Looking for a glorious, peaceful place in Bali?
 

Have been away from here for a while as I'm "on the road" a lot. Just wanted to put in a plug for a friend's place in the North East of Bali. If you're looking for someplace pretty and peaceful, run by a local family, with lovely rooms and great food then check out this place. They can arrange transfer from DPS airport and everything will be done to ensure you have a wonderful break away from the chaos that is Southern Bali. The owner's name is Nyoman, she's lived in the West for many years, is articulate and well-travelled herself.

Hi Bob, I've missed your pithy emails!

Check out http://www.poincianaresortbali.com

good to see an old name returning..

Thanks Bob. Old in name...not in nature!!!! Where are ya?

It looks nice but no prices on the site that I could find. Can you give us an idea?

Hi there. I believe Poinciana's rates to be around US60 to US80 per night depending on when you stay, how long you stay and your room size requirements. Another great place is http://bayshorevillascandidasa.com in Candidasa.
Both these places are run by people who value their guests and their guest's holiday enjoyment. Something, sometimes lacking in many destinations and especially in Bali, in my humble opinion. I cannot always afford to experience this standard of accommodation as I am retired and work casually when I do work, however when something exceptional comes my way, I like to let my fellow travellers' know! Thanks for replying.

I've not been to Bali, but it is on my list for the future. How far a drive are these places from the cultural center?

Cultural centre? Sorry not sure where that is, in a place as diverse as Bali. For me, it's all over Bali, however if you want to experience some "village life", then both these destinations will allow you that!

Ubud is usually referred to as the cultural center of Bali. Candidasa would be closer than the more northern resort location mentioned in the original post.

The Balinese culture is on show in villages all over Bali. Ubud is beautiful however the traffic and the pollution (form too many visitors) has ruined the Ubud I remember from 1982. Such is progress! Candidasa is very close to a village named Tenganan, which is famous for its weaving and nurturing and upholding the old ways and traditions. There is a guy on tripadvisor who knows all there is to know about Candidasa. He lives there, is an American, (a close friend of mine too) and he and the lovely Marcia will be happy to help out anyone who needs some advice on this beautiful part of Bali.

I didn't get there to enjoy 1982 in Ubud but have found if I take a little house out in the paddies as I did last time in Penestanen it's pollution free with just the occasional foot traffic on the path. Still lovely.

Good tip! Thanks Madame! I usually stay at one of four new bungalows for IDR 150,000 per night per room. Brand spanking new at Dec 2011. Local family can't do enough for their guests. Free breakfast (fruit, coffee). Glorious views over the rice fields and it's a 20 minutes walk to the action along Jalan Hanuman. I have their cell contact number if anyone needs a cheap, comfy place to stay with hot water, fan and new beds. Not in a compound..just plonked in the middle of rice paddies. Too many ducks next door though and the quacking wakes me up too early! I believe if one wanted to stay a month or two the rates would be considerably lower. All the best and thanks again.