In Reply to: On line Vs package bookings posted by woodie on Tuesday, 1. February 2005 at 13:54 Bali Time:
I have found that the only way to get a cheaper price than a package is to get a flight only and then bargain for room prices once you get there. The online prices are pretty good but if you turn up at a hotel that is very empty you can get an even better rate. For example - I have bargained with a manager and got a suite in a hotel listed at $250US a night for $90Aus - it was a special occasion and well worth the money and effort. But the manager was happy with the price (or he woundlt have accepted) and i gave him a massive tip when i left to say thanks.
However you always risk not getting a room in the place you want if you dont book before you go.
I tried hard to get a flight only and book directly with the hotels for my holiday in 2 weeks but the flight alone was more expensive than some 5 night packages.
So my advice is PACKAGE unless you are going in the very low season and dont mind where you stay and taking a little risk.
Hope this view helps.