Swastika Bungalows

Swastika Bungalows is an unassuming property that has one distinct advantage over some of its local budget competition: its gorgeous grounds. The hotel doesn't abut Sanur's beach, but just by looking around you know that you're undeniably in the tropics, as flowers, plants, and trees burst from nearly every corner of the property. This makes what few amenities are found here feel convincingly away from it all, including the hotel's three lovely pools. Low-slung buildings have a typically Balinese look, though interiors generally look tired and dated. With its low-key vibe, the hotel stays quiet almost all day, every day, and we only spotted a few families and mature couples paddling around in the pools during our 2017 visit. 

While the hotel is dated and its frills are few, the location is hard to beat for travelers who want to be right in Sanur's tourist-friendly heart. It's not directly on the beach, though the road leading to the shore is just opposite and it only takes five minutes to make the trip on foot. Additionally, there are almost limitless restaurants, shops, warungs, and cafes in any direction right from the hotel's front door. The grounds are peaceful, despite the central location, because the hotel is set back from the main road and shrouded in gardens that help absorb any noise. The Sindhu Night Market -- a great bet for authentic and cheap local food -- is a 15-minute walk north. Budget at least 30 minutes to reach the airport by taxi, as traffic in southern Bali can be fierce.

The rooms here are fairly typical for the budget category in Sanur, similar to those found at Gazebo Beach Hotel or Tamukami Hotel. They're just a touch dated and entirely simple, though clean. Fan-cooled options are available for wallet-friendly rates, while air-conditioned units will cost you more. That fact aside, all rooms include mini-fridges, electric kettles, flat-screen TVs, and free bottled water. Free Wi-Fi is available, but can be spotty. The furnished balconies or terraces are a nice touch in all units, though they're not always private (sometimes there are no full walls separating them). There isn't much of a difference between units here, and all rooms include a king bed or two twin beds. Bathrooms feature shower/tub combos or showers, a generous amount of counter space, and free toiletries. 

There aren't a ton of extras here, and most guests that we saw simply spent their days soaking up the sun and laying by the hotel's three pools. All are lovely and impeccably kept, and surrounded by the hotel's lovely garden landscaping. The main pool has a poolside snack bar and swim-up bar that serves light bites and drinks during the day, but there's no proper restaurant within the hotel's grounds. A breakfast buffet is available in the morning, though it doesn't get great reviews and costs extra. Guests here are also entitled to discounts at nearby restaurants that are associated with the hotel. Balinese entertainment is offered in high season, which is July and August in Bali, though it's always kept fairly subdued. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, but it isn't always reliable.