My sister and I really enjoyed our stay at Umalas Retreat IV! Kay the owner was quick to answer the many questions I had before booking and was extremely accommodating. We arrived late because of other plans but Komang was there to warmly welcome us and show us around. He ended up cooking for us a few times and it was always well presented and delicious. Kay also contacted me after we arrived to make sure everything was as expected.
The villa itself is very well maintained and so nicely decorated! Lots of attention to detail which made for a very relaxing stay. The black book Kay provides was extremely helpful. Such a great resource. The villa is not in the very busy area of Seminyak, but just a short cab ride away depending on traffic. The busy area can be noisy so if you're looking for peace and quiet one of the Umalas Retreats would be perfect. One afternoon after shopping it took us maybe 20-25 min to get back to the villa, but the next morning I got up early for a Yoga class in the same area we shopped in and it took less than 10 min to get there! Speaking of, when taking a cab make sure the driver knows how to get to your destination beforehand. We experienced 2 different drivers getting lost. Always take one of the villa business cards which lists the address (left on the kitchen counter). Even with the address still one (Blue Bird) cab driver got lost. Fortunately we had the complimentary cell phone to call the house manager to give the cab driver directions. Another time we were just going from a restaurant to a store and I knew it wasn't far, based on Google maps, but after driving a while the cab driver admitted he was lost. He didn't try to charge us fortunately, but it was a pain to walk back in the right direction (which defeated the point of getting a cab :).
If you exit the villa and walk to the right on the main road there's a mini market if you need snacks, wine or anything, and also a few shops. Go meet Maisun at Very Jaya Top. Very sweet lady who sells beautiful bamboo rugs and accessories.
The 24 hour security was nice to have and always pleasant if we needed anything. My sister had an issue with her room door lock one day and it was promptly addressed.
Overall we really enjoyed our stay! Only regret was not having time to stay longer.
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This is our first time staying in holiday-villa rental. didn't quite know what to expect as we've always stayed in hotels. From arrival to departure, everything was smooth and easy going. Pak Komang is the chef and housekeeper of the villa - his cooking is really awesome! Our flight was delayed and he waited for us to arrive at around 9 pm, before he started cooking his Nasi Goreng. Why? he wanted us to have it freshly made. How thoughtful is that?
Over the next four days, he prepared sumptuous meals for us and he's very willing to accommodate requests. Pak Komang truly made our stay extra special as we didn't have to be bothered about what to eat every night!
If you're after peace and quiet, this is a real gem as the huge sofas and hammock provide lots of lounging options.
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Best holiday house EVER!!!
This is the third Umalas Retreat villa that we have stayed in, and we must say they just keep getting better!
From the moment you walk in you are in paradise. The decor of this villa is lovely, lots of palm trees and tropical touches, and a bit of gorgeous tribal too.
The finishings, as in all of these villas, is so well thought out. Nothing has been missed. It's a holiday house, but with everything that you could possibly want or need.
Komang is the chef and housekeeper here, and he does a great job. His cooking is out of this world, and if you want something thats not on the substantial menu, he'll make it happen.
There are multiple places to relax here, the long and super comfy lounge, the sunbeds that get full sun all day, and the shaded gazebo that hangs over the pool. My favourite though was the hammock that sits above the water. It was the best spot for a nap, or to just chill and enjoy the breezes that flow through the villa.
The bedrooms are huge, with oversized beds and bathrooms. The soaker tubs are very decadent, and I enjoyed some me time there with my book and a glass of wine.
We will happily return to any of the Umalas Retreat villas, as its just so easy to holiday there. They really are our Bali home away from home.
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