Loft Legian Hotel

As far as atmosphere goes, the Loft Legian Hotel isn't exactly a destination hotel. That doesn't bother most guests, though, as those staying here are attracted to its affordable room rates and prime location that's great for dining, shopping, and enjoying the beach. The style, at least, is pleasantly modern and bright. The lobby and the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf -- an international chain -- share the first floor of the hotel in a large open space with tall ceilings. The cafe actually serves as the only social space at the hotel, and there are plenty of seating options, including comfy upholstered chairs and open-air street-side seating. The cafe walls are lined with large blown-up photographs of iconic Balinese imagery. The hotel is most popular with couples and solo travelers, but families on a budget also frequent the hotel (though the room sizes are a bit small for more than two people).

Loft Legian Hotel has a strategic location in downtown Kuta, just a five-minute walk to the beach and less than 15 minutes from the nightclub scene along Legian Street. The hotel is located on Melasti Street, which is two minutes on foot from the Mertanadi Art Market, and there's a decent selection of bars, restaurants, and shops all around. Kuta is world famous for its long white sand beaches, great surf, and picturesque sunsets. The soft-bottomed surf breaks along Kuta Beach are also a forgiving place to learn to surf and there plenty of vendors offering surf lessons as well as board rentals along the beach. However, the beach can be crowded, especially around sunset. Alternatively, Seminyak Beach is slightly less crowded and is around 15 minutes away by car without traffic. For family outings, Waterbom Park is a popular destination, and is a 25-minute drive from the hotel. The airport takes around 20 minutes to reach by cab, though traffic can easily add 20 minutes to that.

Rooms at the Loft Legian Hotel are modern and clean, offering guests on a budget the essentials at an affordable price point. Though the rooms are on the compact side -- entry-level Superior Rooms come in at just 215 square feet (20 square meters) -- they're uncluttered and fine for a place to crash at night. Interiors feature plain white walls, large abstract murals behind the beds, and black accents on the bed runners, furniture, and trim. Rooms are outfitted with flat-screen TVs, safes, a work desk and chair, and a small shelf to store luggage with a clothing hanging rack above it. There are no mini-fridges or electric kettles. Both room types are almost identical though Deluxe Rooms have bigger windows more space plus comfy rattan chairs. They're also a bit brighter, though we did spot a bit of wear like scuffed walls in the rooms overall. Bathrooms are larger than many other budget hotels in the area, and feature a clean design with glass showers and soap, but no other toiletries. It's worth noting that some guests have complained about noise between rooms and from traffic.

Facilities at the Loft Legian Hotel are limited, and the hotel lacks both a spa and pool. The main feature of the hotel is the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf branch on-site, which serves light meals and drinks all day, as well as a decent selection of pastries. Prices are steep by Bali standards, even with the discount that hotel guests receive. The only other facility at the hotel is an internet corner with one desktop computer. Parking is difficult in the area, as the roads are congested and the hotel doesn't offer parking spaces. Wi-Fi is provided for free in both the rooms and common areas.