In Reply to: my two cents posted by bule gila on Wednesday, 11. April 2007 at 15:55 Bali Time:
Sorry if my posting has conveyed a negative image.
I have been going to Bali for over 12 years and have continued to go there despite warnings, bombings and marketing from other tourist destinations. I do want the cheapest price I can source for flights and have always done this.
I would rather save my money so that I can invest the money I save into the local economy directly - rather than into international organisation that is there to service rich shareholders. During our last trip we invested approx $15K Aust in the local economy over a 4 week period between 7 of us - this was not including the airfare or our accommodation. I am not one of those cheap tourists who tries to screw a local merchant out of their last rupiah.
I really don't think trying to locate an inexpensive fare is sick - and I apologise if my choice of words have been interpreted in this way - as this was not my intent.
I am simply looking at ways I can
1) enjoy my favourite destination
2) get value for my travel dollar - as I am paying for 5 airfares and 2 hotel rooms for an extended stay.
3) assist the local economy and frequent the restaurants, merchants and sellers that i have built up loyal customer relationships with over the last 12 years.