In Reply to: not looking forward posted by polgara on Wednesday, 20. April 2005 at 05:43 Bali Time:
I recently returned from my first trip to Bali. I came back with mixed emotions. Don't get me wrong, I loved it and am already planning my next trip back! But when I think back, and I tell people about things about my trip, they all sound negative - the heat was unbearable, the hawkers were pushy, many locals saw us as simply dollar signs, everywhere was run down and unhygienic... But it was all these things that made me love it as well! Just the pure culture change from Australia was unbelievable.
Don't think negatively, embrace the difference, I think that is what keeps drawing people back. If the heat bothers you, glide into it, spend time inside air-con or at the pool, it will take a few days but you'll get used to it. Talk to the hawkers, if they are really bothering you, especially on the beach, tell them you want to relax, I found this worked the best. Don't let on how much money you have, be discreet when leaving money changers and instead of looking down on the standards of living, appreciate what you have in your life, maybe give that person a little more than what their things are worth. My boyfriend and I never bargained as low as we could have, they need the money more, besides it's only a couple of cents over here.
I went out quite a bit by myself (boyfriend had Bali Belly) and I never once felt in danger.
Try not to worry, just have fun! Embrace Bali and it will embrace you back!