In Reply to: Is Kuta Really This Bad - Read On posted by octagonmike on Monday, 6. June 2005 at 04:05 Bali Time:
Firstly that is a report from 2001 and seems to be written by someone who is more used to the resorts on the islands around the US (for which you pay a handsome price). I have seen open stormwater drains in Kuta but have never seen raw sewerage flowing in the streets. As for aggressive sellers, I have noticed that if people are charging along then the sellers have only a few seconds to try and get you to stop and see their shop, if you are going slow and having a bit of a look-see, then they are slower too. They will appreciate it if you say 'your shop is very nice but I am sorry I am not buying anything today', or 'how are you, how is business today' or even 'sorry I am in a rush to meet someone' - be polite and you get the same in return. Have a sense of humour, the Balinese love a good laugh. I have never had anyone try to pick my pocket, but as is the case anywhere, keep your money secure. Try to master the art of walking as if you are wearing your favourite pair of old slippers around the house, then you will appear to have been in Bali for ages and everything lightens up. You are on holiday, not in a high speed shopping competition, relax, have fun, have a chat - you will be rewarded with smiles you will remember forever.