Posted by 4 times traveller on Sunday, 14. February 1999 at 09:17 Bali Time:
In Reply to: Wood carvings in Bali and Hotel Wina posted by Robyn and Fiona on Saturday, 13. February 1999 at 06:32 Bali Time:
Robyn and Fiona, a group of 7 of us stayed at the Wina in November/December. Some of the rooms are not flash but we asked to be moved into the renovated section rooms 1725 or 1726 - see if you can organise in advance. The food is OK - keep in mind that it is a budget hotel. We had no problems with the drinkers and they don't allow people into the pool after 11pm. There are two entrances into the hotel the front onto Beach Road and the back onto a lane which runs parralel with Poppy Lane. The staff were extremely friendly and helpful. We have travelled to Bali 4 times in the past 15 months and have stayed at a number of places now. The Wina is on a par to other budget places. If it is your first time to Asia please don't be shocked by the grubby conditions in some of the restaurants including the Wina. We tended to eat around the pool a lot and also in our rooms. They have a lot of social events including what they call a bar-b-que. The staff love to see their guests dining in at these events. We always take Australian T shirts for staff and their kids as gifts - get them at the markets in Aus and give them to the housekeepers as soon as they make themselves known to you. The married guys all appear to have 2 kids so we take Adults size Small and Medium and a variety of kids sizes around 4,6 and 8. I can assure you that this little thought will ensure that you never go without an extra towel or what ever they can supply to make your trip comfortable. We noticed that we always get the biggest, newest and fluffiest towels out of the people in our groups.
I have an excellent driver who we always use and refer others to his name is Wayan Seniasa his mobile number is 08123908577. He drives an air conditioned vehicle like a 4 wheel drive. He is extremely honest and reliable - around 15 of our friends have used him over the past two years - all with complete success. He charges around 200,000rp for a full day ie 10am-6pm (negotiable) and will take you to any and all the places where the organised tours go - except they charge around US$75 per person.
We also go to a tailor and leather manufacturer each time to have suits, clothing, leather coats and shoes made all at good prices. Wayan DOES NOT GET A KICKBACK FROM ANY OF THESE but will take you to them if required. If you want any further information you can email me for further details. I am in telephone contact with Wayan every two or so weeks so I can always organise him for you.
I almost forgot we bought clip on koalas and took them last time for the Balinese kids - they thought they were wonderful. You can also buy these at the markets in Aus before you go.
Hope this is of some help.