We stayed for most of the trip at the All Seasons in Legian. The All Seasons is very modern and in a good location (Jl Padma Utara behind the Padma Hotel). Our booking was for a good price ($US47/per night) and the hotel was good for that but I would not be prepared to pay more. There are far better value for money places available at the All Seasons usual pricing of $US100+. Great staff though, very friendly.
We also stayed two nights at the Tegal Sari in Ubud. The Tegal Sari was outstanding, as per usual. Great price, location, ambience, staff etc etc.
We ended up having dinner three times at the 'Indo National' on Jl Padma in Legian. We had not eaten there on previous trips and were greatly impressed by the food and service. The owners or managers are an Australian couple and I noticed that they personally visited each table during the course of the night. The result is the best service that I've experienced in a restaurant for many years. Also a great menu with something for everyone.
We had dinner twice at 'Ultimo' in Seminyak. This was not as expensive as I'd been led to believe (plenty of entrees up to R50.000 and mains up to R90.000 but you could also spend a whole lot more if you wanted) and the food and service were very good.
Also had dinner at the 'Grocer and Grind' in Seminyak. This is a cafe/delicatessen with a great selection of Aust/NZ products and good quality meals (around R50.000 for mains).
I was also impressed with the ham and cheese baguette (R38.000) and chocolate eclair (R13.000?) at 'Cafe Seminyak' and can declare that I haven't had better outside France.
I didn't go in but, while my wife shopped, I sat and watched a procession of super-models come and go from Warung Ocha in Seminyak. I don't know the reason why but this restaurant attracts some seriously beautiful women.
The Jakarta bombings happened the day before we flew back and caused some nervousness. I really wonder whether the lessons of past years have been forgotten and I don't think anyone would be surprised if another bombing occurred in Bali. The security is simply lax (again). Our vehicle wasn't even checked heading into Ngurah Rai airport on Friday. They had a half-hearted checkpoint set up that was examining maybe 10% of cars/vans at best. No attempt was being made to stop motorcycles. How big does a bomb have to be?
However, all in all this was another enjoyable trip and we will certainly return again and with our children. Regards, Luke.