In Reply to: Bali or gold coast with young teens posted by frazzledfozzle on Sunday, 15. January 2006 at 18:46 Bali Time:
We went to Bali in June and to the Gold Coast in December with 14 and 16 year olds. Had a great time at both but of course very different. I tend to agree with some people who feel if your youngest are not keen then maybe wait to see what happens in Bali. Many people seem to be posting that it is very sad in Bali at the moment which is something I would take into account. Personally I don't feel it is our responsibility to visit Bali to help their economic problems as much as I feel for them.
The Gold Coast doesn't have to be too expensive. Try sourcing private apartment holders who often let at a cheaper price as they don't have to pay management fees. We stayed at the Chevron where we spent a lovely time around the pool and having poolside BBQ's. The supermarket was just underneath the building. We also did quite a bit of shopping at the airport DFO, Harbourtown and the Billabong factory outlets. Not as cheap as Bali but quite good. Personally I would think 2 theme parks is plenty and I never feel ripped off as they are so good. The hinterland is also very nice although our kids are not so into that! You might also choose a boat trip or even hire a small boat. They even have those big plastic bubbles that you get in and are rolled down a big hill! Not for me but the kids love these things. We chose to visit the Casino and take in a dinner and show instead of going to theme parks this time as it was very busy being December. Fantastic!It is a great place with plenty to do and can be made to suit most budgets. The name of the game is to have a great family holiday and I'm sure you will have that where ever you decide