I often had questions, mostly from Jakarta people or guest from Northerm countries, on where to stay on the beach. On the beach in Kuta; that's the last place I would want to stay if travelling through here or spending a dream vacation in Bali. But the customers's the king and he wants Kuta beach!

There's always the Hard Rock that everybody knows already. Then, there's the sahid but I wouldn't have in my special address book. My choice. Then there are plenty of places in Seminyak but you have to drive on the lovely Jalan Seminyak to get to them. I dislike hat street very much.

Then, there's the Alam Kulkul, right in the middle of the action,close to the beach. If you haven't been in, it's worth visiting to get the feelingof it. It's very nicely done. It is definitely a very good Kuta option.

I didn't know that this hotel was 13 years old. I always thought it was a new building. Renovations of just a few years back have done wonders to its looks! With a modem feeling to it, the colors make foe a fresh and inviting atmosphere all at once. After crossing Papa's Café for a decent pizza or just a drink, the lobby of Alam Kulkul welcomes us with a touch of luxury with its wooden furniture and décor, And great lighting.

Through a maze of pathways, the hotel has 2 swimming pools, 77 rooms and 3 private villas. To tell you the truth, I was quite surprised to see that the colors chosen for the rooms and décor details made all the difference for what could have been an ordinary hotel. Great decorator. Conrats. From the lay-out of the rooms, to the position of the furniture, I saw an innovative and a finally different place with loads of charm! It made me wonder about the other 2 Alam Resort, Flores and Pulau Seribu (Jakarta). Probably worth checking out.

Back to the rooms, I really like the Family rooms for 4 people, The 2 twin beds are placed perpendicular from the master bed and near the window and separated by a curtain, in a way that feels extremely homey. Plus the rooms are quite large.Nice not to steep on each other's feet. With a kids day care venter and baby sitters, it also quite nice for mom and dad. Just PERFECT for a family with kids. Make a special note in your address book!

This resort is quoted to be a Four Star Boutique Hotel. Although I am still not clear what those titles mean and sometimes get confused with the definitions, I agree with Alam Kulkul's self attributed title: the perfect solution for today's discerning holiday seekers.

The prices vary between 125 USD to 200 USD for the double, family and quadruple occupancy rooms. It is not a budget accommodation but it is worth a lot more than a budget place. They also have villas, one bedroom, private garden and private dipping pool, which are 250$, 350$ and 500$ respectively. Also, KMS/KITAS prices are applicable.

One of the nice things this small resort bring, is the Jamu Traditional Spa. Very nicely done, this spa offers complete treatments from head to toe, with a touch of something special. A little something different from many others, hard to identify or describle, that makes a difference. I like this spa. I'm happy there.

Probably by far the best Kuta Beach can offer, Alam Kulkul is worth an entry in your address book and a recommendation to your visitors. "Central but not loud. " That's the note I added in my book!

Carolyn

ALAM KULKUL BOUTIQUE RESORT
Jl. Pantai Kuta, Legian, Bali
Tel: 0361-752-520, fax: 0361-752-519
E-mail : kulkul@alamresorts.com
Website : www.alamresort.com