Unbelievable Luxury Awaits: Discover Adiwana Resort Jembawan, Indonesia!
Adiwana Resort Jembawan: Bali Bliss or Just Bali? (A Rambling Review for the Undecided)
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from Adiwana Resort Jembawan in Ubud, Bali, and I'm here to spill the tea. And by "spill," I mean… well, you're about to wade through a slightly chaotic, definitely opinionated, and hopefully helpful review. Consider yourself warned.
First Impressions: The Good, The Slightly Less Good, and the "Wait, What?"
Okay, so landing at Denpasar airport and the transfer to Ubud? Smooth as melted butter, thanks to the provided airport transfer. Seriously, after a flight that felt like it lasted a lifetime, the cool, crisp air of Bali washing over you is…kinda magical. Then you arrive at Adiwana. First impressions? Lush. Lush. Tropical plants EVERYWHERE. A truly "Instagrammable" entrance, even though I'm not sure how to use Instagram (I have people). The check-in? Contactless check-in/out – score! Quick, easy, and less human interaction is always a win for me, especially after a long flight. They also had a doorman – that's always nice for feeling like a baller, even if I'm not.
Now, the "wait, what?" moment. Getting to my room…lots of stairs! While they have an elevator, it doesn't service every room. (Okay, maybe it’s not a "wait, what" but more a "hmm" for anyone with mobility issues.) While they list facilities for disabled guests , I think a deeper dive into specific room accessibility is vital before you book. This is something I should have checked before arriving (lesson learned!).
Accessibility: Okay – Read the Fine Print!
Let's get this out of the way. Accessibility is present, but not perfect. The main areas are manageable, but those stairs… They do have an elevator, and I remember seeing a ramp in the main restaurant, but I unfortunately didn't test it out. So, if stairs are your nemesis, definitely call the resort and get specific room accessibility information before you book. Don't be like me and just assume.
Rooms: Ah, Bliss… Mostly.
My room was… lovely. Seriously, air conditioning – essential in Bali! Air conditioning in public areas – also essential! The blackout curtains were a lifesaver for sleeping off jet lag. The free Wi-Fi in the room (and throughout the resort) was super convenient. My room had a private bathroom with a separate shower and tub, and I was so happy to bathe in hot water after my flight and the shower was so good, the toiletries were delightful, and having bathrobes and slippers made me feel like a queen (a slightly rumpled queen, but a queen nonetheless). Daily housekeeping kept it all pristine. Additional toilet was useful. Extra points for the coffee/tea maker and complimentary tea – that first cup of coffee on the balcony was pure, unadulterated joy.
Now, a mini-rant. I'm not sure what happened to my reading light, but it was useless, giving off much too little light to read with, and the alarm clock kept going off at the wrong time! (I may have pressed the wrong button.) Also, I’m not sure if a mirror is big enough to see all your imperfections! I'm still not sure if a safe box did, in fact it did, I did not use it, and I can't fully comment.
Internet & Other Techy Stuff:
Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And it actually works! I was able to stream movies to get over a terrible bout of jet lag. They also have Internet [LAN] and Internet services. The internet was good for what i used it for..
Dining: Feed Me (and My Opinions!)
Okay, food. This is where things get…interesting. The Asian breakfast was delicious, lots of fresh fruit and the usual. I am not a fan of spicy food, so I was pleased with the general flavor profile. They have restaurants with multiple, different types of food, with Asian cuisine in restaurant, International cuisine in restaurant, Western cuisine in restaurant, it's great. There’s room service [24-hour] which is fantastic. My most incredible recommendation would be to take the breakfast [buffet]! I was honestly a bit underwhelmed by the Happy hour, but hey, free drinks are free drinks, and the Poolside bar was convenient. They also have a coffee shop which is great for a quick snack or drink on the go. They have a snack bar.
Here’s my one big food experience to tell you about:
One morning I ordered Breakfast in room. I thought it would save me a trip, I was wrong. (Remember: Stairs!) The food arrived promptly, beautifully presented, but the best part? The view. I sat on my balcony, overlooking the rice paddies with that first bite of fruit. Pure, unadulterated Bali. I did not have Breakfast takeaway service. A little tip: the Bottle of water is always welcome!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: Spa Day, Please!
Right, so, relaxation! Adiwana nails this. The swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous, with a view. And the Spa/sauna is… heaven. I am not a spa person at all, but I still had a great experience.
Here's my Spa experience to tell you about:
I opted for the full works: Body scrub, Body wrap, an hour’s Massage. I felt like a wrung-out noodle afterward, in the best possible way. The masseuse was skilled, the aromatherapy scents were divine, and the whole experience was just… blissful. Foot bath was an experience (can you believe it?). I did not have a Pool with view or a Steamroom.
Cleanliness & Safety: Seriously, They're Trying
COVID-19 is still a thing, and Adiwana seemed to take it seriously. There were bottles of hand sanitizer everywhere, and staff wore masks. They had daily disinfection in common areas. I appreciated the efforts, which definitely made me feel safer. They have Sanitized kitchen and tableware items.
I did not see any Anti-viral cleaning products, but it looked clean.
Services & Conveniences: A Mixed Bag
They offer a lot of services. Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery – it’s all there. But…
I had a slight issue when I needed the Laundry service. One of my shirts came back looking more like a crumpled napkin, and I had to use the Ironing service to fix it (which was fast and efficient!).
I’m mentioning this because perfection is a myth. These small hiccups don't detract from the overall experience, just add a bit of realism. Luggage storage was super helpful, and I felt comfortable leaving my bags.
For the Kids:
I didn’t see any kids, but they do have babysitting service and Kids facilities.
Getting Around:
They offer Airport transfer (which I loved), as well as Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site], plus they have Taxi service.
Overall: Should You Go?
Yes! With the caveat that you do your research about accessibility if that’s a concern.
The Good: The stunning scenery, the luxurious rooms (mostly!), the amazing spa.
The Less Good: The accessibility needs a bit more attention to detail, the occasional minor service issue.
The Verdict: Adiwana Jembawan offers a truly luxurious Balinese experience. It’s a place to relax, recharge, and soak up the beauty of Ubud. Just be prepared for a few minor imperfections. Embrace them – they're part of the adventure.
*Here's my pitch for booking:
Ready to Unwind in Unbelievable Luxury? Adiwana Resort Jembawan Awaits!
Tired of the same old routine? Yearning for an escape to a paradise where tranquility meets unparalleled comfort? Look no further than the Adiwana Resort Jembawan in Ubud, Bali!
Imagine this:
- Waking up in a spacious, air-conditioned room (free Wi-Fi!), perfectly designed to melt your stress away.
- Sipping your morning coffee on your private balcony while the sun paints the rice paddies in golden hues.
- Indulging in a rejuvenating spa experience, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
- Savoring the flavors of Bali with diverse dining options, from local delicacies to international favorites.
- Exploring the vibrant culture and attractions of Ubud, with easy access and seamless transfers.
But here's the real kicker:
We’re not just offering a hotel room; we’re offering an
Escape to Italy: Unforgettable Luxury at Hotel Galli's
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because this ain’t your average travel itinerary. This is… well, it’s my Adiwana Resort Jembawan adventure, and it's gonna be a glorious, messy ride. Expect tears (maybe), laughter (definitely), and the distinct possibility I'll spend way too much time staring at a lizard. Here goes nothing:
Day 1: Arrival & Oh My God, That Smell!
- 11:00 AM (ish – because let's be real, I'm never on time): Touchdown in Denpasar! Woohoo! The air conditioning on the plane was a cruel mistress, so as I stepped out, the tropical heat smacked me in the face like a rogue wave. But then… the smell. Oh, the smell of Bali. Incense, frangipani, a hint of something earthy and… deliciously unfamiliar. I’m already in love.
- 12:30 PM: The pre-booked driver (thank GOD, after the last airport debacle) whisked me away to Ubud. The drive was a sensory overload – vibrant colours, scooters zipping past like angry bees, and the constant, soothing sound of prayer bells. I spent the whole ride trying to mentally edit the Instagram post that’s already forming in my head.
- 2:00 PM: ARRIVAL AT ADIWANA! Okay, let's just say the photos do not do this place justice. It’s pure, unadulterated lushness. Greenery practically swallowing the buildings, ornate carvings everywhere. Check-in was smooth… and then the room. THE ROOM! A four-poster bed draped in mosquito netting (a romantic necessity, not just a fancy prop, as I'm already feeling a nibble).
- 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM: The First Dip and a near-disaster. Thought I was being all fancy and planned to enjoy the pool. Turns out, my swimsuit decided to stage a rebellion as I dove in. I swear, the chlorine practically tasted like embarrassment. I salvaged the situation with a graceful exit and a frantic search for a sarong. Managed not to drown. Success.
- 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Spa Time! I'm a sucker for a good massage, and this place delivered. The Balinese massage was pure bliss. I think I actually saw my stress levels melt away. I might have even dozed off and drooled. Don't judge me.
- 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Pre-Dinner Rambles. Wandering around the resort. Found a hidden nook with a swing and instantly felt like a carefree child again. I have to admit, the whole place is a serious vibe.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner at the resort restaurant. The food was AMAZING. I had the Nasi Goreng, and it was probably the best I've ever had. I mean, I'm already thinking about ordering it again tomorrow. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. I felt totally pampered.
Day 2: Monkeys, Misadventures, and the Power of the Bintang
- 7:00 AM: Wake up feeling vaguely guilty about how deeply and peacefully I slept. Coffee and the sound of birds chirping. This, my friends, is the life.
- 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM: Monkey Forest Shenanigans! This was… an experience. Let me just say, my carefully crafted “cool and collected tourist” persona crumbled within seconds of entering the Monkey Forest. These little bandits are bold. I mean, they're straight-up robbing people. I saw a monkey snatch sunglasses, another one made off with a banana (obviously), and one tiny creature eyeing my water bottle with pure evil. I had my backpack clutched to my chest like a life raft, praying I wouldn't become their next target. I eventually emerged unscathed (and slightly traumatized). My advice? Hide your snacks, people!
- 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: A much-needed caffeine fix and a quiet moment to decompress at a little cafe near the Monkey Forest. Ordered a coffee and a giant iced tea (needed the sugar to combat the monkey-induced adrenaline crash).
- 12:30 PM: Lunch at a local Warung. I tried the Gado-Gado - the peanut sauce was divine! This is where the real travel magic happened… the street food, the conversations.
- 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Free Time to Relax. Pool and read. Ahh, the life! I found a secluded corner of the pool and basically turned into a human sloth. Pure bliss. It was a very relaxing afternoon.
- 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM : I really, REALLY wanted to see the rice fields. It was breathtaking. Such an incredible natural beauty. However, I would suggest doing this early in the morning or late afternoon, as it gets very hot during the day.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner & Bintang. Dinner again at the resort (because, comfort). Followed by a Bintang beer on my little balcony. The stars were incredible. And the silence… well, it was only broken by the occasional gecko chirp, which, let’s be honest, is the soundtrack to my new happy life.
Day 3: Waterfalls, Reflection, and a Farewell (for now)
- 8:00 AM: Another glorious sunrise. This time, armed with a notepad. I’m trying to capture all the feelings, the smells, the moments! Mostly just scribbling nonsense.
- 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM: Tegenungan Waterfall Adventure: This was absolutely stunning. Water cascading down, the roar of the falls, a truly awesome experience. I even managed to take a few decent photos! This place is such a natural wonder. Spent a good hour just sitting and listening to the water, feeling incredibly small but connected. It's like nature's therapy.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at a local warung near the waterfall. Had the most incredible fresh fish, grilled perfectly.
- 1:30 PM - 4:00 PM: Pack and Reflect. I wandered around the resort one last time, savouring the smells, saying goodbye to the giant swing, and taking a mental photo album to keep. Feeling surprisingly sad to leave!
- 4:00 PM: Check-out. Farewell to this absolute paradise!
Closing Thoughts:
This trip? It was more than just a vacation. It was a reset. A deep breath. A reminder to slow down, appreciate the small things, and embrace the delicious chaos of life. And the Adiwana Jembawan? Well, it's a place I will definitely be back to. Seriously!
Final Note: This itinerary is probably missing some days and events. So forgive me. The honest truth is that I forgot most of what I did.
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Okay, seriously, is Adiwana Resort Jembawan *really* as amazing as the pictures? Because, let's be honest, Instagram lies.
Alright, real talk. The pictures? Yeah, they're good. But…they don’t tell the whole story. They can't possibly capture the humid Balinese air that hits you the second you step off the plane, that frangipani scent that clings to everything (bliss!), or the way the staff smiles – it's genuine, not that plastic hotel-smile. Okay, I'll admit, my expectations were sky-high, and yeah, Adiwana kinda delivered. Mostly. There were a few hiccups (more on that later, you’ll want to hear it). But the overall vibe? Magic. Utter, glorious, slightly-imperfect magic. Think lush jungle, stone carvings older than your grandma, and a pool that practically begs you to become a permanent fixture.
What's the deal with the location? Ubud is…well, Ubud. Is it *too* touristy?
Ubud. Right. Look, it *is* touristy. Let’s get that out of the way. You'll trip over a yoga retreat or a shop selling "authentic" dreamcatchers every five minutes. But Adiwana is tucked away, almost…secret. It's close enough to the town to enjoy the things you *want* (the delicious food, the artisan shops) but far enough away to escape the hordes. Plus, the hotel offers free shuttle services! One time…I took the shuttle into town and got utterly lost. Like, turned-around-in-a-tiny-alley-surrounded-by-motorbikes-lost. Oops. Anyway, the point is, the location strikes a decent balance. You can embrace the touristy stuff *or* retreat to your haven. I did a bit of both, depending on my mood and how well I'd handled lunch. Which leads me to…
How’s the food? Because a bad travel meal can ruin the whole experience, let's be real.
Oh. My. God. The food. Okay, so I am *not* a food blogger, and I burn toast on the regular. But the food at Adiwana? Forget it. Absolutely divine. The breakfast buffet was a glorious beast – fresh fruit you've never even *seen* before, perfectly-made pancakes, and the best coffee I had during my entire trip. The à la carte menu offered a range of Indonesian and Western options, and I tried *everything*. The nasi goreng was spicy perfection. The curries were creamy and flavorful. And I may or may not have ordered room service…a lot. The imperfection? One time, the waiter forgot my drink order. Minor issue, easily remedied. I just gave him the ‘puppy dog eyes’ and he laughed and fetched it with lightning speed. Score!
And the rooms? Give me the lowdown. Are they truly luxurious or just fancy hotel rooms?
The rooms…the rooms are where Adiwana truly shines. Yes, they *are* luxurious. Think plush beds, enormous bathrooms with freestanding tubs, and private balconies overlooking the jungle. My room had a *bamboo-walled shower*! I felt like I'd stepped into a high-end spa, minus the cucumber water (which, by the way, they *do* offer). The design is beautiful, blending modern comfort with traditional Balinese aesthetics. One minor, almost comical, moment? I couldn't figure out how to work the in-room safe the first day. I mean, REALLY? I had to call reception. Mortifying. But hey, the staff came and were lovely about it. Other then that, I was in paradise. Pure, unadulterated paradise.
What about the spa? I’m imagining massages and…more massages?
The spa. Oh, the spa. Okay, this is where I had *the* experience. I am not kidding. I booked the "Royal Jembawan Ritual." It was, like, two hours long. I’m talking full body massage, body scrub, flower bath…the works. I swear, at one point, I thought I was floating. The massage therapists are incredibly skilled. This is not to be missed. My only regret? Not booking a longer treatment. (Yes, I should have just stayed there) The only problem was, when I got dressed afterwards, I realized I'd smeared oil all over my favorite dress. Sigh. Thankfully, the hotel staff was kind enough to get the stain out. They are lifesavers.
Any downsides? Anything that didn’t quite live up to the hype?
Okay, honesty time. Nothing is perfect. The Wi-Fi could be a little spotty in certain areas of the resort. And sometimes, the music playing by the pool was a *little*… repetitive. I’m talking, like, “Hotel California” on loop for an hour. Fine for some. A test of my sanity for others. The biggest issue, though? Leaving. Seriously. My flight home felt like a cosmic joke. I desperately wanted to stay.
Is it worth the money? Budget traveler here, trying to decide.
Alright, the big question. Is it worth the price tag? Look, it’s not a budget backpacker hostel, okay? It *is* a luxury resort. BUT… I’d say yes. Absolutely. The value for money is there. Consider what you're getting: incredible service, stunning location, delicious food, and a level of relaxation that's hard to find anywhere else. I mean, I spent about 5 days at Adiwana, and it felt like a month. I left feeling refreshed and alive. Would I go back? In a heartbeat. I'm already planning my return, even if it means eating ramen for a month to save up! Go. Just go. You won’t regret it. Trust me. And if you see that Royal Jembawan Ritual, get it done. Seriously.
What kind of activities are there in the area? Besides the spa, of course.
Okay, so the spa is a *major* focus here, but there are plenty of other things to do. Adiwana can easily arrange excursions to nearby temples, rice paddies, and waterfalls. There's yoga and meditation sessions offered at the resort. The staff are great at helping you plan things, and it's easy to explore Ubud on your own. I highly recommend visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary – just be prepared for the monkeys to try and steal your sunglasses! They're adorable, but sneaky. A good life tip is to leave your earrings in your room. Just a little story: I thought I'd be clever and brought a bag of bananas. I was immediately surrounded, and then...a monkey snatched my sunnies and ran up a tree. I got them back eventually, but learned a valuable lesson about monkey-human relations that day.
