Posted by Rebe on Wednesday, 28. October 1998 at 10:18 Bali Time:
Well,
After reading all about Bali on the forum I too was not prepared for the reality. What an extreme culture shock. It took me two days to start to get used to the place.
Stayed at Jayakarta - Legian which was lovely. When booking though, organise a double bed as I had two singles.
The leather is great, but triple check that they have the style you want written down correctly. I picked up my leather last day and with my jacket the pockets were wrong. Sizing was ok though.
Ubud - Ananda Cottages. I was quite disappointed with Ananda. There was no ceiling fan or airconditioner and even though it is supposed to be cooler (it was a little) at night it was quite hot so made it very hard to sleep. Also - no fridge or coffee facilities. Their coffe was lovely, but had to pay hotel prices and water I bought at their shops, but could not keep it cold, also the same with the beer. Had to buy and drink straight away as I could not keep it cold or pay the hotel prices.
A word or warning for single females travelling - the Balinese men all want to be your boyfriend. I found it quite difficult as they all seemed to fall in love and want to touch and kiss me, they couldn't just be friends. I met three men who were nice, but in the end wouldn't take no for an answer. It became quite draining for me. I had to start making up lies about a boyfriend/husband back home and still they wouldn't give up.
Overall I loved Ubud, but next trip I will not stay in Legian for 5 days, maybe 1 day in Legain and the rest in Ubud. Ubud is quite a romantic special place.
Anyway, had no trouble with exchanging money at all. The going rate as of yesterday was 4,400 per AUS$1.
Another thing I learned at the end of the trip was how to really bargain hard. I wouldn't walk away after final price to start with, but starting walking away and except for 2 times always accepted my final price.
The food was wonderful - no Bali belly.
Any questions, please email me.
Rebe