Finding a Slower Rhythm
Bali has always struck me as a place with a character of its own. Its contrasting landscapes, cultures, and ways of life coexist within the same island, making it difficult to define through a single experience. My trip was divided between a few active days in the jungles of Ubud and a quieter stay along the coast of Sanur. For the latter, I chose to stay at Andaz Bali.
While many visitors gravitate towards the trendier neighborhoods of Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, I was drawn to Sanur for its quieter atmosphere. Despite sharing the same coastline, it feels quite different from these more familiar destinations. The streets are less crowded, and the nightlife is noticeably subdued. Cycling along the waterfront, I would pass local men gathered around card games, travelers reading by the beach, and couples enjoying the ocean view. There was nothing particularly extraordinary about these scenes, yet their simplicity was part of what made Sanur appealing.
Andaz Bali sits along this stretch of coastline, offering a setting that feels well suited to the neighborhood.
Arriving on a hot and humid afternoon, I felt less like I was checking into a resort and more like I was being welcomed into a thoughtfully maintained Balinese village.
A lush garden leads towards an open-air lobby, where soaring ceilings and an expansive layout create an immediate sense of openness. Beyond it, a courtyard framed by tropical greenery comes into view. Staff dressed in traditional Balinese attire welcome guests as soft local music plays in the background. With a welcome drink in hand, I found myself taking in the surroundings before even completing the check-in process. It was the moment I began to feel that I had truly arrived in Bali.
The village-like concept extends throughout the property. Rather than feeling like a conventional resort, Andaz Bali is arranged around gardens, courtyards, and individual buildings that invite guests to explore at their own pace. Traditional Balinese architectural elements blend naturally into a contemporary setting.
The walk to my room continued that impression. Pathways surrounded by tropical greenery felt almost like walking through a small forest. My room was situated beside one of the resort's swimming pools, it’s still waters reminiscent of a secluded lake tucked within the jungle.
Inside, the room felt spacious and inviting, with design elements inspired by Balinese nature and traditional aesthetics. A generously sized bed, thoughtful details, and welcome amenities added to the sense of comfort without feeling excessive. I particularly enjoyed the connection between the room and its surroundings. Opening the balcony doors revealed the pool just beyond, bringing the outdoors into the living space.
Much of my time at Andaz Bali was spent enjoying the smaller moments of simply being there. During mealtimes, traditional Balinese music could occasionally be heard from a small pavilion in the courtyard. Surrounded by greenery, with a meal in front of me and the warm, humid air of the island, I was reminded of how much a sense of place can be shaped by ordinary details. These are often the moments that stay with me longer than any particular landmark.
My days gradually settled into a comfortable routine. Mornings were spent by the pool near my room, where early sunlight filtered through the surrounding greenery. By afternoon, I would move to the ocean-facing pool, listening to the waves while spending time in the water. Each offered a different atmosphere, giving the day a natural rhythm without the need for much planning.
Whenever I felt like exploring, I would head towards the beach and walk along Sanur's coastal promenade. Small shops and restaurants lined the waterfront, while cyclists and beachgoers moved along the path at their own pace. The transition between the resort and the surrounding neighbourhood felt effortless, making it just as enjoyable to spend time outside the hotel as within its grounds
Looking back, what I remember most about Andaz Bali is not one particular facility or feature, but the experience of staying there. The property and its surroundings seemed to complement one another, creating a place where there was little reason to rush from one activity to the next.
There are many ways to experience Bali. Some may find its appeal in the energy of its nightlife, while others may prefer the greenery of Ubud. For me, the days spent in Sanur offered something different: a chance to experience the island at a slower pace.
Long after a trip comes to an end, I often remember less about how many places I visited and more about how I felt while being there. Andaz Bali was a fitting place for that kind of experience. If I were to return to Bali, I imagine these unhurried afternoons in Sanur would be among the things I remember most.
by Simon Kim
