Originally Posted by
OsakaWino
We're considering spending a week at GH Bali in Sep '18 on a P&C rate and applying an Explorist Club Access Award (I'll be losing Glob status in March). I've ready through the last 3 yr of posts and it seems that almost everyone, especially those that were happy with the property, was using a suite upgrade. Any thoughts on whether it is worth going out of our way to go here when we would only have a standard room?
We're not much on swimming, might use the pools just a bit. Mostly just like walking along the beach, or resort grounds, and relaxing on a balcony (or in this case maybe in the club lounge) with a pleasant view. Only resorts we've been to have been Hawaii (a dozen times or so) and thought we'd try something different (and somewhat closer).
I can't say how they'll treat you on the Explorist club cert, but from my stays here (fairly infrequent -- maybe once every 18 months), I think the property has a history of going above and beyond. I just stayed here as Globalist (shudder) on P&C and (without using an upgrade cert) was upgraded to a Grand Executive Suite (one category above DSU suite). So I would assume that they'll treat you well on an Explorist club certificate.
The property is well kept and sits on a huge amount of ocean front property. I stayed with two Japanese friends, and they were impressed by the gardens, as well as the club lounge, which is fully outdoors, surrounded by koi ponds (feels similar to Tidepools at GH Kauai). There are loungers by the beach, and the pool is great for kids. Lots to do nearby -- there's a beach walk that allows access to other hotels (e.g., the Laguna and St Regis, which have excellent food options). Nusa Dua is a gated community and feels a lot less chaotic (and more boring) than other parts of Bali. There's lots to do outside Nusa Dua, of course, and I'd recommend taking a daytrip or two to see some of the sights.
I'd think if you've never been, Bali may be worth checking out, and the GH is a good base.