Alila Manggis

Class: First

Style: Modern design

Rooms: 56

It’s difficult to say just what is special about Alila Manggis, as many of its attributes could justifiably be claimed by dozens of other hotels. Bali is not exactly an obscure destination (though this East Bali location is a bit wilder), and the idea of a modern hotel with traditional indigenous architecture is nothing new. And heaven knows there’s nothing revolutionary about a tropical resort hotel that promises “pampering” courtesy of its signature spa. Maybe it’s in the execution, then, or something more intangible, but there is definitely something that elevates this hotel (formerly known as the Serai) above other hotels in the genre. The design, by renowned hotel architect Kerry Hill, feels just right, with a pleasing mix of the traditional and the modern, without trying too hard in either direction. The four low buildings surround a pool, lined with palms, and the landscape is lush with gardens and indigenous foliage — this is sensitive development at its finest, with the hotel acting as steward rather than master of its environment. The feeling is so enveloping and coccoon-like that it is difficult to leave the grounds even for the 20-meter walk to the spectacular wide-open beach. Guest rooms are bright and crisply designed, again, without pushing the envelope of stark modernism or cluttering the space with trinkets and traditional detail. Lower-level rooms have private terraces, while second-story rooms have balconies outfitted with day beds, and the two suites (in the building closest to the ocean) are surrounded by baclonies, suitable for dining or sunning. And all rooms and suites, no matter which building or description, face the ocean, and Bali’s sister island, Nusa Penida, rises in the distance, across the strait. There are no gimmicks here, no unique hook to stick in one’s mind. Perhaps you have to have been there in order to get it. But at any rate, the Alila Manggis is truly one of Bali’s best-kept secrets, and a true bargain to boot. You may just have to take us at our word — should the opportunity for an island getaway arise, this hotel is worth taking a chance on.