Padma Resort Bali

I had read many brochures and spoke to several people before finally making my decision to stay at the Padma. Location, quality, cost ... many questions I had, but all I can say is, its not til you go and try it that you finally get your answer.

Holidaying with my parents, we stayed for just under a week in Bali.
We stayed in the Deluxe Chalet, which is just a little walk aways from the entrance and the pool area - far enough. The gardens were immaculate, and the staff very friendly, everytime I walked past they would always say hello. Bali being a very humid place - I really did enjoy walking into the nicely chilled room everytime we entered the room. The bed was extremely comfy, and the room was big enough for 3. The bathroom was very large and the shower area could fit literally 10 people!! Although the showerhead could have been better - the water had low pressure and was always fine spray.

Breakfast every morning was substantial, they had the normal things and would add in 1 or 2 different Indo dishes everyday to mix things up. The buffet area is open air, and sometimes I would be perspiring like crazy while eating. I also at the the Italian restaurant - and I must say - very yummy indeed! I highly recommend a nice dinner on the deck looking over the sunset while eating wood fired pizza or delicious Italian pasta. There is also a Japanese themed restaurant too, I didnt try this but was told it is very popular.

The Hotel Padma is located in Legian Beach, just on the edge of Kuta beach. Distance in walking is great, however I felt it a little too far sometimes (perhaps because I was hot, tired and need the aircon?) so we just jumped in a taxi and AUD$2 later we'd be at the hotel. The hotel is close enough to the action but not in it. It is located on the beach but its not direct access, you have to walk acorss the road. The pool is meant to be the biggest in the area, but personally wasnt the best atmosphere as people would always be looking at you when you got it, swam and got out of the pool.

There's a lot of European and Australian tourists at this hotel. I find that the Europeans were quite rude to staff and walked around like they were top stuff. Speaking of walking around, at times I felt as if we were the only guests - I guess thats because everyone was out and about and the hotel is quite large - as I found out the hotel was running at 90% occupancy. This was a good feeling because then I didnt feel so cramped!

Overall, my stay was pleasant and would recommend this hotel to anyone who can afford it and would want the Legian area. On my next trip however, I'll be staying in the Kuta area, only because its much more central to shops, nightlife and nicer restaurants.

Tips:
- dont change your money at the hotel, as rates arent that great,
- if paying by US dollars at the hotel...check your money carefully - they dont accept any notes made before 2006 !!