In Reply to: Sanur posted by Gracep on Friday, 11. January 2008 at 09:24 Bali Time:
It's probably fair to say that Sanur is not everyone's cup of tea. Some people might find it a tad quiet - especially if wall to wall shopping or partying all night long trips your trigger.
Not that there is any shortage of retail therapy options in Sanur...don't worry, there are plenty of fabulous ways to empty your savings in Sanur. In fact, in Sanur, you'll find that the choice and prices of junky watches, copy T-shirts, fake perfume, board shorts, sunglasses, jewellery, tailors, leathercraft, local crafts, stubbie holders, thongs, Polowear, DVD's and just about everything else sold in Bali is comparable to Kuta...Sanur is just not as commercialised or full on for choice as Kuta. In many regards it's probably closer to Ubud in terms of the pace and style that it offers.
Sanur is a village atmosphere stretched out along the main road that follows the beachfront as it winds its way through about 5 kays from one end to the other and this is reflected in its style of shopping. So if you're testosterone charged or going to Bali with the primary objective of surfing, shopping or partying morning, noon and night, then Sanur may not be your best option. The streets at night are more like a country town.
But...and it's a big but...if you are looking for a place that offers an excellent mix of shopping, eating and chillzone, then Sanur is an experience not to be missed. The paved pathway that leads you along the beachfront for almost the entire length of Sanur is simply sensational and I cannot think of anywhere else in Bali quite like it. Lots of warungs along the way to stop and linger and plenty of smiles to keep you going while you enjoy a cool drink or tasty meal - walk it day or night, you'll love it!
The Sindhu markets in Sanur are worth the trip. Here, you'll find the famous fixed-price Tootsies and if you finish up buying more than you can carry, then a super cheap taxi ride will have you and your purchases back in your hotel in a heartbeat.
I've always reckoned that Sanur is a great place to "come home to" after spending the day touring Bali or shopping your pants off in Denpasar or Kuta. There is something rather nice about being able to stroll the pathways in the evening without being run down by the frantic crush that is Kuta, Legian or Seminyak after dark. And of course, if you want to hit Bali's major night spots for some serious party mode, then you know that "home" is just a few dollars away by cab.
The accommodation choices in Sanur are outstanding. Heaps of hotels of all star levels to suit almost any budget - most of which are absolute beachfront. There are several villa options as well - including the magnificent Pavilions. When it comes to dining out, Sanur has it covered. The Cat and Fiddle is a jazz joint at the southern end that has built quite a reputation and some of the warungs on the beachfront are sensational - great food and great prices.
Depending on what your needs are, the beach in Sanur is OK, but not spectacular. At low tide the water goes out a very long way and there is no surf to speak of. It simply does not compare to the style of beach at places like Kuta, Jimbaran and Dreamland, etc. It's nice to look at, great for strolling, fine for sunbathing and OK for wading or casual swimming.
So...there you have it. Sanur
Try it - you'll be glad you did.
Cheers - keviin