In Reply to: balinese present so far!... posted by pegs on Wednesday, 16. January 2008 at 15:37 Bali Time:
She's your friend and this is what friends do.
If you want some more ideas how about hair shampoo, conditioner, clips, scrunchies?
There is no doubt that you would be able to buy similar things much cheaper in Bali but I don't think that's the object of your exercise. If you want to give her something that she can't get in Bali, and she knows you care enough to have brought all of these things from home, that will make them all the more precious.
Do take care when you give it to her though. Wrap then nlcely and then put them in a plain shopping bag perhaps to avoid curious eyes and the possibility of friction with her friends. Give them to her casually when you are alone and don't expect her to open them while you are there. That's a cultural thing that's different in Bali to your habits probably. In due course she will show her appreciation.
Another thing you might want to do is have a small talk to her about reciprocating. She will feel an obligation to return a gift and you might gently suggest to her that you will feel more comfortable with a small gift that you know she can afford. Be careful not to suggest that she is a poor person when you do this. Maybe suggest that you are nearly overweight for the flight back or something.
I think you'll hsave a great trip.