The four-story Mercure Kuta Bali is designed in a classic Balinese style, seen in the sloped roofs and open-air courtyard. The circle drive entrance is painted a bright mustard yellow and columns are wrapped in red and white checkered fabric next to unusual gargoyle-like sculptures under fringed parasols. The lobby area is filled with tables and cushioned chairs, next to a water feature with a gold Hindu sculpture and a large koi pond.

Most guests are couples, though families, groups, and solo travelers won't feel out of place. The hotel's setting across from Kuta Beach makes for gorgeous views from the fourth-floor pool and spa treatment rooms. It's ideal for tourists who want to be near the beach, as well as the nightlife and attractions that make up the bustling area.

Guests of Mercure Kuta Bali are primarily paying for the location; it's in the heart of Kuta, just across the street from the famous beach. Next door is the Hard Rock Hotel Bali and numerous restaurants and bars are in the surrounding area, including Western eateries like Starbucks, McDonalds, Pizza Hut, and KFC. The vibrant area is home to several shops and nightlife destinations, making the hotel a good choice for those who want to surf in the day and party at night. There's free parking at the hotel, though it's easy to grab a taxi in front of the hotel for guests without a car. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 15-minute drive away.

Ranging from standard rooms to fourth-floor junior suites, all of the accommodations are decorated in a Balinese style -- think wooden furniture and bed runners in orange and brown satin. Though simply decorated, pops of color come from teal tiled floors and orange wall fixtures above the bed. Rooms could use a refresh and small bathrooms feature a shower/tub combo. Each has a balcony or terrace; some with ocean views, others overlooking the courtyard. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, minibars, flat-screen TV, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and free bottle of water. A hairdryer and basic toiletries are provided. There's free Wi-Fi in the rooms and throughout the hotel, though the connection can be spotty. 

The star feature of the Mercure Kuta Bali is the rooftop infinity pool lined with red-cushioned lounge chairs. Both the pool and the adjacent spa's treatment rooms have scenic views of the ocean across the road. Guests can grab a cocktail from the rooftop Sunset Pool Bar or the Lotus Lobby Bar, which also serves coffee and has an adjacent billiards table. The bright Alang-Alang Restaurant is on the fourth floor with views of the ocean; it serves all three meals, both a la carte and buffet, but food receives mixed reviews. Room service is available 24 hours.

For guests interested in surfing, the Odysseys Surf School is conveniently located at the hotel. There's also an Internet corner and three meeting rooms available.