Guest Reviews

MesaStila: "Beautiful jungle retreat with excellent service"

" came on a group retreat so my experience might not be the same as a general tourist, but had the most lovely stay with such friendly, attentive and thorough service. Our every need was catered for with such politeness and efficiency. We were in a big group with multiple events throughout our stay and complex logistical needs, and everything was made so easy thanks to the staff. The rooms themselves are very traditional and rustic, but beautifully fitted out. I had a huge four poster bed with a glorious bathroom complete with a big stone bathtub (and fresh rose petals everyday). The property is HUGE and is absolutely beautiful to explore - so much greenery, beautiful mountain views, a stunning infinite pool and comfortable common areas. The wifi is fairly reliable which was quite important for us - it would fall out every now and then but not take long to reconnect. The food on offer was traditional - quite a lot of options and always delicious. My only comment would be that it was generally quite flavoursome and heavy - there were generally options for dietary intolerances but in terms of plain ""clean eating"" it was a bit harder. Similarly, the place has gym facilities but they are very basic. Although when you come to MesaStila there is enough other physical activity to do without equipment - just go for a hike around the property! It's about 2 hours from the airport which was quite a trek, but the seclusion makes it worth it. About an hour from Borobudur but easy to organise transport through the hotel. Would definitely recommend a stay for a secluded, relaxing, retreat style holiday. The one thing that would be worth noting in advance - it is a Muslim area with many mosques surrounding it and at prayer times very early in the morning and again in the evening chanting can be heard quite loudly through amplified speakers. I didn't wake up to it overnight, but a lighter sleeper might need to invest in earplugs. It's part of the cultural immersion though, so we quite enjoyed it."

Sea Dance Resort: "Relaxation at its best!"

"I stayed at Sea Dance with my family at the beginning of October for 7 nights. What an amazing place! From airport transfer right through to the facilities - absolutely fantastic. Sea Dance is close enough to the center of Chaweng for those who need nightlife entertainment, but far enough away for those who just want to spend their days lazing around the pool with a fine glass of wine while listening to the waves crash ashore. Botique personal service. Almost ever staff member knew us on a first name basis. Even the owner who is actively involved with this beautiful resort. Free use of kayaks and life jackets. Weekly buffets and cocktail events. There is just so much to do at the resort without having to leave! We were fortunate enough to stay in a pool villa. Large rooms with a small plunge pool to cool off on those hot days. This is a place we will miss, but surely not forget! See you all again soon!"

Inle Princess Resort: "Go on, splurge,on the lake villa!"

"Immediately, the door opened and I was speechless, the huge windows made me feel like I was floating on the lake itself...simply stunning. The complimentary mini bar was a pleasant added touch as I sat back on my private balcony to watch the sunset. The room was immaculate and spacious. The bathroom complete with outdoor shower was clean and well equipped. The resort is in a secluded corner of the lake and you really did feel like you were far away from the hustle and bustle of the jetty town. The boats themselves must switch off their engines before approaching the resort which makes for a charming introduction to the brilliant foot steering of the local boatmen. Breakfast was made to order and the food generally was of a high standard. I loved seeing the two Burmese cats making themselves at home in this little piece of paradise. Inle Lake was really one of the highlights of my trip, in fact, I could have spent a few extra days here just enjoying the lake life. Trekking on the furthest reaches of the lake would be on my to do list when I return."

The Village House: "Perfect for those going to the Rainforest Music Festival"

"My husband and stayed here for two nights while attending the rainforest music festival. We are so glad that we found the village house. -Great and friendly service at point of entry -owners were very kind and friendly -Clean great hangout area with pool and hammocks in the courtyard. Perfect for mid afternoon swims before the nighttime performances at the festival - all meals included - fully stocked bar which made it convenient to have a drink - transport provided to and from the cultural village It was a little hard to find, but not impossible. Would consider staying here again when we go back to the music festival."

Glenburn Tea Estate: "Paradise"

We had been told that Glenburn was a special place by others that had stayed, but that goes a little way to describe the experience that myself and my partner had... it's a truly magical destination. Our room Rangeet was stunning, as is the rest of the estate, so beautifully maintained by the meticulous staff and gardeners. We loved the communal dinners, especially the tea themed night which was extremely tasty. The staff throughout our stay were always very helpful and friendly, there is always someone around too. We decided to take the hike down to the river and have lunch there, which was beautiful, as again the food exceptional! I would also really recommend having a massage, one of the best I have ever had... We were lucky enough to see an extraordinary sunset one evening, I don't think there can be another view like it anywhere in Darjeeling. The whole place, and our stay felt so serene and relaxed that a special shout out must go to Jemima and Holly who manage the place and are obviously making sure things run so smoothly - thanks you two! My only complaint would be the road, lucky for Glenburn they have some of the best drivers in the world! Can't wait to go back.

Tugu Bali: "Romantic getaway"

"We were so impressed with everything at Tugu, Bali. Jenny and the team made us so welcome and the service throughout our stay was excellent. The Cultural Evening was an insight into the traditional Balinese culture, the tour of the antiques and artwork around the hotel was really interesting and the romantic bed picnic was a unique dining experience, really memorable. Thanks to all the team for everything. We hope to return soon. Kind regards, Maggie and Kieran Tangerang."

Locavore: "Wonderful Experience, but book ahead or be disappointed"

"Very popular, small, expensive but very very good. We went here for dinner. Thank goodness we had skipped lunch after reading the reviews. We ordered the 5 course Otak-Otak which eventually turned into about 12 dishes as there are delightful little pre/post dinner treats along the way. What a wonderful surprise. The staff are fabulous and explained each dish as each one has it's own quirkiness - a bit fusion east meets west . . . . very tasty. We enjoy the evening very much and after our three hour eating safari we were very full. Would highly recommend for a special dinner or lunch out in Ubud, but do book in advance. No shows and late late comers are fined accordingly."

Yandabo Home: "Way beyond expectations"

"Yandabo is probably best known for the Treaty signed in 1826 which ended the first Anglo Burmese War as well as its famous clay pottery made in an old traditional way from river clay. Yandabo Home is an excellent stop on the ferry journey from Bagan to Mandalay or vice versa. We stayed two nights into Christmas and had a most enjoyable stay. The ""resort"" consists of 12 spacious rooms with all mod cons. Teak floors, painted grey and cream walls and an excellent bathroom consisting of a large walk in shower, double sinks, a large bed and plenty of space. There is a safe and mini-bar but no TV or WiFi. All the rooms are on the upper decking and the dining area is lower down. Food was surprisingly good and we had the Christmas Eve menu on our second night. This was very good and the kitchen had gone to a lot of trouble to prepare this and with plenty of drinks too! We were very fortunate to meet the owner, Dr Aung Myat Kyaw, a charming man and found out that Yandabo Home is actually part of a number of hotels owned including three in Ngapali Beach as well as one of the cruise boat companies plying the river. The village itself is interesting and there is plenty to see sitting back watching the river and birdlife. Highly recommended."

Inle Princess Resort: "Superb stay in a fantastic resort"

We spent two wonderful nights at the hotel. The design of the estate and, in particular, the rooms/houses has been beautifully thought through to create a self-contained oasis of calm and peacefulness, just what we wanted after a succession of very busy days sightseeing! The staff were excellent and the service impeccable, the food was very good. Strongly recommended.

Sanak Retreat Bali: "Simplement parfait !"

"Un excellent séjour dans cet hôtel situé au milieu des rizières. Restaurant excellent, personnel professionnel, piscine agréable, chambre spacieuse, vue exceptionnelle... Tout était parfait. Nous avons fais une ballade au milieu des rizières et une baignade dans des piscines naturelles avec l'hôtel. Une activité de qualité où nous nous sommes sentis seuls au monde. Nous avons testé le spa : le top !"