Hi all, am headed to Bali and Lombok for 3 weeks beginning right after Christmas.
About me: American, have traveled all over Asia except Indonesia, usually backpacking but not above enjoying a bit of luxury or great food.
- Any recs for New Year's Eve or Jan 1 in Ubud? I'll be jet lagged, looking for a friendly (not romantic) crowd and a toast or two.
-Thanks to several inspiring posts here, I'm bringing a suitcase of books, children's clothes, and toys to donate. Any charities in/near Ubud you would particularly recommend? A pediatrician friend suggested bringing children's vitamins--not sure if there would be a problem with customs.
- I'm also looking for an organization near Sengiggi that would appreciate an old but working laptop at the end of my trip, if you know any Lombok schools or NGOs to recommend.
- Is it hard to find others to share a car and driver for day trips? Most posters here seem to be traveling with families.
-At the high end of the food scale, Mozaic or Bumbu? Or even the modestly priced banquet at Ketut's. I'm mostly interesting in local food and cafes, but I'd splurge once (or twice) for an unforgettable meal. Esp somewhere that wouldn't be awkward on my own.
- Where can I try a cup of the famous kafe luwak? Good or just weird?
- How about snorkeling near Pemuteran versus the Gilis? Also considering the bird walk in Ubud or a trip to Bali Barat national park in search of the starling.
Thanks for any help and ideas!