Hotel Review: FC Residence, Bali
FC Residence is an exclusive eight -bedroom property in tranquil Pererenan. South Bali has become very busy and at times feel over-crowded. Pererenan is the exception. Located just outside Canggu, Pererenan still holds on to the serenity that is the ‘Old Bali’ charm. Emerald rice fields litter the landscape, banana trees hang over narrow roads and toads serenade you at sundown.
The FC Residence fits well with its surroundings. The grounds are well manicured and it’s clear that a lot of time and energy were spent. In fact, trees were painstakingly removed to provide a stunning view of the rice fields over the pool. There is a private road that leads from the rear of the grounds into the rice fields and further out to secluded Pantai Lima Beach. The same journey can be done on horses provided by a local riding school nearby. Locals use this road to tend to their rice paddies and other crops like bananas and melons.
The property sleeps twenty comfortably and is ideal for group getaways such as weddings, corporate retreats and family reunions. Bookings are flexible as guests can rent out the entire property or single rooms. As a solo traveler, it appealed to my sense of privacy with lots of nooks for solace. I stayed in the Pool Suite and there was plenty of space. I really didn’t have to leave my room because of the ample amenities. The garden, small plunge pool and the landing above the bedroom provided more than enough room to roam and relax. The comfortable king sized bed provided much reprieve while watching international cable television. The intimate and exclusive feel of the grounds are ideal for travelers seeking privacy and groups seeking exclusivity. The deep and winding 30m lagoon style pool facilitates a proper swim and not merely splashing about. Spa services are available on call. Choose from traditional Balinese, shiatsu, Thai, aromatherapy and reflexology. I had my massage under the joglo while listening to the Dream River flow. Massage suites are located poolside, so guests can choose from either location.
FC Residence is in close proximity from some of Bali’s pristine and exciting beaches like the world famous Echo and Old Man’s. Batu Bolong and Pantai Seseh are also near by. Surf lessons with a local guide are provided. The forgiving surf breaks of beaches close-by are ideal for beginners. Guests are welcome to take a guided tour of the area in the an open top VW car, aptly dubbed, “The Thing.” Be sure to watch out for banana leaves that can smack you in the face. Deus Ex –Machina’s popular Sunday night rock ‘n’ roll party is literally around the corner from FC Residence.
The food and cocktails from the FC Bar and Grill are top notch. The cocktails are tasty and strong. My favorites were the ‘tequila best’ and the classic maitai. It doesn’t hurt that the bartender, Agus won the Potato Head competition for serving up the best mojito, which the management serves a virgin version as the welcome drink. Plans are underway to make the FC Bar and Grill a neighbourhood night -time hang. There are several villas in the area, but the FC Bar and Grill is the only place that provides food and drinks in house.
Pererenan still maintains that ‘Old Bali” charm and after visiting the FC Residence, I am planning on moving to the area. Quaint warungs, temples, cafes, restaurants sprinkle the landscape, but unlike over-crowded Seminyak, you can actually see the landscape while relaxing with a cup of tea.
Pool Suite USD $200-$250 a night
Disclaimer: I was a sponsored guest at the FC Residence. The views expressed here are my own.
Traveler Writer Filmmaker 
nice, looks natural and artistic and the food served is very interesting to eat, I love this hotel.