Posted by JAY on Thursday, 29. October 1998 at 23:05 Bali Time:
My husband and I have just returned from a week in Bali, I had never been before, but my husband had been there 3 times (over 12 years ago) - he noticed a few changes.
We stayed at the Kartika, which I would most definately return to, only one problem arrived at 11pm to find room not ready, when we got to the room it had 2 single beds, so then had to go to another room, which had a huge bed and was on the ground floor looking across the lush gardens to the pool. The pool was great, especially the swim up bar and the happy hour with 2 for the price of 1 cocktails (A$4). The restaurants were very reasonably priced (main meals average $5 to $8). The hotel backed onto the beach and was located a few minutes walk from the centre of Kuta, it was opposite the Waterbom Park.
We visited the Waterbom Park and spent 6 hours on the lazy river and going down the water slides. Great value for money.
We used the money changer not far from the hotel, he had a desk just inside a restaurant with an old jeep parked in it, he was friendly and honest and gave us big notes when we changed money, we did try another one close by - the office had dark tinted windows and was smokey inside, when we sat down his friends shut the door, it was very hot in there and he gave us Rp 10,000 notes, tried the dropping on the floor trick and tries to get you flustered, I ended up counting it about 3 times.
As far as food goes I would have to recommend the Dulang, it is a couple of shops up from the Matahari in Kuta, it has seating outside under a wooden awning. Great quality and prices 2 entrees, 2 mains, and 2 drinks Rp 70,000 (A$15), we went there about 4 times. We also went to La Lucciola which is most definately worth a visit, the view is beautiful and food is superb, you have to try the deserts. Book early for Dinner, get there about 5 to see the sun set and relax on the sun beds with a drink!
Shopping was also great, Ramayana in Denpasar was the best for kids clothes , very cheap. I really enjoyed the Art Markets in Kuta and had a great time bargaining with them. If they didn't give me a good deal I would walk next door and get one there, I always got what I wanted for the price I wanted eventually.
Finally, being terrified of flying I was somewhat worried by the reaction I got from people when telling them I was flying Garuda. But I would have to say the service was very good and as for manners and friendliness they are miles infront of Qantas/Ansett/BA.
I hope you enjoyed this and I have not bored you too much.
PS Neither of us got Bali Belly!