Originally Posted by
bobjunior
Hi All, VERY sorry to bother but this is actually a topic there's an abundance of information on, but not a lot of up to date, recent info. At least, not that I can find. Most of the posts date back to late 90s or early to mid 2000, which leaves plenty of time for a hotel to lag/drag.
I spent my honeymoon at Amanjiwo, Chedi Ubud, and Amankila.
A partner at my firm is now asking for tippy top of the line recs on traveling in Java and Bali - no financial restraints. I have no hesitation pushing amanjiwo, but can't personally attest to the best places in Bali because I've only been to the ones I stayed at (i.e., I cant make comparisons).
Can I either get a link to a helpful post or a quick poll
re the best of the best in those spots for a trip this May
Amankila, Dari
FS Sayan
and whether anyone thinks either of these places are too dated or run down (by aman standards).
Assume ability to stay in the best suites/villa.
I know some posters also like one of the como hotels as the best bali stay.
(as a last point, he's not spending any time in the south near kuta or in nusa dua).
THANKS IN ADVANCE for advice (and in the past for helping me plan a fantastic honeymoon).
I just got back a week ago and stayed in all the Amans and saw just about everything else.
The Amans are in better condition than I have ever seen them. Amandari, although 20 years old this year is immaculate after its refurbishment (Love the Amandari Suite here - private pool, tranquil views). Amankila, too, is drop dead gorgeous (We like the Indrakila Suite which has fantastic sea views from up high), and Amanusa (love the Amanusa Suite, which is so private you can skinny-dip in your pool), Amanjiwo (front row Borobudur-facing pool suites are best) and Amanwana (front row tented suites) - fabulous.
No idea why people like Como Shambhala. Unless you take an entire villa (around 4 bedrooms) then you end up sharing your pool with strangers. The privacy aspect is awful here. Even the toilets are semi-open-plan.
Four Seasons Sayan remains an extraordinary experience and I personally prefer it to Amandari. A pool villa by the Ayung River is the thing, or one of the two Sayan Villas right at the top of the hotel - great views from these and more indoor living space than the Ayung River Villas.