Since it was my third trip to Bali, I thought it really my time to write out a bit of a ‘Just Back Report'. I always write journals whenever I travel, but managing to rewrite them out for the forumers hasn't happened until now.
Ok, so left Tuesday May 6, travelling Tiger Airlines to Melb, then on to Bali with Jetstar. No troubles with either airline. Must say, once past all the checkpoints in Melbourne International airport, there isn't a whole lot to do... Anyway, once into Bali at about 11pm, walked straight through customs with no worries and nothing to declare.
ACCOMMODATION
Arrived at Bumi Ayu Bungalows, Sanur (down JL Bumi Ayu) around midnight and got shown to our room. To my parents' and my surprise we were allocated a shabby, unappealing room with 3 single beds and 2 adjoining doors to rooms either side. We had emailed, phoned and re-phoned the hotel asking for 2 beds (one double or bigger for my parents, and one for me). We spoke to our driver and had him explain to Bumi Ayu management that we would need to change rooms to what we had requested. They promised us that this would be done the next morning.
We were also not given a key to our room as someone had ‘lost' it, so felt compelled to put a table in front of the door for protection. Our toilet also stopped working after 2 flushes, our bed-spreads were stained (sheets clean, thank fully), and light and noise came through both the adjoining doors.
This was my second stay at Bumi Ayu, so I had high expectations after enjoying my stay in only February this year. My parents had also stayed here before, and our cousin also frequented the hotel and was a respected occupant.
The next morning we went to reception to organise a change of rooms as was discussed the night before. However, management said there would be no way we could have a room with 2 beds (one for my parents, one for me) at the hotel unless we paid an extra AU$80 per night, boosting our once $60 per night price up to $140. They would not help us in any way.
We agreed privately we would pay up to $120, as we didn't want the hassle of moving and had a history of us and family staying at Bumi Ayu, continuing to do so in the future. They would not budge with their price, or offer any alternatives, so we went back to our room zipped up our cases and left.
It wasn't long before we found an excellent room at Bumas Hotel, just around the corner from Bumi Ayu. We got a similar price to our initial and expected price at Bumi Ayu, with a king and single bed. Buffet breakfast was included. There were two large pools, great friendly staff, and the rooms were large, clean and comfortable. Grounds were spacious and well kept.
We were very disappointed in Bumi Ayu. Their renovated rooms look great, but overall prices have gone up, and new rooms are making it harder to accommodate families (with parents who sleep in the same bed!). We will no longer be staying with or recommending Bumi Ayu Bungalows to anyone.
The rest of the JBR is to come!!
Thanks!