Having just returned from 2 weeks in Bali, I want to forewarn anyone staying at the Puri Raja Hotel that this room has an extremely INEFFICIENT airconditioning unit.
Although Housekeeping had a quick look at it after we complained, it was obvious from their actions, that this unit has been complained about previously, and that short of replacing it with a brand new unit, nothing can be done to improve(lower!) the temperature.
Our friends who arrived 6 days after us, had an identical room in another block ,and the same brand/size airconditioner which when it was adjusted to 18oC, was like walking into a freezer, whereas ours on 18, was completely the opposite. Theirs set on 23oC was still very cool - even with their door open to the patio!
We were offered a room change, but with the hotel being full, and with us having completely unpacked and "taken over" all areas of the room & also liking where the room was actually located, we opted to remain there.
So to alleviate the problem, hubby went to Carrefour and bought a fan, which our regular driver Norman(Nyoman Begeh) was very grateful to receive when we left. The fan was the only thing that kept me sane for the 2 weeks I think, plus I am happy to have helped Norman.
Apart from this problem,& our bed being a little too firm for our liking, we were impressed with the renovations that were carried out several years ago to this hotel, as the last time that we had stayed there was in 2000.
The hotel is in an ideal location, backing onto the tourist walkway, which makes for easy walking to one of the many restaurants overlooking Legian Beach.
With 2 pools - a lap one at the front by reception and a circular pool bar/childrens pool at the beach end, we found the pool areas uncrowded, and we were always able to secure a lounger - no sunbed hogs here! The guests appeared to be mainly Aussies and Kiwis, with more mature-age tourists and a few families.
The restaurant has a pleasant view over the beach, with usually a small breeze flowing through the open sided structure. The American Breakfast which is included in the tariff, also includes other items such as freshly squeezed juices, lassis, banana pancakes, fried rice and noodles, so most tastes were catered for. The evening menu is large and varied,and whilst not as "upmarket" as some of the other restaurants nearby, the food is tasty & fresh. There are several "theme" nights each week, but the a la carte menu is also available at any time.
At $US70 per night for a superior room (there are also 4 deluxe rooms @ US95) including breakfast, I think that the hotel is value for money, especially if you spend a lot of time on-site as my husband did, and of course, the beach location is great.