Well it is not quite a JBR, I actually got back on Saturday 15th, but have not had internet access since that time. Just as well. It may help ure my addiction to this site.
Anyway, down to the business. This trip was a follow up to a trip I did in July with my kids. This time however, I chose to go on my own and the way I could justify it (probably only to myself) was to do a very short and cheap trip (booked through Nicki) staying at an entry level hotel and only going for 4 nights, plu two extra hights in my own accommodation. Then along came to bombs and we had to have the discussion as a family as to whether I went or not. My kids were saying "Go Mum" but of course those of you with dependents know that it is not as easy as that.... However, in the end I decided to go and had a great time. There is somethings about travelling on your own, when you do not need to consider anyone else's need than your own, which is very relaxing and different!
I travelled with Air Paradise for the first time and reinforce all that has been said here. The plane only had about 130 people on it, so plenty of room to spread out. On arrival, I was off quickly (being at the front of the plane and on my own) and so had no waiting for VOA. Out the front, into a taxi and at the hotel within 45 minutes of touching down. Stayed at the Baleka Hotel in Legian, a two star job, which was perfectly adequate. However, as I had read on Mic's site, I did have to see three room before I found one I was happy with. The first was dark and smelt very stuffy. Second was right next to the pool bar. Great for some, but just not me. Third time lucky, and I got an upstairs room which was bright and large and immaculately clean. This seemed to be the case for the whole hotel. Yes the hotel is getting a bit old and tired, but the rooms are cleaned thoroughly every day. And very comfortable beds! 4 nights there and then a move later as that was the end of my package. More details later.
Tha night I went to S and S and met a few people. I recognised Smudge just from the description I had read! Then on to Bintang supermarket to stock up on supplies, and get a Bali simcard, which they installed for me. Back to the hotel and out for a quiet dinner nearby. Can't remember the name.
Next day was a the beginning of a serious shopping trip. Off I went to the jewellers at the Bali Hai, where I organised to have some jewellery made from a bracelet given to me by the ex, which I no longer wished to wear. Two pairs of earrings and a ring came from this bracelet at a very good price for the workmanship. ( I have been sworn to secrecy by the lady there, so obviously I must have got a good deal)Anyway, I am very happy with the work they did. Thanks Tuberose!
The walked back towards Kuta, doing some shopping along the way. Stopped at Discovery and for the first time, actually walked through the place systematically. Much more security there than last time. felt quite safe. On to French Leather in Garlic Lane to order two more of the cresent shaped leather handbags they have. The guys there remembered me from last time. Just how do they do it when they have so many customers?
I have forgotten what else I did, as I did not keep the detailed notes I promised myself. However, I remember that I returned with some haevy bags of shopping.That night, I ate locally at a restaurant in Rum Jungle Rd and laughed at being seranaded by four Balinese singing Elvis! A good place to go on your own as there was planty to watch and I did not feel I stood out eating alone. For those travelling alone, restaurants are fine, and I was not approached in any unwanted manner at all...
The next few days were taken up with shopping and sitting by the pool, plus eating out with some people I met in the hotel who were very friendly. The Baleka guests seemed to be largely people who had travelled to Bali several times before. We ate at Indo National, and yes Kerry recognised me and even told me what my son had to eat when we were there in July! (He had created his own special order) The cocktails were yummy and I particularly enjoyed mango daiquiries (I know that is not how it is spelt, but don't know the correct spelling!!)When I arrived, Milton was standing out the front, being hos own personal security guard. General felt very safe.
That's it for now, more later.