In Reply to: 1st Trip to Bali in 2006 posted by bswift on Wednesday, 23. February 2005 at 07:12 Bali Time:
Sorry can't help with flight costs, but I would recommend arranging accommodation at the beginning of your trip for a couple of days just to get your bearings, maybe start off in Legian/Seminyak or Sanur which is not a full on as Kuta. 3 weeks is definitely enough time to see Bali and enjoy all there is to see (remember you can drive across the middle of the island in 3 to 4 hours. First thing to decide is whether you want to self drive (pretty daunting for a 1st timer), or hire a driver, a good driver should not be too hard too find if you search the archives there are many recommendations.
I would be inclined to head for Ubud which is well known as the cultural and arts centre and it is definitely possible to stay in small friendly home stays. Another area to consider is the Amed area which is very laid back and has good snorkelling. I would also highly recommend a drive through the middle area through Bedugul out to the coast and driving along the coast line to the Pemuteran/National Park area. If you like islands a couple of nights at Lembongan Island is a good experience. You have lots of time to plan your trip, May is a pleasant time to be there. I find it best not to plan everything to the last detail as you are bound to find a spot where you will want to spend a couple of extra days. The Lonely Planet book could be a big help. There is an Bali Expat site which has an ex New Yorker called Roy, he could be worthwhile contacting he is on www.bali-information.com/expat_forum