Bali's Hidden Gem: Villa Kemiri - Canggu's Chic Batu Bolong Escape
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we’re diving headfirst into the glittering, sun-soaked, and sometimes unexpectedly chaotic world of Villa Kemiri in Canggu, Bali. Forget the perfectly curated Instagram feeds for a sec – I'm serving you the unfiltered truth, with a side of sandy toes and maybe a slightly burnt papaya (whoops).
Villa Kemiri: The Good, the Gorgeous, and the "Oh, That's Bali" Moments
Let's be honest, finding a genuinely hidden gem in Bali is like finding a decent latte under a pile of tourist traps. Villa Kemiri? Yeah, it's a contender. Tucked away in the ever-buzzing Batu Bolong area of Canggu, it promises a chic escape from the… well, from the Canggu-ness of it all.
Accessibility – The Ups and Downs (Mostly Ups!)
Okay, right off the bat, I gotta say: Bali generally isn't the most accessible place on Earth. Villa Kemiri definitely tries. There's an elevator, which is a godsend, and they mentioned "facilities for disabled guests." I didn’t see a ton of specifics on their website, but I’d recommend contacting them directly to clarify. They seem the type to genuinely wanna help. (And let's be real, navigating those narrow Canggu streets in a wheelchair is a whole different level of adventure.)
On-Site Eats and Drinks – A Paradise for Your Palate or a Touch of Tourist Fatigue?
Right. Food. This is where things get interesting. They boast a bunch of options. Restaurants, a poolside bar, a coffee shop… the works. I’m a sucker for a good happy hour, so I checked that and I can confirm, it was pretty enjoyable, like a lovely sunset with a cocktail in hand. Their menu features international cuisine and Asian cuisine with some vegetarian restaurant options. Sounds dreamy, right?
The Asian breakfast was pretty good. I think I’d pick Asian over Western breakfast. The western breakfast was the classic fare.
Wheelchair Accessibility – A Note of Caution (and Hope!)
As I mentioned before, Bali presents challenges in general. I couldn't find a super clear list. I’d recommend contacting them directly.
Internet – Bless the Wi-Fi Gods!
THANK GOODNESS. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! And it works remarkably well. I’m talking streaming, video calls, the whole shebang. There's even Internet [LAN] and regular old Internet services, if you're into the old-school vibe.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax – Spa Day or Bust!
This is where Villa Kemiri shines. Let’s be honest: I went for the relaxation. They have a whole spa situation: Body scrub, body wrap, foot bath, massage, sauna, spa, Spa/Sauna and steam room. I tell you, the massage was divine. Pure, unadulterated bliss. That Balinese massage, it worked out every kink. I may or may not have fallen asleep, drooling slightly. Don’t judge me – it was that good.
Also, the pool with a view is a definite selling point. The cocktails help too.
They have *Fitness center, Gym/fitness, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor]. For whatever reason, I couldn’t bring myself to work out when I was there. Maybe next time.
Cleanliness and Safety – The Dreaded Question
Alright, let's address the elephant in the room: COVID. Villa Kemiri takes this seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, individually-wrapped food options, physical distancing of at least 1 meter, professional-grade sanitizing services, room sanitization opt-out available, rooms sanitized between stays, safe dining setup, sterilized kitchen and tableware items, staff trained in safety protocol, sanitizing equipment, the whole shebang. You can opt-out of room sanitization, which is nice. I was impressed. I am not sure of Hygiene certification.
They also have the essentials: First aid kit, Hand sanitizer, Doctor/nurse on call.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – A Culinary Adventure (With a Few Hiccups)
As I mentioned, the food. You’ve got A la carte in restaurant, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant.
Their coffee was better than expected. Desserts? Pretty good. The salad was pretty good, too.
Services and Conveniences – Making Life Easier (and a Little More Luxurious)
They’ve got all the usual suspects: Air conditioning in public area, Audio-visual equipment for special events, Business facilities, Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Contactless check-in/out, Convenience store, Currency exchange, Daily housekeeping, Doorman, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Essential condiments, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events.
The concierge were actually helpful, with suggestions, and making arrangements.
For the Kids – Family-Friendly or a No-Go Zone?
Babysitting service, Family/child friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal. I didn't observe any of the kids' facilities, but I did spot plenty of families there.
Access – The Nitty Gritty
They have CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private],. The check-in was easy.
Available in All Rooms – The Creature Comforts
Ah, the little things. Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens.
My room was lovely. Super comfy bed, the blackout curtains a lifesaver after a long day in the sun. The toiletries were nice quality.
The Quirks, The Chaos, and the Candid Moments
Okay, here's the real tea. The service? Mostly fantastic, but sometimes a little slow because, well, Bali time. And one morning, during breakfast, I saw a gecko on the wall of the dining room (I'm a little squeamish, I panicked… briefly).
The Verdict: Is Villa Kemiri Worth Your Time (and Rupiah)?
Absolutely. Bali is a sensory overload, and Villa Kemiri is a perfect antidote. It’s stylish, comfortable, and genuinely attempts to offer a top-notch experience. Yes, it has its quirks, but that’s part of the charm. It’s not perfect, but it’s real. Would I go back? In a heartbeat.
The Irresistible Offer: Your Canggu Escape Awaits!
Escape the Ordinary: Discover Your Tranquil Oasis at Villa Kemiri, Canggu!
Tired of the same old vacation routine? Craving a slice of paradise with a touch of Balinese magic? Then look no further than Villa Kemiri, Canggu's hidden gem, where luxury meets laid-back vibes.
Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Unwind in Style: Sink into plush beds, soak up the sun by the stunning pool with the most amazing views, and enjoy spa treatments that transport you to another world.
- Savor the Flavors: From delicious Asian breakfasts to international delights, our restaurants and bars offer a variety of culinary experiences to tantalize your taste buds.
- Stay Connected (and Disconnect): Fast, free Wi-Fi ensures you can share your holiday snaps, while our tranquil setting lets you escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
- Safety First, Always: We're committed to your well-being with rigorous cleanliness and safety protocols, so you can relax and enjoy your stay with peace of mind.
- Experience the Magic: Explore nearby Batu Bolong's vibrant beaches, immerse yourself in Bali's rich culture, or simply unwind and soak up the Balinese atmosphere – it's all at your fingertips.
But that's not all!
**Book your stay at Villa Kem
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Alright, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to embark on a journey through my completely unhinged and probably slightly chaotic Bali itinerary around Villa Kemiri in Canggu. Seriously, consider this a "choose your own adventure" with the MOST likely outcome involving sunburn and regret.
Day 1: Arrival & That Damn Villa – Paradise Found (Maybe?)
- Morning (or was it afternoon? Time is a social construct, right?): Landed in Denpasar. Okay, the airport was a madhouse. Found my pre-booked driver (thank god, wouldn't trust myself after 14 hours of travel), who, bless his heart, was blasting some kind of Balinese pop that sounded like a cheerful alien invasion. He zipped us through the insanity of traffic – motorcycles weaving like caffeinated fireflies. Finally, finally, we arrived at Villa Kemiri.
- Initial Villa Impression: Okay, the pictures online were… generous. It is beautiful, though! The pool is ridiculously tempting. But… the air con in the main room is barely whispering. Oh well, first world problems, right? The staff? So sweet! One of them, Ketut, offered us a fresh coconut. Bliss. (Except my coconut water taste like the inside of someone elses fridge).
- Afternoon: Decided the only responsible thing to do was change, flop by the pool and catch some rays. I think I overdid it a bit, feeling like a roasted tomato now. Sunscreen next time. I also ate the last of my snacks. The munchies are real after a long flight.
- Evening: Walked to Batu Bolong Beach (about a 10-minute stroll, even in my lobster-red state). Saw the surf! The surfers! The sunset! Magical, truly. Then got hustled into buying a Bintang singlet from a dude who definitely saw me coming. Dinner was at The Lawn… it was lovely. Food good, cocktails better. My mood: Happy and slightly sunburned.
Day 2: Surf's Up (and Possibly Up My Nose)
- Morning: Woke up with a full-blown sunburn, which is a terrible omen. Determined to conquer the waves! Signed up for a surf lesson. The instructor, a tanned god named Wayan, was patient with my flailing. So I got up once… for about two blissful seconds. Then I face-planted. Repeatedly. At one point, I think I swallowed more seawater than the fish. Still, the experience was hilarious, even if I felt like a beached whale.
- Afternoon: Tried to find a warung (small, local eatery) for an authentic Balinese lunch. The chicken satay was glorious. The chili was, however, a fiery betrayal. Tears, sweat, and a desperate search for more ice water ensued.
- Evening: Decided I needed a massage to recover from my surfing trauma (a legitimate medical term, right?). Found a spa nearby. The lady kneaded the knots out of my muscles as if she was a surgeon. Heavenly. Drank way too many cups of ginger tea afterwards. Ended up getting slightly lost on the way back to the Villa and bumped into a cheeky monkey. It gave me the stink eye.
- Quirky Observation of the Day: The number of "influencers" posing for photos on Batu Bolong Beach is genuinely alarming. It's like a constant photoshoot. So many perfect filters. I’m just over here looking like a sunburnt tomato.
Day 3: Temple Hopping & Scooter Shenanigans
- Morning: Scooter! First, I’m nervous as hell. (I have about as much balance as a drunken flamingo.) This being Bali, it’s the lifeblood of transportation, so I had to give it a go. Ended up in gridlock. The horn-honking symphony was overwhelming, but the freedom of zipping around (eventually) was intoxicating.
- Mid-Morning: Visited Tanah Lot Temple. Stunning! Seriously, the place is breathtaking, especially at high tide. Everyone else seems to find the perfect pose. I just stood there, gawking and getting splashed by waves.
- Afternoon: Lost my scooter key. Almost had a heart attack. After an hour of frantic searching (and a stern talking-to from Ketut), found the damn thing in my beach bag. The emotional rollercoaster this trip is taking me is something else.
- Evening: Dinner and drinks at a place called The Shady Shack. (Sounds sketchy, but it was great!) Food was amazing, atmosphere was chill, and the cocktails were… potent.
- Impractical Idea Sparked by Cocktails: Considering getting a tattoo. Definitely overthinking this.
Day 4: (The Beach Day) - Sun, Sand and Swearing Under My Breath
- Morning: Dedicated the entire morning to laying on the beach. Found a nice spot, set up my towel, and started reading. Pure bliss. Except for the vendor who kept pestering me to buy sunglasses. And the sand that got everywhere. And the fact that I forgot to reapply sunscreen. Again.
- Afternoon: The best part of the day. Found a hidden beach cafe serving fresh seafood. The fish was grilled to perfection. This is what life is about.
- Evening: Back at The Lawn. Had the worst cocktail I think I've ever seen. Overcompensating in the wrong ways. Didn't even finish it.
- Emotional Response: The highs are high, and the lows are… well, let’s just say I’m embracing existential angst in paradise.
Day 5: (The Day of Regrets)
- Morning: Oh, boy. Woke up with a splitting headache. The tattoo idea is soundly rejected. Today is a bad day.
- Afternoon: Stuck at the Villa, with the curtains closed. Read my book. Slept. Swore. Tried to drink some water.
- Evening: Ordered a pizza to the Villa. Watched terrible TV.
- Realisation: I'm starting to hate the perfection culture that Bali promotes. It's exhausting, and frankly, unrealistic.
Day 6: (Redemption)
- Morning: Went a little wild, and booked a sunrise hike. The climb up Mount Batur was gruelling, but seeing sunrise over the volcanic landscape was… indescribable. Actually cried. The view was that incredible.
- Afternoon: Made it back to the Villa, knackered but happy. Spent the afternoon in the pool, and I really got a hang of it.
- Evening: Had a lovely meal. Even the food tasted better. A simple, perfect day.
- Emotional Response: I think I'm finally starting to get it. Bali isn't about perfection. It's about embracing the mess, the chaos, and occasional bouts of extreme sunburn. And I'm okay with that.
Day 7: Departure – So Long, Farewell, Auf Wiedersehen, Goodbye
- Morning: Farewell, Villa Kemiri. Saying goodbye to Ketut and the staff felt genuinely sad. This place has grown on me.
- Afternoon: Back to the airport. The drive felt strangely nostalgic. Did I actually go on the trip? Did I dream all this?
- Emotional Response: Feeling all the feels now. Sad to leave, but also looking forward to a proper shower. Bali, you've been a rollercoaster. But thank you.
Final Thoughts:
Okay, this itinerary is probably useless to you. But hopefully, it's given you a sense of the glorious, messy, and unexpectedly emotional journey that awaits you in Bali. Embrace the chaos. Wear sunscreen. And for the love of all that's holy, learn to surf before you get there. (Or don't, and just laugh a lot.)
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Villa Kemiri: Canggu's Chic Batu Bolong Escape - The Real Deal (and All the Feelings About It!)
Okay, spill the beans. Villa Kemiri – is it *really* as dreamy as the Instagram pics make it look?
Ugh, that's the million-dollar question, isn't it? Look, the pictures are pretty damn accurate. But let me tell you, there's a difference between "looking pretty" and *feeling* pretty in a place. And Kemiri? It's a full-on *feeling*. Think less staged photoshoot, more… like, your own private Balinese daydream. The bamboo architecture? Gorgeous. The pool? Actually swimmable (unlike some places I've stayed – I'm looking at you, lukewarm puddle!). The whole vibe? Pure, unadulterated chill. BUT... and this is a big but... it's not a perfect 10. The path to the villa… It’s a bit of a scramble sometimes, especially after a few Bintangs (more on that later!). And one evening, a rogue lizard decided to join my dinner party. A tiny one, but it still gave me a heart attack. But, overall? Yeah, dream realized.
Batu Bolong – is the location actually as good as everyone says? Walk me through getting around.
Batu Bolong… it’s the heart of Canggu, truly. Villa Kemiri gives you that "tucked-away sanctuary" feeling, but you're still a hop, skip, and a drunken late-night scooter ride away from everything. Literally *everything*. Surf spots? Check. Delicious warungs piled high with nasi goreng? Double check. Instagram-worthy cafes where you can spend an hour agonizing over the perfect avocado toast shot? Triple check! Getting around? Scooters are king (and queen, and every single royal in the kingdom). But seriously, learn to ride before you go. I witnessed a *spectacular* faceplant on my first attempt. Luckily, a local Balinese man, with the kindest eyes, helped me up. He just laughed and handed me some water. The best money I spent? A driver for a day. He took me to the temples, to the rice paddies, and kept me safe from myself. Taxi apps are readily available, too, which are a lifesaver, especially if you've indulged in a few too many cocktails at The Lawn. Let's just say, the walk home from there isn't fun.
Food, Glorious Food! What's the cooking situation like at Villa Kemiri?
Oh, the food! Okay, okay, let’s be honest. I'm a notoriously bad cook. Like, the smoke alarm and I are on a first-name basis back home. Villa Kemiri does have a kitchen. It's gorgeous! I mean, beautifully designed with all the essentials. But listen, you're in Bali! You're living a life! You don't want to be stuck chopping onions while the sun is setting over the ocean, trust me. Here’s the *real* plan: hire a chef for a few meals. Seriously, it’s more affordable than you think, and the food is AMAZING. Otherwise, explore the insane food scene! My personal recommendation? Get a delivery of Nasi Goreng from a nearby warung. It's cheap, it’s delicious, and it requires absolutely zero effort. Perfection. And if you're feeling adventurous, explore the local markets. The sheer variety is staggering!
Housekeeping/Service – Good or Great? Should I tip?
Let's just say, the service is *on point*. The villa staff? Utterly delightful. They're discreet (thank god, after my aforementioned scooter fiasco), friendly, and always willing to help. The villa is cleaned daily, the pool is pristine, and they'll even arrange things like massages and transport for you. I came to appreciate the little touches – fresh flowers appearing in vases, a little fruit platter by the pool, all these things really helped me relax and enjoy my time. Tipping? Absolutely! It's customary, and these folks work hard. A little extra goes a long way in showing your appreciation. I mean, when your biggest problem is deciding between a Bintang or a cocktail, having someone handle all the logistics is worth its weight in gold (figuratively, of course… I'm a freelancer, not a millionaire!).
The Pool. Tell me about the pool. Is it as perfect as it looks in the pictures?
Okay, the pool. This. Is. Important. Let me tell you, it’s not just *a* pool, it’s an experience. That glorious, shimmering turquoise water. The perfectly placed sun loungers. The feeling of total, blissful relaxation… it’s almost too much! I spent hours there. Hours! Floating, reading, sipping iced coffee (made by the ridiculously attentive staff). I even managed to *almost* get a tan. And the best part? You’ve got total privacy. None of that "shared pool" awkwardness. It's your own little oasis. I once spent an entire afternoon just *staring* at the reflection of the sky in the water. Yes, I may have needed a little bit of vitamin "d" exposure. The only downside? Leaving it. The pool is so good, it actually made me sad when I had to leave. I still dream about that pool. I wonder if they'd notice if I lived there... probably not. But one can dream, right?
What's the *real* vibe of Villa Kemiri? Is it a party place, or more tranquil?
Tranquil. With a side of "slightly chaotic bliss" if you let it be. It's definitely not a party place, which is a HUGE plus in my book. It really feels like your own private sanctuary. You can crank up the music (within reason, mindful of the neighbors, of course, although… I may have forgotten occasionally) and have a few drinks by the pool. But it’s not the kind of place where you’ll be stumbling home at 4 am (unless, as I said, you've had a *particularly* good night at The Lawn!). It's more about unwinding, connecting with yourself, and enjoying the simple pleasures like a good book and a stunning sunset. Which, trust me, you’ll see a *lot* of. It’s a place to recharge, to reflect, and to escape the daily grind. It's a place where you can just *be*. And honestly… in today's world, that's priceless. It's perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a bit of peace and quiet. I went solo, and sometimes I wished I had a companion but ultimately, being alone was awesome. I got to do *me* and I loved it.
Okay, but be brutally honest. What *didn't* you like?
Alright, fine. Let's get the negatives out of the way. First, the aforementioned lizard situation. I'm not a fan of uninvited guests. Second, the initial scramble to find the villa. It’s a bit tucked away. Third… okay, this is a bit nitpicky, but the wifi *occasionally* hiccuped. But honestly? Those are the only real complaints I have. TheseGlobetrotter Hotels
