Grand Hyatt Bali
The Grand Hyatt Bali in Nusa Dua was my first introduction to Bali. Although I’ve lived in Australia for a short lifetime I had never made the short trip over. I think this is mostly because in the recent past it has been the favorite destination for many Australians.
I felt a little odd visiting a foreign place just to be surrounded by other Aussies.
But I’m glad I finally made it over and I understand why people are drawn to the island.
This resort-style property had a unique Club Lounge housed under surprisingly cool and spacious thatched huts. Huts is too casual a word for the structure, though. After staying here I had an appreciation for how thoughtful architecture can guard against the harshest of elements.
Arriving at the Grand Hyatt Bali
Arriving at midnight, provided a special level of peacefulness. The covered walkways were well lit and the large, lobby was empty aside from the people working at the desk.
The vastness of the property was apparent, but well-designed walkways and signage ensured that navigating the expansive grounds was a breeze.
With my Globalist status I was given a room at the convenient Club Tower, centrally located between the Club Lounge and main pool.
The Room
Tiled floors and wooden furniture is a common feature of hotels in this part of the world. The king ocean view room that I had wasn’t much to write home about compared to many of the newer Hyatt properties but it definitely felt like a Hyatt.
My Club Tower experience began with a Globalist Gift – a duo of snacks including cookies and a mix of dried fruits and nuts. A plate of tropical fruits, including the native snake fruit unique to Indonesia, added a local touch. My second-floor balcony, though offering only a peekaboo view of the ocean, provided a tranquil spot to appreciate the lush gardens surrounding the tower.
Globalist Breakfast at the Grand Hyatt Bali
For breakfast, the nearby Club Lounge beckoned, offering a diverse menu and a serene atmosphere enhanced by the sounds of Balinese instruments, local birds, and a calming water feature. Choosing a seat near the koi pond allowed me to enjoy a quieter ambiance, a thoughtful touch for travelers seeking a more peaceful start to their day.
The breakfast buffet featured a noodle bar, local and Western breakfast delights, Indian specialties, overnight oats, congee stations, and a tempting array of desserts made from rice, coconut, and sugar. The thoughtful inclusion of Balinese pancakes, Laklak, added a local flair to the international spread.
Daytime Lounging
While the beach was inviting, the heat of January led most guests to the refreshing poolside. Shaded by lush trees, the pool area became my preferred oasis, where I could unwind and even order lunch conveniently using a QR code from my lounge chair. The resort's landscape design ensured that even outdoor spaces provided ample shade, making the tropical heat more enjoyable.
There were many families here but the pool area was so large that it accommodated everyone without issue.
Contrary to some reviews, the air conditioning in the room exceeded expectations, offering a comfortable escape from the external humidity. The gym, though lacking water, provided a space for a workout, and the resort's attention to detail, such as universal outlets and reliable WiFi, made working remotely a seamless experience.
Overall Experience
Grand Hyatt Bali struck a balance between being family-friendly and offering a private retreat. Despite the number of guests, the resort maintained an intimate atmosphere, allowing me to work undisturbed and indulge in the tranquil surroundings.
As with any paradise, there were some minor inconveniences. The presence of mosquitoes at dusk prompted me to retreat indoors earlier than planned. While bug repellent was on hand, the allure of the resort's indoor comforts made it a small sacrifice.
In conclusion, Grand Hyatt Bali stands as a testament to luxury and serenity in the heart of Bali. Though it appears to be one of the older properties that I’ve stayed at I still enjoyed my experience. The hospitality of the staff was the most memorable aspect of the stay. From the comfortable accommodations to the diverse dining options and the well-designed outdoor spaces, it had everything I could have wanted to enjoy a relaxing stay.
What luggage did I take?
I was in Bali for a total of 6 days so I took my large Tumi rolling case, Tumi backpack for my laptop, and the Longchamps tote to use on the plane and also to use as a handbag at my destination.
It feels like a luxury to bring the big case because I can pack without as much stress since I have room to bring extra things, unlike Europe where you’re fighting for your life with a single carryon. I probably brought too much but I like to have my regular stuff with me.