Escape to Paradise: Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud's Unforgettable Luxury
Escape to Paradise? More Like… Finding Bliss in the Balinese Jungle – A Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud Review (With All the Messy Feels)
Okay, so you're dreaming of that Bali trip, right? Lush rice paddies, yoga retreats, maybe a little romance? Well, I just got back from Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud, and let me tell you, it's a serious contender for "Paradise Found." But hold on, because this isn't your usual, perfectly polished hotel review. This is the real deal, with all the good, the slightly less good, and the moments that left me speechless. Buckle up, buttercups.
First Impressions: The Wow Factor (and a Tiny Hiccup)
From the moment you arrive, Dedary oozes "Instagrammable." The architecture is stunning – think sleek, modern lines that seamlessly blend with the jungle foliage. The lobby is open-air, cool, and breezy. The staff? Smiles for days. Seriously, they’re incredibly welcoming.
Getting there? Accessibility is pretty good. They offer airport transfer, and while the resort isn't perfectly designed for wheelchair users throughout (more on that later), they definitely cater to guests with mobility needs. The pathways are generally smooth, and they have a lift to access different levels. Just chat with them beforehand, and they'll make sure you're sorted. (Airport transfer, Car park [free of charge], Car park [on-site], Taxi service, Valet parking)
Now, the hiccup. Check-in was a little slow. My first instinct was, "Oh no, here we go…" but then the complimentary welcome drink, a delicious concoction of ginger and something tropical, hit my lips, and all was forgiven. (Check-in/out [private], Concierge, Cash withdrawal, Check-in/out [express], Doorman)
Rooms: My Private Jungle Oasis (With Excellent Wi-Fi!)
We booked a deluxe room, and it was… well, it was ridiculous. In the best way possible. Think sleek wood, floor-to-ceiling windows that open onto a private balcony (perfect for morning coffee), and a bathroom that was bigger than my first apartment. The "Free Wi-Fi in all Rooms!" promise? Delivered. I even managed to stream Netflix (the real test, right?), so you're sorted. (Available in all rooms, Additional toilet, Air conditioning, Alarm clock, Bathrobes, Bathroom phone, Bathtub, Blackout curtains, Carpeting, Closet, Coffee/tea maker, Complimentary tea, Daily housekeeping, Desk, Extra long bed, Free bottled water, Hair dryer, High floor, In-room safe box, Interconnecting room(s) available, Internet access – LAN, Internet access – wireless, Ironing facilities, Laptop workspace, Linens, Mini bar, Mirror, Non-smoking, On-demand movies, Private bathroom, Reading light, Refrigerator, Safety/security feature, Satellite/cable channels, Scale, Seating area, Separate shower/bathtub, Shower, Slippers, Smoke detector, Socket near the bed, Sofa, Soundproofing, Telephone, Toiletries, Towels, Umbrella, Visual alarm, Wake-up service, Wi-Fi [free], Window that opens)
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Foodie Heaven or Just Okay? (A Mostly Positive Verdict)
Let’s get real: I'm a serious foodie. And Dedary didn't disappoint… mostly. (A la carte in restaurant, Alternative meal arrangement, Asian breakfast, Asian cuisine in restaurant, Bar, Bottle of water, Breakfast [buffet], Breakfast service, Buffet in restaurant, Coffee/tea in restaurant, Coffee shop, Desserts in restaurant, Happy hour, International cuisine in restaurant, Poolside bar, Restaurants, Room service [24-hour], Salad in restaurant, Snack bar, Soup in restaurant, Vegetarian restaurant, Western breakfast, Western cuisine in restaurant)
The breakfast buffet was a masterpiece. Seriously. Eggs cooked to order, fresh fruit galore, pastries that practically melted in your mouth, and a glorious selection of Asian and Western options. (Breakfast [buffet], Asian breakfast, Western breakfast)
The main restaurant offered a diverse menu with both international and local fare. I devoured their nasi goreng (a Balinese staple – don't leave without trying it!), and the Pad Thai was excellent. The pool-side bar was perfect for a happy hour cocktail or a quick snack. (Poolside bar, Happy hour, Restaurants) My one (tiny) gripe? The lunch menu felt a little limited. But hey, that's a minor quibble.
Things To Do and Ways To Relax: Blissful Times (and a Few Regrets!)
This is where Dedary really shines. I'm talking serious relaxation. (Body scrub, Body wrap, Fitness center, Foot bath, Gym/fitness, Massage, Pool with view, Sauna, Spa, Spa/sauna, Steamroom, Swimming pool, Swimming pool [outdoor])
The infinity pool overlooking the jungle? Pure magic. Days were spent languishing in the sun, sipping cocktails, reading a book, and pretending I didn't have a care in the world. (Swimming pool [outdoor], Pool with view)
The spa? Oh, the spa. I booked a Balinese massage, and it was heavenly. Deep tissue, kneading out all the knots, and leaving me feeling like a totally relaxed puddle. Worth every single penny. Consider this my biggest endorsement . The steam room and sauna are great as well!
The Fitness Center is there if you are feeling all virtuous. I did not attempt that because vacations.
Cleanliness and Safety: Peace of Mind in a Pandemic World
You know, with everything going on, safety is a major concern. Dedary really impressed me on that front. They've implemented some serious measures. (Anti-viral cleaning products, Cashless payment service, Daily disinfection in common areas, Doctor/nurse on call, First aid kit, Hand sanitizer, Hot water linen and laundry washing, Hygiene certification, Individually-wrapped food options, Physical distancing of at least 1 meter, Professional-grade sanitizing services, Room sanitization opt-out available, Rooms sanitized between stays, Safe dining setup, Sanitized kitchen and tableware items, Shared stationery removed, Staff trained in safety protocol, Sterilizing equipment) Hand sanitizer everywhere, staff wearing masks, and the impression that they were taking things seriously.
The Little Extras: Making it Special
The staff were genuinely attentive and friendly. Special shoutout to the concierge service, who were happy to help with everything from organizing day trips to recommending the best local warungs (small, family-run restaurants). (Business facilities, Concierge, Currency exchange, Dry cleaning, Elevator, Facilities for disabled guests, Food delivery, Gift/souvenir shop, Indoor venue for special events, Invoice provided, Ironing service, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities, Meetings, Meeting stationery, On-site event hosting, Outdoor venue for special events, Projector/LED display, Safety deposit boxes, Seminars, Shrine, Smoking area, Terrace, Wi-Fi for special events, Xerox/fax in business center, CCTV in common areas, CCTV outside property, Check-in/out [express], Check-in/out [private], Couple's room, Exterior corridor, Fire extinguisher, Front desk [24-hour], Hotel chain, Non-smoking rooms, Proposal spot, Room decorations, Safety/security feature, Security [24-hour], Smoke alarms, Soundproof rooms, Access, Air conditioning in public area, Essential condiments) They also offer some amazing services for couples, like a proposal spot!
The Verdict: Should You Book? (Hell Yes!)
Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud offers a truly unforgettable escape. It’s luxurious, relaxing, and incredibly beautiful. The minor imperfections are easily overshadowed by the exceptional service, stunning setting, and overall blissful experience.
Here’s My Honest Take:
- Pros: Stunning location, stylish rooms, amazing spa, friendly staff, fantastic breakfast, good safety protocols.
- Cons: Check-in can be slow, lunch menu a little limited.
- Accessibility: Good but not perfect. They'll help you if you need it.
Final Thought: If you're looking for a luxury escape in Ubud where you can truly unwind, and you don't mind a few minor quirks, book Dedary. You won't regret it.
Ready to Escape? Here's the Deal… (My Persuasive Offer!)
Book your stay at Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud NOW and receive:
- Exclusive Offer: Get a free room upgrade (subject to availability) upon booking.
- Bonus: Enjoy a complimentary Balinese massage for two.
- Added Value: Get a free dinner at the restaurant.
- Peace of Mind: Free cancellation 7 days prior of visit.
Let Dedary unlock your Bali dreams – Book NOW!
Lintao's Hidden Gem: 7 Days of Unbelievable Shopping! (Golden Street Plaza)
Dedary Diaries: My Ubud Odyssey (and a Whole Lot of Mosquito Bites)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this isn't your average pristine itinerary. This is the story of my trip to Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud, brought to you with all the messy, sweaty, gloriously imperfect reality that entails. Expect rambling, expect opinions, and brace yourselves for a serious dose of "OMG, I love Bali!" followed by "Ugh, why did I wear white?!"
Day 1: Arrival & That Initial 'WOW' Moment
14:00 - Arrival at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), Denpasar: First impressions? Humid. Very humid. And a sea of smiling faces holding signs bearing names that definitely weren't mine. After the lovely lady from Dedary finally found me (apparently, my name is tricky!), we zipped off through the Balinese traffic symphony to Ubud. The scooter action is INSANE. I swear I saw a whole family, including the grandma, on ONE bike!
16:00 - Check-in at Dedary Resort & Spa Ubud: Okay, this is where the "WOW" moment hit. Photos do not do this place justice. Think lush, green everything. Infinity pools that melt into the jungle. My villa? Apparently, I'm a princess now because it's HUGE. And seriously, that outdoor bathroom? Instant Instagram gold.
17:00 - Villa Exploration & Unpacking (and Mosquito Massacre): Ah, the bliss of unpacking in paradise. Until the mosquitoes discovered me. Seriously, I’m pretty sure they're a species I didn't know existed. Little, relentless, buzzing demons. Sprayed myself head-to-toe in repellent, which, let's be honest, feels slightly suffocating but necessary. Ended up leaving a trail of DEET everywhere I went.
18:00 - Sundowner Drinks at the Resort's Bar: Mango Mojito, right? Wrong. I went with the 'Bali Sunset' cocktail. It was a sweet, fruity explosion of goodness, and the view just… sigh. I could have stayed there all night, watching the sky turn from orange to purple, and letting the gentle breeze caress my face. And that view? Pure bliss. It felt like my soul was finally exhaling after the stress of the last few months.
19:30 - Dinner at the Resort's Restaurant: This is where things got a little… interesting. The food was delicious, don't get me wrong. Ordered the Nasi Goreng, a classic, and it was divine. But the service? Let's just say my water glass stayed empty for a solid twenty minutes while everyone around me was basking in attentive care. Okay, I'm not going to let this small thing ruin my day.
- Thought: Note to self: Don't be afraid to wave your hand!
Day 2: Rice Terraces, Monkey Madness & Massage Meltdown
08:00 - Breakfast with a View: Breakfast at Dedary is a feast for the eyes and the stomach. Pancakes? Check. Fruit platters? Double-check. The view over the jungle was even more stunning in the morning. But there was this rogue bird that kept trying to steal my banana. Seriously, these guys are relentless.
09:00 - Tegallalang Rice Terraces Adventure: So, I'd seen the pictures. But the reality? Breath-taking. Absolutely gorgeous. The greens! The textures! The way the light played across the fields! I walked and walked (and walked!), and snapped about a million photos.
- Anecdote: Got totally ripped off by a "guide" trying to sell me coconut water. Thirty dollars for a coconut that was more husk than liquid? NEVER AGAIN!!
12:00 - Lunch at a Warung near the Terraces: After the coconut fiasco, I was starving. Luckily, I stumbled upon a tiny warung, where I had the best Gado-Gado of my life. Simple, authentic, and unbelievably cheap. It was a moment of pure Balinese joy.
14:00 - Ubud Monkey Forest (The Slightly Terrifying Reality): Okay, let's get this straight. The monkeys are cute. From a distance. Once you get close and those beady little eyes are staring you down, it gets a little… intense. I mean, they will try to steal your sunglasses, your phone, your entire backpack. One of them even tried to undo my shoelace! Total chaos, but definitely an experience.
- Observation: Don't carry bananas. Seriously, unless you want to be mobbed.
16:00 - The "Ubud Relaxing Massage": This was supposed to be the ultimate relaxation experience. And for about the first 30 minutes, it was. The oils smelled amazing, the masseuse was skilled. Then, I hit my head on the massage bed and let out a giggle, I was told to be quiet. I spent the rest of the session trying not to laugh out loud. My body was limp, but my mind was racing, thinking how I would be judged by the masseuse if I didn't say anything at all.
- Emotional Reaction: Ugh! I felt so conflicted. Did I enjoy it? Yes. But, did I get the silent, soothing experience I was envisioning? Not really.
19:00 - Dinner & Early Night: Feeling pretty wiped so I ordered room service again. Ended up watching a cheesy action movie and finally getting to sleep.
Day 3: Cooking Class, Cultural Immersion & Departure (Boo!):
08:00 - The dreaded pre-departure wake up call! I didn't want to leave just yet. This morning I enjoyed my breakfast and prepared for my cooking class.
09:00 - Balinese Cooking Class: I'd always wanted to learn how to cook authentic Balinese food. This class was fantastic! I had to chop, slice, and dice, learning some new cooking techniques. I got the whole experience, learning about the ingredients and the culture behind the dishes. It was so interactive and I had so much fun!
- Anecdote: I accidentally set my chopping board on fire while making chili paste! The resulting smoke filled the kitchen and the instructor just laughed.
12:00 - Final Meal at the resort: Everything I ate was delicious and I couldn't believe it. I was happy, I was full, and I was finally ready to face the world and leave this beautiful place.
14:00 - Departure: Back to the airport. More traffic, more scooters, and more goodbyes. I looked back at Dedary, and I could feel it in my very core - I loved this place. More importantly, I loved the realness of the experience.
Epilogue: The Takeaway
This trip wasn't perfect. I got mosquito bites, I got ripped off, I hit my head on a massage table. But it was real. And honestly? That's what I needed. I left Ubud feeling refreshed, inspired. It's a place of natural beauty and magic. And what's great is that I'll be back soon!
Mayflower Grande: Thailand's Hidden Paradise? (You Won't Believe This!)
Okay, spill the beans. Is Dedary Resort REALLY as dreamy as the pictures look? Seriously, or is it Instagram vs. Reality?
Alright, alright, settle down, you curious cats! Let's be honest, I went in with *major* skepticism. Instagram? Pfft. Half the time it's filtered perfection. But, and this is a *big* but, Dedary… it's close. I swear I’m still dreaming of the bamboo plunge pool. Okay, maybe the pictures are a *little* flattering. The lighting is *always* good. And yes, I did spend a suspicious amount of time perfecting my poolside pose (don't judge!). But the real magic? It's the *vibe*. Like, you step in, and you’re hit with this… calm. A genuine, soul-soothing calm. The air smells like frangipani and something I couldn't quite place, but it was intoxicating. So yeah, mostly dream… maybe with a tiny sprinkle of staged perfection. Worth it though. Absolutely.
The *food*. Tell me about the food. Because, you know, travel is 50% eating, right?
Oh. My. Gosh. The food. Okay, so I have a confession. I may have spent a solid week just *thinking* about the nasi goreng. And the breakfast? Forget about it. I literally had to be physically removed from the buffet. (Don't worry, no arrests.) The fruit was unbelievably fresh. The coffee? A pure, dark, delicious awakening. And the staff… bless them, they somehow managed to keep me from ordering *everything* on the menu. There's this small, unassuming restaurant - called 'Dedari Restaurant' - it’s where magic happens. I ordered the duck confit, thinking, "Okay, I know duck confit. Seen it, done it." Boy, was I wrong. This duck… crispy skin, tender meat. It was... divine. I might've shed a tear. Don’t judge my foodie emotions! My only complaint? My stomach wasn't big enough to eat *everything* I wanted.
Fine, so the food's good. But are there any actual, *real* flaws? You know, the stuff the brochures conveniently leave out?
Look, I'm not trying to be a total Pollyanna here. Nothing's perfect (except, maybe, the pool). Okay, first, the Wi-Fi. It’s Bali, so you're not expecting lightning-fast internet. But sometimes... it's like a grumpy old tortoise in molasses. I swear, I almost threw my laptop out the window trying to upload a photo. The second thing, and this is a minor thing but still... I had this *one* mosquito in my room. Just *one*. And it was a ninja mosquito. I spent like, an hour trying to swat the darn thing. Finally gave up and just slept under the covers, utterly defeated. So, yeah, mosquitoes and slightly slower wifi. Minor annoyances in the grand scheme of things. Okay, maybe I'm slightly exaggerating the internet thing... mostly I wanted to disconnect.
About those plunges pools everyone keeps yammering about... worth the hype? And what about the spa?
Okay, listen up, pool-dreamers. YES. The pools are *everything*. Even better in real life. I'm not usually a pool person, I burn easily! But at Dedary, I spent hours drifting in the bamboo-walled pool. It’s total zen. You also get a feeling of absolute privacy. No screaming kids (a godsend!). And the spa? O.M.G. I had the 'Balinese Massage'. Let me paint you a picture: Warm oils, soft music, the gentle hands of an angel… Okay, maybe it wasn't an angel, but it felt close. I think I might have fallen asleep halfway through. And when I woke up, I felt… reborn. Seriously. All the stress just melted away. The massage was worth the entire trip alone. I would go back just for the spa. Forget the temples, forget the rice paddies… just get me back to that massage table!
Okay, what are some of the unique things to do on the property or in the surrounding area?
Well, Dedary itself offers a bunch of things. There are yoga sessions (which I, admittedly, skipped. Too busy in the pool!). They have cooking classes, which sound amazing. I *meant* to do one but… see above re: pool. There's a beautiful rice field area. My advice? Take the time, especially if you feel like you're in a rut at home. Outside the resort, you're in Ubud, which means you're surrounded by temples, art galleries, and monkey forests. Yes, *monkey forests*. I went! Maybe I should have been more prepared for the monkeys' thieving escapades. My sunglasses didn't make it. Lesson learned. A simple tip: keep your belongings *very close* by. Otherwise, it's a great day trip. It's all about finding a balance between relaxing at the resort and exploring. Trust me, the balance is key.
The Staff. Let's talk about the staff. Are they genuinely friendly, or is it just that forced hotel smile?
Okay, now we're talking. The staff? They're GOLD. Seriously. It's not just a smile; it’s genuine warmth. They remember your name. They anticipate your needs. They handle problems with grace. I arrived late one night, totally flustered after a travel mishap. They were so kind, got me settled in, and brought me a welcome drink that was like a hug in a glass. One time I was looking lost, trying to find the way to the pool (how did I even manage this?!) and a staff member actually *walked* me there. No, they're amazing. They make you feel like you're not just a customer; you're a welcomed guest. They even put up with my attempts to learn some Balinese phrases. I butchered them horribly, but they just laughed and helped me correct myself. They're the real secret ingredient that makes Dedary so special. Tip generously, folks. They deserve it!
Tell the truth, would you go back? Like, *tomorrow*? (Be honest!)
Don’t even *ask*. I’m already plotting my return. Seriously, I'm checking flights as we speak. Okay, maybe not *tomorrow*. But soon. Very soon. Dedary became more than just a vacation. It was a reset button. A place where I could actually, truly relax. I'm already counting down the days until I can feel that warm Bali sun on my skin, sip that delicious coffee again, and float in that perfect pool. I’m still slightly traumatized from the ninja mosquito, but even that can't put me off! And that nasi goreng… Oh, the nasi goreng! Yes, I would go back. In a heartbeat. In fact… I might *have* to. It's calling to me. It's become a need.
