We have been to Bali many times and stayed at a number of resorts, so we have a fair idea of what to expect from a 5-star experience. Unfortunately, Katala Suites did not meet that standard for us.
On arrival, we were dropped at the entrance and had to manage our luggage down an alleyway with several large steps. No staff were there to assist (understandably, as they can’t see you coming), but it made for a difficult start, especially in the heat. For older guests or anyone with mobility issues, this could be a real challenge.
Check-in was smooth, though we were asked to pay the full bill upfront, which is unusual compared with our other Bali stays.
The room itself felt dated, with dark décor that gave it a heavy atmosphere. Most villas (except two upstairs rooms) have outdoor showers, which we wouldn’t have minded if not for the overwhelming number of mosquitos. Despite using spray, repellent, and plug-in devices, we were bitten constantly—even indoors. On the same trip, we stayed at another resort less than 500m away and experienced no mosquito issues, so we suspect that regular spraying may not be carried out here.
Towels are provided at the bare minimum: one bath towel per person and one pool towel each. I had to ask for face cloths, and it would have been nice to have a couple of towels each, particularly if you plan to wash your hair or swim more than once a day. A little extra in this area would go a long way toward comfort.
The beds were not great quality and the pillows were awful — again, investment here would make a big difference to the overall experience and quality of sleep.
We asked to upgrade to a mini villa (at our extra cost, of course) and were accommodated the next night, which we appreciated. However, the outdoor area was so mosquito-ridden it was unusable. We were also asked to pay the difference in cash, which felt a little unusual.
The pool is a good size, but the area lacks airflow, making it feel quite still and hot. Lounge swabs are not provided on all loungers, so you’re limited to what’s available—whether or not that spot is shaded or sunny.
The staff were pleasant and polite throughout, but overall the resort fell short of the standard we’ve come to expect in Bali. With some updates, more attention to detail, and better mosquito control, Katala could offer a much better...
Read moreOh where to start. From the day 1 of our arrival there was non stop noise and drilling right next to our hotel room. Builders where refurbishing next door room and it stopped like 1 day before our check out.. brilliant . No one even apologized or warned us that there some refurbishment work going on during our check in. I would not stay here Hotel room is super outdated, i dont know when they where built, but wow, rooms are so dark, depressing purple colors. Blinds have to be always shut if you want some privacy, because people walking past the rooms as well as gardeners walking around the rooms like no business. Swimming pool area super humid and hot without any wind access, so its very hard to be on sun lounge during hot days unless spend all the time in swimming pool.
No cutlery available in the rooms, considering hotel doesn't do Dinners and Lunch i think, it would be a good idea to provide some cutlery in case the Grab driver didn't bring one, because there is no chance to rich anyone form the hotel to get the cutlery. We requested the late check out, 2-3 hrs max, despite the next guests late arrival receptionist requested 400k! 400K private drivers charge for at least 5-6hrs of driving, and hotel charge 400k for 2-3 hrs overstay. End the cherry on the cake, the mosquitoes amount in the hotel room was absolutely crazy! we stayed 3 weeks in Bali in different parts of the island, and this was only one hotel where we got bitten by mosquito enormously...
Read moreWe had a 7 night stay in villa 4, a 2 bed pool villa. (One bed villa was booked) Only used one bedroom as there was just two of us. Complex has quite a few suites/room cottages & a few villas. Main pool for everyone but didn't use it. PRO's & CON's...Air con good. Fridge size good, outdoor fans good, outdoor lighting good, indoor cupboard/storage good. We stayed in larger of the two villa rooms. It's an 8 min walk or so to main strip with lots of restaurants & shops. Supermarket another few mins from main street which is great for anything you need. Another 10-15 mins or more to beach restaurants. Only $3 Aud for metered bluebird taxi to take you to beach restaurant area/Coco or La Playa restaurants. Reception will gladly call one for you. Lovely housekeeping staff & all staff are pretty helpful. Bed is uncomfortable, the pool is hard to get out, ok if you're young & fit, not full proper steps & no ladder. Pool depth good. Average size for a 2 bed. Outdoor furniture & chairs not that comfy. Bathroom ok, not a fan of outdoor shower. The outdoor poolside lay down chairs were not that clean & in an awkward position. Not buffet breakfast, Western Breakfast limited, served to order, toast not great, fruit & eggs ok, bacon not good. Indonesian breakfast offered too, we did not try. So, 3 stars for us for a 4 star complex. No airport transport included. Lots of folks love staying here, we love Sanur but it's good to try different villas &...
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