An Artisan’s Retreat in Seminyak: Katamama Review

Bali has this undeniable beauty, each part of the island offering a different experience. Seminyak is known for being hip and trendy, with plenty of fine dining restaurants, great cafes, and of course, phenomenal hotels. When the Katamama opened up in April this year, the excitement for a new boutique hotel with 58 suites rippled through the community.

There is something special about Katamama — it peaked my interest the minute I read about the hotel. Perhaps it was the clean lines and obsessive attention to details, but more importantly it was the focus on the local artisan. The minute you step into the hotel, there is no traditional lobby. In fact, no reception at all, but instead a greeting by a friendly smile and the phrase “welcome home.” You are brought up to your room and the entire check in is done there — as a bartender prepares your welcome cocktail in the room! After a short run down, you’re left with the keys and the comfort of already being in your room.

Downstairs at the main floor, lies many pieces crafted by local artisans. It starts with MoVida, what serves as the breakfast lounge and the Spanish-inspired restaurant for lunch and dinner. In the entrance is the hip bar, called Akademi, which offers mixology centered on seasonal ingredients and classic drinks. Down on the main side of the hotel (by the driveway) is a collection of three shops — one of my favorite areas. There is the One Fifteenth Coffee shop, a vegan/raw cafe named Alchemy, and a local goods store called Canaan. I love that the Katamama has brought in all of these shops to complete the local experience at the hotel.

Of course the hotel would not be complete without a beautiful pool, surrounded by lush gardens. Equipped with a gym and soon to be spa, the hotel is everything that is peaceful. For those looking for a bit more energy and entertainment, the Katamama is across from Potato Head Beach Club, which is vibrant and almost always a packed party (you have complimentary access as a guest.)

Stepping into the suite, the attention to detail is something extraordinary. The hotel has thought of everything, where you don’t necessarily even need to leave for something as simple as a cup of coffee or a cocktail. A minibar, rather a proper bar, has been stocked with a full DIY cocktail kit, local snacks and drinks, and a French press coffee kit with beans from One Fifteenth supplied fresh each day. The suite is outfitted with my personal favorite style: mid-century modern and natural tones. (Almost all of the suite’s outfitting has been sourced by local artisans.) There’s a walk-in wardrobe, a well-sized bathroom, and a separate living room. My favorite part of the room was indeed the patio that had a daybed, and a table for two — we spent every morning out there with coffee.

The Katamama started our time in Bali with an introduction that I couldn’t have expected. I was smitten by the service and attention to detail, bringing in the local culture and arts. Four nights felt like it wasn’t enough, and I could of easily continued the journey at Katamama. (Note: after two weeks in Bali, the Katamama was our favorite hotel from the trip, the one that stood out for service, design, and amenities.)

Bon Traveler’s Tips For Staying at Katamama

• Opt for a pool view suite, the views are pretty over the jungle forest!
• Be sure to checkout the daily events, like complimentary poolside yoga.
• Be a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ iPrefer program for extra perks like upgrades.

Get in touch

Katamama
Jl. Petitenget No.51, Kerobokan Kelod, Kuta Utara, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80361, Indonesia
Call +62 361 3029999 or visit http://www.katamama.com/

*Bon Traveler was welcomed as a guest of Katamama. As always, all opinions are own.