WOW what a trip. Where to start?? Well we (my wife & I) had a week away from the kids and had a ball. Stayed at Bali Mandira, best hotel we've stayed at by far. Best location both close to shops, restaurants and right on the beach. Nice pools with loads of sun lounges and shade. We had breaky included which had a great choice and if you wanted eggs or pancakes they would make it up fresh for you. Free happy hour in the club lounge was a good way to start of the evening then head out to dinner. Very nice little ground floor cottage close to everything. My wife did get sick with Bali Belly and food poisening one night and I called the Dr in in the middle of the night. Gave her some medication a jab in the butt and a report to give to our Dr back home. The next day she was up & about again, so very happy with hotel Dr. Had some fantastic meals at some local restaurants including:- "Wayan & Friends", "Indo National", "Bianco's", "Uncle Norms", "Posers", "Zanzibar" and "Billy's Bar". All had GREAT food, couldn't fault any of them. Didn't take us long to get back into the swing of bartering, especially after the last time we came was 10 years ago. So many great shops, loved garlic lane. Hired a tour guide (which was recommended here on forum) "Kadek" for a day and he took us up to Ubud. Was a wonderful day and he did the bartering for us which saved us a pretty penny. Will definitely be booking him when we come back with our kids for Christmas/New Year. Went to Safari Park which we booked thru hotel, possibly could have got it cheaper on the street but was happy with deal. Great place, a bit smaller than I expected but as it was so hot we saw everything and headed home by about 3pm. A long day but most enjoyable. The highlight of the trip was the Elephant Ride at Safari Park and the relaxed drinking down at Billy's bar on beach opposite Mandira. Can't wait to go back with kids, they are just going to be blown away.
A big thank you to everyone on the forum for your suggestions and questions answered. Most valuable information.
Rick & Donna