In Reply to: First trip to Bali posted by jamesf on Monday, 11. June 2012 at 17:56 Bali Time:
August is in the "high" season and generally Hotel prices will cost slightly more. I would advise you to book at the very least your first 4 or 5 nights with someone like booking.com, agoda or wotif. Once there you may be able to have a look around and negotiate cheaper places to stay.
You should be able to get reasonable accommodation for 200,000rp per person per night and it is always worth asking for a discount if you are staying longer. Price includes a basic breakfast.
Food - can do for about 50,000 for lunch and 100,000 for dinner, including a drink. Hint some places add a service charge and tax which can add to 15% on top of prices liste on the menus. There are plenty of places which do not charge the extra taxes.
Sightseeing/activities for 1 day about 200,000 - 600,000 depending on acivity @ 1 or 2 times for the whole trip.
Sundries/souvenirs/gifts about 50,000 - 100,000 per day.
Beers if you get thirsty @ about 13,000 - 25,000 each (small bottle).
On the cheap, budget for 500,000 per day should see you through.
PS dont forget Departure tax is 150,000.
Best nightlife - check out the Sky Garden Jl Legian.