Taksu Sanur Hotel

While there isn't much that's remarkable about this hotel, for a reliably modern, clean, and lively hotel that covers the basics well, the Taksu Sanur is a fine fit. To be clear, travelers looking for traditional Balinese character will want to look elsewhere, as it's all about bright spaces, clean lines, and up-to-date amenities here. That has helped make this property a popular and budget-friendly home base for travelers since it opened in 2015. The hotel's two elevator buildings wrap around a central terrace that serves as the de facto hub of the hotel. This space -- which includes the hotel's pool -- was buzzing with activity during our visit. Families and mature couples splash in the pools while others take part in low-key poolside activities like crafts. It's not a loud hotel by any means, as there's no entertainment program, but there's definitely a social atmosphere here. Keep in mind that the location just next to the town's main road does mean that traffic noise can be an issue at times. Otherwise, this is a simple, up-to-date property that draws loyal repeat guests.

Sanur is essentially split in two by an ongoing Hyatt development, and the bulk of the tourist activity is to the north of there. However, southern Sanur -- where the Taksu is located -- has its own vibe. There are plenty of warungs, shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants just outside the hotel's front door. It's a 10-minute walk to luxe dining at the Fairmont Sanur resort, or the more casual foodie haunts along Jalan Danau Tamblingan as you head north. Expect 10- to 15- minute walks to a few different beach access points from here, though the hotel also runs a free shuttle to a beach club with which it has an arrangement for free chairs (two per room). A five-minute taxi ride leads to the heart of the tourist-friendly development in the northern part of Sanur, and it's about 10 minutes to the Sindhu Night Market. There, you can sample cheap local cuisine from across Indonesia. The fast boats to Nusa Lembongan are also a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Budget at least 20 minutes to get to the airport from here, though traffic in this part of Bali can be bad.

Compared to many of the musty, Old-Bali hotels in Sanur -- where carved wood, dated artwork, and dark interiors are the norm -- the style here is a welcome change of pace. While the look is entirely simple, everything from furniture to accents has clean, modern lines. Each room is mostly rendered in neutral hues, with one bold piece of abstract art on the wall. Light walnut furniture sits alongside soft furnishings with subtle pops of color, and though all rooms are called suites, very few have actual suite layouts. They are quite spacious, though. Family Suites feature living rooms and separate bedrooms for adults and kids. Standard features in all units include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, electric kettles, free bottled water, and safes. Unfortunately, not all rooms have balconies and rooms overlooking the street are liable to pick up traffic noise. Bathrooms are as fresh as the rooms themselves, with walk-in showers, toiletries, just enough counter space, and hairdryers. The combination of marble and mosaic tiling is sharp. 

This hotel covers the basics well, though the highlight for most guests is the pool. While it's not huge, the area is a hub of activity almost all day, and we didn't see anyone fighting for space in or out of the water. Instead, families and couples are splashing around and sunbathing during the day, or partaking in the low-key poolside activities like craft-making sessions. Yoga is also offered on occasion, and massages can be arranged (though there is no proper spa for more involved treatments). The hotel also has a restaurant, the Bali Bakery, which serves Indonesian and international fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No meals are included in standard rates, and there's a bar on-site as well. Room service is available during limited hours. The hotel runs a free scheduled shuttle to a beach club with which it has arrangements. Two free chairs per room are available on the beach, and towels are also provided for free. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel.