arrived sunday ex brissie on virgin. Flight left late but arrived early. Get off plane, VOA, passport control, get bags, taxi from counter and on the road in 20 mins. Partner is an o/s first timer and still have marks on arm from the taxi ride to seminyak. Priceless look on her face and pointing, stammering unbelievably at the cars not stopping at pedestrian crossings, going thru red lights, travelling too close to bikes etc, as we do the first time. Have only been able to show her a family of 3 on a bike with no helmets, but time will up that number.
Have already knocked over the fake bag purchases. Would reccomend a trip to Geneva for any Bali first timers up this way to get an idea of prices before tackling street vendors.
Most local restaurants, within walking distance, were empty last night apart from the occassional 1 or 2 tables occupied. Taman Putri will be the choice for several meals. Friendly, quality food, great prices. Had chicken satays (many), nasi goreng taman ayu, steamed rice, 2 bintangs 74,000rp inc taxes. Might be wood fired pizza tonight.
Dvds 10000rp, buy 10 get 4 free. Money exchange 7400 to 7800. seems to have gone up today as more are climbing to 8000. No rain as yet. Some beaches closed yesterday - hot and windy - surf was up. Beaches were clean about 3pm when we were there. Locals are asking if we have family affected by the bush fires they see on tv.
Thats enough for now but always willing to help if I can, as others on the forum have helped me.