Returned from Bali one week ago after spending 8 weeks in the island of smiles. This trip was spent 50% by myself and 50% with family.
Having visited Bali several times and never ventured to Tanah Lot or Uluwatu,decided it was time. Used Made for transport (located opposite KTH) - Have used him for a few years and can not fault him, also hire motor bikes from him every visit.
Tanah Lot - wow, what breathtaking scenery. This place was amazing, the markets seemed quite cheap, the locals did not harass and we had a fantastic day. Had some photos taken by the cameramen down near the temple, paid 20,000 each photo, took the plunge and held the python and was blessed in the temple. Also had a laugh when my mum fell over in the water walking to the temple entrance and can now say that salt water and mobile phones do not mix.
Uluwatu - once again the views are amazing, found the monkeys to be non aggressive and had another enjoyable day.
Bali Zoo - had heard mixed reports about this, but all in all had a great day. Were able to have unlimited photos taken whilst holding a variety of animals including birds, crocodile, lizard and tiger. The zoo was clean, had excellent paths around all the inclosures and food reasonably priced. Once again, my mum was sure to entertain, this time the urge for her to go to the toilet was by far greater than her ability to run and hold it in. Whilst my dad and I sat waiting, she returned looking embarrassed. Yes, you guessed it, she didn't make it. Valuable tip - always carry spare undies on day trips LOL.
Ubud - stayed at Furama Villa, a private villa with own pool and indoor and outdoor shower. Very private and excellent service, was able to find this on wotif for a fraction of the advertised price. Visited Ubud market and had the best pork and rice ever from across the road, which was a very popular eating place for locals.
In addition went to ten pin bowling -$10 for two games including shoe hire, karaoke box - top of discovery shopping centre - this is where you a hire and sing til your heart is content with disco balls and a wide variety of songs. Fish spa - bargained for them to split the time so 2 people 50,000 each for 10minutes - which was enough time. Had massages at a place in Jl Benasari - the guys used to work at body fit in poppies 2, I was so glad to find them, the best massage and great value for money.
Where we ate: finally convinced my family to try masakan padang food and well they are addicted, lunch would cost about 20,000 each including a drink, everyone should try this at least once.
Basil Leaves - located near secret garden, great staff, cheap food and tasty food.
Alley Cats - my parents ate here and raved the about the meal and service and convinced me to join them on another night. Well, what can I say, we sat there for over 1 hour without our meals, when I asked about them, the girl was vague and asked If I would like her to check with the kitchen, of course I wanted this, she returned to say they would be out shortly. After another 30 minutes our meals were still not out, once again I question it, by this time it was nearing 9pm. After 2hours we gave up, paid for our drinks and left, needless say I never went back.
Ifiori Restaurant - next door to waterbom park. The staff, service, atmosphere and food presentation was 10/10. Although a little more expensive than usual, I would highly recommend and would have no hesitation in returning there for a special occasion. The meals were huge; my dad enjoyed the lamb shanks whilst my mum and I settled for seafood pasta.
Kuta Town House - had breakfast here on several occasions, once again great value for money and excellent service, also enjoyed the Friday night roasts.
Jb's - poppies 2, great little warung, cheap meals and fantastic service by Koming and Ketut.
Accommodation - my parents stayed at La Walon, centrally located, great staff, good room and facilities and would stay there again.
I was able to rent an apartment in Legian, self contained for 3m rp per month.
Took my iphone and laptop over and had my laptop rebuilt and phone unlocked by Bali Mouse, also had them put some photos on large canvas which turned out amazing. These guys really know their stuff and go out of there way to help you.
My mum purchase tupperware from the tupperware shop for a fraction of the price back here. We visited on a sunday and although the shop was closed, our driver called them and they came straight in an opened.
Finally, I visted the seeds of hope childrens home on several occasions. What an amazing experience. Sandra does such a wonderful job with all the children and they are so welcoming. This is a non government funded home with 60 live in children, the youngest being 3yo. If anyone would like to donate to them it would be greatly appreciated. They are located about 30 minutes from Kuta by bike, please email me if you would like further details.
All in all a great trip, the Bali earthquake 2 weeks ago shook me a little and my heart goes out to all Indonesians at this point in time.
Let the countdown begin for my next trip ☺