In Reply to: Sightseeing posted by frodo on Wednesday, 14. October 2009 at 11:23 Bali Time:
Most attractions worth seeing do get very busy. But usually not until mid morning, for closer places, or lunchtime.
If you are prepared to leave Seminyak around 8 - 8.30 am you'll be able to go wherever you want without the heavy tourist traffic, the huge buses en route and the crowds once you arrive. We hate crowds.
Our favourite trip is to Munduk. Stopping at Pacung Indah for breakfast with it's fabulous views of Agung. Then down to Candi Kuning Markets to buy pashminas, vanilla pods, other spices, lovely fresh strawberries & other fruit. (There are Botanical Gardens in Candi Kuning - the entrance is just before the markets - turn left at the big corn cob in the middle of the road - nothing remarkable but pleasant & great lake views). Between Pacung Indah & Candi Kuning is the Ghost Palace - a huge luxury hotel that was never completed.
Drive beside Lake Bratan, up through a natural monkey forest, then climb high along a ridge above Lakes Buyan & Tamblingan. You'll see where most of Bali's vegetables are grown - a very fertile area.
The views are beautiful, stunning. And the temperature is much cooler. Continue on to Munduk & stop at Ngiring Ngewedang restaurant. It is lovely driving aimlessly around that area, easy if you are self-driving but hired drivers tend to like a programme & always have an eye on petrol consumption.
There are so many delightful places to visit on day trips. Rough Guide & Lonely Planet guide books are invaluable for someone wanting to know more about the culture of Bali & experience more than beach, food & shops.
Selamat jalan.