We flew Jetstar Starclass, so our connecting flight from Brisbane to Sydney was on Qantas Business, which was a nice start to the trip. PPWAU Jr enjoyed his first plane trip - in fact, I think he loved it - though, what isn't to love for a three year old - you get given a few drinks, you take off, you get given another drink and lunch, you get given a snack, some attention from the hostesses, then you land. All good so far!
We had a very tight connection in Sydney (in fact, I would say too tight - but it all that Jetstar offered). We hurried to get to our plane, quickly grabbing some duty free bubbles on the way. We were one of the last to board and hurriedly stowed our carry on luggage. We sat PPWAU Jr down and began to prepare him (and ourselves) for the 'big' flight when an announcement was made: 'ladies and gentlemen, we are just waiting for some paperwork from the ground-crew and should be taxiing in a few moments, thank you for your patience.' 45 minutes later the door was finally closed and we began to taxi towards the runway. With the exception of the delay, the flight was good and the service was fine. It was nothing to write home (or to the forum) about but wasn't too much to complain about either.
Surprisingly, we arrived only 15 minutes late (we either made the time up in the air or Jetstar factor in delays such as this into their flight time). We were off the plane quickly and breezed through VOA (there was a huge line behind us!). The immigration guy wasn't terribly friendly (which, in my experience, is typical) but the customs officer was exceptionally friendly. Really chatty.
One of the hotel's drivers was waiting dutifully for us and within 20 minutes we were at the Aston Bali Resort and Spa in Tanjung Benoa.
We were promised that the rooms had been renovated (I had read reports that they are becoming dated). Well, in my view, the rooms are still dated. They have painted a feature wall, put up some stone relief carvings and put in some halogen down lights - but it is hardly a thorough renovation. The furniture is the same as it was when we stayed there a few years ago (and it was a little dated then!) On the plus side, the rooms are very spacious and clean, the king size bed was comfy and the bath room had a huge corner spa and separate marble shower. I have uploaded some photos of the room (link below). If anyone has questions about the Aston, I'd be happy to answer (if I can). Would I recommend it? Yes, but only at the right price (and assuming you want to stay at Tanjung Benoa). We got a great price, so I cannot complain too much.
On the plus side, the Aston's grounds are immaculate and their pool is a stunning tropical lagoon (photo in link below). [note - there are some more grumblings about the Aston later in the report]