Hi Everyone
I thought I would share my thoughts on my recent return to Bali after a 12 year absence.
We stayed at the Penninsula Beach Resort and boy was it beautiful. The 2 bedroom apartment was luxurious and the location was spot on.
Since it is a time share place (my sister has the share) the crowd is a little more older and mature, so it is quiet, relaxed, but that is just what I wanted since I am in that age group now (45)
The staff were very accomodating, but we did come across one particularly rude front desk guy. He was very abrupt to my sister, but apart from that, it was perfect.
We travelled from Virginia USA to go there. ( I am an Australian transplant now living in the USA) We bought a lot of clothes back for us and our grown kids. We bought a Bali bag (Nike nylon bag-large) but it didn't make the entire trip without a zip being broken. Guess that's to be expected because of the weight we packed in it. It cost us 120,000Rp.
A word of warning for those of you who wish to take US cash. We had a heck of a time getting it cashed. If there is a fold in it, or a worn part of the note, or a certain serial code start..we could not get it cashed. The only place that would cash it is the resorts business center. We wont take US cash next time, though it was a better exchange rate compared to the Aussie dollar
Kuta markets have not changed a lot. The only difference is that they are more aggressive with their bartering, and willing for you to walk away. Still, the bargains are there to be had. We did get just as good of a bargain at the Nusa Dua art markets too, and with a lot less hassle.
One place we like to eat at in Nusa was a place called Bali Bistro Cafe. Nice food selection, and a free ride back to your hotel. The ride back was the best part. They have the nicest driver who will sing to you all the way back to your hotel. He was hillarious. Not good with the English, so write down the hotels name and address before you go! Great seafood for 45,000 - 55,000Rp.
We plan to go back in 2 years time, and will stay at the PBR again. That place has it all.
Loved the whole trip. It was my 9th time, and my husbands first time. He is hooked. For a rookie, he was a bartering GOD!
Ohh one more thing... customs to get into Bali was appauling. 2 hours in line. Hot and sweaty, and the customs people were talking to one another and not fussed about moving us through in any hurry!
Thanks for all the advice and help you all gave me before my trip.
Cheers and happy travelling