The Oberio Bali is very special for me. I first saw the Oberio Bali in 1976, on my first visit to Bali when I was a poor nursing student, wandering up the beach from Legion whilst staying in a family owned losman/pension.
I always hoped that one day, I might be able to afford to stay at the Oberio. We did this first in March 2011. The Oberoi Bali is very special for several reasons - traditional Balinese compound design and a most wonderful gardens. Dale my partner is a botanist at the Sydeny Royal Botanic Gardens and where ever we travel always visit local gardens and inspired by plants and garden design. The Oberio Bali gardens are inspiring and a delight to just move through.
The service at the Oberoi is exemplary and the staff are discrete, polite and always welcoming. The Oberoi is a refuge from the noise and masses in Seminyak (don't even mention Kuta). Being right on the beach is also special.
When in Bali (I think this was about my 10 trip) I always try and stay at special and significant hotels. In Ubud, I prefer to stay at the Hotel Tjampuhan, from the 1930's an artist's home again set in most beautiful gardens beside the Sungai Wos and Campuan Rivers. Room numbers are small, so the feel is very individualised and personal.
In Sanur, we like to stay at Tandjung Sari, again traditional Balinese villas, set in gardens again dating back to the early 1960s. The furniture is again traditional.
Each time in Bali, I like to engage a driver and make a trip into the countryside/padi fields and mountains to see the villagers and breathe in the stunning scenery. This time we took the central mountain drive to Bedugal, Lake Bratan and the Botanic Gardens. Again, a stunning day with a great tour guide.
My only suggestion would be include more cultural experiences on site for the hotel guests. I would like to participate in Balinese cooking courses -I did the course at Casa Luna, Ubud many years ago and it introduced me to the connection between culture and food, the significance of rice and vegetables. Maybe also batik demonstrations, etc.
Again, I must iterate that the Oberio Bali is like a "home" when visiting Bali. We could ask for nothing more.
My partner and I love to travel and value staying in accommodation that is traditional, respectful and supports the local community and culture, showcases the local arts and crafts, is aware of the local ecology and environment and of high quality. I believe the Oberoi Bali achieves all these objectives and one that you and your staff should be very proud. Thank you for making our stay so special (again) and we look forward to our next visit (to our home in Bali).
Regards Greg and Dale
Sydney Australia