There’s no denying that Bali is a haven for grownups—couples, a group of friends, and solo travelers looking for fun. Many resorts and hotels aren’t built for families, or worse, some of them refuse kids altogether. The good thing is that there are places like Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa that welcome families with the tiny tots in tow for fun island adventures. Read more…
LOCATION
Holiday Inn Bali Benoa is situated on a tanjung (cape) far away from the more crowded portions of Kuta and Seminyak and beside the luxurious Nusa Dua area. Known for its variety of water sports, Benoa is populated by only a few resorts, so it is in a way exclusive and serene. The airport, by the way, can be reached within 15-20 minutes via a coastal expressway, and taxis and Uber cars ply the area regularly, so accessibility is not a problem.
STYLE/CHARACTER
A concept of the renowned InterContinental Hotels Group, Holiday Inn Resort focuses on “family fun and relaxation,” so kids are as welcome as their parents. All their resorts, located in key family-friendly destinations, feature a swimming pool, activities, and live entertainment.
With lots of open spaces and an unmistakable liveliness, Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa is what I would describe as breezy, vibrant, and refreshing. The new resort, opened only early last year, showcases the charm of the Bali everywhere, albeit in a subtle and modern way.
ROOMS
The vibrance from the outdoor areas was equally as felt in my spacious Benoa Ocean View Room. Set in a palette of blues and earth colors, the room was relaxing and refreshing at the same time. The minimal decor added a native Balinese touch, while the commanding view of the pool below and the ocean beyond elevated the experience.
All rooms feature all the conveniences necessary for a spectacular resort holiday, starting with the Holiday Inn bed that I’ve always found to be comfortable. Aside from the rooms perfect for couples, the resort, being family-oriented, likewise offers kid-friendly suites and adjoining rooms.
FACILITIES
The resort impressively boasts of a range of activities for the entire family. First off, it has not one nor two but four swimming pools, including a shaded atrium pool with outdoor hot tub, a kids’ pool with a slide and fountains, a pool with a swim-up bar, and an infinity pool.
In addition, the resort has a Games Zone with dartboards, a pool table, foosball, air hockey, board games, and Nintendo Wii; a library of books, magazines, and DVDs; a quiet computer nook; a fitness center and spa; and a Kids’ Club with a computer zone, a ball pit, and a photo booth.
Aside from the activities mentioned above, the resort may arrange a handful of activities like beach and cultural excursions, water sports, cooking classes, and surfing. These are aside from the daily activities like water aerobics and hikes that the resort offers its guests for free.
THE BEACH
The resort fronts quite a long stretch of beach, and they’ve installed rows of daybeds for sunbathing. Although that part of the island is more suitable for water sports, it’s maintained well enough for swimming and beach activities.
FOOD AND DRINK
Breakfasts are served at Pasar Market Cafe. The all-day dining restaurant with its live stations serves a spread of sumptuous Western, Asian, and Indonesian dishes.
I was also able to try the afforable tapas-style fare at Nudi Beach Club, which is named after the nudibranch ubiquitous in the waters of Bali. My favorites were the crunchy crumbed crab and shrimp balls, the spicy Balinese traditional sausage, and the refreshing char siew roll.
SERVICE
The incredible staff of the resort were always nice and smiling, and some of them would strike random conversations, so I didn’t feel too alone. They handled my requests efficiently too.
VALUE FOR MONEY
Despite being a new property, Holiday Inn Bali Benoa’s rates are surprisingly competitive with other international name brand resorts in the area and in all of Bali. And with its fresh rooms, filling breakfasts, and spectacular service, the resort’s a great value option.
HOLIDAY INN RESORT BALI BENOA
Jalan Pratama, Tanjung Benoa, Kuta Selatan, Badung, Bali, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 894 7888
Email: reservation.benoa@ihg.com
Website: balibenoa.holidayinnresorts.com
Social Media: Facebook and Instagram