To Bandung from Jakarta by Taxi

Im planning to go to bandung from jakarta by taxi. I%26#39;ve read that Golden Bird taxi service would be best. Anyone knows how much it would cost? To and fro..And how do i go about making an advance booking if need be?

To Bandung from Jakarta by Taxi

I do not know the exact amount, but getting from the airport to the city costs no less than Rp 100,000.-, so one may estimate that driving by taxi to Bandung would cost something like Rp 400,000.-;

Why not take the train from Gambir station to Bandung, costs only Rp 40,000.- ?

To Bandung from Jakarta by Taxi

Gambir Station? Is that far from the airport? How long does it take to bandung by train?

Gambir Station is in the centre of Jakarta, just east of Merdeka Square. Depending on the traffic takes about an hour from the airport.

The train takes 3 hours to get to Bandung. There are at least 10 trains daily. The trains called Argo Gede (Rp 50,000) are the fastest, their AC may be too cold. The trains called Parahyangan (Rp 25,000 - 40,000) are a little bit slower.

Advance booking is only possible at the station counter. But usually - if it is not holiday season - you can get a ticket half an hour before the train leaves.

See the train schedule at: infoka.kereta-api.com/index.php鈥?/a> [Enter your Origin and Destination, Gambir and Bandung respectively].

Hi,

You can also go by bus to Bandung from Jakarta Airport. I did this trip at 7pm in early May 2008.

I spoke with a yuong porter at the airport who was able to help me to buy new credit for my mobile phone and also to buy a bus ticket. Luckily for me the bus left 10 minutes later and took 3 hrs to get to Bandung.

The drop off point is at a huge shopping mall- cannot remember where.

I think the bus company%26#39;s name started with C.

I am sure someone else will be bale to fill in the details I have missed.

Pamela

The wisest way would be by shuttle service between Jakarta airport directly to Bandung. These are operated by either Cipaganti or X-trans. The fare is Rp90.000 per person one way to Bandung.

You can go to the website for schedule, fare, and telephone number. They have counters at airport, so just reach the counter and buy the ticket, no advance booking is necessary, however you can do so if you want to.

The fleet are comfy 8-seater or 10-seater van or mini bus (like KIA pregio).

www.cipaganti.co.id or www.xtrans.co.id

Golden Bird is the brand of limousine and car rental service from reputable taxi company; Blue Bird Group. You can book by contacting them by email, phone, or website www.blueburdgroup.com Depending on what vehicle you wish to rent, the cheapest one can go from Rp525.000/3 hours with additional Rp70.000/hour.

P.S. never buy anything from the airport porter or anybody at the airport (everyone in the airport seems to have double job as a retailer as well!). They are nice and target people who look confuse or need help. They will help you but will also trick you to buy something from them, the price is not the recommended retail price you would get at other place...

there is a lot of transportation from jakarta beside taxi you can take the shuttle bus service from jakarta airport to bandung jsut ask the information or tourist information in the airport.

or you can take the cipaganti shuttle bus service jakarta to bandung

Hey all, thank you so much for your help!!You guys are awesome and probably just saved me a couple of hundred bucks.. Just One small problem, the shuttle bus sites are all in bahasa indonesia!!lol....Happy New Year ALL!!!

I know... In case you%26#39;re having trouble in translating the bahasa, you can always ask in the forum. (Since you%26#39;re from Singapore, give you the website directly since it%26#39;s not differ much than Bahasa Malaysia, but if you%26#39;re ang-moh, then pardon me, I can translate it for you...)

unfortunately, the website is not in english. so don%26#39;t know what it%26#39;s saying. :(

Bali Resturants!!

Me and my family (husband, son 5 months) are going to Bali in June and was wondering if any one has any ideas of places to eat. we are staying in Legian.

Thanks

Bali Resturants!!

Catalyst did an excellent list a couple of months ago, see the link below:

tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowTopic-g294226-i7220-k2…

It%26#39;s one of the few postings that grace my Favourites folder.

Bali Resturants!!

if you staying in legian I suggest you to eat in the local food restaurant and it%26#39;s more cheapest they have a delicious food and you will be a true feel of bali.....

Legian is quite a sprawling place.

You can eat at many restaurants in the main streets or some excellent choices also down on the beach strip. The list is endless , my advice is to walk out of your hotel and go into any you like the look of. Try a different 1 or 2 every day. :) My favourites are on the beach such as Seaside Cafe, Blue Ocean, Lannai, Goodies, Warung Asia.

In the streets I like Ketumba, Posers and cheapies like Legian Snacks , Warung Yogya.

sausage in a pasta recipe

Travel insurance

has anyone used www.travel4less.com.au ? Their rates seem to be very cheap, Im just wondering if anyone has used them and had any complaints.

Travel insurance

hey Princess,

I have not used that site before. However i know of a site that is probably the cheapest rates you will EVER get travel insurance.

My family have used this insurance to travel from AUS to NZ and we are also using them for trvel from AUS to FIJI in september. I would advise you to check this site out....also anyone else who is looking for insurance. You will be pleasantly surprised!

Just a secret i have recently come across that is now not a secret!

Buz_Jed

Travel insurance

As far as I can ascertain, the company is run by Last Minute.com.

A word of advise, CHEAPEST is not the best way to arrange insurance. Read the policies carefully, some offer things you don%26#39;t need but don%26#39;t cover what%26#39;s essential for your particular holiday.

I have used Travelinsurance direct and 1 cover and had no problems with claims. Read a few, get online quotes then decide.

I use travelinsurancedirect.com , fairly cheap, have never had a problem , then again , i have never had a claim , but i have herd they are great if you do need to claim .

cheers

batt

Hi princessturbo

I am asking this as a %26#39;general%26#39; question and offer some info re Travel Insurance.(I realize you may already be aware of all this, but it may/may not be of interest to others, and I apologize if it%26#39;s a bit of a %26#39;woffle%26#39;)

I am interested as to %26#39;how cheap%26#39; the insurance is and what it offers you. Can you contact them 24/7 in the case of an Emergency.Will they cover you if you ride a bike in Bali(must have international bike licence) or if you are a passenger on the back of a bike and are involved in an accident.(offered a lift by a Balinese friend, i%26#39;ve never thought about it before)Travel Insurance will not pay the claim if you or a member of your Travelling Party is under the influence of, intoxicating liquor.(These were a couple of questions i asked, when shopping for quotes).(How many of us %26#39;really%26#39; understand the Travel Insurance booklet and know what we are covered for and what we are not.I%26#39;ve never had a Travel Agent go through it with me,(it%26#39;s usually: You need Plan X and it will cost you xx$$%26#39;s.) It%26#39;s up to us to read it and %26#39;understand%26#39; it and and if we don%26#39;t then we %26#39;should%26#39; ask lots of questions, to be sure, to be sure.(I would never travel O/S without Travel Insurance and up until now touch %26#39;wood%26#39; i%26#39;ve never needed to claim).

A well known Travel Agent here in Adelaide, recommends QBE and Covermore as two of the best.

Cheers

Burns

Just to add to the above, can%26#39;t stress enough to make sure motorcyle cover is included in your policy if you%26#39;re planning to ride a motorbike over there.

If you are an Australian, you need to hold a motorbike licence in Australia and an international licence endorsed for motorcyles, to ride in Indonesia.

If you are going to ride as a pillion passenger, make sure the bike rider has a licence.

Some travel insurance policies require an extra premium to be paid as well, to cover you for motorcyle riding.

whatever insurance you take read the fine print.

i%26#39;ve had no claims on some trips and claims on others. some of these were settled quickly and others dragged on for months.

as was advised,l cheaper can mean that you are covered for less.

Hi there guys thanks for your tips, I decided to go with www.insure4less.com.au............they do cover bike accidents, and I was happy with their other payouts. Their insurance is backed by Lloyds of London, I cant see them ever going broke. Cost was $167 for a family for 5 weeks. I was just wondering if anyone else had experience with them.

Travel Insurance will not pay the claim if you or a member of your Travelling Party is under the influence of Intoxicating Liquor.(not just when riding a bike)

An Adelaide man suffered brain damage in a fall while holidaying in Switzerland Dec 2007 after falling down an icy embankment.The fall is looming as a financial disaster for the young man, who is not covered for medical expenses because he drank alcohol beforehand.

Burns

Hey everyone

Most travel insurance companies will say as a requirement to be covered for motorcycle cover you need to hold an Australian motorcycle licence. However i know that Covermore do not necessarily require a Austalian motorcycle licence. You just need to hold the correct licence in the country you are visiting. So i guess, if you are gong to Bali and are hiring a motorcycle you need to check whether the regulations say that they accept Austalian licences (whether motorcycle or drivers licence) or you need to obtain a local licence.

Also, many companies say that you need to be hiring from an actual hire company not just some random person on the street.

The other things you really need to consider when checking out travel insurance is if they cover for terrorism. Most companies dont cover for this, only the big players like covermore will (everything except cancellations/amendments). I know that if i was travelling these days i would want to know that if something happened i would have cover for my medical and also to be evacuated back home to australia.

But fingers crossed you never have to claim!!!

Also if using travelinsurancedirect.com.au

you can use this voucher code for 15% off

TIDLAS04

Why have Virgin changed their flight times

Does anyone know why Virgin has changed their 3pm flights out of Bali to 1am? We booked because we have kids and wanted this flight home and now they have reverted back to 1am flights.

Caroline

Why have Virgin changed their flight times

You%26#39;re not alone, 3 pm was a great time and we%26#39;ve had to change ours also.

Apparently reason is it was too costly as they (Customs) had to bring in an extra Customs shift for only one flight arriving into Adelaide at that time. The 3 pm flights ended in February.

Why have Virgin changed their flight times

I don%26#39;t think anybody is happy with this one. Have changed from ';gentleman%26#39;s hours'; to the graveyard shift!

Regards,

David

And also, if like me you are going for a week then you will need a 30 day visa rather than a 7 day. Extra US$15.

Regards,

David

Fabric in Jakarta

Hello i am from London and i have a little boutique here which i want to design some clothes for. I want to get my fabric in Jakarta, could someone please advise me the best place to go to buy fabric? I need somwhere where they have a huge selection of fabrics from all over the world including top end designer fabrics.

I went to Sampeng market in Thailand and they had 1000%26#39;s of fabrics, it took me a whole day to look through all of them- i need something similar to this.

I heard tanah abang and mayestik market in jakarta is good for fabrics but please could someone describe what these places are like and what sort of materials they have here, and how many fabrics they have here? Do they have designer fabrics?

Thank you

M+L

Fabric in Jakarta

Tanah Abang is the biggest wholesale center in Jakarta for textiles, clothing, and other fashion stuff. The selection of fabric is quite extensive, you can get anything here from cotton to fur imitation. The traders are mixed from locals to Indian-decent traders (they are famous for trading textile, aren%26#39;t they?)

The shopping center is fully air-con, the shops are small, and the corridors are quite narrow, so be prepared to squeeze with others especially on a busy day. Regarding the origin of the textile (local made, imported, or designer textile), I%26#39;m not so sure about that.

P.S. If you can%26#39;t speak Bahasa Indonesia, I suggest you bring some local who can bargain, so you%26#39;ll get better deals (especially when buying in bulk).

Fabric in Jakarta

Tanah Abang is definitely first option if you have some local guide. Otherwise suggest you go to Mayestik (Jalan Tebah) and Pasar Baru Jakarta. Both are mainly having shops owned by local Indian trader and they definitely can communicate with you better.

Also quality wise, Tn Abang is slightly in lower-mid end (mostly local fabrics and moslem wear), while Pasar Baru and Mayestik is in higher end with mix of local and imported fabrics. Pasar Baru and Mayestik definitely have designer fabrics such as Zegna, Armani etc. but you must really know the difference as sometimes they have the copy version as well. You can%26#39;t find those in Tanah Abang.

Pasar Baru itself is an historical district and worth to be visited. This is a historical street shopping malls was catered for the Dutch during Dutch colony. You can still see some old dutch architectures there.

If Armani and Zegna%26#39;s cloth is including in your definition of designer fabrics, then you can also find it easily at Tanah Abang. Many of them are scattered on level Basement 1. Some traders sold it at very competitive price than Pasar Baru (since some of them open the shop at both Tanah Abang and Pasar Baru). If you just want to buy the textile, go to Tanah Abang, but if you want to buy the textile and have tailor to make you suit on-site, then proceed to Pasar Baru.

Most people go for local-made products at Tanah Abang, but if you look into details, certain expensive and imported goodies are also available as well.

Kuta (3d 2n)

I%26#39;m goin with my 2 other gfs to Bali on 26-28may. Can anyone recommend what are the things that we can go apart from shopping and watching sunset? wud lurve to hear from anyone who%26#39;s willing to share.

thanks in advance!

Kuta (3d 2n)

assume you are staying in the south of bali for a few nights. but what you want to do depends on your preferences eg action, scenery, culture, etc. more info is needed.

Kuta (3d 2n)

Affordable is the green Green kuta close to everything and friendly right near all the shops or the seaveiw cottages which is across the road to the beach

Hi,

3D2N is not a very long trip. Bali island is approximately like PJ to Malacca 150KM east west and PJ to Cameron Highland 110KM north south.

Day 1 %26amp; 3 most probably take up by flight and hotel check-in/out. Most likely activities are walking around tourist centres( Kuta/Legian/Semanyak or Ubud) and along the beach near to your hotel if your hotel is nearby. U can squeeze in more activities if u arrive early and depart late.

U have 1 full day left on day 2 which u can hire a driver (400000 Rp take care of car rental %26amp; fuel) to take u sightseeing around the island and finish off with sunset watching either at Tanah Lot or Uluwatu thereafter back to hotel after dinner.

Hope the above help

hi rockterrigal....i%26#39;m looking at water sports, bungee jumping, snorkelling if can. prolly there wont be sufficient time to do snorkelling. im interested in surfing (neva surf in my life). found out that the surfin lessons are at least for 3 days for beginners. can%26#39;t find any which provide only a day or half day lessons.

apart from that, i like watching sunset, scenery and photography. will be goin to uluwatu to watch sunset and jimbaran for seafood.

I%26#39;ve actually booked our accommodation at Hard Rock Hotel. it%26#39;s F%26amp;E package. So I thought of finding sum cool activities to do while i%26#39;m there for a short period of time. thanks for recommending mate!

cheers

thanks Case for the info given. It%26#39;s a F%26amp;E package. so we%26#39;re doing things on our own except for the 1st day, will be goin to jimbaran for seafood and uluwatu to watch the sun setting dwn. How far is seminyak and legian from kuta? I think ubud will be far from our place to travel. I%26#39;m staying at hrd rock hotel.

Jimbaran Ikan Bakar

buravi.com/jalan/jimbaran/jmb_ikan_info.html

Hope this can help u to plan your trip.

Hi,

Kuta Legian Seminyak r right next to each other.

As i m not into bungee jumping or snorkeling could not offer any suggestion. U can do a search at this forum.

Below is my personal choice of 2-3 days itinerary.

Ubud (art %26amp; craft)

Tegallalang rice terraces

Kintamani

Gunung Batur %26amp; Lake Batur

Pura Besakih

Sanur

Jimbaran %26amp; Dreamland Beach (coastal scenery)

Uluwatu (sunset, temple %26amp; dance)

Mengwi Taman Ayun Temple

Bedugul

Bratan Lake / Pura Ulun-Danu Bratan

Danau Buyan

Alas Kedaton Monkey Forest

Tanah Lot (sunset %26amp; temple)

hi

snorkeling is best on the south and east coast. good sites nearby are the bukit 1hour drive, padangbai 1 1/2 hour drive and candidasa about 2 hours drive.

for surfing i%26#39;m sure that they will do a lesson for a day, if that is what you want. here is info on learning to surf in kuta:

There are many surf schools along the beach from kuta to seminyah. When you get there you will see them if not ask someone and they will point you in the right direction.

The waves on the beach break on shallow, flat sandbanks. Between the banks are strong rips which can have good surf. Out pass the breaking waves the currents are very strong and will easily take you quite a distance along the beach. The waves are crowded with experienced foreign and local surfers, who at times come dangerously close to beginners if they get in their way. The safest places to learn are on the shallow sand banks riding the white wash and the reforming waves.

You can organize the lessons when you get there. This way you can check them out the surf schools directly so that you feel assured that they are okay.

Generally, the surf schools are well organized with good equipment and instruction.

Here are the web sites of a few of them.

http://www.prosurfschool.com/

http://www.odysseysurfschool.com/

http://www.balilearntosurf.com/

http://www.schoolofsurf.com/?home

Warning: a certain number of people both locals and tourists drown each season on Kuta鈥檚 long beach. If in trouble raise your hand. Don鈥檛 panic if you get caught in a rip or current. do not swim against it but swim at roughly a 45 degree angle with the rip towards the shore. Don鈥檛 panic and remain calm someone will help you.

as for other things to do nearby:

visit tanah lot (temple)

drive around bukit and look at scenery and surfing

bungee jumping at legian

have a great trip RT

hi rockterringal, when you mentioned snorkelling at Bukit, do you mean bukit peninsula? is it a good site for snorkelling and any idea of how much it cost and how do i get there?

eye shadow

seafood...any advice?

hi all,

can anybody advice on wats a good seafood restaurant at jimbaran? i understand that there are many there. am interested in something on the mid-price range(120,000 per person).

thanks!!

seafood...any advice?

haven%26#39;t eaten there in a while, but last time we had a very nice meal at Ganesha, its down the road from Hotel Puri Bambu, Jl. Pengeracikan, Kedonganan - Jimbaran. How much you will pay per head depends entirely on what you order, you pay by the weight of the seafood.

seafood...any advice?

You are correct, there are literally hundreds of restaurants to choose from at Jimbaran. Certainly it is worth taking a look at all the restaurants set up on the beach at sunset, but don%26#39;t eat there. Instead, drive on to Sanur and dine instead on the sand there.

The seafood choice is exactly the same and less than half the price of Jimbaran. The added attraction here is that you will be dining in relative privacy instead of being packed in like a sardine amonst the thousands of other tourists.

Once upon a time jimbaran was the place to go but they have become outrageously overpriced in recent years and regular Bali goers no longer bother, going instead to one of the beachside restaurants in Sanur or, if you want to watch the sun set, one of the restaurants in seminyak.

the balieats website can give you an idea of places and prices.

cheers!

Hi there

We just arrived back from Bali on Sunday and we made the mistake of going to Jimbaran bay. It was our worst and most expensive meal we had. We paid more than going to the top restaurants in in Seminyak. There were cats roaming around the tables and customers. An American couple next to us were also disgusted and disappointed. I went there years ago and it isn%26#39;t the same anymore Tourist rip off.

Jennifer

gosh jimbaran sounds like it has deteriorated into an expensive tourist trap.......unfortunately, as what happens with most tourist attractions.

i am really keen on having some seafood in bali....

if anyone has been to any good restaurants in ubud/sanur/seminyak, would be great advice.

thanks guys.

Hi Scoobaa,

We just arrived back and had one of our best meals of seafood at a restaurant called Blue Ocean, beachfront just up from Kamala Panthai hotel in Legian/Semanyak. Otherwise, I could recommend a trip to Lembongan Island, the restaurants there had the freshest tuna I have ever tasted.

Cheers,

Deb

hellloooo do u asked for JIMBARAN SEAFOOD?...then i better answer the question...in jimbaran beach near Four Season%26#39;s side...try New Bayang Cafe .. contact Ketut Suwita the owner and tell him u know his cafe from me you will not get rip off!. if you come with more then 5 peoples i%26#39;m sure they can give you very special price (below your budget). if i decided to eat somewhere and eat something good and feel happy after then i will not think the price i paid otherwise the happy feeling will gone which can%26#39;t be paid with money, if i think they are going to ripp me off then i better cook my self at home :)

Go to Gending Kedis hotel and eat at Alcedo Restaurant it has the most amazing food ever !

Our driver from Nikko Bali took us to Ganesha when we asked him to take us to Jimbaran Bay (I am not too sure whether he received any commission from doing so) -- but we had the most expensive meal during our 9 days in Bali there and it was not the best.

We had chicken satays, 2 pieces of fried chicken, a squid, a crab and 4 pieces of king prawns for Rupiahs 1 million (close to AUD 140)

have a look at this pic: flickr.com/photos/blueisthecolour/3364550167/

The guy who weight the seafood claimed that the squid was 1,5kgs, the crab was 2,4kgs and the 4 pieces of king prawns was 600gs. I don%26#39;t know how much I can trust the scale. To be honest, I think the whole thing is a total rip off.

You can have really good dinner at Legian for around AUD80 easily.

there are heaps of restaurants selling very fresh seafood apart from jimbaran which does offer a lovely sunset. personally i don%26#39;t bother going there for meals as it is overpriced and the same fresh seafood is available elsewhere.

in sanur i have had great seafood at extremely low prices at a beach front local restaurant called Kesuma where you can sit with your feet in the sand and enjoy a few drinks. about 50,000rp buys a whole snapper with chips and salad. about 4.30 each afternoon they put the seafood on display just like at jimbaran so you can choose what you would like. there are also other similar restaurants along this same stretch of beach.

here is a link which has a map and pictures

www.mybaliguide.com/cgi-bin/index.cgi鈥?/a>

there is also a restaurant called mama putus listed there on the map but they have now moved to the road in front of the mercure. sanur has some very good restaurants.

how to deal with a cheating spouse

Wayan kulit-shadow puppets

I am very keen to see this. The most recent info I have is that it is on Wednesday and Sunday evenings. I’m leaving tomorrow –woo hoo! So I will be in Bali over Nyepi day, I’m guessing either it won’t be shown on Wednesday or it’s not a day I want to be travelling from Kuta-Ubud-Kuta. I should have a choice of 2 Sundays, but would be hoping to go this Sunday, March 22

Can anyone tell me-have you seen ads for the Wayan kulit?

Wayan kulit-shadow puppets

Unfortuantely I can%26#39;t help you Grannie having never been to Bali I just wanted to say have fun :)

Wayan kulit-shadow puppets

Oh thanks-I hadn%26#39;t thought of that! pmsl

I%26#39;ll tell all when i get back

hotel review needed

hi friends,

can anyone tell me which is better in terms of food and clearity of beaches???

le meridian nivana golf resort , intercontinental or the grand hyatt(nusa dua)....

thanks

hotel review needed

Hi

I can only tell you about Le Meridien Nirwana Golf Resort. The food is wonderfurl, there is the Cendana Restaurant, The Nirwana, Ocean Grill and Nautilus Fun Pub to choose from as well as the Sunset Bar.

Buffet breakfast which has a huge array of dishes from which to choose is in the Cendana, this restaurant is open all day/evening for snacks and meals.

The Nirwana offers more a la carte dining, the Ocean Grill specialises in seafood and the Nautilus is based on Italian/Mediterranean dishes. All have a theme night once a week.

The beach is not really accessible, the resort is on a cliff top. The resort has a huge pool area with lagoon and water slide and poolside cabanas.

I have not visited the Intercontinental, however the beaches at Nusa Dua are usually kept in pristine condition. Sometimes, due to storms, heavy rain, the beaches of bali are littered with debris, which is usually quickly cleared up.

hope this helps you a little bit!

cheers

wendy

hotel review needed

thanks

the grand hyatt occupies a prime beach front area. you can see the beach as soon as you enter the lobby. the view is gorgeous. there are numerous sun loungers under shady trees for guests on the sand and this is a popular spot for weddings. the hotels%26#39; main pool is also beach front. the water here is usually very clear and the water is calm. best for swimming at high tide. at low tide use the hotel pool. the salsa bar overlooks the ocean and is an ideal spot at sunset to sit and take in the view. a short walk will take you around to mushroom rock where there are a few locals offering cheap massages and serving local snacks. from here you can walk to the blow hole - good at high tide. there is also a local temple here. there is a good assortment of restaurants at the hyatt and within walking distance is the bali collection where there are some shops and restaurants. local food (at much more reasonable prices) is available at the local village at two locations the main gate and mengiat st. just ask for a local taxi to drop you off then each of the restaurants will offer free transport to and from your hotel. just pick up some business cards and call which ever you fancy.

apart from this i recommend you use the hyatts free shuttle bus and go to the bali hyatt in sanur. this is about a 30 minute scenic trip. you can use the facilities here at the hotel and also walk around sanur and try out some very good restaurants there as well.

Just a clarification on a previous post - Intercontinental is at Jimbaran, not Nusa Dua.

If you plan to golf or surf, definitely Nirwana. you will be closer to the beach. However, the Nirwana Beach has some tremendous waves which makes it unsuitable for potterring around.

I have stayed at the Grand Hyatt, lovely beach with no hawking allowed. you are a long way though from the tourist sites.

Weather in April?

Hi all,booked to go beginning of April but just a bit worried about the weather.We had planned to go in Feb but had seen it was the rainy season so decided to go in April and i have been looking at the weather at the moment and it is still rain almost everyday.

Can someone put my mind at rest and give me some good news.

ULB.

Weather in April?

Hi Unluckyboy,

We have been to Bali 3 times in April and the weather has been fantastic each time.

If it does rain go sit in a bar and drink Bintang !!!!!!!!!!!

Cheers

Weather in April?

April is the end of the wet season and you certainly won%26#39;t have rain every day - friends of mine have been there for 10 days and only had rain twice and both times only for a very short period of time. The weather forecasts nearly always say %26#39;rain%26#39; at this time of the year - you can be sure it will rain somewhere. It may rain in Ubud, but not Kuta; it may rain in Seminyak but not Sanur - it is very localised. You will have a great holiday and a lot less rain than if you had gone in February. Just enjoy it.

My son arrived in Bali yesterday and said the weather is beautiful. April is the end of the wet season, so you could get a shower or two, but I%26#39;m sure it won%26#39;t stop you from enjoying all this beautiful island has to offer.

Hi all thanks for putting my mind at rest.

Here%26#39;s to April in Bali.

ULB

Lucky bugga,

We have to wait until 7 May.............. Have fun

Dwambo

Which one is better? Discovery or Ramada Bintang Bali?

I am planning to go to Bali in April only for three nights. Last time, I stayed in Padma Bali and I loved it very much. But I would like to try other hotel this time.

This time I would like to stay in Santika Beach Hotel. Unfortunately, it is fully booked.

Next hotels in my list are Discovery Kartika Plaza and Ramada Bintang Bali, but I can%26#39;t really decide, since travelers%26#39; reviews are kind of mixed.

The most important factor for me is the bathroom. Better if it is not too small and has bath up.

Other than visiting spa and having lunch/dinner, I guess I will stay at the hotel most of the times.

Please advise which one should I choose.

Thanks.

Which one is better? Discovery or Ramada Bintang Bali?

I can%26#39;t comment on Ramada but have stayed at Kartika Plaza three times in the last 4 years, always found the service excellent and location is fantastic.

We stay in the ocean facing rooms and the bathroom,whilst you could not describe as luxurious, is always clean and has everything you require.

May I suggest the spa at the Green Garden Beach Resort, they have wonderful packages and really reasonable prices.

Have a great time, we will be there in May for 3 weeks and I can%26#39;t wait!!

Which one is better? Discovery or Ramada Bintang Bali?

Both are great resorts. The upside of Discovery is the location being closer to everything, having the mall out the front. No doubt Ramada will be cheaper than Discovery. Ramada about a 10min walk down from Discovery. Both have large rooms.

If i had a choice i%26#39;d pick the Discovery

Hi there, have just returned from Bali yesterday, and were staying next to the Discovery and it looked like a very nice well spread out property - beach frontage. If we were to go to Kuta again we would probably stay there. Have you looked at other properties in Legian or Seminyak as that looked like a nicer option than Kuta which is noisy and congested??

Hi, there.

Thanks all for your inputs.

Unfortunately, it was too late to get a room in Discovery. Being long week end in Indonesia on that particular week end, I think people from Jakarta already booked from long time ago :(

I decided to try Kokonut suites at Petitenget this time.

Delva, thanks for the spa suggestion. Will find time to check that one. On my last visit to Bali (earlier this month), I tried Balisari Spa Center in Tuban. I read about it the forum and decided to try. It was good, service was excellent and the prices are very reasonable. I tried stony massage and Rice goddes body spa packages. Two days in a row! :)

Nearing40, I stayed in Padma Bali at Legian. The beach was less crowded, it was not private beach though. But compare to Jayakarta, the beach was too crowded. If you don%26#39;t mind with dark sands, you may try Sofitel Seminyak. Can%26#39;t really say much about the hotel, since I have never stay there, but they have private beach and very popular. Tried to book 2 nights there last time and it was fully booked! I would love to stay there sometime.

Have a good holiday! if you don%26#39;t have any luck with that accomodation, on our holiday we also stayed at The Bali Hyatt - Sanur and would strongly recommend!

Kuta Seaview Cottages

Hi, has anyone stayed at the Kuta Seaview lately.

We stayed there quite a few years ago and I believe it%26#39;s been renovated.

Would it be suitable for 2 25yr old females first trip to Bali. They would like 3-4star with nice gardens and Bali style bungalows.

Thanx

ddoodz

Kuta Seaview Cottages

I%26#39;ve seen it and I think it would be a good choice close to everything and across the road to the beach

Kuta Seaview Cottages

It also has a great pool. The rooms are a little cramped and it is not as luxurious as some of the places in Seminyak, but it has all the bells and whistles that you will need for a beach holiday.

My sister stayed there in June last year and we popped in to have a look around.

She paid USD 68 per night including tax and breakfast.

Stayed at Sari Yasa Samudra in Sept last year. Is cheap, basic but clean, opposite Kuta Beach on the corner of Poppies Lane 1. Close to everything %26amp; great if on a budget. am heading over in may %26amp; will stay again 4 sure.

you will have a ball!!!

forgot to say only paid $30 a night

eye shadow

guy myspace

Interconnecting rooms in Bali Hyatt Sanur

Does any one know whether this hotel has interconnecting rooms for 2 adults and 2 children who will be aged only 7 and 10.

Our friends do not ant the children to be separate and far away so interconnecting would be ideal as everyone seems to think that only 2 adults and 1 child can be accommodated which means they will have to separate into two rooms.

Any help please on this one.

Interconnecting rooms in Bali Hyatt Sanur

hi i am pretty sure there are a number of interconnecting rooms.

you are right there is only 3 people per room. i king and 1 roll away or twin beds + 1 rollaway.

just e mail the hotel re connecting rooms.

it is the grand hyatt at nusa dua that can have 4 people per room.

i think the bali hyatt offers something like a 50% discount for the second room for kids. just ask

Interconnecting rooms in Bali Hyatt Sanur

Thanks for this reply the Hotel does not answer any emails that is the problem, that is why I posted this topic hoping someone would know.

Thanks again

the hotel usually answers e mails. i have found e mails take longer to get replied to when i send them to most places in bali, not just here but generally speaking. the hyatt is a great choice, hope they answer you soon

Hi there, we have just spent a week at The Bali Hyatt - Sanur with our 3 children aged 5, 8 and 11 in early March. We had an interconnecting rooms with King Beds in both. Our 2 girls shared the king while our son had a rollaway. We all absolutely loved the Hyatt and will be returning hopefully next year. We included the breakfast in our room rate which was well worth it. Its also worth requesting a ground floor room as the balcony/verandah goes straight out to the lawn and beach. have a great holiday! Julie

please check the dates b4 answering. this post is extremely old

Hi nearing, glad you enjoyed your stay at the Hyatt. Rather than resurrect this ancient topic from the TA graveyard to tell us all how nice the hotel is, it might be worth you posting a review in the Reviews section.

I know that if I%26#39;m looking for hotel reviews, I%26#39;ll search the Reviews section rather than the forums.

Cheers!

Grand Mirage Resort

We are thinking of travelling to the Grand Mirage Resort in August. We are a fammily of 4 - 2 children 14 and 11. The past 2 years we have been to AI in Mexico - Gran Bahia Principe and Dreams Tulum. Could anyone tell me how Grand Mirage compares to Mexican hotels. Thank you.

Sky diving or cliff jumping/diving in Bali ??

We have to throw a little bit of adventure in to our honeymoon (not that scuba diving isn%26#39;t enough), but was wondering of any areas to possibly do some sky diving or cliff jumping/diving in Bali ??

Please let us know if anyone has heard of this near crazy request.........

Sky diving or cliff jumping/diving in Bali ??

A couple of websites you can take a look at:

www.extremesportscafe.com

Tandem paragliding flight US$60 per person

Discover paragliding 2 day beginner course US$250

www.balistarisland.com

Offer a variety of watersports, can book single activities or packages

Hotel stays for people with a disability????

Hello there all you wise travellers out there

I have a problem which is major to me, but probably not many others. I have a chance to stay at several hotels in Bali, the Alila chain. I love the look of, and reviews of the Alila in Candi Dasa and also at Ubud. BUT 30 years ago I had a brain tumour removed and as a result I have poor balance on my left side. Yet I continued to work full-time (I have just recently retired). Yes, if there are stairs anywhere, I need the handrail. Also a reasonably smooth surface for walking is good, though I have managed many other kinds of surfaces in the last 30 years.

HOWEVER, TRIPADVISOR REVIEWS GENERALLY ADVISE THAT BOTH HOTELS (i.e. at Ubud and Candi Dasa) ARE NOT RECOMMENDED FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES.

I%26#39;m SO disappointed. Please can you advise? If you%26#39;ve been to either, what do YOU think?

Hotel stays for people with a disability????

Hi,

Can I recommend that you email the properties and explain your circumstances, if there is a problem they may be able to offer assistance in the form of a staff member to help stabilise you in the problem areas. Most Balinese would be only too happy to help you in any way they can.

I don%26#39;t know the properties, but I assume that the ';not suitable for people with disabilities'; would mean steps. Handrails may or may not be installed.

Hotel stays for people with a disability????

Thanks so much, Whinnie, for your sensible reply. I was a bit afraid that I might get the wrong person replying to my query, or someone with a vested interest. But if I don%26#39;t try...... and I don%26#39;t want to miss out on any experience because I didn%26#39;t do my homework properly!

Let us know how you go and if it isn%26#39;t possible maybe we can give you some other alternatives. Good luck.

What to do and see in Bali (best places, a must)

Hi,

I need help!

I am going to Bali in August and I am surching for programs to do with my family of 5. Tell me what i cannot miss!!! :-)

Cheers

Ana

What to do and see in Bali (best places, a must)

Have a look at Battling%26#39;s ';Things to do'; list:

tripadvisor.co.uk/鈥?5824501

What to do and see in Bali (best places, a must)

Thank you very much!!! what a big list!

Catarina

The Bali Marine %26amp; Safari Park at Lebih is a great day out. I%26#39;t approx 20mins from Sanur.

there is a water bomb park which is great fun. also a monkey forest in ubud, the monkeys there are very calm and do there own thing.

safari and marine park also a great experience

data into xsds

taxi fare from Febris Hotel to Airport? Nyepi Day?Help!!

Hi,

I would like to know the fare from Febris Hotel to the Airport? Is it the same as from the airport to Kuta? Which taxi should i take or should i call the taxi from the airport?

I will in Bali next week and on 26 Mar is a Nyepi Day. Is it true that we are not allowed to go out of the hotel on that day? Why?

I will reach Bali airport this Sun at 21.35pm. Can i know how long does it take to reach Febris Hotel and where should i buy drinking water/ice mountain near the hotel at that time?

I am meeting the driver on next Monday and should i pay him 1st or on the last day?

Lastly, has anyone bought disposable contact lens in Bali?

Cheers,

Sue

Sue

taxi fare from Febris Hotel to Airport? Nyepi Day?Help!!

hi, the febris do offer free airport transfers on request so e mail them and ask. they require flight details in advance. taxi fares are cheaper back to the airport should you choose to use one. they constantly go past the hotel. just ask at the lobby and they will flag one down. stick with bluebird taxis when ever possible as they have reliable metres. the febris hotel is only a 5 minute drive from the airport, extremely close. as for water there is a small supermarket just across the road from the febris and to your right. you cannot miss it. they stock a good range of essentials so get your water here. there is also a good money exchanger at the kodak shop which you will see. same area. use them they are honest.

as for paying the driver it is best to give him some money to cover each days expenses rather than pay him at the end. if you paid the full amount for each day this would be fair.

i have bought prescription glasses in bali so you will be right getting contact lenses. just shop for them during your first couple of days in case they need to order them. the closest optometrist to the febris is at the discovery mall or kuta square (next closest). about a 10 and 15 minute walk. nyepi day is a day of silence so be prepared to stay at the hotel for a relaxing day. there is a dvd shop next door to the hotel selling very cheap copies maybe buy a couple of movies and relax around the pool for example. if you do a google search for nyepi day you can find out more about it.

the febris is a very good hotel, you will enjoy it. they have a good buffet breakfast.

.

taxi fare from Febris Hotel to Airport? Nyepi Day?Help!!

Bali completely shuts down for Nyepi day. No cars, walking on streets, activities of any kind. Beaches are closed and the airport closes for 24 hours. It goes from 0600 to 0600 the following day.

Its a sort of Hindu new year, observed on Bali. There is a Wikipedia entry on Nyepi day for more background.

Snooky, I am interested in the prescription glasses. Did you save a lot compared to the Aussie prices? Is it worth buying in Bali if you have health cover and can lodge a claim if you purchase is Aus?

Thanks

Hi sparky, as far as your health fund rebate is concerned it is best to check with them direct and ask what / if they will cover. every fund is different.

you can get eye tests done in bali or get your eyes tested here and take a copy of the script or your existing glasses for them to copy. we have had glasses made in both phuket and bali.

personally we have saved hundreds BUT i think it partly depends on your type of lenses and what frames you choose. the cost of frames varies considerably. often there are good sales on so it pays to shop around during the first day or two you are in bali and go back to the place you feel you are getting the best deal. single vision lenses are quick to make. anything from 45 minutes to one day. things like progressive lenses can take 5 - 7 days as they order the lenses for you. so far what we have purchased have been %26#39;good%26#39; and we have had no problems.

eye shadow

Naval Hotel

Do u have the photo of Naval Hotel rooms %26amp; lobby view? How is the rooms size?

How abt the nearby hotel have anything thing to watch, eat or shop?

Naval Hotel

I was informed that this hotel is new and comfortable...close to FOs..Any feedback from anyone ?

Naval Hotel

I was informed that this hotel is new and comfortable...close to FOs..Any feedback from anyone ?

dun think its near (walking distance) to any FO except for 1. Quite a long walk also to Paris Van Java, but if u get a cab.. the other FO%26#39;s are not tht far away. Hotel are not far frm Sukajadi Hotel.. fav among many Mlysians

Many Thnx for yr comments and adv...Will be staying there next weekend...

Perhaps others can adv further to add in...if any...

Let us share info..for the benefit of all

Not right. The Naval is very close to Paris Van Java. Its only about 100m up the road. Good eats in PVJ. Try the Duck restaurant, excellent Halal dim sum.There%26#39;s also a lively disco and many of the restaurants at PVJ have acoustic live music while you dine.

Naval is a spiffy new hotel. Not sure about the room size though.

It is a 5 min taxi ride to Rumah Mode.

About 500m up the Sukajadi Rd ( your hotel), you will find a few small FOs. There%26#39;s one that deals with kids stuff and also Tomodachi ( discounted designer wear but still expensive)

Enjoy.

Thank u for the feedback and info craneboywill...

U hv a nice day k

booking a holiday

hi its me again im trying to book a holiday for 14 nights around 25th june to 9th july, looked at recommendations and tried Puri Raja hotel legian beach in bali but cant get rates or availability dont know what im doing wrong, first timer at this and really want to meet my daughter whose in australia for a year as missing her my budget can be around 55 pounds a room per night so if any kind soul could look and help me find somewhere either legian/kuta and preferably on or near the beach id be most grateful as beginning to panic ! it would be for 3 adults forgot to mention as they do have rooms to accommodate that number i believe. thankyou in advance a desperate mum ha.

booking a holiday

Hi ald9

puriraja@hotmail.com or puriraja@banyuning.com

Send email to %26#39;Oka%26#39;

I%26#39;d also suggest you try the Kumala Pantai but they may be fairly well booked.kumalapt@indosat.net.id, (ask for suite prices as well as room prices as it may work out cheaper between three to book a suite)

Sari Beach next to Puri Raja or Maharta Hotel both beachfront and smaller properties.

Jayakarta Hotel beachfront, hotel rooms or the apartments.

The Lokha Hotel Legian, on Jl Padma (more modern looking hotel),pool in centre of room blocks, not far from the beach.

In Poppies Lane 2(Kuta) is Satriya Cottages,a 100%Balinese hotel. I had a look at a Superior room, good size, as is bathroom. Gardens manicured, lovely pool with swim up bar and jacuzzi.It is very quiet once you step inside hotel grounds.I would be very happy to stay here.info@satriyacottages.com send email to %26#39;Dipper%26#39; and ask for his %26#39;rates%26#39;,the normal rate 650,000rup for Superior room.

Masa Inn Poppies 2, also would be happy to stay here, two pools.

I recently stayed at Green Garden Hotel,Kartika Plaza Tuban,email:info@greenbali.com. Rooms good size, very clean, only a small property, or their sister hotel across the road the Febris Hotel. Rooms also a good size.They are not beachfront.

Cheers

Burns

booking a holiday

agree with burns suggestions. the febris has very large rooms and worth considering here. the family rooms are very good. just out of the busy kuta bustle and a short walk to the beach. a great price for this hotel.

they respond to their e mails promptly.

The hotels above are all OK. You should be able to find a hotel within your budget. There are, anyway, loads of hotels in Bali....Not to worry - and you%26#39;ll have a blast with your daughter! :-)