Firstly I never believed Bali could be so good and often thought of why so many people would go so often. Looking out of the plane and seeing Bali for the first time I can now understand.
We left Sydney pretty much on time and flew business class with Garuda which I think is worth every cent for the upgrade. The service was good and the plane very clean. The food was great with lots of it and my wife enjoyed the Mumm champers which is not served on other airlines, even in first class. Nice to sit back and recline and watch Bali come into view. My first sighting of a volcano was great. Hint 1, if you can afford the upgrade to it, Garuda's service in my opinion rivals the flying kangaroo, the cabin staff smile and do not appear to be upset by you asking for something, unlike some other airlines, Garuda is highly recommended in my opinion.
No problems on arrival with q's smaller than Sydney (took about 45 minutes to get through immigration on the way out). Went out side and saw my name which was odd as I had not booked transport. Padma is overbooked says the man in a kindly manner and you will be put up at the Hilton in Nusa Dua for the night. Not a great start to the honeymoon but they were so nice about it, plus is saved me money in a taxi to the Padma.
On the way got my first smell of Bali - just loved it and the whole place seemed to melt over you, I think I will love this place. Great coversation with the driver and the man from the hotel, where are you from, how long are you staying, do you need a driver. What impressed me was their genuine thank you for coming to Bali, something which would impress me no ends for the next ten days and never once was it fake or forced.....and always said with that Balinese smile. To be continued if anyone wants to read on........