Saudara Home

Guests looking for a peaceful retreat away from Ubud's busy center will appreciate Saudara Home's natural surroundings. Nestled between vibrant green rice fields, it has a tranquil atmosphere that's popular with couples looking for a restful break. The property is composed of two buildings and decor is traditionally Balinese, with warm tones and rustic hand-carved wooden furniture from the local village. There's a small round outdoor pool, surrounded by orchids, towering palm trees, traditional shrines, and traditional statuary. In the evenings, chanting and bells can sometimes be heard from a nearby temple. The property has a homey bed-and-breakfast atmosphere, with a cozy lounge and indoor/outdoor dining area. Those opting for dinner often dine with the owners and other guests, which creates a friendly and relaxed environment. The house is owned by a French couple, and though English is also spoken, most guests hail from France.

Saudara Home is set in the middle of Tegalalang's famous rice terraces. It's away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Ubud, but there's a free shuttle to and from the center. The property's biggest draw is its secluded location, which is ideal for those wanting to experience traditional Balinese culture and feel close to nature. Guests can take a cycle tour through the picturesque rice paddies, or take a five-minute stroll to Paku Dui, a small village famous for its wood-carving and sculptures. Pura Tirta Empul is a 15-minute drive away, as is the village of Sebatu. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a two-hour drive from the property, though traffic varies.

Each of the property's four guest rooms have been tastefully decorated in a traditional Balinese style. All have tiled floors, neutral color schemes, and ornate hand-carved dark wood furniture. The carvings and artwork add a lot of charm, even if things are a little old-school from a style perspective (we spotted rattan furniture, for instance). Furnished balconies and terraces offer lovely views of the surrounding rice terraces and countryside, and some have thatched gazebos -- though higher-floor rooms have better views. Larger family rooms are also available, adding separate living spaces with sofa beds for kids. Amenities are pretty basic -- with no air-conditioning, TVs, or tea/coffee facilities -- though all include fans, mosquito nets, and free bottled water. Bathrooms are spacious and a little old-fashioned, and all include deep-soaking bath tubs, separate showers, hairdryers, and free toiletries. Wi-Fi is free in all rooms. 

Although Saudara Home is a small property, it offers guests some attractive features. The small round pool is perfect for cooling off after a long day exploring Ubud, and the sun loungers are prime spots for relaxing in the sun. The house has a full kitchen (though it's not available for guests to use) where the owners prepare a free traditional Balinese breakfast consisting of pancakes, eggs, toast, fruit, tea, and coffee. There is an option to eat a home-cooked meal in the evening from a set dinner menu, and most guests choose to dine with others guests and the owners. The tiny fitness center only has a couple of old-fashioned cardio machines, and the house has a cozy TV room and library. Other services include laundry, tour assistance, free parking, free daily shuttle service to Ubud, and airport transfers for a fee. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.