The Travel Critic

Equilibria Hotel in Seminyak, Bali—a name that conjures images of serene luxury and modern indulgence. And indeed, on the face of it, this villa-centric hotel seems to tick all the right boxes. Nestled in a prime location for those who crave the vibrant nightlife of Seminyak, it offers a spa, a main pool, and a selection of three distinct villa types. We opted for the Waterfall Villa, anticipating an experience as invigorating as its name suggests.

The villa itself is undoubtedly modern, though showing signs of wear. The lounge area is spacious but oddly disconnected from the bedroom, giving the space an almost disjointed feel. An iPad is thoughtfully provided, yet it fails to add any real value to the stay. It’s more of a novelty than a necessity, often relegated to the role of an oversized coaster.

Service at Equilibria is attentive—perhaps a bit too attentive. There’s a fine line between excellent service and feeling like you’re constantly being monitored. The staff, though well-meaning, sometimes overstep this line, making relaxation slightly elusive.

Now, let’s talk about the breakfast process. Ordering involves filling out a form—a hassle that feels unnecessary and cumbersome. A small detail, perhaps, but one that detracts from the overall experience. The sunbeds around the pool, while visually appealing, are another point of contention. Low and lacking pads, they’re a challenge to get out of, especially for those with less-than-perfect knees. Comfort shouldn’t be sacrificed for style, and here it feels like it has been.

The spa and main pool are undoubtedly pleasant, but most guests prefer the private pools in their villas, which speaks volumes. The pathway to the hotel, an alleyway, is less than inviting. Navigating it feels like an adventure in itself, one you’d rather not embark on after dark.

Equilibria Hotel is, without a doubt, a good place. It has many of the elements of a great hotel, but somehow, it misses the mark. It’s like a finely tuned instrument that’s just slightly out of key. Close, but not quite. If you’re looking for luxury with a capital L, this may not entirely fulfill your expectations. However, if you’re content with good service, a great location, and a decent stay, Equilibria will do just fine. Just don’t expect it to sweep you off your feet.