Hotel Review: The Santai Umalas – Lifestyle Retreats
Photos Taken at The Santai
Located in Umalas, The Santai is unique in its own way; with secluded pool villas, authentic Balinese cuisine and warm welcomes from their staff, you instantly feel at home.
MY EXPERIENCE
We arrived late that evening as our flight was delayed. The hotel had arranged a driver to pick us up from the airport. Our driver was very nice and offered us with refreshments during our drive. I was very excited for this next adventure as Bali has been on my lists of places to visit for a long time!
We pulled up to the driveway; a complete wow-factor. The Santai was absolutely stunning – from the beautifully designed lobby to the high-end luxurious bedroom villas. We were all stunned and ready for our next adventure.
Room:
We had the pleasure of staying in their 2 bedroom, 2 bath villa – which offers a private pool and a separate kitchen/lounge room. These villas were enormous! I absolutely loved the space and privacy – it really felt like you just moved into your new home.
My friend and I shared the master bedroom, while my other two friends stayed in the guest bedroom – both equipped with an outdoor shower and bath; you really felt like you were in the jungle.
Our bathroom had a nice, big bath – which I definitely took advantage of for pictures.
Hotel Dining and Cocktails:
Gong Restaurant
You can dine in at their restaurant downstairs called Gong Restaurant; opened for breakfast, lunch and dinner – this delicious restaurant specializes in South East Asian cuisine. Oh my god, can you say delicious?? Besides the W Bangkok’s international breakfast, theirs was one of my favorites! Every breakfast you choose a start (which was a mixture of fruits, salads, or soup), then your main dish, a drink and a selection of morning boosters. See the full menu here.
They also offer all-day dining, which you can order at the restaurant or for room service.
The food was out of this world, very fresh and flavorful dishes. I recommend you trying their signature dish: Slow Braised and Grilled Pork spareribs, it was bomb!
Afternoon Tea @ Gong Restaurant
Afternoon Tea is also offered for those who have a sweet-tooth. Enjoy tea or coffee and a selection of delicious sweet pastries and savories in the restaurant or poolside in your villa – you pick.
Cocktails
Like every Asian city and what I’ve noticed, happy hour is offered as a buy one – get one free deal, which is great! At Gong Restaurant they offer guests a happy hour from 5 to 7 pm daily. Again, you can enjoy your cocktails at the restaurant or in your villa.
Amenities:
Swimming Pool
Each villa at The Santai offers guests with a secluded pool. The pool is about 3 to 4 feet; and is a good enough size for a couple and/or family.
Spa
While this resort does not offer a spa location; they do offer massage packages. There was an amazing deal going on during the time we were there, a buy one get one free deal – the massage ladies came and set up in our villa. It was so relaxing and amazing!
Additional Activities:
Want to enjoy some activities while at The Santai? You can.
Cooking Class
If you love Balinese food and want to learn how to make it yourself; sign up for The Santai’s cooking class. This is the best way to get a taste of all the incredible spices and blends of Balinese dishes. Hosted by their local chefs; you become a guest sous chef for the day. You start the morning off picking the best produce at the market, discussing recipes and then finally prepping, cooking and of course eating.
The Santai also offers guests with bikes (first come first basis), yoga classes, and other private dining options.
The resort also offers shuttle transportation per request and availability. 
Nearby Spots:
The Santai is located near many restaurants, shopping and more – read all about it – 6 Must Visit Tourist Attractions in Bali
OVERALL RATING
If you are looking to stay at a private, high end and luxurious resort – The Santai is where you should consider. From the very accommodating and warm staff to the secluded villas and pools; I really felt right at home and I look forward to coming back.
The Santai Umalas is located on:
Jalan Bumbak No.88A
Banjar Anyar Kelod
Kerobokan, Kuta Utara
Kabupaten Badung, Bali
Reserve your stay here!
xo,
Fancy Nancy
Thank you to the amazing team at The Santai and Lifestyle Retreats for hosting my stay – as always, all opinions are my own.
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