Ah, Bali, the island of gods where the warm sands meet the cool water. Enjoying as much time on the tropical beach as you can is what you want to do while you’re here, isn’t it? So, the ideal scenario would be booking a place to stay along the coast. Unfortunately, common beach-view properties are often overpriced or just simply packed with tourists—not the kind of accommodation you want for your nice relaxing holiday.
Speaking of relaxing, I found a good, surprisingly affordable spot right on Bali’s most popular peninsula, Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua. That is Bali Relaxing Resort & Spa, and in this article I’ll be sharing my experiences, including some tips, to maximize your own experience here.
First things first: where is Tanjung Benoa?
You’ve probably heard a lot about Kuta, the most popular beach, where the Ngurah Rai International Airport is located. Tanjung Benoa is on the southeast side of Kuta, but to get to this part of Tanjung Benoa, you need to go south, as if you are going to Nusa Dua. You can reach the area via By Pass Ngurah Rai road or Bali Mandara Toll Road for 10,000 IDR (approximately 0.7 USD) toll fee. The toll road was built for those who want to avoid traffic on By Pass Ngurah Rai. But, if you’re going south, away from the airport, there will be no significant traffic.
This part of Tanjung Benoa is right next to the Nusa Dua area, which is filled with luxury resorts and private beaches. So, coming into this part of Bali, I was expecting an expensive accommodation, until I stumbled upon this property. Being on the eastern part of the island, plus the white bright sand, this shore can be scorching hot at noon. But as the sun goes down onto the other side of the island, it gets way cooler and calmer. I suggest you call it a night early so you’ll be up early to enjoy the sunrise at Tanjung Benoa Beach.
This part of Bali has been known for its water sport activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and parasailing. It’s easy to book one of these activities online and pay by bank transfer or cash at the door. I went on a snorkeling trip for 150,000 IDR (approximately 10 USD) or 200,000 IDR (approximately 13.5 USD) if you’re a foreigner. It’s probably not the best snorkeling spot, but it’s close and convenient.
Why book at Bali Relaxing Resort & Spa?
As I mentioned before, I was surprised to find this affordable resort in this area, which is known for its upper-class luxury resorts. As you can see from the picture, this place is the real deal, not just a cheap accommodation calling itself a resort. This actually IS a resort. So, how much do you think spending one night at a resort will cost you? 100 USD? 200 USD? Well, I only spent 54 USD (approximately 800,000 IDR) per night at Bali Relaxing Resort & Spa (BRR). A pretty good deal, I must say.
BRR is located on Jalan Pratama. From the main road of By Pass Ngurah Rai, just follow the sign to “Tanjung” up north. Once you’re on Jalan Pratama, look for the “BRR” sign on the right side of the road. Don’t worry about passing the entrance because the entrance gate is right after the sign. A guard will help you cross the street, welcome you and do security check on your vehicle and luggage. Then, you may head to the parking area or straight to the lobby by the main entrance. Head on to the reception desk and enjoy the complimentary welcome drink.
Jalan Pratama is adjacent to Tanjung Benoa beach. So, it should come as no surprise that a beach view is the type of room you should book at this resort. I requested a room with one king size bed, but it was not available at the time of my arrival. For my convenience, they gave me an upgrade to a deluxe room with beach view for free. White sand and blue ocean views right next to my bed!
Beside the Deluxe Sea View rooms, they also offer two other room types: Superior (around 100,000 IDR or approximately 7 USD cheaper) and Deluxe Pool View with one large bed (same rate, but not facing the ocean). What are these rooms all about? Let’s find out!
Resort luxury right by the ocean
Bali Relaxing Resort & Spa’s area is big, but it is easy to get to one point from another. Each floor is accessible through staircases and elevators. There are signs pointing in the directions you need to go to, such as the pool or main lobby. In case you feel like you’re getting lost, you can always find the hotel’s employees located throughout the grounds to help you. Some knowledge of the English language is one of the essential requirements for hospitality workers in Indonesia. So, you don’t have to worry about a language barrier.
Those room rates mentioned earlier include regular room amenities such as toiletries, slippers, robe, and complimentary drink water. An electric kettle and everything you need to make your own hot beverages are also available. Reading a book on the side of the bed after a relaxing hot shower while drinking tea was one of my favorite experiences during my stay. Not to mention the ocean view!
Those rates also include a breakfast coupon at the restaurant in the morning. The restaurant is located on the ground floor, right by the pool. There are plenty of options at the buffet including porridge, toast, bacon, and eggs. Yum! Selection of beverages is also available. Once you’re set with your choice of sustenance, I suggest you pick a spot in the garden area near the beach to enjoy your breakfast in peace.
Activities within this resort
Besides enjoying breakfast poolside, there are other things you can do in Bali Relaxing Resort & Spa. Let’s start with some poolside activities. Those who love the peaceful ambiance of the swimming pool by the beach can enjoy the luxury of the sun bed to read books or simply just relaxing with a little bit of tanning going on. Those who don’t like the sun can also take cover under the big umbrella. Don’t worry about getting thirsty and hungry because the restaurant remains open after breakfast. Foods and beverages on the menu are fairly reasonable. A cup of coffee costs around 25,000 IDR (approximately 1.7 USD).
This resort has “spa” in its name. That is self-explanatory. Across from the reception desk in the lobby area, you can find a spa parlor where you can indulge yourself with variety of Balinese massage. To know more about Balinese massage, I recommend you read Getting To Know Balinese Spa And Massage.
A quiet, affordable property to book on the buzzing peninsula
Tanjung Benoa may not be as popular as Kuta because of its location, especially with the fact that this peninsula is known for expensive luxury resorts. But now we know that even with a limited time and budget, you can still afford to stay in this part of Bali. Who wouldn’t want to spend time on those white sandy beaches anyway?
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