Hi, Just back after eight wonderful days. I stayed at the Kuta Paradiso again, still good value and a great location. I arrived the day after the bomb scare and security was tight throughout my stay. Bali is still wonderfully relaxed and the people friendly and cheerful, always ready to enjoy a joke. The exchange rate was around 7,800Rp to the AUD. I bought a DVD player from Centro for AUD$35 and gave it with a Balanese friend when I left.
I flew with Garuda and they were fine, paid the VOA in AUD with no delay and change in Rp. Enjoyed a couple of meals at the Taste of India in Tuban just behind the Slingshot and upstairs. Watched a couple of great AFL games at the Stadium with a good mixed crowd. For the first time I used Ade Rai's Hammerhead Gym, it is well equipped and Rp 33,000/visit or short term memberships are available. A lot of expats and tourists at the gym and I made some good contacts.
Enjoyed early evening walks along Kuta beach, the sunset and mixing with the very relaxed crowd and a quiet Bintang or Two. A small cold Bintang at the MiniMart opposite the Kuta Paradiso Rp6,500, its cheaper than soft drink.
I am already planning my next visit.