Ayodya Batur Villa/Bali, Indonesia/How to travel Bali in 2024
I experienced a nightly accommodation expense of 48 USD, inclusive of a supplementary fee totaling 800,000 IDR (51 USD). This additional charge covers three meals, noting that the pricing for these meals was doubled by the service provider. Additionally, it includes round-trip taxi services for transportation to a café situated on the main road, which is approximately 10 minutes away by taxi (priced at 150,000 IDR), as well as the return journey to Ubud (priced at 350,000 IDR).
Firstly, I want to emphasize that I'm sharing my personal experience without intending to pass judgment. There were certainly positive aspects, but let's start by discussing a few drawbacks. It's advisable to have your own rental car or motorbike when visiting this location. The hotel is situated in a secluded area, surrounded by beautiful nature and tranquility. However, due to its remote location, arranging transportation to cafes or restaurants on the main road becomes necessary, as Uber or Gojek services are unavailable. Walking isn't a viable option due to numerous stray dogs, making the journey intimidating.
During my stay, I found myself needing a car to reach a cafe on the main road. I had no choice but to ask a hotel staff member for assistance, and the charge for a round trip was 150,000 IDR, considerably more than the 35,000 IDR for a one-way trip on Gojek. This isn't about complaining about the cost but rather a suggestion to consider having your own transportation.
I explored some upscale cafes along the main road, choosing one that captivated me with its fantastic ambiance and breathtaking views. As previously mentioned, lacking personal transportation, I utilized a taxi arranged by the hotel to reach the café. The round-trip transportation incurred an additional cost of 150,000 IDR. I found the experience well worth the extra expense, approximately 10 USD, to savor a coffee in such a picturesque setting on the main road.
On a positive note, the hotel's food was fantastic. The lady responsible for the cooking did an excellent job, and I recommend trying at least one meal. However, there was a downside as she charged me double the prices listed on the menu. While I didn't address it at the time, it left me feeling disappointed. If the prices she quoted were correct, adjustments should have been made to the menu.
The hotel also offered a tour combining sunrise trekking and morning jeep riding for 1,000,000 IDR. Not being interested in trekking, I inquired about the cost for just the jeep riding, and it was quoted at 900,000 IDR. I paied my accomndation fee by online. However, please note that she only takes cash for tour, food and taxi when you spend at the hotel. I'm unsure if this policy has changed.
Overall, I enjoyed my stay at this hotel. The view from the balcony was incredible, with Lake Batur, Mount Batur, and the black lava creating an amazing and exceptional sight. The room I stayed in was cozy and spacious enough for one person. Despite the mentioned drawbacks, the tasty food and the overall experience make this hotel a top choice for a one-day stay in Batur.
I filmed this early mornig.
#gotaworldtosee