Harper Kuta

Compared to some of the budget crash pads in this part of town, the Harper Kuta is a sharp and stylish alternative that feels a little grown up. All of the hotel's facilities are in the center of the property, making access quick and easy. And while the hotel is positioned next to Legian's most popular nightclubs, it doesn't have much of a party vibe. As such, it's a decent option for families who want to stay in the area. A majority of the hotel's guests are domestic business travelers and it's a popular choice for meetings and conferences. There are numerous common areas for unwinding, which is helpful as the beach is a decent walk away. One of the best facilities is the outdoor swimming pool, where there's plenty of space to stretch out. It tends to stay quiet and relaxed during the day. Adjacent to the pool is the Rustic Bar & Restaurant, a dining spot with a mellow vibe and clean, modern style. Comfy couches are sprawled out for relaxing and there's an alfresco dining spot set up by the pool. Keep in mind that this is a city hotel, and you'll find no tropical gardens or greenery. Also note that in order to create a more distinct ambience, the hotel perfumes its rooms, common areas, and elevators -- this may bother come guests.

For those looking to stay in downtown Kuta Legian, you can't really get more central than the Harper. The hotel is located within a five-minute walk of Legian's most popular nightclubs. There are plenty of great dining and shopping options along the street as soon as you step out of the hotel's front door. The beach is also a 10- to 15-minute walk from the hotel. Walking is definitely the best way to get around Kuta as the traffic can be atrocious and guests should account for extra travel time when planning trips or airport runs. Other popular attractions nearby include Beachwalk Shopping Center (a 15-minute walk from the hotel) and Waterbom Bali waterpark which takes around 20 minutes to reach on foot. Those looking for some more sophisticated nightlife and dining options may want to check out the Seminyak and Petitenget area (a 30-minute drive away), which is Bali's culinary hub and also contains some of the islands trendiest sunset spots like KUDETA and Potato Head Beach Club. The airport takes about 15 to 30 minutes to reach by car depending on traffic.

Interiors here are ultra clean and contemporary, making this feel like a grown-up alternative to many of the hotel's party-hard neighbors. Rooms have light tiled floors accented by abundant gray and white tones, including accent walls and textiles. Bright pops of color come from the floral-patterned rugs and colorful upholstered chairs and couches. Small black-and-white paintings hang above the beds. Rooms have large glass doors or windows that let in plenty of natural light, and most look out onto the swimming pool and have small balconies with seating. However, entry-level Superior Rooms lack balconies and have views of the unattractive city sprawl. Harper Suites have balconies, but feature those same views. Keep in mind that streetside rooms are likely to pick up noise. In fact, light sleepers should think twice before booking a hotel in this area as the noise pollution is bad at most hotels in the area, including Harper Bali.

Rooms are outfitted with comfy beds, couches or sofa chairs, and roomy wardrobes. The Harper Suites include small seating areas with coffee tables, couches, and desks. Standard features include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, stocked mini-fridges, safes, coffee- and tea-making facilities, and telephones. Other extras include two bottles of water and slippers. Suites have nearly identical amenities, but include larger TVs, and the Harper Suites add DVD players and free minibars. Deluxe Pool Access Rooms have balcony seating in front of the pool. Family Suites are fairly spacious and include one double and one twin bed. There are also Family Suites that connect.

Bathrooms are compact, yet streamlined, across the board. Expect white or cream colored tiling, long vanities, large mirrors, plus glass shower cubicles. The Harper Suite bathrooms have both deep soaking tubs and showers. Toiletries and hairdryers are provided in all.

The features at Harper Kuta are well-suited for both business and leisure travelers. The swimming pool sits centered in the property, with most of the rooms and facilities positioned around it. Don't expect a lush tropical oasis by the pool, but the area gets plenty of sun and the large pool deck is lined with plenty of lounge chairs and a few outdoor dining tables. The pool is long enough for laps and there's a separate shallow kids' section. 

Rusik Bistro & Bar is a sprawling contemporary space with plenty of seating options, including an alfresco poolside dining area, comfy couches, and bar seating. The restaurant serves both Asian and Western dishes, but specializes in Indonesian meals -- the most popular dish on the menu is the nasi pedas (spicy rice). Decent cocktails and spirits are available from the bar, plus a few beers and local wines. Most rates include breakfast, which is a buffet featuring plenty of Asian and Western options including an egg station, pastries, fried rice and noodles, fresh fruits, and cereals. 

The spa is clean and modern, yet basic, featuring a shared space with multiple massage tables plus two identical private couples massage rooms that are equipped with bathrooms and deep soaking tubs. Treatments are reasonably priced and include massages, beauty, hair, and nail treatments. 

A majority of the hotel's market is business guests, and the two on-site meeting rooms are well equipped (but there is no proper business center). The downstairs meeting room holds around 30 people and the rooftop Sky Meeting Room can hold over 100 people. It's adjoined by an open-air rooftop deck that's suitable for functions. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and there's free underground parking as well.