In Reply to: Niksoma, Mandira or Padma posted by katieb on Monday, 1. November 2004 at 05:44 Bali Time:
On our last trip to Bali (my 8th) we finally stayed at the Padma (not childless though with an 8yo). It is a very nice hotel - the rooms are very well appointed - all the creature comforts (which you would obviously expect). Breakfast was by far the best we have ever had in our travels. But to be honest overall I have stayed in better hotels for the money. We stayed at kumala pantai the year before - which was much much cheaper - and we were just as happy with that as we were with the Padma - it had a nicer feel about it - the Padma is a very big hotel - we have always found with the smaller hotels to be friendler and generally have a better atmosphere. If you are happy with a big hotel - you would no doubt be happy at the Padma. Personally we won't go back a second time. Make sure you get a garden deluxe chalet and not just a standard room at the Padma.
We havent stayed at the Mandira - but friends have and were quite happy with it. Some rooms were a bit tired though. We walked through the Niksoma - it is meant to be good as well. Very confusing isnt it. IF you want any specific questions answered re kumala pantai or padma please post a message. Cheers