I was fortunate to enjoy a couple of weeks recently at Puri Mangga Resort. I was in the Singaraja area for business, though it hardly felt like working, and chose Puri Mangga because it promised a quiet stay within a beautiful setting. I was not disappointed. Nestled in the lush hillside of northern Bali, the grounds are gorgeous and well manicured by deligent gardeners and overlook spectacular views of the sea. On a clear day, there is a view of Indonesia's second largest volcano on the Island of Java. After a day of work I would return to the resort and soak in the infinity pool or enjoy an amazing massage. The spa is situated overlooking a cliff, with a gurgling water feature surrounding its ledge. After my massages, I would melt away to my room. Puri Mangga is a small resort with individual houses for guests, each offering a beautiful and private setting. I spent a lot of time reading on my private balcony. The outdoor Balinise bathrooms are also much fun. Probably the most important aspect of Puri Mangga beyond its gardens and aesthetics, is its personal service. After a couple of weeks, the staff felt like family. They are always smiling and work very hard to please. Hans, the owner, also makes guests feel quite at home. I was traveling solo, so Hans invited me to dine at his table and we spent many an evening over...I was fortunate to enjoy a couple of weeks recently at Puri Mangga Resort. I was in the Singaraja area for business, though it hardly felt like working, and chose Puri Mangga because it promised a quiet stay within a beautiful setting. I was not disappointed. Nestled in the lush hillside of northern Bali, the grounds are gorgeous and well manicured by deligent gardeners and overlook spectacular views of the sea. On a clear day, there is a view of Indonesia's second largest volcano on the Island of Java. After a day of work I would return to the resort and soak in the infinity pool or enjoy an amazing massage. The spa is situated overlooking a cliff, with a gurgling water feature surrounding its ledge. After my massages, I would melt away to my room. Puri Mangga is a small resort with individual houses for guests, each offering a beautiful and private setting. I spent a lot of time reading on my private balcony. The outdoor Balinise bathrooms are also much fun. Probably the most important aspect of Puri Mangga beyond its gardens and aesthetics, is its personal service. After a couple of weeks, the staff felt like family. They are always smiling and work very hard to please. Hans, the owner, also makes guests feel quite at home. I was traveling solo, so Hans invited me to dine at his table and we spent many an evening over dinner deep in conversation solving all the world's problems. He also invited guests to a friend's "three Month ceremony" similar to a christening, which I gratefully attended. There is nothing like having the opportunity to experience real life when visiting a new culture. Then of course, there is the food. The chef prepares fresh meals each day, that offer variety with an interesting flair to Balinise cuisine. There is no need to eat elsewhere as you will likely not find a better meal or nicer setting. When I invited a group to dine at their restaurant, they organized a very special meal that was a big hit. Overall, the Puri Mangga experience is one that is laid back, welcoming, visually stunning and comfortable. The resort is located a bit out of the way, up a very interesting, windy road. They have a van and driver to transport guests if they chose to go into town. When I return to Bali, I will most certainly stay at Puri Mangga.More
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