Hi everyone...we got back from bali sat 22 April. Wow!!!! what an awesome place! For all the people back here in nz who said "why would you want to go to bali?" I say before you judge go and see for yourself! Both my husband and myself were a little apprehensive about going after all the things you hear....but i would go back in a heartbeat! awesome place, beautiful lovely people. Our first time to bali was an experience to remember right from the moment we stepped on the Garuda plane. It was well worth the nine hours to fly there, and the bintang on the plane was a great way to pass the time until we arrived at denpasar.
The heat just hits you the minute you step off the plane! We had no problems with customs...everything was straight foreward and very quick. No bags checked and paid $10aus for a seven day visa.
When you come out the doors of the airport we had to take a step back as it was a surprise to see all these people standing there holding up cards with names on waiting to pick people up and wisk them off to their hotels. Our driver was very friendly and loved to talk. Was only a 5 minute drive to our hotel in Tuban. We stayed at Hotel Santika Beach....this is an awesome place...security on the front gate which checked incoming vehicles for bombs. On arrival at hotel we were met with a welcome drink and a cold towel which was much needed as it was sooo hot! We were welcomed and shown to our room which overlooks one of the two swimming pools. The room was lovely and had a huge king size bed and ensuite and also air con. The first thing we did was order nasi gorang mmmm. Will do further JBR tomorrow as a bit jet lagged...but the bali blues have already set in!