In Reply to: Who in their right mind would want posted by Cath on Monday, 10. July 2006 at 17:32 Bali Time:
Travel the Tube and wonder if you will get to the other end in one piece.. Visit Soho and be offered drugs and 'services' on every corner. Visit the local markets and hold tight to your bag in case of pickpockets - that is, unless the stallholder dupes you out of your money first.
Eat in a big foodhall and hope the people who prepared the food you are eating washed their hands properly after going to the toilet. Steer clear of any gardens in case you get stung by a bee.
Watch out for drivers (who will not be watching out for you) as you cross the street. Take a taxi ride and hope you don't get taken 'the long way round' so the driver gets a better fare.
In all honesty, yes, you are likely to suffer from culture shock and feel quite out of your comfort zone the first day or so in Bali. This is normal for newbies! Stick with it, get to know the people of Bali, talk to other tourists.
Expect to pay too much at first till you learn to barter - this is part of your 'initiation' and will give you some hilarious memories to look back on (Remember paying 95,000 for that straw hat, dear?)
We are going back for our seventh trip this month and we smile sometimes as we recall our first impressions. Now Bali is our 'second home' and we look forward to going - like a young lover looks forward to seeing their sweetheart again!