The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali – A Luxury Collection Hotel

Bali, the enchanting island paradise in Indonesia, never fails to captivate visitors with its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Offering a unique blend of lush rice terraces, luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, delicious cuisine, ancient temples, traditional arts and crafts, and a rich spiritual heritage. 

After our flight SQ939 from the “Lion City” in the luxurious Singapore Airlines Business Class aboard the Boeing 787, we touched down in the enchanting island paradise of Bali. The warm tropical breeze greeted us as we stepped off the plane, heralding the beginning of our unforgettable journey on this idyllic Indonesian island.

Arrival and Check-in: A Warm Welcome

Our journey began with a pre-arranged hotel shuttle service from the airport to The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali – A Luxury Collection Hotel, and from the moment we arrived, we knew we were in for an extraordinary experience.

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As we stepped foot onto the hotel grounds, we were greeted with a beautiful melodic harmony, as a group of staff members serenaded us with traditional Balinese songs. This heartfelt welcome immediately immersed us in the rich cultural tapestry that Bali is renowned for.

The check-in process itself was a personalized affair, surpassing our expectations. We were guided to comfortable seating arrangements, where we were offered refreshing drinks and cool towels, providing a refreshing respite from our journey. The attention to detail and the warmth exuded by the staff truly set the tone for our stay. The passport of every guest staying in the room was checked, including that of our infant, and in a few minutes, we were assigned our suite. Thanks to my 5 Suite Night Awards (SNA).

The Room: A Harmonious Blend of Style and Comfort

Escorted to our 1 Bedroom Executive Suite by our butler, we were immediately awestruck by the contemporary aesthetics and meticulous attention to detail. The interior design seamlessly blended modern elements with traditional Balinese influences, creating an ambiance that was both sophisticated and inviting. Every corner of the suite seemed thoughtfully designed, with a perfect balance of comfort and style.

Living Room: A Space for Relaxation and Dining

The living room was a spacious sanctuary, adorned with plush seating options and a well-appointed dining area. As we entered, our eyes were drawn to a dining table beautifully set with two chairs, inviting us to savor the culinary delights that awaited us.

But it wasn’t just the table that caught our attention; a delightful surprise awaited us in the form of a Bali fresh fruit platter, accompanied by an array of Balinese Signature Desserts. This gesture perfectly encapsulated the hotel’s commitment to creating unforgettable experiences.

Bedroom: Tranquility and Thoughtful Amenities

The bedroom offered a haven of tranquility, featuring a comfortable king-size bed adorned with luxurious linens. A work desk and chair, large size LCD TV, two nightstands, an alarm clock, and a cordless phone were thoughtfully placed to provide convenience. 

The presence of light switches and electrical power outlets with USB ports on each side of the bed showcased a thoughtful approach to modern-day comfort.

One of the highlights of the suite was the sliding door that led to the terrace. This seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces allowed us to bask in the natural beauty of Bali from both the living room and the bedroom. Stepping out onto the terrace, we were greeted by breathtaking views of the pool for the swim-up lagoon access rooms, saltwater lagoon pool, water fountains, and palm trees and cabanas.

Delightful Gestures and Considerate Service

While our stay at The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali was exceptional, we believe in providing a balanced perspective. The bed in our suite, though well-appointed, fell short of our expectations in terms of comfort. In comparison to our previous experience at The Nines, A Luxury Collection Hotel, where the bed felt plush and inviting, the firmness of the bed at The Laguna Resort & Spa didn’t provide the same level of relaxation and restfulness.

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Another aspect that could be improved upon was the presence of steps in both the living room and the bedroom. Although not inherently problematic, it would be beneficial to have clear signage reminding guests to “Watch Your Step.” Such a simple addition would enhance safety, particularly for guests who may not be accustomed to the layout of the suite.

Indulgent Bathrooms and Authentic Experiences

Stepping into the bathroom felt like entering a luxurious haven inspired by Balinese aesthetics. The deep soaking bathtub, with its inviting allure, proved to be a haven for relaxation after a day of exploration. The bathroom also featured double vanities, catering to the convenience of couples or individuals with specific grooming needs. A scale, discreetly placed for those mindful of their weight, and the provision of four additional bottled waters in the bathroom further exemplified the hotel’s attention to detail.

The walk-in shower and the presence of a toilet with a bidet reflected the cultural sensibilities of Bali, providing amenities that guests would naturally expect in this part of the world. The inclusion of these features highlighted the hotel’s commitment to ensuring a comfortable and authentic experience for their guests.

Exquisite Dining Experiences

During our check-in process, we were graciously invited to the General Manager’s Cocktail Night, an event where Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador elites gathered to mingle and enjoy drinks and delectable bites. This cherished tradition, though suspended by many resorts in light of the Covid-19 Pandemic, gave us an opportunity to mingle and connect with like-minded guests.

During our stay at The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali, the Banyubiru Restaurant was the only dining venue operating for both breakfast and dinner. The restaurant’s Balinese design and aesthetics added to the immersive dining experience, with traditional architecture, intricate wood carvings, and a warm atmosphere.

As we embarked on culinary adventures during this 5-night stay, the hotel’s dining offerings continued to impress each day. Our first evening saw me indulging in the delightful flavors of Nasi Goreng, a Southeast Asian fried rice dish that tantalized my taste buds. The fusion of spices, especially the samba sauce, and textures created a harmonious symphony on my palates, leaving me yearning for more. As crazy as this may sound, Nasi Goreng became my dinner every night throughout our stay.

The extensive buffet spread for breakfast featured a variety of international, Balinese, and Southeast Asian dishes, while the evening dinner menu showcased a fusion of flavors. The attentive staff and attention to detail made dining at Banyubiru a memorable experience, encapsulating the essence of Balinese culture and cuisine.

As lovers of Indian cuisine, we found ourselves craving the flavors of an Indian Curry with Roti, a combination that seemed elusive amidst the breakfast buffet. However, one of the attentive and accommodating staff quickly stepped in to rectify the situation. With remarkable efficiency, a special order was placed, and within no time, a plate of warm Roti and aromatic Indonesian Vegetable Curry was delivered to our table by the chef himself. This personalized touch was a testament to the staff’s commitment to guest satisfaction, which added a generous touch to our dining experience.

A Poolside Paradise

One of the crown jewels of The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali was undoubtedly its expansive swimming pools. With a total of seven pools, each with its own distinct charm, the resort redefined the concept of poolside relaxation. We found ourselves spoiled for choice, with options ranging from a children’s pool to the enchanting lagoon pool, where we could unwind and immerse ourselves in the soothing embrace of the water.

To complement our poolside experience, complimentary small bites and refreshing drinks were readily available, ensuring we stayed hydrated under the tropical sun. The hotel’s attention to detail was further evident with the inclusion of QR codes at each table, allowing us to conveniently order additional drinks from the Kulkul bar. As if that wasn’t enough, we were treated to complimentary ice cream a few hours later, a sweet indulgence that made us feel like carefree children once again.

After spending some time basking under the shade of an umbrella, we decided to splurge on a cabana. To our surprise, the cost of securing this slice of paradise was a mere IDR 135,000, equivalent to approximately $9. This stark contrast to the exorbitant cabana prices we had encountered in other destinations, such as Las Vegas, made us reflect on the beauty of Bali and its ability to offer luxurious experiences at a fraction of the cost. It served as a reminder that not all bucket list destinations are synonymous with exorbitant expenses.

Wellness and Recreation

The fitness center at The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali offered a compelling reason to maintain an active lifestyle amidst the indulgence of a luxurious vacation. The hotel gym, though compact, efficiently utilized the available space to offer a range of equipment and exercise options. Elliptical bikes, treadmills, weights, and pulleys were thoughtfully arranged, catering to guests with varying fitness goals. 

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The fitness center’s connection to the spa was a unique touch, allowing guests to seamlessly transition from invigorating workouts to tranquil moments of relaxation in the steam and sauna rooms. The complimentary 15-minute massage we experienced at the spa served as a tantalizing teaser, leading us to indulge in a blissful hour-long couple’s massage.

The Laguna Villa Retreat

Curiosity got the better of me during my morning walk, and I found myself requesting for a tour to one of the ten Villas at the hotel. The 1 Bedroom Villa featured private pool, inviting me to take a dip and luxuriate in its cool embrace. The living room, generously proportioned, offered a perfect balance of comfort and elegance. The elegant bedroom featured a king-size bed adorned with plush linens, promising nights of restful sleep. The presence of a kitchenette and a separate walk-in section with a twin bed further elevated the Villa’s allure.

The highlight of the expansive bathroom was undoubtedly the deep soaking bathtub, a divine oasis of relaxation. The separate walk-in shower on the other side of the bathroom provided a refreshing alternative, allowing us to tailor our bathing experiences to our desires. The attention to detail and the spaciousness of the bathroom exemplified the resort’s commitment to providing an indulgent and rejuvenating retreat.

During our stay, we were presented with the opportunity to upgrade from our 1 Bedroom Executive Suite to a Villa for an additional IDR 7,000,000 ($500) per night. An offer which we gladly declined.

On the other end of the villa is the presence of tennis courts, which I was excited to see. However, I was disappointed to discover that the use of the tennis court is not complimentary, but there was a charge of IDR 125,000 per hour to use the court, in addition to fees for the rental of racquets and tennis balls. Given that the tennis court is part of the hotel’s amenities, it would be beneficial for guests if this activity were included without additional charges, providing a seamless and truly holistic experience.

The Laguna Beach

The beach at The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali is a picturesque haven nestled along the captivating shores of the Indian Ocean. It reminded me of the amazing time I had at the then St. Regis Mauritius, now rebranded as JW Marriott Mauritius. Located in the renowned Nusa Dua area, this stretch of coastline offers pristine white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and breathtaking panoramic views. Whether lounging under the shade of a palm tree, indulging in water activities, or simply basking in the warm tropical sun, the beach at The Laguna Resort & Spa provides a tranquil escape where guests can unwind and embrace the natural beauty of Bali’s coastal paradise.

Exceptional Service and Lasting Memories

Our interactions with the hotel staff left an impression on us. Agus, the food and beverage manager, displayed exceptional kindness and creativity, surprising us with different offerings throughout our stay. The staff at the Banyubiru Restaurant warmly welcomed us morning and evening, going above and beyond to accommodate our requests and ensure our dining experiences were exceptional.

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While we appreciated the initial assistance provided by our butler, we couldn’t help but feel that the level of personalized service fell short of our expectations. After the check-in process, we rarely saw or heard from our butler, which contrasted with our experience on the first day when he had been incredibly attentive and accommodating. Nonetheless, we were grateful for the thoughtful amenities he had arranged, such as a sterilizer for our baby’s feeding bottles, a baby’s bathtub, and a plug-in bug repellent.

My Verdict: 

In conclusion, The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali – A Luxury Collection Hotel, left an indelible mark on our hearts. With its impeccable attention to detail, warm hospitality, and enchanting surroundings, it surpassed our expectations in many ways, given that we only redeemed 132,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and 5 Suite Night Awards (SNAs) for this stay.

While there is room for improvement in certain areas, such as the comfort of the beds and the inclusivity of amenities like the tennis courts, the overall experience was nothing short of extraordinary. The Laguna Resort & Spa, Bali has earned a special place in our hearts, and we eagerly look forward to returning to this haven of luxury and tranquility in the future.

What’s your take on this hotel? I’d like to read your comments below, or answer any questions you may have.