JENNY ROWLAND checks out the Ametis Villa in Canggu, Bali.
SITUATED IN the heart of Bali’s trendiest district, Ametis Villa is a serene haven that blends contemporary luxury with the island’s enchanting tropical charm.
A short four-minute walk from the Batu Bolong beach in Canggu, this romantic hideaway boasts top-notch service and elegantly designed villas in a prime location.
It caters to discerning travellers seeking a sophisticate escape amid the vibrant energy of Bali’s hippest locale.
Upon arrival, guests are immediately greeted by the warm smiles of the attentive staff, who take pride in providing personalised service that goes above and beyond expectations.
Our butler Boni could not have been more efficient and thought about our every need . even before we did.
Falling out of bed each morning and straight into the pool and seeing his smiling face as he brought our breakfast straight to our dining table was a particular highlight.
You can choose from a very extensive menu freshly squeezed juices and tropical fruit platters followed by eggs in various different ways and the very best coffee (high praise from an Aussie)
In the afternoon Boni appeared again with his beaming smile and afternoon tea and then cocktails and canapes in the evening all part of the excellent service and all complimentary!
Boni is like a genie who magically appears at the touch of your phone’s What’sApp button and nothing is too much trouble. Tour guide, butler and your best Bali-mate all rolled into one!
The villas at Ametis are an architectural masterpiece, combining traditional Balinese elements with contemporary design. Each one is a private sanctuary, featuring a spacious living area, fully equipped kitchen and a luxurious bedroom with a plush king-sized bed.
There is a huge, chic bathroom with the comfiest tub overlooking the garden. It’s a perfect place to sip your complimentary evening cocktail!
The open plan layout seamlessly connects the indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing guests to wallow in the tropical beauty. The private swimming pools are a highlight, offering a refreshing respite from the Balinese sun and a secluded oasis to unwind in complete seclusion.
The resort’s location is ideal for travellers seeking a blend of serenity and urban excitement. Canggu is known for its laid-back surf culture, thriving arts scene and an array of trendy cafes, boutiques and beach clubs.
Ametis Villa’s complimentary shuttle service allows guests to explore the bustling streets and famous surf breaks while also providing a convenient escape back to the tranquil oasis of the resort.
There is so much going on right outside your door but it’s hard to leave this verdant tropical paradise and Boni!
For those in search of ultimate relaxation, the Ruby Spa at Ametis Villa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments inspired by traditional Balinese therapies.
From soothing massages to revitalising facials, guests can indulge in a holistic wellness experience that nurtures the body, mind and spirit. A 30-minute massage is complimentary for all guests.
Ametis Villa Canggu stands out as a sophisticated retreat in the heart of Bali’s trendiest district.
With its impeccable service, beautifully designed villas and dedication to eco-conscious practices, the resort offers a true sanctuary where guests can unwind, recharge and explore the vibrant surroundings of Canggu.
Whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic escape or a traveller looking to immerse yourself in Bali’s Bohemian chic atmosphere, Ametis Villa Canggu is an idyllic choice that promises an unforgettable stay. A veritable jewel in the Canggu crown!
FALLING IN LOVE WITH AMORA
One of Sydney’s prestige properties takes pride in being ahead of the curve in delivering what its worldly guests crave. JENNY EVANS checks out the Amora Hotel Jamison.
IT WAS a grey, rainy day when we arrived at the Amora Hotel Jamison in Sydney to be greeted by a smartly dressed doorman. The expansive lobby was warm and welcoming and the staff were smiling.
On arrival there were no queues at check in, which is a nice and early 2pm. The formalities completed quickly, we were handed the keys to a Jamison Club room with two double beds on level 30.
Spread over 33 floors, Amora Hotel Jamison has 415 guest rooms, all of which are spacious and modern.
Our room was well-equipped with modern amenities including deluxe bathroom products, a flatscreen TV with movies available for a fee and complimentary bottled water. The bathtub was deep and adjacent to a floor-to-ceiling window overlooking Darling Harbour.
All rooms on level 30 and above offer access to the Jamison Club Lounge one floor above on 31. We sauntered inside in time for the daily happy hour’ drinks, which run from 5:30pm to 7:30pm.
It’s a comfortable space and almost exclusive to us on this occasion, with only one other couple using the lounge.
The canape selection included chicken tenders, curry puffs, sushi, cheese and crackers and a selection of sweets, washed down with a generous selection of spirits, wines and soft drinks.
The club lounge is also the venue for Amora’s Pink High Tea’ service on Sundays from 11.30am 2.30pm, a weekly occasion open to the public.
The rectangular indoor heated swimming pool on level three was lit with an aqua backlight, making it a highly inviting space. The water temperature was warm and the pool was large enough for lap swimming (just).
Comfortable seating surrounded the pool with a spa, steam room and sauna in the same area. There was a small gym containing the essentials and a spa offering various beauty and relaxation packages.
While we didn’t eat dinner at the hotel, Amora’s signature restaurant Croft’ proffers elegant fare with a wide selection of dishes incorporating local seasonal produce. There is also a separate bar, Silo, which offers a comfortable space for relaxing.
Come breakfast time it’s open season on a delightful spread from continental classics to hot choices, although a lack of barista coffee left me wanting somewhat.
The beds were on the softer side and provided comfort and cosiness. Standard check out time is 11am but we were given an extra hour which allowed for a very relaxing morning.
One of the key differentiators of this hotel is its location. On Jamison Street in Sydney’s CBD, the Amora is a 30-second downhill walk to the Bridge Street light rail stop, two minutes to Wynyard train station and less than 10 minutes to Circular Quay and The Rocks.
Wherever you are planning on visiting during your stay in Sydney, the Amora is right in the thick of it.
The Amora Jamison was everything I have come to expect from a modern five-star hotel, providing comfort, all the amenities and a taste of luxury for both business and leisure travellers in a location that’s hard to beat.
Traveltalk stayed at The Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney in July 2023.
