In Reply to: Bali Virgin! posted by sarah_bali on Friday, 7. January 2011 at 15:33 Bali Time:
IMO, take the first 1 or 2 days to just relax check things out and get a feel for things.
1. Yes I would, but if you dont get around to it on your first trip, you can always go on your next trip.
3. Yes and whilst in Ubud you could check out the Monkey Forest and the Ubud markets. For your first time there, 3 days will be plenty enuf and there are lots of homestays on Hanoman. Have a look at this for some ideas - http://thetop99DOTcom/toplist/the-top-99-cheap-places-to-stay-in-ubud/
4. Danger mouse posted a JBR recently about her trip to Gilis, check it out and there are pics too.
7. "Same same but different". Bali is a very very special heaven on earth kinda place and has a beautiful calming, loving, happy, carefree gentle vibe and once it washes over you, you never want to leave. I prefer the spicier food in Thailand and the beer is cheaper in T. It is much easier and more enjoyable getting around in Bali. The Balinese people you meet are nicer than in T.
8. For me it is Vitamin B.
9. Your passport, copies of your itinerary, swimmers and an open mind.
10. A sarong, plenty of souvenirs and maybe try the kretek cigarettes.
11. Learn some simple phrases such as hello, thank you etc. Drink at least 2 litres of water each day. If your after some relaxation, Sanur is truely a beautiful quiet place to have a look at.
12. Most important - DONT worry, everything will be alright :)
PS what was Koh Samui like ?