Where is it? Following the devastating bombings of 2002, Bali went into decline. But like any world-class destination, its qualities, and the qualities of its optimistic and friendly people, ensured the Island of the Gods bounced back quickly, although it was forced to diversify.
With a drop-off in the Australian backpacker crowd following the targeting of Kuta, this lush island, always something of a haven for artists and bohemians, is now appealing to a more fashionable crowd thanks to the numerous boutiques, art galleries and stunning restaurants and bars that have opened in the last couple of years. Seminyak has thrived at the expense of nearby Kuta and the beautiful people are flocking there in their droves without a backpack to be seen. This, without a doubt, is Louis Vuitton territory.
What is it? The Legian hotel has cashed in with the influx of sassy young professionals in the Seminyak beach area - they're the type that often demands something a little more than the traditional five-star experience. The Club is the most recent innovation intended to attract the more refined traveller and offers 10 one-bedroom villas as a separate entity from the hotel, each with its own private 10-metre swimming pool. It's the ultimate escape from Kuta's riff-raff element and even boasts its own clubhouse and restaurant, although meals can be served in your room: each villa is assigned a butler, handily on 24-hour call. Guests may use all the other facilities offered by the adjacent hotel, such as the gym and spa.
What's the style? With its low-rise villas and extensive use of teak, the Legian, designed by one of Indonesia's leading architects, Hendra Hadiprana, represents traditional Bali. Accommodation is pleasing on the eye, makes good use of the island's natural light and also utilises the outdoors; guests can shower under the stars but should beware of mosquitoes. You'll be hard pressed to find a more enticing retreat: set in landscaped tropical gardens and offering stunning views across the Indian Ocean, this destination offers the best of Bali with all its attendant charms.
Anything else we should know? The section of beach occupied by the Legian is popular for surfing, and watching people struggle with the huge rollers makes for a great spectator sport. You can join in if that's your thing, the hotel providing boogie boards and big 'woodies' for hire if you can handle them. Accommodating lifeguards even offer encouragement and instruction.
The hotel is within walking distance of the island's latest place to see and be seen, Ku de Ta restaurant and bar. It is an increasingly popular hang-out for the fashionable by day and night, and crops up regularly in style-bible magazines. Chic, cool and supremely relaxed, it even provides sun loungers for the totally laid back.