Breathing a Fresh Breeze at the Samaya

The local hotel chain Santika Group has been working on renovations and improvements at The Samaya for some time, and finally they are really rolling up the curtains for those who are curious. Glimpses of it were already accessible with the opening of Breeze, the beach side bistro which quickly becomes the talk of the town. However, weekenders, travelers, and five-star junkies have been waiting patiently until everything was completely set-up.

Of course one of the biggest, and most annoying questions is, can a local hotel chain achieve an international standard of service? As an Indonesian myself I have to admit that this is a reasonable question. And, with The Samaya, the Santika Group has nothing but the best opportunity to supply an answer.

The best answer comes in the form of an extensive sundeck, with uninterrupted views of the ocean – a perfect set-up for getting a tan. The comfortable, long wooden, by-the-beach terrace treats guests with what they come to Bali for at its best; the beautiful sunny beach with its white sand, slowly and gracefully fading into a heart-melting sunset. It’s then that the lazy day changes its mood to a festive evening, when dinner is served in Breeze, and tables set in the manicured lawn are filled with fashionable travelers.

Such an experience is conveniently located in the Oberoi area, where happenings are the daily lifestyle, and hip is the common word. The Samaya does not bother itself by having its own noisy bar or club since the area is already filled with such venues. However, sitting with close friends or newly-made acquaintances in the hovering mini-lounge provides the opportunity to host your own cute private function – thus being able to preserve one’s personal elegance and style.

Whilst Breeze is obviously the pumping heart of The Samaya, the free form pool is the vein. The fresh and calm atmosphere is accentuated by its tranquil water surface, excellently combined with stylish landscaping. With the mighty backdrop of the ocean the pool immediately becomes the favorite posing point for snap shots.
The Samaya boasts 24 individual Seminyak villas, comprising 18 studio-style Pool Villas, 4 one-bedroom Royal Pavilions, and 2 two-bedrooms Royal Pavilion. The 150sqm Pool Villas are simply set up as a basic lodging with private plunge pool, surrounded by well-trimmed lawn. With comfortable living rooms and spacious bathing areas, the villas feature a hassle-free design.

The 275sqm Royal Pavilion with one bedroom features an oversized Jacuzzi pool, dining area, and a mini-pantry. The big sister, sized at 475sqm, has two bedrooms and has a symmetrical layout, with full facilities. It is a perfect choice for double dates, slapped in USD 870++ per night (internet rate).

At the corner of the main swimming pool area is the best retreat The Samaya has to offer: The Spa. It boasts a big suite with large windows facing the sea, welcoming the pampering natural breeze. Ask the therapist to switch off the music as the sound of the waves is clearly better. Surrender in the hands of those who know best of to knock your muscles down.

Go for the 60-minutes Samaya Massage where four hands work together in five different styles from five different countries: Japanese shiatsu, traditional Thai, Hawaiian lomi omi, Swedish deep pressures, and Balinese long strokes. Other options include the European Decleor massage, Indian head massage, and the aroma hot stone therapy.
With a butler service, and complimentary daily shuttle to nearby attractions, Santika Group has supplied an A-grade answer to the quest of the local brand to achieve an international standard. Many a nod goes to the winning package deal; the USD 1,430 nett Honeymoon Package, which includes three nights stay at the Pool Villa, a romantic dinner, a 2-hours spa treatment, an en-suite breakfast with champagne, a 15-minutes foot or back shoulder massage, airport transfers, and much more.

The Samaya
Jl. Laksmana, Seminyak Beach
Bali – Indonesi
Tel. +62-361-731149
www.thesamayabali.com

Article featured on Fine Restaurants & Villas (FRV), 4th edition