Days 6-9 Kuta
We had booked our last days in Bali at Mataharhi Bungalows. A little disappointed after the opulents of Santi, but we knew it was only budget accommodation. The rooms are a little old and dark and the bathrooms are in desperate need of an update. But it's in a great central location and had lovely gardens and pool area with swim up bar.
How Kuta has changed in the 15 years since our last visit. One of the biggest changes I noticed was in attitude of the stall sellers. Sure you get hassled when passing their shops, but you don't get them chasing you down the street nagging like a mother in law. Its like they have their little slice of turf and your fair game with in their territory, but once you've passed their interest is onto the next victim. Although towards the end of our trip the store owners did seem to be getting a little more aggressive with grabbing and smart ass remarks. But nothing as bad as the old days when if you stopped to look at a shop or talk to someone you would have at least two or more sellers pushing their wares in your face.
I did have fun with the time share guys. For those who don't know, your approached and given a scratchy type card, if your scratchy comes up a winner your offered free accommodation all you have to do is attend a seminar (pressured sales pitch). So my spin was I told the sellers if I scratch the ticket and its not a winner I would give him rp50 k but if it comes up a winner he gives me rp20k. Needless to say not one of them took up my offer.
Ate at TJ's a couple of times, has to be one of my all time Bali faves, delish frozen Margaritas. Had a night out at Macaroni, great meal, had some of the most tastiest fetta cheese ever and the female Matredee has the best legs in Bali. Had Breaky, lunch and several coffee breaks at Kopi Pot, (mainly because it was across the road from the Hotel).
Most nights we ventured to an upstairs bar/ nigh club overlooking JL Legian and the memorial (can't remember name) for 2 for 1 cocktail happy hour to indulge in the Lime Mojitos. It's a great way to watch the world go by.
Paid way too much for non fixed price shopping, but its still embarrassingly cheap. Did a lot of shopping at Matahari at Kuta Square, its great for kids clothes. Bough back about 150 DVD, most of which are good quality. Got some great Manchester and home décor pieces from Ahara and Puti Bali Agung, 143b and 143c Legian Street. They also have range Bali soap, gotta love Clove scented soap.
After Sanur and Candi Dasa, three days in Kuta was enough and although our trip was only 10 days it seemed much longer.
It was time to pack our bags, and sadly say goodbye to our paradise once again.
All in all it was great to be back after so long, and I can't help but ask myself, why 15 years between visits?
Can't wait to bring the kids back next year.
Thanks to all who post on this forum, your information has been invaluable and helped us plan a wonderful trip.
Cheers,
Slugger.