On my last trip to Indonesia I will openly admit that I was hesitant to revisit Bali. Not that I had a bad time during my last visit, lord knows we spent 3 weeks in Bali, it is that Bali is so overrun with tourists it kind of made the whole experience unpleasant.
After another 2 weeks of traveling to other parts in Indonesia, I had a decision to make. Jet out on the first flight available and spend no more time in Bali or give it another try by staying in a different area.
After much thought, I came to the conclusion that I wanted to try again, in a new area and see how it goes. This is where the INAYA Putri Bali resort comes into the equation.
Unlike the last visit, I wanted a chance to see what the resort life was like in Bali and I wanted to see how that scene related to the backpacker scene of Kuta. INAYA Putri Bali is located in Nusa Dua, a resort area on the outskirt of Kuta with equally nice beaches and a more upscale vibe that differs from the intense backpacker feel in the heart of Kuta.
Related Article: Kuta Travel Guide: Where to Explore, Eat, and Stay
First Impressions – A New Look at Bali
Honestly, when I entered the lobby of the INAYA Putri Bali Nusa Dua I was in pleasant shock. Towering bamboo thatched roofs covered an open-sided reception area. The strong smell of plumeria filling my nose. ‘Is this real?’ rushed through my mind as I made my way to the check in desk.
The staff was kind and efficient, checking me in quickly and pointing me in the direction of my room. Making my way out of the lobby area I was met by humid tropical weather and a beautifully manicured grounds. Making my way to the room was easy on paved walkways.
Be sure to check out some of Bali’s amazing temples during your visit.
Arriving at my room, I was greeted by a very large and spacious sleeping and sitting area. The room featured a glass-surrounded shower, double vanity and even a separate area with a deep tub.
Making my way towards the balcony doors, I pulled back the curtains to reveal that my ground level room had a private deck complete with ladder and access to a private pool.
That night I was able to order room service while enjoying some TV in my plush robe and reveling in the beauty of the room I was booked into for the next 3 nights.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure my opinion of Bali could be changed but changing scenes to Nusa Dua and checking into the lovely INAYA Putri Bali was already improving that.
The Full Experience
Honestly, in my 3 days at the resort I never left the property. Not because I didn’t want to explore more of Bali but more from the stance of having just spent 2 weeks traveling across Indonesia and needing a rest.
Plus, I wanted to give in to the Bali resort experience, one of the main ways people choose to experience Bali, and see how this compared to the fend for yourself experience in Kuta.
There’s no right or wrong way when it comes to how you choose to experience a destination, but I was determined to compare the two experiences.
I opted for late start mornings, making my way to the breakfast dining room towards the end of hours. I filled my plate with fresh fruits from the buffet and enjoyed eggs prepared to my liking and fresh squeezed juices.
Admittedly, the breakfast hall was chaotic, loud and busy. I’m not sure where all these people went during the day but they obviously didn’t stay at the resort. The rest of the day and evening was much more laid back and quiet.
During the day I lounged by the pool, went swimming, walked along the private beach and enjoyed the grassy lawns of the property. I had nowhere to be and made no concrete plans. I just enjoyed it and this was exactly what I needed at the time.
Related Article: 7 Reasons Why Bali Should Be Your Next Romantic Escape
Food Options
Taking a liking to the Ja’Jan Bistro, one of INAYA Putri Bali’s four onsite restaurants, I enjoyed all my meals outside breakfast here. The food was top notch and there was a large variety of tropical concoctions and fresh juices to choose from.
My favorite part though, was the atmosphere.
An open-air dining experience, the bistro offered ornate furniture styled in old Indonesian charm, a central bar and great music. There’s nothing better than being in a tropical destination, drink in your hand, enjoying authentic music and letting the salty breeze kiss your face. I’d take my time enjoying my meals here. Not that I had anywhere else to be.
Related Article: The Ultimate Bali Travel Guide
INAYA Putri Bali Nusa Dua – The Perfect Stay
While I’m definitely not someone that travels staying only in resorts, I am human and the need for peace, quiet and relaxation had its place from time to time. This is what INAYA Putri Bali was for me and boy did it change the way I feel about Bali. I understand why people flock to this islands shores in search of a break and the tropical breeze.
Will I ever come back to Bali? Of course, I will. There is much more to see and now that I’ve seen the other side, I know this is where you can find that relaxation you are sometimes yearning for in your busy lifestyle.
Disclaimer: I was hosted by the INAYA Putri Bali during my stay. All opinions are 100% my own, as always.
More on Indonesia:
- Indonesia Travel Guide
- Our Favorite Places to Visit in Indonesia
- 9 Interesting Things to Do in Bandung, Indonesia
- Top Things To Do in Indonesia
- RTW Recap: 4 Weeks in Indonesia
- Walking with the Komodo Dragon in Indonesia
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