Bali (and Southeast Asia in general) is a great place to indulge in luxury at a fraction of the price. Quality standards are high, staff are attentive and rates are low.

For example, the Aqua Studio Suite at this hotel is available from IDR 2,800,000 (approx. CAD 230). A real bargain for a room with direct access to the pool!

However, it is not possible to book this suite with points. I had paid for my first night in cash, then used 60,000 points against two nights in a regular room.

At check-in, thanks to my Gold status and due to the hotel’s low occupancy, my reservation was changed at no charge so that I could stay all three nights in the Aqua Studio suite.

Le Méridien Bali is located in Jimbaran, a region on the southern tip of the island of Bali. The Jimbaran area is very close to Denpasar airport, about 20 minutes by cab or Grab (Southeast Asia’s equivalent of Uber). For this reason, I recommend Jimbaran to start or end your stay in Bali.

I spent the first three nights of my trip in this hotel, which was perfect for resting after the long flights from Montreal.

There are also a few beaches in the area, including Pantai Muaya very close to the hotel. Apart from the beaches, there aren’t many interesting activities or visits in Jimbaran. I recommend spending a few nights at the hotel to enjoy the pool, then heading to Uluwatu, Canggu or Ubud to continue your vacation.

Around the hotel, you’ll find two ATMs that don’t charge fees for foreign cards. I was able to withdraw Indonesian rupiahs with my Wise card.

There are also a few charcoal-grilled seafood restaurants overlooking the beach. It’s a great place to watch the sunset.

A concierge greets you at the bottom of the property. After verifying that you have a reservation, a member of staff will take you by carriage to the lobby. A bellman will then take your luggage to your room.

Check-in takes place at one of the two tables at reception. A friendly member of staff will take care of the formalities and give you an access card. A deposit can be left to cover expenses during your stay.

Since I would be arriving early in Bali after an overnight flight, I contacted the hotel the day before via the Marriott Bonvoy app’s online chat. Fortunately, early check-in was possible and I was able to get to the hotel by 10am.

While waiting for my suite to be ready, the hotel gave me access to a hospitality room to freshen up. This service was much appreciated after a long plane journey of over 24 hours! I had the opportunity to take a shower and a nap while waiting for my suite to be ready at 3pm.

A charming welcome gift was waiting for me at the room. The turquoise box included an assortment of Balinese sweets and cookies, as well as a small note.

The Aqua Studio suite is superb, spacious and bright. It has a king-size bed and superior comfort mattresses and bedding for a good night’s sleep.

On request, the hotel provided an extra bed for my friend who was accompanying me.

A comfortable lounge area is furnished with an armchair and footstool. There’s also a small area with a table and two chairs for coffee and meals.

A spacious desk is available, equipped with a work lamp, power sockets and USB ports.

A large flat-screen TV is built into the wall, offering international and local channels, as well as streaming options.

A mini-refrigerator keeps a few bottles of water and drinks cool. A courtesy tray is provided with an espresso machine, coffee capsules, tea and an electric kettle.

The Aqua Studio suite features a balcony with direct access to the saltwater lagoon and views of the beautiful gardens. This outdoor space is furnished with two chairs and a small table, providing a wonderful place to relax or enjoy a meal.

The marble bathroom is as large as the bedroom. It includes a rain shower and a large separate bathtub in the center of the room. Toiletries, bathrobes and slippers are provided.

The spacious wardrobe with hangers, drawers and electronic safe provides secure storage for personal belongings. Luggage space is also provided to keep the room clutter-free.

Breakfast at Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran is fresh, varied and delicious. Choose from a buffet (IDR 200,000 per person) or an à la carte menu.

Whether you prefer sweet or savory, there’s something for everyone. Plenty of pastries, pastries and cut fruit are on offer, as well as several Indonesian hot dishes.

The classic breakfast dish in Bali is bubur ayam, a salty rice porridge with chicken, hot peppers and fried onions. As for beverages, the buffet is stocked with fresh fruit juices and smoothies. Special coffees (espresso, cappucino, iced latte) are available on request.

For those who prefer to enjoy the comfort of their suite, the hotel offers 24-hour room service. This means you can enjoy your breakfast in peace, especially if you have a balcony overlooking the lagoon.

The swimming pool is the hotel’s most impressive feature. Shaped like a lagoon, it runs the length of the property, from the rooms to the restaurant. At the far end, there’s an in-water bar serving beers, cocktails and juices. You can enjoy a pleasant swim or relax on the comfortable loungers surrounding the pool.

For families, a separate children’s pool is available. This is also where you’ll find the counter for receiving or exchanging your beach towels.

The hotel features a restaurant, café, ice cream parlour and two bars.

The restaurant mainly serves tasty Indonesian dishes, but the menu also includes a few Western choices. For seating, there are tables inside and outside near the pool.

The hotel’s Spa Serenity is a space dedicated to well-being, offering a wide range of treatments using natural products. You’ll find traditional Balinese massages, facials, body treatments including scrubs, exfoliants and moisturizers, manicures, pedicures, hair treatments and more. Prices are reasonable and the therapists very professional.

The best way to earn Marriott Bonvoy points for free stays at over 8,000 hotels worldwide is to be a Marriott Bonvoy American Express* Cardholder (and/or Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express* Cardholder).

In addition to the great welcome bonus on both cards, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar on all purchases and 5 points per dollar at Marriott locations. And each year, you’ll earn a certificate for one free hotel night (35,000 point value) and 15 Elite nights toward your Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.

In short, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran combines comfort and convenience in an idyllic setting. The lagoon-shaped pool is a unique place to relax. The hotel’s restaurants serve a good variety of quality dishes to suit different culinary preferences. What’s more, the spa offers a wide range of services for a moment of well-being.

The staff, always friendly and attentive, contribute to a pleasant stay. The Aqua Studio suite is spacious and well-equipped. For those seeking even more luxury, private villas are also available at this hotel.

The presence of a Kids Club and a paddling pool makes the place well suited to families. The rooftop bar, with its breathtaking views of the sea and sunsets, adds a special touch to evenings. The hotel’s proximity to the airport makes getting around easy.

Finally, Le Méridien Bali Jimbaran offers quality services at an affordable price. This makes it an excellent option for a stay in Bali, whether you’re a couple or a family.