I read with interest the comments posted here.
My sister and I are to travel to Bali for the 4th time on New Years Eve and lap in up for 3 glorious weeks at the Bounty Hotel. Our partners are also joining us for the first time.
We too are still a tiny bit aprehensive about travelling to Bali. We were a little jittered when the most recent bombings occured at Jimbaran Bay and Kuta square, but because we love Bali so much decided to still go. To make matters worse, we lost our Air Paradise tickets. (everyone said it was an omen.. what a load of crap.) We had to rebook at our own expense on Garuda. God, we could have gone to America or Europe for all we have spent...
Naaahhh.. Want to go to Bali.
We intend to take precautions though (eg not frequent bars at night, especially on New Years Eve.)
I have one question though.. The Government "Smart Traveller" website is all doom and gloom. But what they dont talk about is what Indonesia is doing about security and safety. I was wondering, what is the level of security in light of recent attacks and apparent threat of attacks over Christmas and New year?
Surely the Balinese are doing all that is possible to protect what is their lifeblood... The tourist!
My boss went and he said that they check bags at many places. But I wonder, how we will "feel" when we get there. I am trying to be confident that the police and security presence will help us to feel safe. But I was interested to know of any first hand expericence regarding safety and security.
All things said and done, it is hard, even in light of all that is happening to not yearn and be excited about our trip!