Flew Pacific Blue from Perth and had no problems apart from being about 40mins late. First Bali moment was watching the disagreement between VOA and Imagrasi as to duration of our 7 day stay, was it 7 or was it 6? In the end we were happy to pay the $25us and just get on with our holiday. Only took about 30 minutes to get out of airport even with the near riot.
Stayed the first two nights at Santika, arrived about 1pm and upgraded to Bungalow at check in. We were travelling with another couple so started the holiday with the mandatory Bintang before retiring for the night. Stocked up on essential Bali couture such as shorts, singlet's etc. at Diane's across the road from Santika. Met up with friends at Ultimo restaurant that evening and had a wonderful meal, can highly recommend.
Next day we were picked up for our 2 day stay in Ubud and went thru Sukawati markets on the way to lunch at Cahaya Dewata, only to find out it was closed but could not find out why? Arrived at Furama Villa's and pleasantly surprised how lovely this place is. The resort is about 20 minutes out of Ubud but they run 5 shuttles a day with the last one leaving Ubud at around 9pm. Hotel is not for the partying type but just the medicine for rest & relaxation and taking in rural surroundings.
Had our first meal at Café Des Artiste which was without doubt the best dining experience we had this trip. Also ate at Dirty Duck and very pleased with this one also.
The two guys (mature aged) went on the bike ride with Bintang tours which for me, was the highlight of the trip. I think our guide's name (call me pony) was Purni? and he was excellent. Neither my mate nor I are entering any fun runs nowadays but still found the ride quite easy as most is downhill. I overheard one of the younger riders mention something about additional weight and rolling further?
Back to Legian for final three days and stayed in an Alam Villa at Alam Kul Kul. Nice hotel with nice Villa but pools could do with a revamp. Just spent the next two days swimming, walking and taking in the sounds, smells and atmosphere again.
It was four years since we had been back to Bali and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Must have, as heading back with a couple of mates for some golf in September.