May 2014
Oh my Goodness , I don’t even know where to begin writing a review for this beautiful villa, and
I’ve been remiss because of that dilemma.
Fellow traveller, this is an amazing villa. Searching for a special place to stay in the north, after
plenty of stays in the south, I came across Villa Beten Bukit. At first, I honestly thought, it’s too
good to be true, but WOW, it’s exactly what we want.
From my initial contact with Lisettte she was immediately responsive and informative, offering me a
very fair rental price, and I booked directly with her, which was super easy. During our email
exchanges, It was obvious that Villa Beten Bukit is special because it is not just Lisette’s pride and
joy, it’s also her passion and her 2nd home. she even organised scooters for us which were waiting
when we arrived at the villa. It was an unexpected treat that Lisette came to meet us in Legian,
with her driver Ketut. He was unbelievable, getting us up to Pemuteran in super heavy traffic (and
also back to the airport a week later ! ).
Arriving in the villa was a delight. We were greeted by Putu, who was very excited to show us the
property, which is so much more beautiful than any photograph can capture. The gardens there are
truly lovely, with so many birds…..like, so many! From the masses of tiny swallows who come
each morning and afternoon to take a sneaky bath in the swimming pool to the lovely little water
birds who hop across the water lily pads, it’s all paradise times a kazillion.
Lisette arranged for Illuh to prepare a meal for us as we were coming in the late afternoon, and it
was the perfect welcome. Illuh is a very caring and gentle person, cleaning and cooking in the
most unassuming and mindful way. Her food is delicious, fresh and simply prepared, and she is so
happy to be able to please you. Even the way she laundered and carefully folded our clothes was
so beautiful!
Putu also cooked for us, going out early to the local market to buy us a fabulous fresh fish, which
he barbecued to perfection, a must have meal while you are there. He is very helpful, and just a
phone call away, being very unobtrusive.
The Villa itself was much more than we needed, just my husband and I, so we only used the 1st
bedroom,which was very comfortable, a huge bed, with a mosquito net, and plenty of hanging/shelf
space for our clothes. The ensuite bathroom was great too, open to the stars, but spotlessly clean
and private, as is the entire villa.
You’ll be spoiled for choice (like me) where should you lie down to read a book, or the news on
your phone, or even to take a sneaky nap? Whatever you’re after, it’s all here, lounges, chairs, day
beds, umbrellas, absolutely everything, everything. And don’t get me started on the pool, let’s leave
it at when you get in, you wont want to get out.
Hanging by the front door there are 4 KOSHI WINDCHIMES (http://koshi.fr/). i researched them
once i returned home because they are the most delightful chimes I’ve ever heard. Although they
are a small detail, i think they’re a significant one, because just like this entire villa, they are
understated perfection.
Thank you Lisette for your generous hospitality, and congratulations on creating this impressive
sanctuary, I just hope I will have the chance to return.
Candi & Allan
Sydney-Australie
