In the midst of the hustle and bustle of Kuta is Jalan Pantai, possibly the busiest road in this part of Bali, lies a very serene, green and quiet oasis, Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort & Spa. It is this juxtaposition that actually is what Kuta, Bali is. While Kuta attracts its fair share of criticism for loud and obnoxious visitors from predominantly but not exclusively are Australian, what we are finding is a much calmer and easier going Kuta.
It is far from the sin city that some people claim though in all fairness, of course, this persona exists as it does in all cities or large towns. What we are finding now on our third visit here, is that is a calmer demeanor.
While Kuta is a full on experience and is noted as one of the party capitals of Bali, it is so unique to walk the crowded streets into a green oasis. Located close to the renowned Poppies Lane 1 and 11, you would never know that this is literally outside of your room and indeed the gardens once you enter the resort.
A lovely and informative conversation
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Waiting at Ngurah Rai International Airport was our hotel guide. It has been a while since we have been in Bali, but it took us seconds to remember how kind and friendly the Balinese are. We discussed the new airport, which is infinitely better than the old one, though I do not know how many check point Charlie’s we went through, but it did take quite a while. You know what? It doesn’t matter. In these times, it pays to be very precautionary and this is an attitude, which people must accept and not complain about.
We went on to discuss the massive building boom in Bali and whether it was all too much for the Balinese people. The driver lamented that there were women and babies on the street begging, and he told us that after his children that these babies were who he prayed for. It reminded us off how very devout the Balinese are. In all honesty, it was good to be back in Bali, and he was exactly why.
Location, Location, Location
We took a right-hand turn at the iconic Hard Rock café in Kuta, and along our left was the famed Kuta Beach where surfing drew the first visitors in the 70’s and now it has exploded with tourists. The hotel is directly across the road from some of the most photographed sunsets in Kuta. Our first site of Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort & Spa was the line of bright red umbrellas and the red cushions on the big lounges all back dropped by greenery. It worked.
It is within minutes of the beachfront Beachwalk Shopping Mall, Hard Rock Café, Poppies Lane, Kuta Square shopping arcade and markets, and Waterbom Park.
Our Check In at Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort & Spa
Seamless. Typical Balinese politeness, cold drink, wet cloth and a frangipani placed behind our ear. Left for women, and right for men. We were in a traditional open Balinese reception area with dark wooden furniture, floral printed fabrics, and the Balinese offerings all around. The sound of water could be heard from the fountains and ponds in the lush gardens. Bali is lush. The flowers are big; the plants are big and green. We were led through these gardens to our room.
Every pathway has a name. One pathway is called Arjuna after one of the major characters and heroes of the famous Hindu epic, the Mahabharata. The fish ponds dotted around are full of brightly colored koi carp.
Our Room
With typical Balinese hospitality our king size bed, was spread with flowers and a message spelt out in bougainvillea pink flowers saying “Welcome Home”. This is exactly how we are treated, as part of the big family at Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort & Spa. The towels were woven into two swans setting a romantic tone here. The rooms are immaculately clean and stayed that way through the entire stay.
Each room or cottage comes fully air conditioned and equipped with IDD telephone, mini bar, local and international TV channels. There are complimentary bottles of mineral water, tea & coffee making facilities, hair dryer, bathtub/shower with hot and cold running water. The rain showerhead is so large that it is nearly bigger than I am. There is free Wi-Fi in the rooms and the lobby as well as in Rosso Vivo Dine & Lounge where breakfast is served, lunch is available and dinner can be had. The Premier Cottages have daily turn-down service and a 24 Hour on call butler service.
Outside of each room is a private verandah or balcony offering further views of the gardens and a private place to sit and re-group before hitting the manic-ness that is Kuta.
Everyone, who works here, says hello every time you see them. It is hard not to join in this spirit.
The Royal Rama Spa
1 x 15 minutes welcome massage for two at Royal Rama Spa, which ended up being longer and very pleasant. We were given a complimentary full body massage. The setting is lovely as is the interior, and the staff are also very nice. The massage was very relaxing and the pressure was firm but fair.
The Pool and the Surrounds
The pool has frangipani trees surrounding it, and is a real hit with the bright red pillows on the grey lounges. It is a very easy way to unwind after a day of exploring to have a swim and to enjoy a cocktail poolside.
The Negatives
The Wi-Fi goes off if you leave for a few minutes meaning that you need to log in again, but if that is a hassle well it is not a big one.
Verdict
We would stay here again and recommend it to our friends and family. In such a location to find a serene, calm and welcoming resort is invaluable.
We will be writing about our dining experience and the foods and coffee shops of Kuta and Bali in further posts including Rosso Vivo Dine & Lounge.
Thank you to the management of Kuta Seaview Boutique Resort & Spa for having us as you guests for the 5 nights. Our views are our own.
