In Reply to: Help me decide to go to Bali posted by chickensoup on Sunday, 17. September 2006 at 15:59 Bali Time:
I'm a bit biased as I've been to Bali 16 times. Phuket once (January this year). Phuket was beautiful, the boat tours etc. I was bit disapointed in the restaurants and the shopping.
People say the Balinese haggle more. I found it frustrating in Phuket. They would say a ridiculous price. I would say a fair price (by Bali standards). They'd say no and walk away. What happened to bargaining. I came home with virtually nothing because of this.
You will not meet more frindly people than the Balinese. You fell like they are your best friend. Tell them your name and you get welcomed every day with "Hi. .. .. "
If your wife likes being pampered the massages are much better in Bali and cheap. The shopping is great, from the typical touristy stuff to fashion items to house things.
I fell in love with Bali on the first day. While I liked Phuket I don't have a burning desire to go back. I may though. I would love to see other parts of Thailand but I'd go back to Bali tomorrow, and the next day.
What's your price range for a hotel?