During a recent trip to Bali, I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Sunset Road Bali, a centrally located and budget-friendly hotel that caters to travelers looking for convenience, comfort, and value. As an IHG Platinum Elite member, I was curious to see how this property would deliver in terms of recognition, service, and overall experience. Located along the bustling Sunset Road, the hotel provides easy access to key areas such as Seminyak, Kuta, and Legian, making it a practical choice for both business and leisure stays.
Check-in was straightforward and professional, though it lacked some of the personalized touches that more premium IHG properties offer. While my Platinum status was acknowledged verbally, there was no welcome amenity or upgrade beyond the room I had booked. That said, the process was quick, and I was in my room within minutes of arrival. The front desk staff were polite and helpful when I had questions about the area or needed assistance with transport.
The pool view room was modest in size but well-maintained and thoughtfully arranged. The decor followed the standard Holiday Inn Express style—clean lines, neutral tones, and practical furnishings. The bed was comfortable, the linens were crisp, and the blackout curtains did an excellent job of keeping the room dark for a good night’s rest. I appreciated the desk space and fast, reliable Wi-Fi, which made it easy to catch up on work when needed. The bathroom was compact but functional, with a good walk-in shower and consistent hot water. Housekeeping did a solid job during my stay, keeping everything clean and replenished without intrusion.
One of the highlights was having a view of the pool. It may not be a large or lavish swimming area, but the greenery and blue water created a more relaxed and open ambiance compared to the rooms facing the street or neighboring buildings. The pool itself was suitable for a refreshing dip and had a handful of loungers for guests looking to relax outside for a bit. It wasn’t crowded during my stay, which made it a nice spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
The hotel’s complimentary breakfast, available to all guests, was served in the open dining area near the lobby. It offered a small but sufficient buffet spread that included local and Western options: fried rice, noodles, eggs, sausages, toast, pastries, cereals, fruit, and beverages. While not elaborate, it was fresh, well-stocked, and convenient. The self-serve format allowed for a quick start to the day, especially for travelers on a schedule. Coffee, tea, and juice were also available throughout the morning.
Location is one of this hotel’s biggest strengths. Being situated on Sunset Road means you’re close to many of Bali’s popular spots, and the airport is roughly 15 to 20 minutes away by car depending on traffic. While Sunset Road is busy and commercial, the hotel is set slightly back from the main road, helping to buffer some of the noise. Ride-hailing apps work well in this area, and there’s a minimarket just next door for snacks, drinks, and essentials.
As for the IHG Platinum experience, benefits were modest. There was no welcome drink or gift, and no upgrade beyond the pool view room I had booked. However, I was granted a late checkout, and the front desk staff were accommodating whenever I needed assistance. While this isn’t a property where elite status translates into substantial perks, the service was consistent and courteous.
