Emily O'Neil is the brains behind Bali Soul Villas, and the newer sister website Bali Family Villas. Emily took some time out from her busy life between the Byron Bay hinterland in New South Wales and Bali (I'm jealous) to answer a few questions. Bali Family Villas manages a range of luxury and upmarket villas and properties in Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud, etc. I contacted Emily and asked her some questions about herself and the villas and here is what she had to share with Growing up Troppo.
Can you share a little bit about you?
We are a family with three cheeky boys. We were drawn to Bali for lifestyle, we love the tropics and the freedom of Island living. We moved to Bali from Australia years ago and have raised our little tribe on the Island. My boys are now 8,5 and 3 and we have been lucky to "product test" many Villas in their time. We love travel in general, and other than Bali have a home in the Byron Bay area and would like to experience as many destinations as possible! I love experiencing different cultures and I also think when it comes to travel, if the kids are happy, then so are the parents. For me a Bali holiday is about finding the balance between luxury and family-friendly features.
Photo credit: @nikoleramsay
Tell us about Bali Family Villas
We originally started Bali Soul Villas as we fell in love with the beautiful Villas we came across and wanted to share them with others. Along the way we found the need for our clients to have reassurance about family-friendly features was a very important aspect of our service. So we launched Bali Family Villas which aims to focus on these requests. As we have children ourself we have a good understanding of being in Bali with kids. As parents we can relate to other parents.
We believe it is possible to keep adults and children happy all at once. As well as being family-friendly our villas must also be stylish, well serviced and of an overall high standard. Our check list covers so many bases!
What makes a villa family-friendly?
It's a mix of location, floor plan, safety, fun extras and services that make a villa great for families.
Baby cots, high chairs, pool fences, car seats, prams and toys make all the difference for an easy stay with bubs and toddlers. As the kids get older, a children's menu, trampoline, table tennis or x-box are crowd pleasers. For the parents a great babysitter and daily housekeeper are fantastic holiday must - haves.
How do you guys cater for families?
As we are parents ourselves we have an understanding of being in Bali with kids. We give our guests our own printed Bali Guide when they arrive with our tips for Bali with kids. We offer free car seats for airport transfers, baby cots and high chairs. We coordinate the hire of pool fences and extra pieces when needed. We give all the little guests blow up pool toys and colouring in sets on arrival. We recommend nannies who can swim. We step in with advice as parents in general. We prearrange grocery shopping so parents are sorted for when they land. The little things can make all the difference. We can also suggest manageable places to eat and visit with the kids.
Do you get many requests for big family reunions?
Yes, definitely! We also cater to large groups wishing to stay in a private Villa or a collection of Villas together. Often there are several generations wishing to celebrate a milestone event... this is where our knowledge of the properties comes in, making sure everyone is catered for.
Do you have a favourite in your collection?
There are so many, I can't choose a favourite!
Anything else?
We support a local orphanage in Denpasar. The facility is home to 90 Indonesian children and they rely solely on the support of people like us. We encourage our guests to get involved if it interests them.
How can we find out more?
We are happy to help. Take a look at our website is probably the first thing to do. We have all our properties listed and our contact details. Or join us @balifamilyvillas on Facebook or Instagram and contact us there.
Thanks Emily for taking the time to tell Growing up Troppo a little bit about Bali Family Villas!
Photo credits: Bali Family Villas
I don't have any connection with Bali Family Villas and I'm not getting any freebies or incentives to write about them on my blog. I want Growing up Troppo to be honest and independent advice. If you have stayed in any of their villas and have any feedback, I'd love to hear from you. I haven't stayed in any of their properties yet, but hope to really soon!
