"Set the scene for us. What do you see as you arrive?The Purist Villas is a property full of indoor-outdoor spaces, wooden carvings, stone sculptures, primitive artifacts from all over the Indonesian archipelago, and bespoke furniture. Huge hunks of petrified wood and rough stone make elegant tables, and there is so much rattan and wicker that you might nickname this place the Museum of Chair Weaving. Add to that chicken-coop lampshades, inscribed Timor stone and Sumbanese relics, and landscaped subak-irrigation channels running through the grounds, and there’s never a dull moment. Is it part of a chain, or is it a one-off hotel?The imaginative modern Indonesian furniture and bohemian ambience underscore the owners' impeccable taste. The hotel has all the hallmarks of an independently owned property, a true labor of love. How about the rooms—what can we expect? If we have a choice, is there a room, suite, or villa we should try to book?Echoing Bali's terraced rice fields, the 17 stylish suites and villas here are scattered amid jungle, ensuring that you have all the space and privacy you could ever want. Each suite has a balcony or garden; the Pool Suite, one- and two-bedroom villas, and the two-bedroom residence all have their own pools. Amenities are top notch—from yoga mats and batik kimonos to folders of DVDs to watch on the big TV—without so much as a whisper of corporate flourishes. How about the restaurant—worth a stop, or should we try to venture out around Bali?Balisimo, the thatched open-air bar and restaurant, overlooks one of two pools and a dramatic green valley. The kitchen fuses Balinese and Mediterranean cooking. Although it serves three meals a day, stick to breakfast, snacks, and cocktails; after all, there are so many interesting and exceptional dining options in Ubud that warrant exploring. How's the service?All of the staff are Balinese. They anticipate all you need need and graciously make sure everyone is as happy as can be. What's the vibe among your fellow travelers?Unmistakably grown-up, discerning, and discreet. You mentioned exploring the dining options in Ubud—what's the surrounding area like?There's not much around the hotel other than a few hole-in-the-wall stalls and green rice paddies. If you're aiming to explore further, hop aboard the shuttle and explore the temples of downtown Ubud. Is there anything you'd change?The quality of the restaurant stands to be improved a bit. Wrap it up: What sets this place apart?Designed by Dutch-Spanish duo Yvonne Hulst and Alberto Cortes, who also have beautiful hotels in Ibiza and Marrakech, The Purist Villas' eclectic decor, enriched with authentic Indonesian arts and crafts, is sensual, textural, and unique." - Juliet Kinsman
