In Reply to: New to Bali, Lots of questions! posted by Sazzle on Tuesday, 21. July 2009 at 20:17 Bali Time:
Hi Sam,
It all totally depends on what you are looking for in your holiday. Yes, it is probably true that if you go and hit up some places on Poppies you will get bargain accommodation - however, if you are looking for a relaxing beachfront resort, then you will not get this in Poppies!
Kuta is a very fun area, many tourists and may things to cater for them, including all of the restaurants, bars, accommodation etc. It is also a real party type place, so if thats what you are after, then a great place to stay.
Whilst most areas (that tourists go in any case) in Bali have their similarities, they are also quite different.
For example, Seminyak has much more upmarket accommodation, and is also home to many expats and business owners in Bali. Here you will find excellent restaurants for a fraction of the price that you would pay at home. In Kuta you will have cheap prices but generally more of a cheaper cafe/pub atmosphere.
In between Kuta and Seminyak there is Legian, which has aspects of both.
There are also other different areas which are often popular with tourists, such as Nusa Dua or Tuban.
Let me know what sort of holiday you are after and I will be happy to provide you with any tips that I can.
I have been in bali for 9 weeks this trip, and its my 10th trip, so hopefully I can help you out!!!
I just think the worst thing would be if you were expecting villa type accommodation and fancy type restaurants and booking into the bounty which is a 24 hour party!!