Review: Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak

It was the last two days of my month-long Southeast Asia trip, and I've had the privilege of spending it at the newly-opened Courtyard by Marriott Seminyak. 

I traveled from Ubud, and despite being new, my taxi driver didn't have a hard time finding the hotel. It's located just a few minutes away from Seminyak Beach and high-end beach clubs, and a stone's throw away from restaurants, shops, ATMs and foreign exchange.

As if going through airport security, security officers and a K9 inspected the taxi thoroughly. Guests were also required to pass through a metal detector, and the bags, through the scanner. I noticed this is a standard in Marriott properties as guests' safety and security is of utmost importance.

Lobby

The cheerful staff welcomed me, and offered a welcome drink and cold towel. Check-in was quite a breeze too. 

By the way, if you're a Marriott Rewards member staying at selected Marriott properties, you can skip the queue by checking-in/out through the Marriott Mobile App. How cool is that?

Pool Bar

Didn't mind waiting because I had this view

I arrived earlier than the official check-in time, and had to wait a bit for the room to be ready. While waiting, Melinda, one of the front desk associates, chatted with me and shared some info about the hotel. We also talked briefly about my trip.

Immediately noticeable from the lobby is the Pool Bar. 

If you think the pool is small, well, think again. It's actually a three-tiered pool with a lagoon-shaped main pool in the middle, and a more shallow, almost wading pool-like part towards the end, which is perfect for kids.

I arrived on a very sunny day, and the pool was glistening. The bright blues looked so inviting it made me want to jump in.

Wading pool with daybeds

I was given a room on the 'upper ground floor'. Like most rooms, it has a private balcony overlooking the pools. Not satisfied with just a view of the pool? You may also book rooms with pool access.

The room may be modest in size, but the amenities are complete.

I love the clean lines and the freshness that the room exudes. It's simple, but tastefully decorated. 

The closet, though small, has ample space for your things. Bathrobes, slippers, and electronic safe are also found inside the closet.

The writing desk has a number of universal power outlets, and was easily my favorite spot. I spent most of my time here catching up with work. I just wish there was more space between the desk and the closet as it could be a nuisance sometimes.

The complimentary WiFi was fast, and didn't require the usual annoying alphanumeric password. You just need to enter your room number, your last name, and voila! 

Natural fibers were incorporated in some of the furnishings to somehow give the room a tropical vibe.

Of course there's the usual coffee and tea making facility, mini bar, and complimentary bottled water that were replenished daily. 

The bathroom was spotless and very spacious - almost half the size of the room, actually. 

It has a separate toilet and bath, and the bath is fitted with a rainshower head, which is always a plus point in my book. 

Toiletries, grooming kit, and towels were aplenty, and were replenished/replaced daily.  

Buffet breakfast is served at Seminyak Kitchen which has a casual and cafe-like feel.  

They serve fresh salads, cold cuts, cereals, eggs, noodles, and Indonesian and Western fare among others. My favorites are the freshly baked pastries, fresh fruit juices, and ice cream. And, get this, they serve breakfast all day! 

Seminyak Kitchen

Since I have an early morning flight back to Manila, I decided to pre-arrange the airport service with the hotel. And when the front desk staff found out that I need to check out by 5:00 am and wouldn't make it to the buffet breakfast, they made sure I'll have a breakfast box ready when I check out. They filled it with Danish pastries and bottles of fruit juices. It was a really sweet and thoughtful gesture that I have never experienced anywhere else. :)

Courtyard by Marriott Seminyak successfully blends the comfort and security of a hotel, the playful yet relaxed ambience of a resort, and the personalized service of a bed and breakfast. What it lacks in Balinese design, it makes up for in Balinese hospitality.

It was definitely a sweet ending to my trip.

K

~~ I was hosted by Courtyard by Marriott Bali, Seminyak for 2 nights, but all opinions in this review are my own. ~~

Jalan Camplung Tanduk No 103 SP,

Dhyana Pura, Seminyak, Bali, 80361 Indonesia 

Tel: +62 361 8499 600

Facebook: Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak

Website: www.marriott.com

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