Rajiv C
Google
For this trip to Bali, it was imperative for us to stay at Mandapa to truly experience Ubud—and it turned out to be the best decision we’ve ever made! This is, without a doubt, the best place we have ever stayed on our family vacations across 40+ countries.||From the moment we arrived, the Mandapa team made us feel special - in a quintessential Balinese way! We were greeted with warm smiles, refreshing drinks, and a traditional tridatu bracelet symbolizing balance and harmony. Then we met Made, our amazing Patih (Personal Host), who went above and beyond to make our entire stay extraordinary.||Even before check-in, we were blown away by the first glimpse of the Reserve from the airy, open “pavilion” lobby perched on top the cliff. The views were jaw-dropping! Mandapa is serene, surreal, and spectacular—designed like a classic Balinese village with its own rice paddies, a temple, lush jungle surroundings, and the beautiful Ayung River running through it. The resort is so expansive and peaceful that we didn’t leave for the first two days of our week-long stay!||Thanks to the amazing team (and Marriott loyalty perks), we were upgraded to a private lux villa. What a dream! It was the perfect mix of classic and modern Balinese design—a spacious one-bedroom villa with its own infinity pool, a dreamy outdoor shower, a standalone living room (which become my sons den!), and lush gardens. Waking up here felt like living in a postcard. It was perfect for our family of three.||The food and drinks were absolutely delish! The highlight was the eclectic Balinese breakfast everyday at the gorgeous Sawah Terrace , overlooking Ayung River and the evening hike/walk up to the to the enchanting cliff top Ambar Bar for cocktails and Japanese fusion food. This was our daily routine. No need to go anywhere else to eat and drink!||We also took full advantage of the resort’s “Disconnect to Reconnect” program. From Balinese cooking classes by the Ayung River to morning and evening yoga sessions, heavenly spa treatments (especially during Bali’s rainy December days), a fun VW 181 convertible tour through Ceking rice field terraces and Ubud temples, and a curated family dinner at Kubu Restaurant by the river (complete with local Balinese wine), every experience made us so deeply connected to our surroundings. We were literally “disconnected” :)||What truly set Mandapa apart wasn’t just the breathtaking surroundings or luxurious amenities—it was the incredible staff. Their attention to detail, warm smiles, and thoughtful gestures made every moment unforgettable. From floral arrangements and anniversary surprises to chocolate pralines at turn-down and personalized gifts like Balinese coffee and recipes, they made us feel so cared for.||So here’s a big shoutout to the amazing team members who made our stay extraordinary:||* Made (Patih): Incredible! He made us feel at home and thought of everything. Always always on whatsapp even on his day off! |* Ambar Bar Team: Indha (our favorite server), Adi (tailored cocktails)—thank you for the amazing evenings!|* Spa & Recreation: Deva (cooking classes), Nanki (Spa Reception, always welcoming with great recommendations), Ratni (yoga), Ayu and Yanni (therapists), and Ketut (VW tour)—you all made every activity memorable.|* Pool Bar Team: Anik made our poolside cabana experience extra special with fresh coconuts, and Julie from the Library Bar created a beautiful frangipani bouquet for us to take home—such thoughtful touches!|* Dining Team: Ari, Diah, Nila, and Mia (Sawah Terrace) started our mornings with smiles and delicious food, while Chef Ketut prepared an unforgettable personalized dinner. And thanks for the Balinese coffee!|* Kubu Restaurant Team: Savitri and Narcy ensured our riverside dinner was magical, even making it happen on a rainy evening without a reservation!|* Front Desk: Arisma - Always there with water and towels after my mountain biking rides, even in the rain and Thom - great job in filling in for Made during his day off and Ubud exploration tips.|* Management - special thanks to Desy (Hotel Manager), Jaron (F&B Manager) and Jaya (Front Office Manager) for your amazing hospitality and kudos for running this enchanting resort so beautifully! It was great meeting with you all.||Mandapa isn’t just a resort—it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you are seeking a wellness getaway, adventure or a deeper connection with Balinese culture, this is the place to be. Highly recommend!||We’ll be back for sure. Thank you, Mandapa team, for giving us memories to last a lifetime!