classes are available. Entertainment such as Balinese dancers is provided in the evening.  

On-site dining includes three restaurants and two bars. Rin serves Japanese fare for lunch and dinner, and Suku serves all meals in a casual, open-air space by the main pool. Overlooking the beach, Eight Degrees South serves light fare such as pizza, sandwiches, and salads. Azure provides drinks and snacks by the pool, and there's also a bar in the lobby. Guests have noted that prices can be high, though this is expected at a resort in this region; however, additional service fees do seem hefty.

The Jiwa Spa offers a variety of treatments indoors and out, including massage, facials, and special baths. A free kids' club keeps the little ones entertained with a variety of activities, and there's an outdoor playground by the lagoon pool. 

The A-framed glass chapel by the beach is popular for weddings, and couples also can hold ceremonies in the water garden or floating garden. The ballroom can accommodate up to 200 people for receptions and other events, and Wi-Fi is free in the hotel's lobby. The hotel's conference center also has seven smaller rooms for meetings and more intimate gatherings. Planners assist with all the details.