marmot

Cookie, Every resort in Bali has strong points and weak points, even those in the luxury category. You just have to decide what your personal priorities are.

For South Bali/Beach I like the Legian Suites in Seminyak (you have to be careful as there's another Legian that's less exclusive.) I like the aesthetic, the location, the view, the ambience. I've stayed there for 10 years and have never been disappointed.

I wouldn't recommend the Oberoi. A great location, but a property much in need of a facelift.

I also like the 4S at Jimbaran quite a lot, though I don't especially like the Jimbaran area or beach. The suites and plunge pools and view are delightful.

Inland, the 4S is universally admired. It doesn't especially appeal to me as I've always felt it doesn't make good use of a splendid setting, but everyone who's ever stayed there raves about it.

I try to stay at the Amankila whenever I can. I think it's profoundly beautiful, but, for sure, it's isolated and very, very quiet.

Also in Ubud are the Como Shambala and the Kayumanis. I think the Amandari has been surpassed by the newer properties.