Tag Archives: High on Hotels

08.28.17
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HIGH ON HOTELS:Canaves Oia

Hey, so first up today is Happy Anniversary to us!!! And we couldn’t have thought of a better post than this one to celebrate the occasion…A place with which we are head over heels in love without even visiting it in person is Santorini, Greece… For it houses such gorgeous and jaw-dropping properties that our love for it only increases by the day.

So, today in our High on Hotels series we throw some light on Canaves Oia. The property strongly believes in turning moments into fond memories for all their guests! And talking about guests, it has been the preferred choice for celebrities like Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Gerrard Butler, Angelina Jolie, Chiara Ferragni, Lucy Mecklenburgh, Laila Monteiro, Tata Werneck and Layla Monteiro.

We have learnt that Canaves Oia Luxury Resorts and Villas is located on the southern tip of Oia in Santorini, comprising of four properties: Canaves Oia Hotel, Canaves Oia Suites, Canaves Oia Villa and Canaves Oia Sunday Suites. Each property delivers a boutique, luxury and private experience to all guests.

The Canaves Oia brand began with the launch of the hotel, which led to the property’s “boutique” concept. 18 uniquely designed suites are complemented by uninterrupted caldera views and a pristine pool with hanging chandelier, among other assets.

With the success of Canaves Oia Hotel, Canaves Oia Suites soon followed. Featuring a similar concept to the hotel with an extra touch of sophistication, each of the 29 suites includes either a plunge or infinity pool and an unrivaled level of comfort and service.

Canaves Oia Villa is right next door. This impressive property follows the minimalist style of its neighbours with whitewashed walls and splashes of colourful art. It features three en-suite king-sized bedrooms, spacious living areas, a fully equipped kitchen, private dining experiences and easy access to Canaves Oia Suites’ holistic spa.

Canaves Oia Sunday Suites launched in 2017 with an alternative luxe style. White sculpted donkeys line the outdoor infinity pool while a nautical décor adds elegance to each of the eight independently designed suites.Here, a new level of privacy is provided to guests during their Canaves Oia experience.

Wow, are already dreaming holidaying here with our loved ones 🙂  And this time we shall talk less and let the place absolutely overwhelm you!

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Binging time at Canaves Oia Hotel

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Grand Suite at Canaves Oia Hotel

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Honeymoon Suite at Canaves Oia Hotel

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Stunning capture of Canaves Oia Hotel

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Dining time at Canaves Oia Suites

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A beautiful capture of Canaves Oia Suites

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How about some pool time at Canaves Oia Suites?

Spa with a stunning view at Canaves Oia Suites

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Canaves Oia Villa

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Meal time at Canaves Oia Sunday Suites

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A capture of Canaves Oia Sunday Suites

Few other important details to note about the properties is that you could reach here from the airport either in a private transfer or shuttle transfer. Also, reference the connectivity with public transport, these are situated about 50 meters away from the bus station. And, their last order on room service is 10.45 pm!

Finally, closing with a quote of Kylie Bax with which we can surely agree, “Greece is the most magical place on Earth.”

Pictures Courtesy: Canaves Oia

01.23.17
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HIGH ON HOTELS:KC Beach Club & Pool Villas

Okay then, having issues beating the Monday morning blues?  Breathe a sigh of relief, as we are all set to virtually take you to a true paradise called the KC Beach Club & Pool Villas at one of the most gorgeous places on Earth- Koh Samui… Hence, sit back and enjoy this latest post in our series on- High on Hotels where we get talking with their representative!

Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Our chic retreat is located in the heart of Chaweng Beach which is known to be the best party place on Koh Samui. This amazing beach has soft, white sand, a shallow turquoise sea and a big variety of leisure and sports programs.
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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: This new stylish Beach Club Hotel has a total of 42 units: each room has a king-size bed and sofa, bathroom with Jacuzzi bath and rain shower. The rooms are equipped with in-room technology such as 42” LCD Satellite and Cable TV. Each room also disposes of air condition, in-room safe, minibar, complimentary tea and coffee facilities, bathrobes, hair dryer and complimentary Wi-Fi.
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KC Beach Club located on central Chaweng beach, Koh Samui, Suratthani, Thailand

Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: In our resort, guests can experience two swimming pools, NEO Restaurant, Pool Bar or massage at beachfront sala. There is free shuttle bus to our sister 5 star resort where guests can utilize local spa and fitness center. Not to forget mentioning about the Saturday Pool Party with professional DJ, hostesses to serve delicious cocktails, plus excellent entertainment from saxophone players, drummers and dancers, also there is an international buffet prepared by our Chef.
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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: Savour the delectable flavours of fine cuisine at Neo Restaurant, Koh Samui’s most fashionable dining venue located at KC Beach Club & Pool Villas. Feel the sea breeze from the open air dining terrace and gaze in awe at the panoramic views of Chaweng Beach as you browse through the mouthwatering menu of carefully selected dishes. Our experienced chef creates classic flavors with the freshest local ingredients including seafood, herbs, chilies and more and presents them in a way that looks almost too good to eat.
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Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: If you are looking for a prime location, fashionable beach club, great music club, entertainment, bar and restaurant, modern accommodation, friendly staff and guests from all over the world-KC Beach Club & Pool Villas is the best choice for a perfect vacation!

Q: What is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: The easiest way to get to KC Beach is to book airport transfer provided by hotel or take outside taxi. We are located just 10 minutes away from the Koh Samui airport.

 Q: For all the prospective guests and shopping lovers, please tell us about the closest shopping hub to the hotel?
A: The closest shopping mall “Central Festival Samui” is situated in the heart of Chaweng and it is only 5 minutes from our resort. This mall describes itself as “the most complete and largest lifestyle shopping complex in Samui”.

Q: Lastly, if one got back at 2 am to the hotel, what is it that one would get to eat?
A: Our resort take last order at 22:30, however around us you can find many restaurants and small shops, which you can reach within walking distance.

 

Pictures Courtesy: KC Beach Club & Pool Villas

 

 

01.18.17
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WITH LOVE FROM THE MOST ROMANTIC CITY OF INDIA-UDAIPUR

I am a complete dreamer and I don’t shy away from admitting to it either. I love to dream…Dream about countries, cities, beaches, mountains, lakes and so much more. So, while conversing if you feel that I have switched off, maybe I actually have switched off… And have commenced my day-dreaming probably about being on this beach I came across while glancing through my social media account.

For many of these dreams have turned to reality and many are on the wish-list but I am in a happy space as I gradually want to unravel these places spread through the length and breadth of the World Map. Eagerness to visit any destination makes me think more, makes me read more and most importantly it make me work more (harder) so that I can savour the destination in its true spirit.

Today, I am going to throw some light on my very first holiday and trip of 2017… The trip was made to Udaipur- the city of lakes where I had been to-long time ago. But yet again there was something about it which was making me want to visit it sooner than soon and so it happened! Having a loved sister in company just added the right colour and laughter to the trip.

So, without any further delay-sharing as much from our trip…

  1. When visiting this rather romantic city- best is to stay closest to the lakes. I love the water, so there was no way that I was going to be away from the water. We chose- Udai Kothi to be our home for 2 nights and 3 days. Yes, you can see the lake from several parts of the hotel and I must share that our stay was cozy and comfortable. Though we didn’t eat much here, but we would certainly look forward to the breakfast area by the pool to just sit and relax. We clicked umpteen pictures, for the property is gorgeous in white and gets decorated with gorgeous marigold flowers in the common areas. I must add our room was much bigger than expected and was stocked with all the essentials.
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  2. We had amazing gastronomic experiences, like each meal surpassed the one before. For the very reason that we ate to our heart’s content- we are actually happy that we got to walk quite a bit! Hear me out on this one-whenever you decide to visit the City Palace Museum- you must make time to eat at the Palki Khana as this restaurant lets you enjoy the view of the overwhelming structure.
    Also, when both of us were wanting to try out a nice café- we landed in front of the Udai Art Café which was established by Meropi, a vibrant lady hailing from Greece who is a photographer, a coffee connoisseur, a chef and an adventurer. Wow, impressive right? She impressed us equally while she passionately helped us decide our order. We binged big on their pesto pasta and crepe with mushrooms, tomatoes, cheese and bell peppers. We loved our meal which was light on our tummies and pockets!
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  3. For our evening meals we opted for the Aravali Lakeview Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Hotel where we binged on some Laal Maas and the second evening we ate our all-time favourite, Chicken Biryani at this spectacular restaurant right opposite our hotel called Hari Garh. In both cases, we enjoyed views of the lake (both were different lakes), had amazing food and didn’t land up paying all that much. At Radisson Blu, while we enjoyed a live flute performance, the next evening- we played and enjoyed some soothing music from our own phones as we got the best table which only made us pray that the time should freeze as we were having the best time ever!

    Glimpses from  Aravali Lakeview Restaurant at the Radisson Blu Hotel-
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  4. Two things which must feature on your itinerary when in Udaipur- the Lake Pichola Boat Ride and a visit to the City Palace Museum. You are able to soak in much of the city on opting for these two!

    Views from the boat-
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  5. When in Rajasthan, you would certainly have a strong urge to shop everything colourful that meets your eyes. At the Hathipole market– we shopped dupattas like there’s no tomorrow. Also, while passing through several lanes. we picked up jhumkas and lovely neckpieces! Ghewar and Pyaazki kachori are must buys from the Jodhpur Misthan Bhandar for all loved ones back home.
  6.  So, here’s the funniest account-just when someone advised us to head to Sajjangarh for a picturesque panoramic view of the city- we did get there but without looking around much straight away got the tickets for their biological park. Yes, you got that right!!! Little did we know that the very next gate leads to their rather pretty Monsoon Palace… Want to know what next? We were on a golf cart scaling through the park and giggling like little girls spotting the lion, tiger and much more…

  7. For our divine calling, we headed to the Jagdish Temple which is a large Hindu temple in the middle of Udaipur…And we were thoroughly satisfied with our visit.
  8. We thought of ending our trip on a high note and hence, headed to The Oberoi Udai Vilas. Words fall short to describe the beauty that this place is. We had made a reservation for their restaurant-Chandni and post arrival,were soon guided to our table which was facing the lake on one side and gave us a beautiful view of the property on the other. The quality and taste of the food was extremely impressive and we enjoyed every bit of it.
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    Here are few handy tips if you are planning to visit Udaipur anytime soon-

    1. Be ready to scroll around with your luggage in case your hotel is situated in some narrow lane as sometimes the taxi drivers don’t want to risk taking their cars through the congested routes.
    2. Some of the locals take art classes which seem very interesting. Make sure if interested, you keep aside approximately 3 hours for it.
    3. Commuting isn’t an issue, you’ll find autos mostly everywhere…We also made good use of Uber!
    4. Make sure you take reservations in case you are planning to visit one of the plush properties and even check if they allow non-residential guests at all.
    5. We did hear much about the Bagore ki Haveli for its popular evening show with a variety of Indian dance- maybe you could check it out!


    Happy Travelling, always!!!
    -Sonali

08.19.16
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High on Hotels: El Palace Hotel, Barcelona

Friends, believe it or not but today Helipad on Heels celebrates its 5th Anniversary…Thank you so much for all the love and support!!! And since this is the Anniversary Special Post- we are bringing to you a hotel from the buzzing city of Barcelona. For this continues to be a hot-favourite holiday destination of recent times, we are sure that this post would prove to be rather fun and useful.

Also, for all those who thought that we shall only be talking about Asian Hotels, think again as High on Hotels endeavours to explore hotels from around the World.

Located in the center of Barcelona, we are told that the immaculate El Palace Hotel is a symbol of Barcelona’s hotel tradition. We have also heard that its guest diary includes names of stalwarts like Cary Grant, Sofia Loren, Whoopi Goldberg, Ken Follett and Ronnie Wood. Let us find out more about this beauty of a hotel…

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Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: This hotel opened in 1919 as the Ritz Barcelona and has a long history. The staff will make the stay of our guests very comfortable and enjoyable. We have been ranked between 1st and 10th in the last 6 years.

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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: In the rooms, the clients would find a king-sized bed with our new linen collection, L’Occitane amenities, telephone in the room, bathroom, television, complimentary water and a kettle.

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Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: Two fine dining restaurants- Winter Garden and Caelis (with 1-Michelin star), French-style Brasserie 19/Nineteen Restaurant, Bluesman Cocktail Bar, Mayan Luxury Spa, Diana Garden (a truly romantic garden).

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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: Fine Dining Winter Garden Restaurant located at the new Diana Garden on the rooftop terrace. The restaurant offers luxury tapas with wine pairing and views of Barcelona.

Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: We believe it has to be the Bluesman Cocktail Bar and Diana Garden.

Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: The hotel is located at the city center so there are many transport options from the property including the train and the bus.

Q: Further to the earlier question, what is the easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport?
A: Taxi or private transfer organized by our Concierge Department.

This hotel steeped in history, sure is a visual delight.

Pictures Courtesy: El Palace Hotel, Barcelona

08.15.16
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High on Hotels: Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives

Hello! So it is that time again when we further apprise you with an absolute stunning and top quality property from around the World. This time around, we shall be getting enlightened about a space that is nestled in a dream destination for many- Maldives.

Without much ado, here is all about Gili Lankanfushi… Whether you are planning for your honeymoon or that milestone anniversary, we are very sure- this property will truly prove to be breathtaking.  And what’s more is that a little birdie told us that this place been the preferred choice for global icons like Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Gili Lankanfushi is an intimate coral island that has a Palm Beach with an expanse of white sand beach below a blanket of stars and a horizon beach that is overlooking the quiet bay of the resort island. With many coral gardens around, we have a habitat of marine life living in the lagoons circled around the island and house reef on the borders of azure waters of the island of Lankanfushi.

Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: Here are the details:

– Large open-air living room with day beds and dining area
– Roof-top terrace with day-bed and dining facilities
– Overwater sun deck with sun loungers
– Semi open-air private bathroom with separate glass-walled shower area
– King-sized bed

Gili Lankanfushi Resort Maldives


Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: The Services and facilities include:

-Friday Concept: Named after Robinson Crusoe’s loyal friend, Mr. Friday makes guests’ stay as pleasant as possible. Day or night, the Mr. Friday will swiftly answer any request in mind. Even keeping the little ones entertained with storytelling and activities while parents spend some romantic time reconnecting with each other.
-Meera Spa offering holistic treatments with facilities including yoga/meditation champa, steam and sauna rooms, as well as a relaxation area.

GLM_Meera Spa Treatment Room

-Ocean Paradise Dive Centre offering PADI course and diving sessions to several dive sites including the world famous Manta Point.
-Fitness Centre
-Organic Garden
-Wedding Pavilion for celebrations of memorable milestones.

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-Library offering an extensive selection of easy reading and reference books.
-Poolside offers the perfect location to soak up the sun, relax on loungers, stargazing into the night or to sit beside the traditional Maldivian fireside “Alifan Fenda”.
-Boutique shop selling authentic Maldivian items and handmade items form the resort
-Leisure activities include sunrise yoga, meditation sessions, variety of water sports, tennis court, volleyball, table-tennis, petanque, jogging, pool table, a large selection of board games, movie screenings at the Jungle Cinema.
-Other activities that can be organized upon request are guided snorkeling trips, water skiing, sunrise/sunset dhoni cruises, sandbank picnic, dolphin cruise, excursions to the capital city, private movie screenings at your location of choice and special entertainment programs for kids by our Mr. Friday.

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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: Our destination dining experience at locations such as One Palm is a must try, as it provides you with a unique Gili Moment and an endless choice of romantic destinations to escape to. By the Sea presents a Japanese Culinary adventure combined with breathtaking views of the ocean. Our newly refurbished and air conditioned Sushi Counter and brand new Teppanyaki Counter has only added to our guests’ culinary experience.

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Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: Here is an insight into the USP-

-Private Reserve: The largest standalone over water villa in the world standing at 1,700sqm featuring a private spa facility with sauna, indoor and outdoor treatment pavilion, gymnasium, private cinema on the 2nd floor of the central living area, an infinity pool, resident Mr. and/or Ms. Friday on call 24hours, fully equipped gourmet kitchen, a waterslide installed from the top deck into the coral pool. Additionally, there are also sea level sundecks with sun loungers with clear views of coral gardens and amazing marine life. Dining spaces include roof-top terraces with daybed and two outdoor dining pavilions.
-Luxury of reconnecting with nature in a natural environment with our “No Shoes, No News” philosophy, and doing as much or as little as you want at the resort.
-Mr. Friday Concept about which we shared above.
-Eco-friendly concept focusing on sustainability in all activities that we do with/for guests and internally with staff. Activities include organic garden farming, producing our own water, an in-house eco-center to recycle and reuse materials – turning them into new items, more significantly our coral line project, where our marine biologist grow these corals.
-Exquisite dining experience which includes:

  • Main Restaurant offering a great buffet and a la carte breakfast. Daily changing gourmet experience for dinner as well as theme nights such as Mediterranean Spice Souk, Asian Street Market and Passage to India evenings.
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    Gili Lankanfushi Resort Maldives
  • By the Sea presents a Japanese Culinary adventure combined with breathtaking views of the ocean.
  • Over Water Bar offering a casual menu that features a wide selection of fresh salad leaves from the garden, sushi. Mediterranean delicacies, daily catch of fish, imported meats as well as local spices and herbs.
  • The Underground Wine Cellar and Chocolate Cave.
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  • The in-villa dining experience.
  • Destination dining offering a slice of paradise with an endless choice of romantic destinations to escape to.

Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: Our Island is located 20 minutes away from Male International Airport.

Just seeing this place in pictures has been such a delight, imagine what the up-close experience would be like!

 

Pictures Courtesy: Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives

08.09.16
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High on Hotels:Alila Villas Uluwatu

Hey Everyone!!! The enthusiasm and excitement for the new series is rather overwhelming as we are learning about such fabulous properties one after another which are actually tempting us to book our next holiday each time around!

The latest one too is not going to disappoint you even a bit. Think of a spectacular hotel in a gorgeous destination and the answer in the right order would be Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali. What’s more is that this place has welcomed a number of high profile international celebrities as well.

You have to truly absorb what follows and we are quite sure that this post is going to leave you feeling like you just experienced heaven on Earth.  Let’s get started and share with you all that we found out from the hotel representatives.
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Q: Why a stay here would prove to be the most memorable one?
A: Alila Villas Uluwatu and the Alila Hotels Group live by our motto “Surprisingly Different”. All aspects of our operations are designed to be tailored to specific and individual guest needs and desires. It all starts off with our “Personal Preference Menu” that is sent to guests once they have made their booking. This allows them to personalize their stay prior to their arrival so it is all ready for them upon check-in. In this “Personal Preference Menu”, guests can personalize aspects ranging from pillow size, dietary preferences, room facilities to experiences they would like our Leisure Concierge to take them on. Speaking of experiences, Alila Villas Uluwatu believes the local culture plays a huge part in delivering a complete destination experience and therefore has created “Journeys by Alila”. These journeys are designed to take guests on an authentic experience through various cultural and environmental aspects of Southern Bali and we strive to keep these as original and “off the beaten track” as possible, so guests can enjoy something unique during their stay. In addition to these, we also organize special events at the resort ranging from Spa experiences to romantic dinners as well as regular complimentary yoga classes.
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Q: What all facilities would you find in the room?
A: Here is the list of all that is available:
– Private pool
– Outdoor dining
– Private cabana
– Host (Butler) service
– 24 hours room service
– Complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access throughout the resort
– Gourmet bar
– In-room safe
– Espresso coffee and tea-making facilities with range of luxury whole leaf TWG teas
– Oversized LED TV in every room
– Docking station with iPod
– Double His and Her vanity with complete range of bath amenities
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Q: Elaborate on the facilities in the hotel for in-house guests?
A: Alila Villas Uluwatu has two restaurants; The Warung, which provides authentic Indonesian cuisine and The CIRE, which provides International cuisine. All villas have private pools and we also have an infinity pool shared by all guests situated on the edge of a cliff with views over the Indian Ocean. In addition to this, we have a Yoga pavilion, fitness centre, spa, library, 24-hour clinic and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the resort.
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Q: A must try restaurant in the hotel and why?
A: The Warung is our must try restaurant as it provides a true taste of Indonesia for anyone looking to discover the destination’s culinary side. The restaurant serves organic and wholesome Indonesian cuisine in a setting that promotes communal sharing and provides fantastic views over our famous “Sunset Cabana” and the Indian Ocean beyond that.

Q: Please throw some light on the USP of the hotel?
A: Apart from all the points shared above, Alila Villas Uluwatu is unique in the sense that it is the first resort in Indonesia to have been built and operated at the highest level of certification by EarthCheck standards. This is because we utilize many ESD measures including local materials, water conservation with soaks and rain gardens and a waste water management system, using local plants from the special Bali savannah ecosystem, the deliberate use of sustainable/recycled materials, protection of the natural environment, and measured work practices throughout construction. In addition to this, Alila Villas Uluwatu’s attention to detail, our world famous “Sunset Cabana” and our distinct architecture makes the resort a unique experience in Bali and beyond.

Q: Could you share a little about the connectivity of the hotel?
A: Alila Villas Uluwatu provides luxurious transport for our guests that includes light refreshments, Alila hospitalities, in-car Wi-Fi and possibility of ordering from our food menu during the ride and have the meal ready upon arrival. The resort is located just 30 minutes away from the International Airport and airport pickup can be arranged by Alila. Bali is not famous for its public transport and for good reason, people usually drive or take taxis on the island as there are no trains and just one bus line.

We are truly falling short of words to define this beauty by the name of Alila Villas Uluwatu!

Pictures Courtesy: Alila Villas Uluwatu