In Reply to: 70 yr. old to Bali on own..any others posted by holladaze on Saturday, 25. June 2005 at 14:13 Bali Time:
I lost my wife three years ago and went for the first time on my own in August 2003. I was there for 5 weeks and after one or two disturbing experiences I avoided places where we had been together. I had my 69th birthday in a restaurant in Candi Dasa where they had a rock group. The manager gave me a distinctive staff t-shirt for a birthday present, now a treasured possession.
Bali helped me to learn to get on with my life. I met some great new friends, both local, expat and tourists. I snorkeled, went around on the back of motorbikes, jived in restaurants, got up and sang with the bands and generally had a good time.
As long as you're reasonably fit and mobile, age is irrelevant. Yes, accomodation can cost more, but I go on a package with just a few days booked and move around doing my own deals anyway. And what's your spare money for if not to give you enjoyment?
When I first got to Bali I was feeling very alone and possibly came through as looking vulnerable. For the first time ever a shopkeeper tried to manhandle me into his shop, but I came to my senses and he got the message.
And for the first time ever, as a man on his own, I was approached by ladies on motorbikes with something to sell. I must have been very naive, because the first time it happened I didn't know what she was selling. After a couple of tries using discrete language, she came out with "Do you want a ****?" After that, I knew very well what they were selling! As with other situations where you don't want to buy, a few "No thankyou"s are sufficient.
I went again last August, this time with a lady friend who had never been to Bali before. I made sure that she saw plenty of what Bali has to offer. In 32 days we stayed in Seminyak, Ubud, Candi Dasa, Amed and Tuban. I celebrated my 70th birthday jiving to a rock group.
I live in Waikiki, just south of Rockingham. If your father wants to talk with me he's welcome. You can email me on gud4ugud4me@optusnet.com.au