We have stayed in Tuban, Legian, Candi Dasa, Ubud and Sanur but keep coming back to Legian as offers more options and we don't have to get transport just to eat. You can laze, party or shop

Check out the Bali Padma http://www.hotelpadma.com/ or Bali Mandira http://www.balimandira.com/ Out of the two I think the Padma is the better as Mandira's rooms can be a bit on the small side.

There are so MANY shops and restaurants in Legian you'll be spoilt for choice where to eat.

Nusa Dua is fine and there are some fabulous hotels there but you're in an enclave of top end hotel with top end prices.

Try these websites http://www.baliguide.com/index.html (there is dedicated Bali forum attached to this site) and http://www.balieats.com/guide.cfm

Bali has changed in the past 15 years since we first went. It now offers some fine dining and some fabulous restaurants with top (imported) chefs for those times you want to dress up.

I haven't been yet but I intend to recify that very soon... apparently breakfast at La Luciola is a must. It's best to go on the weekend when their full breaky menu is available.

Cheers Geri

The Alila Ubud is somewhere we looked at but decided it was too far out of Ubud centre itself. We liked being able to leave our hotel and wander through the streets to see all the sights. That might not be anything that would bother you but I think it would be a bit of a scutter getting in and out. Of course the views and hotel itself may well more than make up for that

Bali gallery
My second visit to Bali I chose the Komaneka- I have photos of it there. It was on Monkey Forest Road- right in the middle of things, and you would never guess when you enter it. Beautiful place.( there are 3 Komanekas in Ubud by the way)
Komaneka website
We also stayed in the Waka Namya- walkable from the centre of Ubud but easier to take a taxi or call the hotel for the shuttle to come. There are photos of it on page 4 or 5 of the Gallery. We stayed at the deluxe villa and it is stunning.
Waka Namya website
Of course I reviewed both of those
hotel reviews

Alila Ubud has the stunning rice paddy views, which I think should be compulsory for Ubud 1st timers! Although like Fiona, I now stay closer to the heart of things - last stay at Waka Di Ume, which is great.

Alila Manggis has no beach. Personally I would go to Lombok, or North Bali (try Damai Lovina) for relaxed.

Seminyak / Legian (blends into one) is a great place to be. Bali Padma looks nice. I've stayed at The Elysian which is good value for money (you might get a Stay 5 pay 4).