8 days in paradise just isn't enough but it was great to escape the horrid weather here in Perth for just a little while.
My trip was a last minute decision organised in just over a week. I booked flights direct with Jetstar but paid top dollar unfortunately. However I booked my accommodation both online and with the Hotel direct. I had to split our trip 4 days at the Discovery Kartika Plaza and 4 days at The Santika both in Tuban which worked out really well.
Although we did get some funny comments when the four of us wheeled our bags down the beach path from the Kartika to the Santika. Just wasn't worth getting transport for a short distance walk.
VOA - shocking took about 1 hour to get through. Our plane was alittle early so lucky as two other planes arrived soon after. We had our driver waiting for us so it was good not to have to que for taxis.
Firstly the Kartika - We stayed in two Ocean Front Rooms and yes they were fantastic. Large rooms, spacious bathrooms and a lovely verandah with a daybed and tables and chairs overlooking the landscaped gardens and huge grassed area and only 50 metres to the Beach. We had a couple of lunches on the verandah as it was so nice. These rooms are very pricey but last minute deals made it alittle more affordable although still quite pricey for Bali.
Although the hotel is very nicely presented with manicured gardens and lovely swimming pool and swimup bar there are some pretty major downfalls. There is a restaurant situated about 30 metres from these ocean front rooms - our one was the closest. Around 11.30/12 at night they would pack up the restaurant and wake me up with the sound of trolleys and dishes clagging not good. There is also a nightclub next door and although it was only a distant humming of the music once your ears tuned in you couldn't get the sound out of your head. There was also a beach concert one night till about 3am which was also disturbing.
Another issue was the breakfast. Not relaxing at all. I must mention though that it was Indo School holidays and the breakfast area was packed to capacity. We really did feel like a minority and some people are sooo rude. Not a pleasant experience. The food was ok.
The teenagers did a surfing lesson from the hotel which was well worthwhile. Later in the week they hired a surfboard from the hotel and went on their own. Great fun although we lost our camera in the surf along with most of our photos.
Our second Hotel was The Santika. What a lovely place this was. We stayed in The Premier rooms on the ground floor with interconnecting. These rooms have a porch with daybed and chair. The pool is only 20 metres away. Not many people so it was a lovely quiet place to enjoy some cocktails and swim. The other part of the hotel looked ok but preferred this area although it is the furtherest from the Beach. The gardens arn't as manicured as The Kartika but it was half the price and still nice enough. The food though was more expensive than the Kartika strangely enough so we ate out. The breakfast was a lovely experience although like the Kartika wish they'd do something about the toast machine!! I did love the extra turndown service in the evening - fresh towels and water was a lovely touch.
Whilst we were in Bali we went to Waterbomb Park which is always good fun. Very crowded the day we went as elections were happening in the morning so everything was closed. I guess everyone had the same idea!
Also went to The Safari Park which was good I thought. The teenagers too had the same opinion. Got some photos taken with the Tiger. I was abit panicky seeing my children up there as the tiger kept licking his lips. Not happy though as mentioned we lost our camera in the surf and of course the photo so only memories in head. grrr. After this we went to Ubud for a late lunch always nice surroundings.
Went to Diane's shop for market stuff. Less hassell than having to barter. We did attempt at the Art Markets but honestly couldn't be bothered. Have been to Bali many times and always ready for a barter - not this time. Guess I'm getting too old!!! We did however purchased some items from there. My winfall to me anyway was the large three tier ceramic and mirror bowls on stand - at under 30 dollars I was more than happy with my purchase. Paid 20,000rp for guy at Hotel to cut stand down so I could bring home as it was too bulky and didn't want to risk getting slugged at the airport. Know a welder friend back home who will weld back for me.
Just a couple of things to note. Qantas Club doesn't not have any access to lounges in Bali. I rang before leaving Perth and they told me The Premier Lounge will accept. We did the walk of shame with our tails between legs as we were rejected! Another thing don't buy water just before entering the last security check near gate when flying with Jetstar. They take off you. Presume you wouldn't be able to buy duty free liquor either as no fluids whatsoever are allowed through. The security is pretty tough. All hand luggage checked and body pat down to all passengers. I'm ok with that though my son had two caps (don't ask me why) on his head and not once did they ask to check.
Overall had a lovely pleasant and relaxing holiday in Bali. My only regret was that I waited three years to get back there.