In Reply to: Where to stay? What to do? posted by Doug on Sunday, 11. April 1999 at 13:56 Bali Time:
Doug it sounds like Sanur would be a good choice for you, the beach is calmer and safer than Kuta and ypu can bounce your 8 monther in the warm water, small waves, aslo you can go snorkelling or diving taking an available boat trip to find the clear water. Baby sitting will be no problem. Sanur also has good access to Ubud for your sightseeing trips to see some wonderful attractions, the choice being according to your tastes. I strongly recommend that you search the archives to research accommodation, diving locations etc, and also look at the Moon (Bill Dalton) handbook on Bali. No you wouldn't bargain with hotel reps at the airport, rather travel round and check out properties for yourself and bargain on the spot. To do that you need a base to operate from or you will get desperate and not be in a good bargaining position, so that means moving and in a six day stay it's hardly worth the inconvenience especially with a baby. I would book a package including airfares from your home base, staying at a mid range bungalow place with air con and a pool, I think there's one called Griya Santrian or some such, again search the archives for Sanur, accommodation, go back 18 months. Or you could go for Grand Bali Beach, garden wing, for the resort atmosphere, and have your meals in the nearby small cafes. That hotel is always offering good rates and there are write ups in the forum, probably even recommending which room to stay in. A beach massage is simply that, local women will approach you on the beach and offer a massage. It can be a pest. But they go away if you decline, or may want to sit and chat if you are feeling friendly. I only ever had one and it was OK but not particularly memorable, but some people love it and become expert on various salons in Ubud etc offering luxurious massages.
I hope this helps, the message is--decide what you want/like, do your research, and go for it. Do have a great holiday, John