Impiana Private Villas Seminyak

This hotel is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to style and vibe -- certain areas like the lobby are simple and modern, while others are a bit over-the-top (check out the pictures of the Prana Spa, which is either extra-luxurious or gaudy-to-the-max depending on the guest). Because the property is intentionally configured to offer privacy, there aren't too many common areas, but the gardens throughout are pleasant. Welcome drinks are offered on arrival in the lobby, a small room surrounded by tropical plants with a couple couches used mainly to check people in and out, and less of an area for socializing. Though it's situated on a busy street, once inside the hotel, the noise is minimal and the overall vibe is relaxed and welcoming for all ages, from vacationing couples to families who need more space than what they could find in a regular hotel room.

Located on Jalan Kunti, a one-way road that leads up to central Seminyak, this property is far enough away from the nightlife to be peaceful, but still close enough to the action to be convenient. It's about a 10- to 15-minute walk to Eat Street and the restaurants and shops of Seminyak Square, though the beaches are a bit of a trek and merit taking a taxi (the ride should take about 10 minutes to Legian or Kuta beaches). The Bintang Supermarket is less than a two-minute walk away for those who need to stock their kitchenettes. The Villas Bali Hotel & Spa is approximately 20 minutes from the Ngurah Rai International Airport, and the hotel offers free airport transfers to guests.

The property offers 50 open, airy, and bright villas with one to three bedrooms. Simply decorated with natural colors and light walls, the minimalism makes the rooms feel spacious and clean. That being said, there is some evidence of wear on furniture and the look isn't the most on-trend we've seen, despite nice accents like deity statues and warm wood tones throughout. Modern features include flat-screen TVs with cable channels, air-conditioning, and sound systems for piping one's favorite music into the outdoor spaces. 

Beds are framed by white mosquito nets, which lend a romantic feel to the otherwise standard interiors; though the beds are a little hard, those who prefer a softer mattress can request a mattress topper from the front desk. Nightly turndown service is a nice touch. Cribs and infant beds are available free of charge, and the private pools can also be child-proofed with fences. Bathrooms are huge, with yellow stucco walls (another less up-to-date design feature) alongside tile and stone floors, deep bathtubs, sunken showers, and double vanities. Hairdryers, toiletries, robes, and slippers are also provided. 

The highlight of the villas are the deep private pools adorned with '90s-era yin-yang symbols, surrounded by gardens, lounge chairs, and high walls (for ultimate privacy). The outside living spaces and kitchenettes -- which include full-size refrigerators, gas stoves, and microwaves -- are adjacent to the pool areas, and the set-up is ideal for taking advantage of the tropical weather outdoors.

The Prana Spa at The Villa Bali Hotel & Spa is a highlight for many guests. Lavish is one way to describe the decor -- though some will find it over-the-top -- and there 25 separate treatment rooms and a wide menu of services -- it would be easy to spend an entire day here, and many guests are here solely to use the spa with groups of friends. Gilded hydrotherapy tubs, rich red walls, Moorish decor, and palatial treatment rooms give the spa a distinct ambience. There is no gym on the premises, but classes are offered regularly in the yoga room, which has dark-wood floors and high ceilings.

Prana restaurant is popular with guests and outside tourists, and offers a varied menu of international cuisine all day. The included free breakfast can be taken in the restaurant, and guests have the option to have it prepared by a chef in their kitchenettes. Additional in-villa meals can also be arranged, from room service to popular poolside barbecues. There is also a meeting room at the hotel that can comfortably accommodate up to 40 participants, and weddings can be arranged on-site. Parking and Wi-Fi are both free.