Maha Ungasan Villa

Stayed here for two nights to attend a wedding at the nearby Banyan Tree resort and was absolutely blown away by this little hotel! The one bedroom villa I stayed in was very impressive. Spacious and airy, with plenty of storage for belongings. Loved the outdoor shower! I found the trick to getting the hot water running is to keep turning the knob, even after achieving the desired water pressure. Oddly though, the room phone wasn't connected so I had to walk to reception any time I needed any, which was fine for me but may not be for everyone. Wifi connection was excellent, much better than at Banyan Tree. The bed was super comfortable but would have preferred a light top sheet rather than a thick comforter. Though this was true of every hotel I stayed at in Bali. Didn't understand why since the climate is such that the only way to sleep with a comforter on is with the AC and/or fan on. Not ideal. Service was lovely, prompt and friendly. Any requests were no trouble. Also loved the traditional touch of placing offerings in front of each villa every morning. A really welcoming and peaceful attitude from everyone. Loved the traditional music playing constantly from the restaurant too. The food was satisfactory. I preferred the 'American' breakfast option to the Continental as it was a marginally more nutritious with token vegetables. Definitely try the pineapple jam though if you're a sweet tooth. Had the Cap Cay for dinner, which was a huge portion and delicious. None of the meals were amazing for a self-confessed foodie but it filled me up. Don't bother with the hot chocolate, it was sad experience. Overall the room was very clean, but there were a few bugs, which is to be expected in a tropical place. A cockroach that appeared from somewhere after I had checked in and died (which a staff member quickly and apologetically removed when I notified them). Ants took a fancy to one of the sinks (double sinks in the bathroom), but luckily I was solo-travelling so was happy to use the other sink. I'm sure if I'd complained about it to staff they would have sorted it out quickly as well. The only downside for me was that there was nothing to really see in walking distance. So as much as I would have loved to spend more time here, I'm not really one for lazing by the pool for days on end. Would definitely recommend Maha Ungasan to anyone looking for a laid back south Bali escape!