In Reply to: Is Bali for me?? posted by gnik on Thursday, 12. March 2009 at 19:22 Bali Time:
The great thing about Bali (and there are so many), is that there is something for everyone and everyone can have a great experience if they do their homework first. No, Kuta et al isn't for everyone, but neither is Nusa Dua or Ubud, or Sanur. In my humble opinion, people who have hated Bali have probably stayed in a place not suited to them, or are not 'travellers' in the first place. I have been to many places I don't want to return to, but never 'hated' any of them - the joy of travel and new experiences is just that - joy.
So, for a great holiday and some adventure, decide what experiences you are after, and what your priorities are for the trip (accommodation type, shopping? touring? relaxing? beach v mountain, or a mix of everything). We have been to Bali many times, and will be going back this year for the first time with our children (4&2), so what we once sought on our Bali trips has changed a little, but only a little!
There's nothing wrong with a few nights in Kuta/Legian/Tuban even if it's not your cup of tea - as long as you know what to expect, it's managable. Just choose a hotel that suits you - steer clear of the extremely popular ones if that's not your thing - there is plenty of info around on other options, like the ones in the Lanes that might be a bit smaller or quieter if that's what you want.
Ubud is lovely if you want to get away into the mountains, but is still touristy. Many options for day trips from there to the smaller art villages etc.
Trips to Lovina, Candi Dasa and Amed offer wonderful scenery and adventure in places along the way, and the chance to experience things most package tourists do not, yet still enjoy quality tourism facilities.
The Bukit peninsula and the area around Canggu also have some smaller, less developed options, yet are still an easy drive into Kuta for shopping etc if you want to.
If Bali keeps coming up as an option for you, I suggest scratch the itch. It's the only way to know what it has on offer for you and your family.
Have fun oganising your trip!