Want a zero effort vacay where you can spread out, soak up the sunshine and spa like there’s no tomorrow? We checked out the Conrad Bali resort in Nusa Dua, and here are the need-to-knows…
Oh we do love our weekend getaways from Singapore, and in case you can’t tell by our recent report on shopping in Canggu and our entire sister site dedicated to Bali, we’ve got a serious thing for that island. Our latest jaunt took us to Nusa Dua, where we hung out at the Conrad Bali with kids in tow – and, confession – didn’t even leave the resort for three days.
We love a sprawling resort
If having all the good stuff in one place is a non-negotiable for you: pools, beach, loads of space, spa and different eats in one playground, the Conrad Bali is a sure thing. Take a stroll through this five-star and you’ll find ponds and fountains, gentle streams, and plenty of places to hide away, from cabanas to swaying hammocks. Heads up: some parts of the property are enjoying down time while the resort is undergoing a transformation, but there’s plenty else going on, and special offers at the Conrad Bali to sweeten your stay. But, do you really need an excuse to go to Bali?
Pools for days… or hit the beach
There’s a 350 metre stretch of beach, and four gorgeous pools, (another two are being upgraded as we speak and will reopen in August this year). The shallow lagoon with soft sand is a hit with the little people, but all of the pools here are open 24 hours – so you can’t leave without a starlit swim.
The spa. Sigh.
It isn’t a holiday without hitting the spa. Our hot tip? Give yourself plenty of time to soak in Jiwa Spa’s jacuzzi to really unwind before your amazing massage, and then keep the good vibes coming by relaxing by the spa’s lush private pool afterwards.
We came for the Indonesian food…
Conrad Bali’s Suku restaurant was our go-to, thanks to its amazing nasi campur and small but impressive selection of traditional eats. The restaurant’s mild take on Balinese fave ayam betutu is served with a divine, turmeric-laced broth, and such a standout. We may have ordered it three times…
So you brought the fambam?
Thank goodness for resorts that look after the fams being shouty about it. No staff sweating it out in character costumes at breakfast, or enormous plastic playgrounds here – just lovely, friendly staff who are helpful with children, free meals for the under 12s and the sanity-saving Kura Kura kids’ club, which keeps the kiddos busy with everything from boat-making to traditional Balinese dance lessons. Kura Kura is moving to bigger, better digs soon
There’s a kid-free zone too
Did your eyes light up at that? No judgment. One very good reason to book a Conrad Suite (more on this next) is the exclusive pool… where guests under 12 aren’t allowed. #sorrynotsorry
The suite life
You can take your pick from rooms with a view (fancy the garden, lagoon or ocean?) villas or suites, and we went for the latter. The ample, apartment-size space is a godsend if you’re used to shoebox-sized stays in Seminyak – and if you’re travelling en famille, you’ll survive each other’s company better here. You’ll appreciate the dining table for dinners in, and balcony for chilling out with your sundowner. Amongst the VIP perks (beyond all that space) you’ll enjoy access to that kid-free pool, cocktails in the lounge, and free-flow laundry and dry cleaning.
Can you tell why we didn’t leave?
Conrad Bali, Jl. Pratama No.168, Tj. Benoa, Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80363, Indonesia. Rooms start at USD130 per night.
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