It was one of those 'spur of the moment' trips, organised with a minimum of notice by Sunshine, when we found our younger generation were dispersing to all points at Easter.
First 7 days wallowing in medium luxury at Puri Raja, beautiful staff, well trained, nothing too good for the guests, well traind by the Manager I.B.Arthawa to an n'th of perfection. The STEPS, THE STEPS, DA BLEDDY STEPS. This was the only problem for me in particular but the room close to the pool was a bonus but still BLEDDY STEPS! Maybe the Balinese should be christened "Stepaholics", although, seriously, their installation everywhere has Religious connotations for them in their Bali Hindu Faith, which is deeply embedded in their nature. This place seldom advertises as it's running at almost full with repeat guests. When they shut down for renovation, Staff were kept on full wages at home, on call occasionally when their particular area was being done; nice to hear and makes a glowing recommendation for the Chinese-Balinese owner, a charmer whose Birthday (21st!) we attended recently; her daughter works Reception and PR nowadays.
Last 6 days at our lovely "small but sweet Sri Ratu" where we are extra well treated (20 years!). After two days downstairs in 'Budget' we decided to go upstairs for better luxury despite knee-strain; a good decision which we have reinforced with a 14-day booking in June.
This was the 100th trip for the old Badak (Sunshine 94) and rates as one of the best. Also managed to organise a Chocolate Truffle Cake inscribed for our Anniversay of Bali First trip, March 30th 1984, also Wedding Anniversary, from Bali Bakery, where we dined in style that evening quaffing a Semillon Suavignac 2003 from Oz( Rp150,000 +10%) ; double-yum.
Also worth a mention is our new devotion to "Drops" in Padma / Yudistera St, part of Bali Padma Suites. A 'fusion' Menu with some delightful, unforgettable offerings by great Staff; said offerings to be described as scale-busters, afraid to look yet!
Looking forward to next trip as we now re-contact our neglected friends here and the Garden whidh throws us the odd accusatory glance.
Peter -:)))