One of the world’s most popular destinations for those seeking sun, sand, sea, and everything else, Bali is an island and province that is home to about 4 million people. Notably termed by many as Island of God, villas are aplenty on this island and it is natural for them to pop into mind when one thinks of a vacation in Bali. From villas with traditional Balinese themes to modern, contemporary themes, your choice of villa is limitless. Other than factoring the theme of the villa you wish to stay in, there are other aspects that could easily be overlooked when browsing through the extensive list of gorgeous villas. Here are some of them:
- Location, Location, Location
As with any travels, location plays a key factor. Staying too far away from the places you plan to visit will cause you to waste time in getting there especially with traffic jams. While cab fares are pretty cheap, being caught in a jam will set you back from other planned activities you have in mind of doing. Bali is sprinkled with areas that are unique in their own ways and would appeal to all kinds of travelers. If you are planning on learning to surf, shopping and partying, you’d be best choosing a villa located in Kuta. With streets lined with shops, a shopping mall, clubs and water activities tours nearby, you need not waste precious vacation time on transportation. If your holiday plans are just for some much needed RnR (rest and relaxation), staying in Seminyak would be a good choice. Bars, cafes, restaurants offering a diversity of cuisines line the street of Jalan Ayu Kaya which is also linked by other streets that also offer other dining options. High end boutiques and art stores can also be found on this street, amidst the dining places where you can indulge in some shopping.
2. Air-conditioned Living Area/Room
As many would tell you, mosquitoes are abundant in Bali. If you are planning on enjoying a quiet night just chilling in your villa, it is to your advantage that this tops the list of your requirements of a villa. Most villas offer an open space living room, with a ceiling fan as the only form of ventilation. While nights are pretty cooling in Bali, an open space living room will make you food for those dreaded mozzies and ruin your ideal night of chilling and might even give you sleepless nights with all the itching.
3. Pool Size
Almost all villas in Bali are equipped with a pool but most of them are so tiny that they might as well be called a wading pool. If you have more than 2 traveling companions with you on the trip, it is best to ensure that the pool in your choice of villa has enough space for all of you to swim in without kicking or bumping into each other. Another thing to take into consideration is, if you are looking to return to Hong Kong with a nice golden tan, make sure the pool in the villa is conducive for tanning with no parts of the villa or other blocks of villa obstructing the sun from hitting the pool.
4. In-room Breakfast
Nothing beats waking up to breakfast being served to you in your villa. Most villas offer this free in-room breakfast, generally with a choice of the traditional mee goreng (fried noodles), nasi goreng (fried rice) or intercontinental style breakfast of eggs, sausages, toast, a platter of fruits and juices with the standard coffee and tea; but it is always good to double confirm this. Imagine opening your eyes in the morning, picking up the phone and voila! your breakfast is being served on your table.
5. Security
Safety is of paramount importance when travelling. In a country where you are unfamiliar with its surroundings and procedures, the onus is on you to ensure your personal safety. When choosing a villa for your vacation in Bali, remember to factor 24 hours security and safe deposit boxes into your decision making process.
Do you have other things to look out for when choosing a villa in Bali for your holiday? Do share with us in the comments below!
