We had a wonderful week at Villa Manis. Not long enough, though. It's within easy walking distance to the heart of Ubud, but tucked away next to rice paddies, it's in a perfect location for those who want to be near to all the restaurants and shopping but also want a lush, beautifully kept garden and peace and quiet. You can walk through the rice fields right outside the Villa -- so beautiful, and you can get some beautiful photos just walking through the village immediately around the house. Here are just a few of the highlights of staying at Villa Manis:
1. The best breakfasts (which are included in what you pay for the accommodation). We chose western breakfasts of scrambled eggs cooked to perfection, lovely crunchy toast, French butter, lime marmalade, and a big bowl of freshly peeled mango, papaya, banana, and pineapple;
2. There is a driver used by this villa who lives just across the street (lots of space between houses in this part of town - feels very secluded). You can arrange to go on all-day tours with him;
3. If you need anything, the staff is on sight all during the day to help you. If you are out and about during the day you will see the people selling tickets to this particular dance during the afternoon of the performances on your way home. Highly recommended.
4. The gardener, Ketut, who looks after all the gardens on these premises, is also a painter.
5. Getting your laundry done whenever you need is a godsend when you've been traveling around for awhile.
6. There is nothing like a great bed for a good night's sleep! The room is air conditioned. Few mosquitos in Ubud, but there is a mosquito net - a good one! - over the King 4-poster bed;
7. A very reasonable nightly and even better weekly rates. You pay more for less in a lot of the accommodation nearby, which is why it's a good idea to book well in advance for this Villa;
8. It's hot in Bali. You can slip into your own pool just a few steps from your door. Heaven after a day's walking around or touring with the driver!
I could go on. Actually we loved everything about our stay here, spent our down time lazing by the pool reading or swimming. We have done a lot of traveling -- it's not often you get the best of both worlds: complete privacy and quiet village life as well as such easy access to everything you might want and need, plus fantastic, friendly service from Mary's staff. We would love to go back there.