The Laguna Luxury Collection Resort in Bali

Nusa Dua (literally translating to “two islands”) is named after the two peninsulas along Bali’s east coast. Years ago the area was a lush and rustic jungle, however today the government has created a complex designed to be an “all-inclusive” type tourist destination. The complex known as the BTDC (Bali Tourism Development Centre) features a string of world-class hotels, up-market shopping complex and luxurious 18-hole golf course.

The entrance road is lined with rows of statues, leading through a large candi bentar (split gate), on each side of which carvings of frogs serve as guardian figures. Be sure to take the time to walk or peddle your way through the Nusa Dua community and you’ll find a choir of colourful statues that illustrate fantastical moments from famous Balinese folktales.

The Laguna, A Luxury Collection Resort is located in the heart of Nusa Dua, providing an ideal setting where white sand, a tranquil collage of vivid tropical gardens and crystal, sparkling waters create a private paradise. Royal guards line the driveway and the resounding boom of a gong welcomes you into a stylish resort.

The Laguna is a member of The Luxury Collection family, a unique Starwood portfolio designed to be the world’s most renowned assemblage of hotels and resorts. The exclusive group features more than 95 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries. All are noteworthy for their history, architecture, art, furnishings and amenities, highlighting the rich culture of each property’s fabulous surroundings.

For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort is a distinct and cherished expression of its location; a peak into the destination’s indigenous charms and treasures. The Laguna would be my second experience with The Luxury Collection, my first being last years postcard perfect retreat to Oahu’s Pink Palace, Honolulu’s historic Royal Hawaiian.

Emanating modern Balinese style, each of The Laguna’s 287 guest rooms and suites, and ten villas features locally sourced, emblematic Palimanan stone walls, smooth teak floors, and hand-woven carpets. Meanwhile, the island’s renowned hospitality reveals itself in 24-hour Luxury Collection Concierge service. Once settled, a fruit basket and mini bar offer simple delights, while marble-walled bathrooms invite relaxation with an oversized bathtub and shower. Signature Luxury Collection bath amenities along with waffle-knit bathrobes and soft slippers, made from native Pandanus leaf, provide the ultimate indulgent touches. Spacious private balconies provide captivating views of either landscaped tropical gardens or enticing swimmable lagoons.

In a peaceful enclave in the resort’s “Secret Garden”, The Laguna’s spacious one and two-bedroom private pool villas offer astute guests an opportunity to experience the very best of tropical living. Villa guests enjoy palatial signature Luxury Collection benefits, 24-hour on-call Butler, complimentary round trip airport transfer, private check-in, a dedicated beach area and reserved sun beds.

Lagoon Spa is situated in the middle of the resort, surrounded by turquoise pools. Step under a roaring waterfall and you’ll find a tranquil space perfect for an indulgent pampering session. The spa’s signature massage is a combination of three techniques: Japanese shiatsu, stretching and Hawaiian Lomilomi. Sweet smelling massage oils feature swoon-worthy aromatics ylang-ylang flower, potchouli, ginger and lime. Ensure your massage is a memorable one by booking a couples treatment at the resort’s spacious cabana which sits perched overlooking the beach.

In perfect harmony with the resort’s lush tropical gardens and tranquil scenic ambience, The Laguna boasts a proud heritage of hosting the first bathing lagoon in Bali that continues to thirst quench its guests with its refreshing crystal clear waters. The picturesque resort is built around a complex of seven beautifully landscaped lagoons and pools, offering 5,000 sqm of swimmable scenery featuring dramatic waterfalls, playful turtle froth fountains and relaxing jacuzzis.

If you’re a saltwater fan keen to play beach bum soak up the island’s sunshine from Nusa Dua’s white sand beach. Steps from the resort, and fringed by lush foliage and palm trees, Laguna’s beachfront offers a spot to swim and snorkel in the deep blue sea. Tan fans arrive early in the morning to claim lounge chairs for the day while those looking to keep cool rent bale bengong (cabanas) which offer a luxurious respite from Bali’s bleating sun.

Looking to tap into the island’s unique Hindu history? The Laguna’s Balinese Blessing and Dinner Ceremony, offers an authentic evening in celebration of Bali’s preserved rituals. Commencing with a dramatic fire dance at the resort’s candlelit Cascade Bar, guests are led to the on property temple, where a Balinese priest awaits to conduct a classic ceremony with flower offerings, or canang sari, made to the island’s revered Hindu Gods. The evening concludes with a sumptuous Balinese buffet as local dancers perform a traditional Legong dance.

Each morning hungry couples on holiday rush to Banyubiru’s sun-soaked dining room for the resort’s daily brunch buffet. Overlooking the turquoise blue lagoon, lush gardens and The Laguna Bali’s Hindu temple, Banyubiru is a marche style restaurant featuring open kitchens where busy chefs serve up up spicy Pan Asian eats, flaky French pastries and frothy cappuccino.

Crowds gather each day just moments before sunset at the resort’s Cascade Bar to sip cocktails while watching a theatrical fire dance performance by the pond. Twinkling candles, a laid back soundtrack and comfortable outdoor terrace seating and two gazebos offer the ideal place to wind down from a busy day. Be sure to sample The Luxury Collection’s signature Last Cocktail featuring a cool glass muddled with gin, rosemary syrup, lemon, pear and prosecco.

Regarded as one of the best beachfront seafood restaurants in Bali, The Laguna’s Arwana Restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, sourced fresh at the local fish market every morning. Each night couples dine here al fresco, forking through the restaurants signature lobster thermidor while swooning under the twinkle of the night sky.

Every Tuesday and Friday Arwana hosts Fisherman’s Night Out, where those looking for a fine feast are spoilt for choice. An ice filled canoe offers a perfect stage for fresh lobster, fish, prawn and crab which are fried up a la minute. Carnivores are equally as pleased, eyes wide as satay skewers sizzle on red hot embers.

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