In Reply to: Traveling to Bali requires more posted by rbbregent on Friday, 6. February 2009 at 12:58 Bali Time:
On having the guts to say something negative about the Island of Bali.
You have just said what you thought and I admire you for that, you have warned alot of first time travellers about things they should be aware of.
Bali is a beautiful Island with beautiful people, it has it's positives and negatives as anywhere else in the world.
It can be scarey for alot of 1st time travellers who from the word go are scammed.
It does start with immigration, as we are often asked for $2 coins,
then going through Customs we are also occassionally asked, after they see we have gifts for our friends, if we have presents for them as well.
Yes, then you have those Porters that sometimes don't give you the chance to say no, or who are greedy with what they are to be paid.
Then the Taxi's - having to ask if meters work... and so the list goes on....
Alot of beggers, children included, are from other Islands, I fell for them as well the first couple of trips and gave generously, only to learn my lesson later.. And my husband has been propositioned infront of me at times..
But we still just love Bali.
Traffic is bad, but it is in all Asian countries. We ignore begging and easy handouts to sad stories. We laugh off any propositions and don't ever bother with Money Changers we know aren't reputable.
Police are corrupt, but again not only in Bali and locals know the procedures and what's expected. You want have any problems if you stay out of trouble.
I was once told, if your in a accident, that it is looked at as - it would not have happened if you weren't there???
I guess what I am trying to say is Bali is a place you either fall in love with or you hate...
On the forum here, you will find Bali Lovers... again I think it is great that you have voiced your opinion.
Cheers..