Bali – Ubud Junjungan Resort and Spa

A friend recommmended this resort in Ubud. She said it was very rustic, but had good service, reasonable rates, delicious food, and a nice in-house spa. We were sold.

When we arrived at the Junjungan Resort and Spa, we were initially slightly taken aback by how far off the beaten path it was.  Most of the hotels and hostels in Ubud are around the main streets and shopping alleys.  Our resort however, was a good 10-15 minute drive away from the main road, deep into a padi-growing village.

What we saw when we arrived allayed all our apprehensions though. The friendly receptionist with good English, the very spacious and comfortable room, the lovely idyllic peaceful view of padi fields and the sound of crickets… ah. What a great respite from the hustle and bustle of Ubud town. It was indeed, very rustic, as our friend had described!

It did have a TripAdvisor sign, endorsing it. Which in this day and age signals a certain level of quality. To be precise they won a certificate of excellence in 2013, and was a TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Winner in 2014! I think a big reason is because its gives good value-for-money (and offers free wifi!).

The breakfast that came with our board was fantastic. They offer a simple ala carte menu (no international buffet spread here), but with a wide enough variety spanning western to local fare.  With a choice of warm drinks, together with fruit juice and fresh fruit thrown in, it was more than enough to give us a great start to each day.

The spa was similarly simple, yet comfortable. The ginger tea with the fresh lemongrass stick and lime slice that is served after the spa treatment in your room was very comforting. Decorated with a pretty white daisy to boot!

Service everywhere in the hotel was extremely friendly and thoughtful; the receptionist also gave great advice on things to do and helped us make bookings, call the airline etc.

I would say that this resort is probably better for couples or friends, as opposed to families with littles. They have a tiny pool which we didn’t try, and no kids club – two features which I’ve come to view as necessities when travelling with my preschoolers!