Just returned from our 12th trip to Bali, this was our 2nd trip with the family. Flew Australian Airlines direct from Melb, we sat near the pointy end in row 4 on both flights so were off and through the VOA/Customs within 10 mins. Since our last trip in 2002 noticed that the airport had changed, was surprised about not having clamber down the stairs on the tarmac and having the humidity and smells hit you immediately. Now whisked into air conditioned comfort, kind of spoils the arrival I think!
We stayed 13 days at the Bali Hyatt and was pleasantly surprised. Had rooms 3413/3414 in the Garden View special (had the 2nd room at half price), we were on the 4th floor and had a large balcony and sun deck. The only negs about the place were that the air con was a bit dodgy in our room, and the king size bed was like a concrete slab, but otherwise it was clean and looked like it had been renov'd in the last couple of years. Nice touches like the towels changed twice a day, and continuous supply of free bottled water was nice. Used the kids club and babysitters and the kids were happy.
The beach renos at Sanur makes a huge difference, a lot less cluttered and pleasant to walk down to the Sindhu end. Used the local green buses and bemos, around 3000 RP to 5000 RP from the Hyatt down to Hardys. They are doing drainage works on the main street just near Hardy so its rather dusty and noisy at the restaurants around there.
Rate was around 6420 RP for the A$, money changers were doing their usual thing, trying to pass off 10,000 as 100,000 RPs so mainly stuck with the ATMs. Mainly ate at Retro, Bonsai and a warung (Banjar) on the beach next to the Hyatt. Did the drive thru at Sanur McDs and KFC as some nights the kids were cactus by 7pm. Ate at Sharkeys at Jimbaran, meal was ok, we also had an average meal there last trip, was hoping for better this time.
Bought 100 DVDS, PS2 games from Shrek and Hardys in Sanur. Massages 40,000 for 1 hour next to the Hyatt.
Did Waterbom and had a blast, they were building the new kids waterplay area last time we were there so the kids enjoyed it a lot more this time.
The weather was very hot/sunny, no sign of the wet season starting just yet.
Any questions or pics wanted re Hyatt or names of 2 great drivers we used let me know.