The only thing better than flopping down on the plush couch in my two-bedroom flat at Think Earl’s Court in London was flipping on the TV directly to an episode of Doctor Who. My corner apartment instantly had me relaxed.
Think shies away from the traditional one-room hotel and instead offers serviced apartments. The apart-hotel’s concept brings in all the standard amenities and more – not only did I have two bedrooms, but I had a living room and dining room, two full baths, a washer/dryer combo, free wi-fi, and a fully-outfitted kitchen. Housekeepers come by once a week, and regardless of whether you’re staying for one night or a year’s worth, you will immediately feel at home. And families take note; Think has a strict no-party policy, so you can be sure the quiet comfort retains its silence.
The cherry on top of my London apartment life experience came courtesy of the genial and generous front desk staff. My apartment wasn’t ready when I arrived, and they paid special attention to my every need as I sat in the lobby. I was greeted in true English fashion with tea and a fresh croissant, given a map and guidebook, and set down in a deep comfy chair by the television to wait for my room in luxury.
From US160+ per night
– Comforts of home with an even more comfortable bed
– Excessively friendly staff
– Towel warmers in the bathrooms
– You need to put your key in a slot by the apartment door for any electricity to work, which can be confusing for first-time stays.
Jennifer Billock
Review Team
The only sounds I hear are the soft crash of waves, the breeze through the trees, and the occasional jingle of the horse cart (island taxi) going by, hooves muffled by the sandy road.
I’m at Wilson’s Retreat, on the northwestern side of Gili T. Opened just in August 2013, this boutique hotel with great service modestly bills itself as a three star, but it is clearly more.
There are currently eight garden suites plus two 2-bedroom villas with private pools (the resort will double in size later in 2014).
When I see that a hotel has installed Grohe fixtures (here both the shower and the sink) I know that they pay attention to quality. Rooms are thoughtfully and beautifully designed and equipped. Each has a large terrace with a couch for lounging. Deck floors and furniture are made of 100 year old reclaimed teak from Javanese houses. Beautiful bathrooms are partially exposed to the sky.
Unusually for dry Gili T, not only are the showers fresh water, but so is the pool. But if you prefer salt, the sea is just a few steps across the road.
Make a reservation quick before everyone discovers it!
From US130+ per night inclusive of breakfast
– The restaurant at Wilson’s Retreat, featuring the talents of François Masson from Lyon, is one of the very best places to eat on the island.
– Very accommodating service.
– You know they have a sense of humour when you see their logo
– Rooms can get a little warm in the afternoons, so open up your sliding glass doors and let the breeze in.
Johanna Read
Contributing Editor
I step out of my bedroom and step, literally, right into the pool. My private pool. My private pool that is big enough for laps (7 by 3 meters). After a few lengths, I float on my back gazing at the stars and listening to crickets. Fireflies float through my private garden.
Chapung SeBali is located in the peaceful rice terraces outside Ubud (a half hour walk through the rice fields, or a 15 minute drive, via shuttle several times a day).
Chapung means dragonfly, and these colourful creatures flit through the air surrounding the eight enormous villa suites. Each villa has an outdoor living room / dining room, a private pool and garden, a bedroom with sitting area, a bathroom with separate areas for bathing, showering, washing and primping, and, lastly, a large dressing room (mine had a couch!). There’s also a villa and a residence, each with two bedrooms in separate buildings.
The restaurant and spa (both outdoors) have stunning views of the vivid green countryside. A new gigantic pool (30 by 8 meters) and cocktail area will open late in 2014.
Chapung SeBali is an incredible place to stay, featuring privacy, luxury, beauty and wonderful staff. I can’t think of what else you could want!
From US296+ per night
– A luxurious and private stay in a serene natural setting (beautiful sunsets over the rice fields)
– Every villa has a large private pool and garden
– At breakfast you’re encouraged to order dessert too!
– The path to some villas is a bit uneven, so if you’re not sure-footed, ask for villas
1 to 4.
Johanna Read
Contributing Editor
Pondok Ayu gets many returning guests, which tells you a lot about this small boutique hotel.
Staff are very kind and helpful, and welcome you like family. They build a congenial atmosphere where guests chat and invite each other on excursions. This is aided by breakfast served family style around a large table (although depending on when you wake up, you may dine alone).
Though the hotel is almost 14 years old, you can’t tell as it is all immaculately cared for and maintained. There are four large rooms and one suite, all surrounding a pool, thoughtfully shaded with an umbrella in one corner. The neighbourhood is very quiet, so you’re assured a good sleep.
If you feel like hanging out at Sanur beach, it is about a 10 minute walk or a quick drive (included in your room rate). Pondok Ayu guests can use the sun beds and beachfront at Benno’s Corner Café, at a pretty spot on the beach.
From US80+ per night inclusive breakfast and local transportation
– Spa treatments (great massage!) available by the pool or in-room
– Lots of storage space so you can unpack and stretch out
– Bargain priced
– Just 3 English TV channels (BBC News, Austraila Network, Disney Junior), but there is a DVD player plus movies to borrow.
Johanna Read
Contributing Editor