In Reply to: New to Bali, Lots of questions! posted by Sazzle on Tuesday, 21. July 2009 at 20:17 Bali Time:
I think the Barong deal isn't too bad as you are going in peak season so hotel prices are a little more expensive at the moment. When you get here and are looking for cheaper accommodation try Bendesa on Jl Benesari or Kedins 2 it's in between Poppies 1 and 2 and also written up in the Lonely Planet guide. I think by staying at the places you are you will meet heaps of people anyway, Bali is just like that.
Maybe instead of pre booking tours, check it out when you get to Bali, so many options available and specials. Maybe even hire a driver for a day or two, you might be able to get people to jump in a share the cost, which is generally not that expensive anyway. We use the same driver everytime we go to bali cause he speaks excellent english, reliable and has a 7 seater new car which is good. Maybe email him is you want dexred@hotmail.com or just see how you go when you get to Bali.