This is our fourth stay at Villa Vajra, and it just gets better each time. Situated between the rice paddies and the jungle valley, the property is a feast for the ears and eyes from all directions. After being picked up at the airport by a Villa driver and traversing the impossibly narrow Balinese village streets, the dramatic entrance wall of Villa Vajra is revealed. Upon arrival, Villa staff greets and escort you through the Villa gates and across the rice paddies via a raised boardwalk. As you enter the primary villa compound, you are again welcomed by a walled lily pond and waterfall that cascades (seemingly) into and beautiful swimming pool. The adjacent living area is open on three walls with sweeping views of the jungle. The nicely air-conditioned villa bedrooms each have private bathrooms and private/walled outdoor showers for that "get back to nature" feeling!
The property also includes a stunning and flawlessly maintained jungle garden that provides for wonderful morning or evening walks and meditation. The garden also features a massage hut for frequent massages by Ketut (perhaps the best one-hour massage you will ever get (at a $15 US rate... amazing).
The villa also offers a fairly complete workout room and an inviting hot tub next to the pool.
All of the features and amenities of Villa Vajra are as perfect as I describe them, but, as you will find out yourself, it is the incredible staff that puts the Balinese joy into Villa Vajra! Gusti, Widi, Saba, Ketut, Made, the gardeners, and the young assistants are all so kind, helpful, and attentive. If you need/want it, they will happily provide it. Laundry service is available daily. The delicious meals are prepared to order, and no better food is served in Bali. Breads and baked goods are sources from the renowned Restaurant Locavore. The 24-hour driver service is a wonderful perk, but the villa is also within walking distance of several cafes, bars, and shops, as well as the city of Ubud and other small villages.
I can't imagine staying anywhere else when we visit Ubud, Bali. The access to Ubud, cocktails at the Four Seasons, restaurant Locavore, white-water rafting, temple ceremonies, museums, jungle tours, the Monkey Park, the Bird Park, and the Mother Temple will keep anyone busy for several days, but relaxing at the Villa is also a priority!
Obviously, I highly recommend Villa Vajra for your next stay in Bali! Namaste!