loves2sing

Hi, we are 3 couples (possibly 4) in our early 50's going to Ubud, Bali in April 2015 for four nights (after 7 days in Phuket/Phi Phi in Thailand). We'd like to rent a private villa/home (not shared with other visitors) and want to be reasonably close to town, preferably something with a traditional Balinese flavor. I've done some searching, and there seems to be homes within walking distance to town, while others require a 10-15 minute drive. I suppose either of those options could work, but I'm a little confused by whether they are actually private homes, or more like small sprawling rental bungalows with shared common areas where other guests might also be staying. Also, is one area more preferred...north of Ubud?, south? east? west? Or should we try to get right in town instead? Walking distance seems ideal, but then again, having a fabulous place with beautiful surroundings and ambiance to return to is equally important. Budget isn't a strong factor.

Can anyone give me any insight based on their experience in the area? Any other advice or opinions?

NoFlyZone

We (one couple) stayed at a fabulous home about 10-15 minutes west of Ubud overlooking the Sayan River. We actually looked down into the Four Seasons.

The rental included staff of 5, including a car and driver at our disposal for whatever. No need to walk to town ... just get a ride in and tell the driver where and when to pick up.

So check with the various local rental agencies to see what they have.

marmot

You will get many different variations from free standing villas to groups of villas in a resort complex. There are quite a few single villas with 3-4 bedrooms, private pool and dedicated staff. You just have to check the individual descriptions carefully.

Location is also variable. South and east of Ubud is more developed, but has walking access to more facilities like shops and restaurants. North and west is less built up, but may require a drive. I can see advantages to both, but I think the area that NoFlyZone describes -- along the Ayung River Valley -- is some of the most scenic.

The town of Ubud has really spread out over the past few years so you have to think about where and what you may be walking to. The west side of town, for example, around Jl Raya Sanggingan, is still Ubud, but it's a long down and uphill walk to Monkey Forest Road. South of town in the Nyuh Kuning area is within walking distance to the south part of Monkey Forest Road (through the Monkey Forest itself) but a hike to Ubud Palace.

My recommendation would be find a villa that appeals to you and not worry too much about the location. Transport is easily accessible (your villa may or may not provide a car and driver) and you'll be going in all different directions anyway.

loves2sing

Thank you both for this information. It helps a lot really.

NoFlyZone, can you provide a link or information to the home you stayed in?

rhkkmk

fyi-- marmot lives on bali...

kmkrnn

I agree with Marmot...find aplace you like and the worry about transportation later. Around Ubud there are many rental villas out in the middle of rice paddies which may give you the privacy you want. Some do not have pools, so that may be a deciding factor also. It is a beautiful area no matter where you pick but you will have to do some research.

gedejaya

hello maybe you can stay north or west in ubud. just there atmosphere still peace and nature. south maybe somewhat noisy, if you stay on april in ubud i think good idea cause visitor more reduced. so much space private villa still available. if you have friends in ubud maybe be a easy for you get private villa in ubud. if you need tour activities for transportation in ubud just reference can use Ewig Bali Tour

mr_go

kmkrnn: <i>I agree with Marmot...find a place you like and the worry about transportation later.</i>

This was the approach we took. We recently booked the Cendrawasih suite at Alam Shanti, about 10-15 minutes walk from the Monkey Forest, for a June 2015 trip.

Since we haven't stayed there yet, I can't recommend the place. But the pictures sure do look nice, and the TA reviews are pretty solid.

http://www.alamindahbali.com/alam_jiwa.htm

loves2sing

Thank you all for the additional feedback, it's much appreciated.

kmkrnn

WE have stayed at Alam Shanti on 4 times. We usually stay in the older part, and I think that suite is in the newer area. They have a free shuttle to town if you don't want to walk. Use the bike path if you walk that runs just along side the monkey Forrest fence, to avoid the entrance fee. You will like the hotel. There are a few. Places to eat in the opposite direction of Monkey Forrest on the street leading into their gate. Great choice.
.

LancasterLad

Traffic congestion is a daily nuisance in Ubud town, mainly due to day trippers. We stayed on the southern edge of town for a week, walked everywhere, and avoided the main roads whenever possible. If any of your party have any mobility problems then they might find the pavements (sidewalks) a bit of a challenge.

progol

The Cendrawasih suite is at Alam Jiwa, not Alam Shanti, which were all developed & run by the same family. The suite looks beautiful! They both get wonderful reviews.

I'm keeping my eye on both of these properties for our 2016 trip, so am looking forward to reading about your experience there.

ms_go

progol, you are correct, we booked at Alam Jiwa. I think they aren't too far apart. We inquired about Alam Shanti but it was booked (6+ months in advance). We need a bit more room, as we will be traveling with our daughter--this will be something of a college graduation celebration for her. The suite appears to be very nice as well and we are looking forward to it. If only we didn't have to wait until June...

mr_go

Ugh, I knew that. My dumb fingers mistyped it. Sorry... Alam Jiwa is correct ( as my lovely wife says).

progol

Yeah, mr_go, but I figured that you were at Alam Jiwa because your link took me there. So split the difference and figure your brain knew but your fingers had another plan!

I'll be looking forward to your TR since I'll be starting to plan my trip by the time you get back!

loves2sing

Thanks for all the input everyone. The Cenendrawasih suite at Alam Jiwa is certainly beautiful, but not big enough for our 3 couples. We need 3 separate bedrooms/baths...and . We wanted a place where we don't have to share the common areas (pool, restaurant, living areas) with other guests. We've finally settled on Pelangi Estate and will be staying in the 4 bedroom villa. There are 2 smaller cottages on site, but they don't have access to our house or pool. Hopefully it is everything we want and need.

http://www.pelangiestate.com/