InterContinental Bali Resort by IHG

We have visited many 5 star resorts on all continents but the IC Jimbaran is without a doubt one of the best. Beautiful grounds, lobby, gardens and pools. The rooms are spacious and although not brand new, very comfortable. The resort is divided into three parts: the classic wing, the singarajah wing and the club wing. We were in the Singarajah wing which allowed us access to the Singarajah lounge (free snacks and softdrinks throughout the day, beer and wine between 17.30 and 18.30, small lounge, no thrills). Despite the lovely staff, not really worth the extra price as there is no difference in rooms between the Classic wing and the Singarajah wing. The central pool is large enough and faces the Jimbaran beach. Plenty of sunloungers near the pool and surrounding gardens but unfortunately the hotel does not enforce the no reservation policy. So even when we had breakfast at 08.30 (extensive, lots of choice and variety), we would still see 70% of sunloungers being ‘reserved’ once we got to the pool or the area facing the beach. And these people show up hours later or not at all. Not a biggie but still. The view over Jimbaran beach is gorgeous and at low tide you can go out for a relaxing swim. On the left side of the resort, just a 3-5 minute walk, are plenty of restaurants where you can also have a drink in the afternoon. Most provide grilled fish/seafood menus and tables are set up every day. But there are also several simple beach bars. There are several nice restaurants in the vicinity which we visited several times (Balique, Osteria) but the streets near the hotel are a bit scruffy. The best thing about the hotel is the staff. Smiling, courteous, curious. Regardless of where you go. Gym, pool bar, breakfast, reception. We must especially mention Djay, the front office manager who helped us out with some issues we had. Thanks Djay. Oh, and no constant barrage of live music. There is live music at Sunset bar until 10 pm and occasionally (once in the 5 days we were there) at the pool but thank god that’s it. Hotel guests: a mix of Japanese and Europeans with only very limited numbers of tattooed singlet wearing beer guzzling Aussies (these are thankfully all in Kuta). Would absolutely go again. We previously stayed at the Padma Legian (too Aussie oriented, too noisy) or the Conrad Bali nusa dua (too isolated) but this is our new home on Bali.