Bali

Question:

I will be in Bali the first 3 weeks of May. Isthis the rainy season? No , is already the dry season.The wet season is until march/april and starts

again in october/november Have a look to http://baliholidays.com

Response:

I am going to Bali in April.Can anyone tell Me if these Hotels are quiet the Sol Elite Paradiso,Sheraton Nusa Indah or the Grand Mirage?Which is best ?

Response:

I will be in Bali the first 3 weeks of May. Isthis the rainy season?

Response:

No not really I stayed there for three months last year 2 was the rainy season. In the south (jimbaran) where I lived it rained three times all together. So dont worry. ALLAN WADDELL skrev i meldingen … – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I will be in Bali the first 3 weeks of May. Isthis the rainy season?

Response:

A travel agent in HK can probably get better price. When you get to HK check out a couple of the local travel agents.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi Try flights.com They are excellent HI, My wife and I are planning a trip to Bali this summer. We have a free ticket to Hong Kong or Tokyo. Is it possible to get a reasonable fare from those cities to Denpasar? My travel agent tells me a ticket from Hong Kong to Bali would cost around $1500 each!! There’s must be a cheaper way ??? Thank you, Maurice Ottawa, Canada

Response:

Hi Try flights.com They are excellent

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – HI, My wife and I are planning a trip to Bali this summer. We have a free ticket to Hong Kong or Tokyo. Is it possible to get a reasonable fare from those cities to Denpasar? My travel agent tells me a ticket from Hong Kong to Bali would cost around $1500 each!! There’s must be a cheaper way ??? Thank you, Maurice Ottawa, Canada

Response:

Dear Maurice, I don’t know about Hong Kong, (but I would assume it would be cheaper than Tokyo), but Tokyo to Bali runs around $500 – 600 depending on season. $1500 sounds excessive for economy HK – Bali or Tokyo – Bali IMHO ~Kristin

Response:

$ 1500 didn’t sound reasonable unless he was quoting a fare from Canada to Bali and even that seems high. I checked one site www.foraticket.com using the dates of depart Hong Kong on July 11th and return on July 26th. Three airlines came up Garuda Indonesia $ 360 USD, Royal Brunei $ 385 USD and Singapore Airlines $ 444 USD. Both Garuda and Royal full. But you only indicated summer travel which will cover a lot of dates. Some of the cheaper fares may be available on your chosen date. There also quite a number of other web sites that may have better fares. Dry Season for Bali is Apr-Sep. High Season (higher rates) Jul 1 – Aug 31. Recent posts concerning Bali indicating beaches very poor with a lot of garbage in the water. Suggest reading thru back posts if beaches a big concern.

Response:

My travel agent tells me a ticket from Hong Kong to Bali would cost around $1500 each!! There’s must be a cheaper way ???

Not many Canadian travel agents could find a good fare on a route like this – they just punch it into their computer and blindly tell you whatever comes up. You should go through a Hong Kong agent. Now that phone calls to Hong Kong cost the same as domestic long-distance, that shouldn’t be a big deal. Also you can find lots and lots of them on the web. My guess for a decent discount fare would be about US$400. miguel — Hit The Road! Photos and tales from around the world: http://travel.u.nu

Response:

My travel agent tells me a ticket from Hong Kong to Bali would cost around $1500 each!! There’s must be a cheaper way ???

$1000 US is too much for that route. A quick check on Cathay Pacific’s web site gives a price of $4,210 per person return (HKD) if you go on Jun 1 return on Jul 1 (nonstop, about 4 hours each way). That’s about USD540 inclusive of taxes. This is probably an upper bound on your cost, going through a consolidator in HK on Garauda or some other airline will probably be a fair bit cheaper. (Ok, I checked a web site, I’ll not mention the name because I’ve not used them, but here are the prices (same dates as above)) Garuda: USD278 Royal Brunei: USD385 Singapore: USD444 Cathay: USD521 Thai: USD1237 $1000 US should be close to enough to get you to Denpasar from Toronto and back! Best regards, — Spehro Pefhany –"it’s the network…" "The Journey is the reward" Embedded software/hardware/analog Info for designers: http://www.speff.com Contributions invited-The AVR-gcc FAQ is at: http://www.BlueCollarLinux.com

Response:

HI, My wife and I are planning a trip to Bali this summer. We have a free ticket to Hong Kong or Tokyo. Is it possible to get a reasonable fare from those cities to Denpasar? My travel agent tells me a ticket from Hong Kong to Bali would cost around $1500 each!! There’s must be a cheaper way ??? Thank you, Maurice Ottawa, Canada

Response:

My wife and I will be traveling to Bali in July for a couple of days. Could anyone point us towards good accomodation, especially any that would more like a romantic getaway. I saw a brochure from the Waka Nusa Resort that is on the island of Nusa Lembongan and promises to be "a romantic night on an enchanted island". Any people who have tried this ? What are the costs and your experiences? thanks

Response:

Waka Nusa is a day trip for the main. Island is a sea weed supplier to Japan. Dried in the sun it adds some to the ‘nose’ quality of the air there abouts. A t night it would be quiet, views from the cottages I’d think would be good. Travel over is by the day charter yatch services, a slow pleasant trip from the harbour. Expect to be landed from a rubber dory on to the beach so casual clothes and no shoes is the way as is overnight bags! Personally I’d opt for Ubud however for a romantic getaway. Try ‘Ulan Ubud’, dine at ‘Murnis Warung’ – get the hotel to supply a car for the evening – or the ‘Lotus Cafe’. Expect Ulan Ubud to cost you around US$70 for a double per night. Waka day cruise is I think about US$87 per person. I’d anticipate another US$50 for an overnight but have not priced it myself. Cheers

Response:

We are just about to head off with a 3 month old, a 3 year old and a five year old! If you want to email me I will tell you how it goes. Amanda – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone travelled to travelled to Bali with a young child i.e a 2 year old ? Would be interested to know your experieces as we are thinking about taking our 2 yr old to Bali for a couple of weeks! — Simon, Sue and Samuel Barnaby Glenfield Auckland New Zealand Web http://powerlink.co.nz/~barnaby ICQ 1861330

Response:

Has anyone travelled to travelled to Bali with a young child i.e a 2 year old ? Would be interested to know your experieces as we are thinking about taking our 2 yr old to Bali for a couple of weeks!

Hi, We took our kids when the youngest was 2 and the next year when she was 3. No worries. If you have specific questions, let me know. Rich

Response:

Travelled with a friend’s 8-mth old kid. No problem . . . Balinese love and coddle kids. Just watch out for too much sun . . . and get a natural mosquito repellent that won’t bother a kid.

Response:

Hi Barnabies This is a faq on the Bali Forum, a most wonderful website for anyone travelling to the island. Check out their archives and ask any other questions you may think of. Someone will be sure to know the answers. You can reach them at http://balivillas.com/baliforum/ Also check out our website for lots of photos and general information about Bali . Have a great trip. Sue http://www,wright-photo.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone travelled to travelled to Bali with a young child i.e a 2 year old ? Would be interested to know your experieces as we are thinking about taking our 2 yr old to Bali for a couple of weeks! — Simon, Sue and Samuel Barnaby Glenfield Auckland New Zealand Web http://powerlink.co.nz/~barnaby ICQ 1861330

Response:

Has anyone travelled to travelled to Bali with a young child i.e a 2 year old ? Would be interested to know your experieces as we are thinking about taking our 2 yr old to Bali for a couple of weeks! — Simon, Sue and Samuel Barnaby Glenfield Auckland New Zealand Web http://powerlink.co.nz/~barnaby ICQ 1861330

Response:

@aol.com says… Do they have people at the Denpasar airport who offer accomodations and tours or should I book ahead online? Chris

If you intend to travel to Bali around the Xmas New Year period (a few weeks either side) I would suggest that you would find it very very difficult to obtain suitable accomodation either when you are at the airport or when you arrive. You should certainly consider booking in advance if you intend travelling at that time. I was fortunate enough the time I got caught out to be able to get some of my Bali friends (hotel and restaurant managers) to pull a few strings for me.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – @aol.com says… Do they have people at the Denpasar airport who offer accomodations and tours or should I book ahead online? Chris If you intend to travel to Bali around the Xmas New Year period (a few weeks either side) I would suggest that you would find it very very difficult to obtain suitable accomodation either when you are at the airport or when you arrive. You should certainly consider booking in advance if you intend travelling at that time. I was fortunate enough the time I got caught out to be able to get some of my Bali friends (hotel and restaurant managers) to pull a few strings for me.

Yup I agree… Bali will be very busy during xmas and new year time. Really adviseable u sort ur hotel out before u land in the island. — Posted via http://britishexpats.com

Response:

Do they have people at the Denpasar airport who offer accomodations and tours or should I book ahead online? Chris

Response:

Do they have people at the Denpasar airport who offer accomodations and tours or should I book ahead online?

There are such people (plenty of them actually) but at the upper end of the market you may have better luck – pricewise – booking in advance. miguel — Hit The Road! Photos from 32 countries on 5 continents: http://travel.u.nu

Response:

july is peak season… its supposedly when its the least humid. not that it isn’t humid then just not so much. be aware that july is also school holidays for people in perth- australia and i think other parts of australia. traditionally its a time when a lot of western australians go to bali. hence the peak period time slot.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Can anyone recommend a good tour company for Bali? I need airfare, hotel, and transfers. Maybe some tours and meals as well. Is July/Aug a good time to go? Thank you for any responses.

Response:

Tour companies may be ok for airfare and hotels, but don’t let them railroad you into package tours of the island. They are overpriced and usually take you to overpriced tourist shops. It’s much better to go on your own, hire a driver to take you where you want to go. Don’t worry about hotels in Bali, there are millions of them in all price ranges. If a hotel for $75 per night in a resort area sounds good to you, that’s actually pretty expesive here in Bali. You can find wonderful locally owned hotels in natural settings for around $50 – 60 per night or less, all depending on your taste and comfort level, of course. You can also rent wonderful private villas for hundreds of dollars a night for the experience of a lifetime. July is the peak season, but still possible to find nice hotel rooms, especially away from the heavy tourist areas like Kuta. It’s the coolest time of the year also, very pleasant weather. Before you buy.

Response:

see http://members.xoom.com/mumbul

Response:

You don’t need more than airfares and hotel. Taxis cost almost nothing and meals are everwhere for almost nothing. You need almost no clothes and anything you forget to pack can be bought at the local supermarket in Kuta.

Response:

Can anyone recommend a good tour company for Bali? I need airfare, hotel, and transfers. Maybe some tours and meals as well. Is July/Aug a good time to go? Thank you for any responses.

Response:

Can anyone recommend a good tour company for Bali? I need airfare, hotel, and transfers. Maybe some tours and meals as well. Is July/Aug a good time to go? Thank you for any responses.

Reputable but not cheap would be Cathay Pacific Holidays. You’;d have to go there via HKG

Response:

a friend of mine insists that when I go to Asia for 10-14 days on Cathay’s unlimited travel deal– that I go to Bali. It is way out of the way, as I’ll be doing biz in HK, Tokyo, Seoul, etc., so Anyone feel as strongly as my friend, and what makes Bali so special? thanks for your insight in advance

Response:

writes: Anyone feel as strongly as my friend, and what makes Bali so special?

Your friend is absolutely correct: Bali is completely unique, with a very special combation of fine scenery and a wonderful, very colorful culture that you will not find anywhere else. And the island remains peaceful, despite recent troubles on Java, etc. Here is what I posted the other day in response to someone else: "I am in frequent touch with friends on Bali and they tell me that it has been and still is very peaceful, although there are unfortunately fewer tourists because of the recent upsets on Java, etc.. "My best friend on Bali, Putu Arnawa, says this: "’I want you to tell everybody in US that Bali is still safe for travelling. Many people from Jakarta run to Bali for escaping and we in Bali agree that demonstration in Bali [should be] peaceful demonstration . . . ‘" I’ll send you some longer notes about things I enjoyed seeing and doing on Bali when I was there in 1994 and about the beautiful little hotel I liked so much (and to anyone else who asks). Larry at Morro Bay, Califonria

Response:

Hi, does anyone know what the Bali Padma hotel is like? cya

Response:

The Bali Padma is a quite large hotel with good facilities right on the beach in a rather crowded part of Kuta/Legian. Recommended if you like to be in the center of action. Regards from Bali, Peter Rieger BALI HOTEL BARGAIN FINDER http://balivillas.com/hotels.html PRIVATE VACATION VILLAS IN BALI http://balivillas.com/welcome.html CRUISING THE SPICE ISLANDS http://balivillas.com/si/index.html BALI TODAY – an Insider Guide http://balivillas.com/guide.html Hi, does anyone know what the Bali Padma hotel is like? cya

Response:

2 friends and I plan to go to Bali in October.Someone said me that there are some troubles in Indonesia,and in Bali between balinais and chineese(because of the asian crash).Is it true?and is it so dangerous for 3 tourists who just want to dicover this marvelous country? Please give me some informations,thank (excuse me for my english) olivier…..

Aloha Oliver — The answer would rather depend on whether or not you are Chinese or liable to be mistaken for Chinese. Bali — green, smiling, friendly, amiable was not exempt from the murderous excesses which gripped the rest of Indonesia. On a motor trip around the North-East of the island, several grave-yards of Chinese were pointed out to me, when I asked where the towns were the answers were vague to the point of delusion. ward "I am constantly mystified by this notion of "disagreeing" with homosexuality — not unlike disagreeing with Tuesday — like it or not, every seven days, there it is — TUESDAY. uncle ward

Response:

See http://www.balivillas.com/hazards.html Mike — Sunrise Systems Software _____ Ridgetown, Ontario, Canada | R/C Soaring _/ Glider Guider

Response:

Olivier, Don’t worry. Bali is peaceful and quiet. Please see http://www.balivillas.com/hazards.html and visit the DAILY UPDATED Bali pages on social problems in Bali, and haze, winds, and cloud cover in the area around Bali. Best regards from Bali, Peter Rieger BALI TODAY — an Insiders’ Guide http://balivillas.com/guide.html The BALI TRAVEL FORUM http://balivillas.com/baliforum/index.html BALI HOTEL BARGAIN FINDER http://balivillas.com/hotels.html PRIVATE VACATION VILLAS IN BALI, INDONESIA http://balivillas.com/welcome.html CRUISING THE SPICE ISLANDS FROM BALI http://balivillas.com/si/index.html 2 friends and I plan to go to Bali in October.Someone said me that there are some troubles in Indonesia,and in Bali between balinais and chineese(because of the asian crash).Is it true?and is it so dangerous for 3 tourists who just want to dicover this marvelous country? Please give me some informations,thank (excuse me for my english) olivier…..

Response:

chineese(because of the asian crash).Is it true?and is it so dangerous for 3 tourists who just want to dicover this marvelous country? there, it is fine to travel there. I would go without any hesitation.

I agree. Bali has been relatively OK all during the "krismon" (monetary crisis). If you want to go to Indonesia, Bali should be the best place to do so right now. Regards, Tim

Response:

Hello Olivier; My son works in Bali and from all recent reports from him and my friends there, it is fine to travel there. I would go without any hesitation. Regards, Mike — Maluku Adventures – For the best in diving, cruises, trekking, kayaking 800-566-2585 Toll Free in US and Canada or 415-731-2560 http://www.maluku.com PO Box 22067 San Francisco CA 94122-0067 "Tourists don’t know where they’ve been, travelers don’t know where they’re goi

Response:

I am going to Bali and my friend said that Kuta might have a lot of thiefs. He said to stay away from Jakarta and Sumatra. he told me to go to Ubud,where I was planning on going. If you have any info. I am going alone and really do not Thankyou, Jessica Edwards

Hi, I was in Bali two weeks ago and I was in Kuta too. It’s very crowded but there’s no safety-problem. You should take care of your belongings like in any other town. The only problem are the traders. They always asking you to buy their things. Say no and don’t stopp walking and try to ignore them. Enjoy your trip to Bali. C U Juergen.

Response:

Hello there, In June this year I will go to Bali for 2 weeks. Does anybody of you know where the best spots are and if there are favourable backpackers? Thank you very much for your help. Bye from Holland

Just got back from Bali. Loved Ubud. A great place to visit from, especially on a motor bike. The countryside is absolutely beautiful. Losts of backpackers. E-mail me if you have more specific questions.

Response:

Find and purchase a "Lonely Planet" book on Bali. Although it lists all the usual tourist stuff, it also has some good information for backpacking in areas around Mt. Agung, Lake Batus, and the general Batur/ Mt. Batur area. Also, you might want to consider taking a boat over to Lombok. Never been there, but it is supposed to be like Bali was years ago. Remember, Lombok is Muslim while Bali is (mostly) Hindu. So, culturally they are probably very different (I assume so, at least).

Response:

Hello! I just spent a week in Bali/Lombok. LP is OK guide, but the MOON publication Indonesia Handbook is phenomenol. Something in there about every village. As for lombok, it is not "Bali 20 years ago (when I was eating popsicles), but rather a less-developed, poorer version of Bali with even more rip-off people. Nice beaches though. There is really only one developed beach area, so when you rento your moped to drive arround, you will find your own beach. I would return to Bali over and over, but not to Lombok. John | Remember, Your employer is eavesdropping… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Find and purchase a "Lonely Planet" book on Bali. Although it lists all the usual tourist stuff, it also has some good information for backpacking in areas around Mt. Agung, Lake Batus, and the general Batur/ Mt. Batur area. Also, you might want to consider taking a boat over to Lombok. Never been there, but it is supposed to be like Bali was years ago. Remember, Lombok is Muslim while Bali is (mostly) Hindu. So, culturally they are probably very different (I assume so, at least).

Response:

You can see my photos collection around Bali. at http://www.omega-net.com/indonesia chose – gallery Regards, Andri – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Find and purchase a "Lonely Planet" book on Bali. Although it lists all the usual tourist stuff, it also has some good information for backpacking in areas around Mt. Agung, Lake Batus, and the general Batur/ Mt. Batur area. Also, you might want to consider taking a boat over to Lombok. Never been there, but it is supposed to be like Bali was years ago. Remember, Lombok is Muslim while Bali is (mostly) Hindu. So, culturally they are probably very different (I assume so, at least).

Response:

Play safe by bringing bottled water for health reasons. Good luck and enjoy every minute of you stay over there.

Response:

I’m going to Bali for my honeymoon in June. What type of weather should we expect? PR Brax

You should have fantastic weather around this time of year. Still very hot but not as humid as in the summer months. The nights will be cooler as well (although it will be warm at night). It is possible that you could have the odd shower but this can happen anywhere anytime. Mostly I think you should have fine weather.

Response:

Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua. Thankyou, Esther.

Just go to Bali and enjoy it! In two weeks you can see everything. Some interesting places: Besahki and Tanah Lot temple, Klungkung, Mengwi, Ubud, monkey forest, Taro (elephants), Gitgit waterfall, the smoking vulcanos in the centre of the island, the ricefields in Tabanan. For good beaches, diving and snorkeling you better try one of the neighbouring islands like Nusa Lembongan. On my homepage you can find a lot of pictures and information about Bali. Have a lot of fun! Groeten/Greetings, Dick Prins http://www.rug.nl/rc/netwerk/prins/welcome.htm ‘If paradise is half as nice as Bali’: http://www.rug.nl/rc/netwerk/prins/bali.htm

Response:

Perfect for a honeymoon in Bali. Go up to Ubud and stay at Alam Sari, Keliki. Address: Promol Pos 3, Kantor Pos Tegallalang, Gianyar 80561, Bali, Indonesia (not kidding). Tel/fax: 62.361.240.308. Email: which you can make reservations. If this matters to you, the place is owned and run by an expat couple (Brits, Kiwis?), Hugh and Aprile Collett. It’s quite, peaceful, out of town. AC. Bar. Garden bathrooms. Natural swimming pool. Tropical garden setting. Etc., etc. And, get this, Alam Sari has two special suites ideal for honeymoons. Weather? On a honeymoon, you’ll be busy elsewhere. Chris – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My fiance and I plan on going to Bali in May for our honeymoon. Does anyone know what the weather is like in Bali at this time of year? Do you know of any affordable ($50 – $100), romantic places to stay? After Bali, we are going to Bangkok then Hong Kong. We will travel approximately 3 weeks. Any advice on any of the locations, especially Bali is welcome. Thanks and Happy New Year to all!

Response:

I’m going to Bali for my honeymoon in June. What type of weather should we expect? PR Brax

Response:

My fiance and I plan on going to Bali in May for our honeymoon. Does anyone know what the weather is like in Bali at this time of year? Do you know of any affordable ($50 – $100), romantic places to stay? After Bali, we are going to Bangkok then Hong Kong. We will travel approximately 3 weeks. Any advice on any of the locations, especially Bali is welcome. Thanks and Happy New Year to all!

Response:

Many people prefer Nusa Dua, and it is their choice. It certainly looks nicer that the t-shirt stall and beer swilling ugly chaos of Kuta which I think has done a lot more to spoil Bali than Nusa Dua. And now Ubud is going the same way, though without all the booze and discos. Nusa Dua was an almost unpopulated area before the hotels opened and has has not intruded upon traditional Bali lifestyle in the way many lower budget areas have. Having said that I also do not like it ! and have only stayed there for business. Roger Kidley – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Jackie skrev: Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua. Nusa Dua has good a reasonable beach. Nothing special. It is a five star hotel ghetto. Boring! In a sense it could be anywhere in the world. Per

Response:

RAK skrev: Many people prefer Nusa Dua, and it is their choice.

Yes: off course! It certainly looks nicer that the t-shirt stall and beer swilling ugly chaos of Kuta which I think has done a lot more to spoil Bali than Nusa Dua.

We were in Kuta ten years ago, in 1989, and felt very strongly that we were fifteen or even twenty years too late. And now Ubud is going the same way, though without all the booze and discos. Nusa Dua was an almost unpopulated area before the hotels opened and has has not intruded upon traditional Bali lifestyle in the way many lower budget areas have.

True: when we cycled out there we got the feeling that it did not really belong to Bali. It could have been in Florida, California, or Hawai. On the other hand it gave us an unforgetable memory. As we were sitting on the beach an old fisher man approached us. First we felt slightly annoyed, for the unwanted attention, but the old man sat down and talked with us. He was not selling anything just wanted to chat. He was reflecting on life and destiny saying things like: You are very lucky who can come all the way here for adventure and see Bali and how we live but I can never go to visit your country because I cannot afford it because it is so expensive for Balinese people to travel. He was, off course, right and it was sort of moving. Per

Response:

Nusa Dua was an almost unpopulated area before the hotels opened and has has not intruded upon traditional Bali lifestyle in the way many lower budget areas have. True: when we cycled out there we got the feeling that it did not really belong to Bali. It could have been in Florida, California, or Hawai. On the other hand it gave us an unforgetable memory. As we were sitting on the beach an old fisher man approached us. First we felt slightly annoyed, for the unwanted attention, but the old man sat down and talked with us. He was not selling anything just wanted to chat. He was reflecting on life and destiny saying things like: You are very lucky who can come all the way here for adventure and see Bali and how we live but I can never go to visit your country because I cannot afford it because it is so expensive for Balinese people to travel. He was, off course, right and it was sort of moving.

Yes, good point. And that has gone now. But I think that fewer people were disturbed by Nusa Dua than by other Bali unplanned development. Many it is for the greater good, I don’t know. Not really sure how much the average Balinese benefits, though they are are certainly materially better off than most Indonesians on average. Last year I had quite a long talk with a Balinese taxi driver (maybe 50+ years old) and asked him about the changes he had seen in his 25-30 years as a taxi driver there. At first he said that they have a lot more money now…… but then said that he thought life was better before, when they did not have much money and did not know what they were "missing"… but probably enjoyed their "poorer" life more. So it goes…

Response:

: Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in : the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? : Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? : What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua. : Thankyou, : Esther. Go to Ubud, artist community in Bali. Nice accomodation on rice fields.

Response:

Nusa Dua has a good beach, though the place is a bit artificial. And the sun comes from the wrong direction, kind of (Kuta is by my definition correct – the sun is most of the day out over the water, not in over land). Ubud is a place where you just can "be" for a while, stay for a few days and look at the art and handicrafts. And the dances (though we liked the performances in Yogya/Prambanan better). But if you have booked such an expensive hotel in Nusa Dua you may want to sleep there… /Tommy P. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua. Thankyou, Esther.

Response:

I have been Nusa Dua two times. Nusa Dua beach is good. It is calm and peaceful. Not much beggers or street shoppers. Not much shopping intimidating crowded shops, too. The whole beach is along with 5 star luxurious hotels and each hotel has decorated the beach area repectively. Nice walking path along the Nusa Dua with well decorated gardens. Some hotels have good open restaurants along the walking path of the beach. You can easiley find out. But if you like young and lively atmosphere, Kuta will be another choice. Have a good time in Bali~! Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua.

Response:

Jackie skrev: Hi, I am going to Bali at the end of June for two weeks. We are saying in the Melia Bali, Nusa Dua. Has anyone been there or know what it is like ? Also what are the good excursions or places to see in Bali ? What are the beaches like, especially Nusa Dua.

Nusa Dua has good a reasonable beach. Nothing special. It is a five star hotel ghetto. Boring! In a sense it could be anywhere in the world. Per

Response:

Jackie, the best site for information about Bali is the Bali Forum http://balivillas.com/baliforum/. Check the archives for information overload. Also visit my photo site with hundreds of photos of Bali including Nusa Dua and lots of places you may want to consider visiting on excursions. Have a great trip, email if you have any questions you think I may be able to help with. Sue – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –

Response:

IMHO, Nusa Dua is boooooooooring. Only expensive hotels, no surf, no sunset over the water, few Indonesians. Kuta/Legian is much better. Sjoerd

Response:

I second that! Why travel to Bali and not experience Bali?

Response:

Thanks for the interesting post. Bali should be a better deal than ever at the moment, but is there any way to predict what will happen there tomorrow? That is the big question, isn’t it?

Well, I’m going to go out and rent "The Year of Living Dangerously" and watch it again. So often, what is past is prologue. I’m planning to spend a few days in Bali in July on my way from Saipan to Australia, and everything I read seems to indicate that Bali is and will probably remain safe. But, who knows? BTW – I was in Pakistan the day Bhutto was overthrown in 1977. There was madness in the streets, but it was also US Independence Day (July 4th), so we all trundled down to the US Embassy for hot dogs and beer as if nothing had happened. It’s just Asia. — Saipan, Narita Layover, SSA Saipan and Tropical Pond pages: <http://net.saipan.com/personal/mike_newman/

Response:

I just got back from Bali – it is absolutely safe. Tourism is the #1 business BY FAR and the local government is not going to let anything happen to it. The students there protest, but they do not let it get out of hand. My Jakartans went to Bali when this whole thing started. David – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks for the interesting post. Bali should be a better deal than ever at the moment, but is there any way to predict what will happen there tomorrow? That is the big question, isn’t it? Well, I’m going to go out and rent "The Year of Living Dangerously" and watch it again. So often, what is past is prologue. I’m planning to spend a few days in Bali in July on my way from Saipan to Australia, and everything I read seems to indicate that Bali is and will probably remain safe. But, who knows? BTW – I was in Pakistan the day Bhutto was overthrown in 1977. There was madness in the streets, but it was also US Independence Day (July 4th), so we all trundled down to the US Embassy for hot dogs and beer as if nothing had happened. It’s just Asia. — Saipan, Narita Layover, SSA Saipan and Tropical Pond pages: <http://net.saipan.com/personal/mike_newman/

Response:

What follows is a brief quote from an article in the 19 May edition of the LA Times: The Holiday Inn Balihai reported 800 cancellations by Monday, while the Bali Hilton said its occupancy rate was down to 36% from a normal 80%. Tourists of Chinese descent had a particularly tough calculation to make, given that last week’s mobs specifically targeted Chinese Indonesian families and businesses. Those willing to brave the trip, meanwhile, found a buyer’s market: hotel rates ranging from $1.50 a night for a decent room to $50 for luxury lodgings. "It’s cheaper to come to Bali than to fly within Australia," said Virginia Foreman, a homemaker on holiday from Perth.

The complete article is archived on the Times web site: <http://www.latimes.com/ Do a search on ‘bali’ from the main page. — Saipan, Narita Layover, SSA Saipan & Tropical Pond pages: <http://net.saipan.com/personal/mike_newman/ Thanks for the interesting post. Bali should be a better deal than ever at the moment, but is there any way to predict what will happen there tomorrow? That is the big question, isn’t it? What rec.travel.asia readers would most appreciate is more independent travel reports from Bali. Is there no one now in Bali who can write up some short informational posts about the places everyone knows? For example, is there no one in Ubud who could talk about the cafes and the other places foreigners know? Has there been any student activity there at all? And what about the students at the University in Bali, they surely have Internet accounts, don’t they? Could they write up some informational posts about their discussions with the local authorities, reports which would reconfirm the impression that students in Bali are much more responsible than the students in Jakarta and Medan? Thanks in advance to any Internet users now in Bali who can write up independent travel reports from the island today. Please post independent travel reports from Bali to the Internet newsgroup rec.travel.asia. Regards, George Moore, http://www.slip.net/~georgem

Response:

I concur with the others, rent a car and driver – it’s much easier and safer and not that much more. Here is driver (drives a van w/ AC) whom we’ve used for the past twenty years. A wonderful, kind, man, absolutely no hassles: Made Kacer c/o Sindu Beach Hotel (he hangs out there, but is not connected with the hotel. They will forward mail and messages to him.) tel 011.62.361.288352 PO Box 181 Sanur, Bali, Indonesia Chris – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

I rented a car and drove it myself my first trip to Bali. 2 hours later I had to pay off a cop to let me go because I was 12 inches over the white line at an intersection. I should have just ran the yellow. It was really cool driving myself, except for the constant fear of the police and fear of having an accident. I didn’t have an international driving license either. Anyway, driving myself was more adventurous. On my second trip I rented a car with driver. Less stressful but not as adventurous. I would drive myself in Bali again unless I can learn how to bullshit in Bahasa and had an international driving license. The driver is usually an extra $5 to $10 dollars more. It is really worth it.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Yes, a Toyota Kijang with a driver is best. I tried both that and a Taxi. The taxi was approximately the same, but the condition of the vehicle was pretty bad (dysfunctional air-con). So all in all the private car and driver is best. The taxi you can get anytime, but for the same cost you might as well book one and get a reliable car and driver. Neil has it right – Balinese drivers will supply themselves and their Toyota minivan or equivalent, and are generally willing to run you around all day for something around USD20 plus a little extra for meals and kindnesses. I hear gas prices are up, so maybe a bit more… in any case it’s the way to go unless the $20 or so doesn’t fit the budget at all. Both cars and minivans are available for hire with driver. You do not need to pre-book or worry about availability. Check prices when you get there, or just before. If the driver you hire on your first trip is good, keep using him, and you will soon have a good friend who will give honest advice about what to see and how much to pay Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM Posted Via Uncensored-News.Com – Still Only $9.95 – http://www.uncensored-news.com With Seven Servers In California And Texas – The Worlds Uncensored News Source

Response:

Good advice. The cops are sent by Jakarta so not under Balinese control as far as pay is concerned. At least in Bali they wait for an excuse before they stop you. In Java, they don’t need an excuse except that you have white skin

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have; but wouldn’t rent one again. Too dangerous if something bad happens. You WILL go to jail if you get in an accident. (but you only need to pay the obligatory bribes to get out. If a native is hurt or killed, it will be lots of money.) (Multiply problems by 2X if you have a surfboard! Guaranteed problems with the cops at every point you pass one!) Much safer and cheap to hire car with driver. Actually, you don’t even need to book in advance. Tons of locals with vans abound that are literally starving for business, and will often be cheaper than any rates you get from the official businesses. (instead of one off the street, I would have your hotel book you one for a day, then book it directly with the guy for the rest of the trip.) It really is sad, currently. The people that depend on tourism, which is a lot, are suffering because of the drop in tourism. And this brings out the rougher element which makes things worse. I hope the Balinese government realizes this and cracks down on the crooked cops. Getting robbed there means getting robbed twice. (once by the crooks, then by the cops. If you are unfortunate to get robbed, don’t even bother to go to the cops.) Jeff Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

Neil has it right – Balinese drivers will supply themselves and their Toyota minivan or equivalent, and are generally willing to run you around all day for something around USD20 plus a little extra for meals and kindnesses. I hear gas prices are up, so maybe a bit more… in any case it’s the way to go unless the $20 or so doesn’t fit the budget at all. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Both cars and minivans are available for hire with driver. You do not need to pre-book or worry about availability. Check prices when you get there, or just before. If the driver you hire on your first trip is good, keep using him, and you will soon have a good friend who will give honest advice about what to see and how much to pay Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Posted Via Uncensored-News.Com – Still Only $9.95 – http://www.uncensored-news.com With Seven Servers In California And Texas – The Worlds Uncensored News Source

Response:

Yes, a Toyota Kijang with a driver is best. I tried both that and a Taxi. The taxi was approximately the same, but the condition of the vehicle was pretty bad (dysfunctional air-con). So all in all the private car and driver is best. The taxi you can get anytime, but for the same cost you might as well book one and get a reliable car and driver.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Neil has it right – Balinese drivers will supply themselves and their Toyota minivan or equivalent, and are generally willing to run you around all day for something around USD20 plus a little extra for meals and kindnesses. I hear gas prices are up, so maybe a bit more… in any case it’s the way to go unless the $20 or so doesn’t fit the budget at all. Both cars and minivans are available for hire with driver. You do not need to pre-book or worry about availability. Check prices when you get there, or just before. If the driver you hire on your first trip is good, keep using him, and you will soon have a good friend who will give honest advice about what to see and how much to pay Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM Posted Via Uncensored-News.Com – Still Only $9.95 –

http://www.uncensored-news.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – With Seven Servers In California And Texas – The Worlds Uncensored News Source

Response:

Don’t even think of hiring a car without driver. If you have the smallest accident you will be at fault (even if parked at the time) and done for every $$ you have.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Suggest you look for a Toyata Kijang or an Isuzu Panther. Both are minibuses with about 7 seats – plenty of room for 4 plus driver plus bags. And they are tough and economical, OK on all but the roughest dirt roads. There are other larger minibuses around too. The Jimny is far too small, only enough for 2 adults plus luggage. Sedans area available (Corollas, etc.) but quite expensive and small for 5 people. Just shop around for cars and rates, they are cheap enough, but quite variable If you are doing a tour of Bali I would try the driver and car locally first to be sure you are happy with both. Then be VERY clear about what is included – fuel, milage, hours per day, drivers expenses when away, insurance (often there is NO insurance included – beware!!), what to do if it breaks down, etc. Renting through your hotel may cost more but they may be more straight about what is included. Roger Jakarta Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

I have; but wouldn’t rent one again. Too dangerous if something bad happens. You WILL go to jail if you get in an accident. (but you only need to pay the obligatory bribes to get out. If a native is hurt or killed, it will be lots of money.) (Multiply problems by 2X if you have a surfboard! Guaranteed problems with the cops at every point you pass one!) Much safer and cheap to hire car with driver. Actually, you don’t even need to book in advance. Tons of locals with vans abound that are literally starving for business, and will often be cheaper than any rates you get from the official businesses. (instead of one off the street, I would have your hotel book you one for a day, then book it directly with the guy for the rest of the trip.) It really is sad, currently. The people that depend on tourism, which is a lot, are suffering because of the drop in tourism. And this brings out the rougher element which makes things worse. I hope the Balinese government realizes this and cracks down on the crooked cops. Getting robbed there means getting robbed twice. (once by the crooks, then by the cops. If you are unfortunate to get robbed, don’t even bother to go to the cops.) Jeff – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

We are eventuality going to Bali in March 2002, if it is safe. We want also information and tips. How is it there with rebels and so? Where is the best beach (not so far from shops and hotels)? WN

Response:

We are eventuality going to Bali in March 2002, if it is safe. How is it there with rebels and so?

There are no rebels in Bali. However, March 2002 is quite far off. I don’t think it makes much sense to try to make these decisions that far in advance. 3-4 weeks is a reasonable horizon if you have obsessive-compulsive planning issues. 10 months is tricky. miguel — Hit The Road! Photos and tales from around the world: http://travel.u.nu

Response:

We had a rented Jeep but I would have preferred a motorcycle. — Dwacon TRAVEL http://www.dwacon.com

Response:

We had a rented Jeep but I would have preferred a motorcycle.

Two wheels are incomparably better in Bali. You can park, you can actually get places (rather than sitting in traffic), you can stop and chat with people, and you’re riding around the same way everyone else is. miguel — Hit The Road! Photos and tales from around the world: http://travel.u.nu

Response:

Both cars and minivans are available for hire with driver. You do not need to pre-book or worry about availability. Check prices when you get there, or just before. If the driver you hire on your first trip is good, keep using him, and you will soon have a good friend who will give honest advice about what to see and how much to pay

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

Traffic wasn’t all that bad when I was there… but we stayed mainly in Kuta. —– Where in the wide world is my bacon and rasin sandwich? http://www.dwacon.com

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Both cars and minivans are available for hire with driver. You do not need to pre-book or worry about availability. Check prices when you get there, or just before. If the driver you hire on your first trip is good, keep using him, and you will soon have a good friend who will give honest advice about what to see and how much to pay Has anybody rented a car in Bali? What kind of range is available? (We are a family of four and with a driver a Jimmy would not do, I think.) What is the cost range? Any information would be appreciated, including any other tips about Bali. Thanks in advance. SM

Response:

We had a rented Jeep but I would have preferred a motorcycle. Two wheels are incomparably better in Bali. You can park, you can actually get places (rather than sitting in traffic), you can stop and chat with people, and you’re riding around the same way everyone else is. miguel —

Well, the original inquiry was for a family of 4. I have seen 6 people on a bike on Borneo, but usually tourists are not able to adapt that well Plus I have too many people mangled in bike crashes in Bali (including an elderly couple who went head on into a minibus I was riding in) to recommend it. Roger

Response:

Suggest you look for a Toyata Kijang or an Isuzu Panther. Both are minibuses with about 7 seats – plenty of room for 4 plus driver plus bags. And they are tough and economical, OK on all but the roughest dirt roads. There are other larger minibuses around too. The Jimny is far too small, only enough for 2 adults plus luggage. Sedans area available (Corollas, etc.) but quite expensive and small for 5 people. Just shop around for cars and rates, they are cheap enough, but quite variable If you are doing a tour of Bali I would try the driver and car locally first to be sure you are happy with both. Then be VERY clear about what is included – fuel, milage, hours per day, drivers expenses when away, insurance (often there is NO insurance included – beware!!), what to do if it breaks down, etc. Renting through your hotel may cost more but they may be more straight about what is included. Roger Jakarta

Response:

I am traveling to Bali in March and would appreciate any information on places to see, stay and what to look out for.

Response:

: I am traveling to Bali in March and would appreciate any information on : places to see, stay and what to look out for. There are a lot of places to visit in Bali. If you like beach, there are very touristy beaches such as Kuta beach, Sanur beach or legian. More quiet beach you can find in Nothern part of Bali (Singaraja) or eastern opart of Bali (Karang Ngasem, Candi Dasa). If you avoid beaches, there is very cultural village called UBUD. Also you can find a reasonable hotel/hostel here. Do you consider to go to Lombok also?. Lombok isthe island east of Bali. It is more traditional than Bali. Thank!. Good luck with your trip! — — AMRULLAH + — (62-21-5219922) + — + — "TRY NOT TO HOPE ANYTHING FROM ANYBODY" + — +

Response:

or better www.balitravelforum.com – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Check out this: Lobo Indonesia Travel at http://www.loboindonesiatravel.com/bali bali specialist travel agent. Halo-Bali Forum at http://www.halo-bali.com/forum read info about bali from traveler who has been in Bali or you can post any question, before you come to bali. Looking for budget accom. in Bali for 2 adults and 3 teenagers. Also newsgroups or other sites primarily on Bali offering tips, ideas etc. Any suggestions ? Thank You

Response:

House for rent. see http://members.xoom.com/mumbul Thks Sam.

Response:

Looking for budget accom. in Bali for 2 adults and 3 teenagers. Also newsgroups or other sites primarily on Bali offering tips, ideas etc. Any suggestions ? Thank You

Response:

Check out this: Lobo Indonesia Travel at http://www.loboindonesiatravel.com/bali bali specialist travel agent. Halo-Bali Forum at http://www.halo-bali.com/forum read info about bali from traveler who has been in Bali or you can post any question, before you come to bali. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Looking for budget accom. in Bali for 2 adults and 3 teenagers. Also newsgroups or other sites primarily on Bali offering tips, ideas etc. Any suggestions ? Thank You

Response:

Unspoilt places in Bali? Who’s got the answer? Not me… Please, reply if anyone wants to share wonderful places! Thanks, miquel

Response:

The Gili Islands off of Lombok are not unspoilt but they are beautiful and great for scuba diving. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Unspoilt places in Bali? Who’s got the answer? Not me… Please, reply if anyone wants to share wonderful places! Thanks,=20 miquel=20

Response:

great for scuba diving???? Nearly 100 % of the corals are dead because they fished with dynamite years ago…. But it has a nice atmosphere there. Nothing else to do than relaxing and diving. For diving Sulawesi is very nice. I really enjoyed Togean Islands. Stefan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The Gili Islands off of Lombok are not unspoilt but they are beautiful and great for scuba diving. Unspoilt places in Bali? Who’s got the answer? Not me… Please, reply if anyone wants to share wonderful places! Thanks,=20 miquel=20

Response:

Hello I want to visit Bali this year, but I don’t know, when the best time is. Do you know, when the weather is beautiful and it isn’t cold? Thank you for your help Sascha

Response:

Hello I want to visit Bali this year, but I don’t know, when the best time is. Do you know, when the weather is beautiful and it isn’t cold? Thank you for your help Sascha(1) Its never cold but can be f***ing wet

(2) Now is the rainy season, June/July/August are excellent weatherwise

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello I want to visit Bali this year, but I don’t know, when the best time is. Do you know, when the weather is beautiful and it isn’t cold? Thank you for your help Sascha(1) Its never cold but can be f***ing wet (2) Now is the rainy season, June/July/August are excellent

weatherwise Don’t know if I agree about the not getting cold stuff! When I went to stay at Mt Batur, Kintomani was covered in clouds and we could not see the mountain and lake and we could not stop shivering. This was in Dec 95 and I followed some advice I recieved about the cold there and wore 2 shirts and a denim jacket. My partner could only put on 3 t-shirts to get warm. It’s very peaceful down by the lake at Penelokan. : ) Helen Hayden

Response:

True enough, but try June if you have the possibility. Then you’ll arrive before the crowds!

Response:

Hello I want to visit Bali this year, but I don’t know, when the best time is. Do you know, when the weather is beautiful and it isn’t cold? Thank you for your help Sascha

Sascha, Bali is in the tropic, so the weather is always beautiful and never cold, all year round (except at the peak of some of the mountains – but even there a light sweater will do). Temperatures in Bali stay in the high 20 to low 30 Celcius. The peak tourist season is around June to Aug, which is the dry season and humidity is a bit lower. But again, the difference between the dry season and the rainy season is only that during the rainy season, you get a heavy downpour for about half an hour to an hour in the afternoon – just in time for a siesta. You can find more info about Bali on our Web site at http://www.indo.com I hope this helps… –Eka Ginting

Response:

Concerning Bali, see http://www.neosoft.com/~geoprobe/indonesi.htm There are several references to Bali on this page which should be useful to you. — Paul Kronfield http://www.neosoft.com/~geoprobe/

Response:

Is it possible to rent a sail-ship in Bali? Thank you. Tony

Anything’s possible, if you’ve got the cash.

Response:

Is it possible to rent a sail-ship in Bali? Thank you. Tony

Response:

Can someone answer these questions: 1. Tourist visa on arrival: Is this planned to be a simple process of pay the required fees and get the visa stamped on your passport?

You’re posting from the US. Americans don’t need a visa to enter Indonesia as tourists unless they’re planning on being here a long time.

Response:

You’re posting from the US. Americans don’t need a visa to enter Indonesia as tourists unless they’re planning on being here a long time.

See the post excerpted below and the link: http://www.thejakartapost.com/Archives/ArchivesDet2.asp?FileID=200306… Visa policy granted grace period Tuesday, June 03, 2003 Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is not postponing the new visa policy but is merely implementing a six-month transition period instead, spokesman Ade E. Dahlan for the Directorate General of Immigration at the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights said on Monday. "Actually, the transition period has been in effect since late March, so it is not an extended delay," he told The Jakarta Post. The controversial decree on the new visa policy was signed on March 31 and will be implemented in September. …. etc. What I am asking is if and when the policy is implemented, how will visas be granted on arrival and what will be the fees (for different purposes). Does anyone have any information on this? I plan to visit Lombok in February 2004.

Response:

You’re posting from the US. Americans don’t need a visa to enter Indonesia as tourists unless they’re planning on being here a long time. See the post excerpted below and the link:

http://www.thejakartapost.com/Archives/ArchivesDet2.asp?FileID=200306… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Visa policy granted grace period Tuesday, June 03, 2003 Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is not postponing the new visa policy but is merely implementing a six-month transition period instead, spokesman Ade E. Dahlan for the Directorate General of Immigration at the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights said on Monday. "Actually, the transition period has been in effect since late March, so it is not an extended delay," he told The Jakarta Post. The controversial decree on the new visa policy was signed on March 31 and will be implemented in September. …. etc. What I am asking is if and when the policy is implemented, how will visas be granted on arrival and what will be the fees (for different purposes). Does anyone have any information on this? I plan to visit Lombok in February 2004.

It is still unclear. The info above is the last I have and the last printed in the Jakarta Post as far as I know. So in principle it will be implemented in September, with a fee of about $50 US payable on arrival or at a consulate in your country, and for 30 days only. BUT there is a lot of oppostion to it and apparent disagreement in the government so it may get cancelled, changed or postponed. Anyway, Feb 04 is a while off yet, Suggest you follow the news in a couple of months. Roger

Response:

Take it from someone that has just returned from

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – no Visa Charge and probably will never be. There is no definite answer on visa fees. Officially it will go ahead but no-one can tell you for sure. SoMeOnE says The following link details part of the official response and clearly shows that "The Visa fee issue is on permanent hold." http://www.balidiscovery.com/messages/message.asp?Id=1319

"clearly" is not a word to be used lightly where the Indonesian government is concerned. There were policy reversals and more confusion after the article you mention, and no doubt there will ne more. Different Ministers give different information. Eventually the President has to authorise the final decree. I stick to what I said before. From the Jakarta Post a few days later on June 3rd, I think in reaction to the article you quote: http://www.thejakartapost.com/Archives/ArchivesDet2.asp?FileID=200306… Visa policy granted grace period Tuesday, June 03, 2003 Sari P. Setiogi, The Jakarta Post, Jakarta The government is not postponing the new visa policy but is merely implementing a six-month transition period instead, spokesman Ade E. Dahlan for the Directorate General of Immigration at the Ministry of Justice and Human Rights said on Monday. "Actually, the transition period has been in effect since late March, so it is not an extended delay," he told The Jakarta Post. The controversial decree on the new visa policy was signed on March 31 and will be implemented in September. …. etc.

Response:

Can someone answer these questions: 1. Tourist visa on arrival: Is this planned to be a simple process of pay the required fees and get the visa stamped on your passport? 2. Fees structure for tourist and other visas.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Take it from someone that has just returned from no Visa Charge and probably will never be. There is no definite answer on visa fees. Officially it will go ahead but no-one can tell you for sure. SoMeOnE says The following link details part of the official response and clearly shows that "The Visa fee issue is on permanent hold." http://www.balidiscovery.com/messages/message.asp?Id=1319 "clearly" is not a word to be used lightly where the Indonesian government is concerned. There were policy reversals and more confusion after the article you mention, and no doubt there will ne more. Different Ministers give different information. Eventually the President has to authorise the final decree. I stick to what I said before. From the Jakarta Post a few days later on June 3rd, I think in reaction to the article you quote:

Response:

no Visa Charge and probably will never be.

There is no definite answer on visa fees. Officially it will go ahead but no-one can tell you for sure.

SoMeOnE says The following link details part of the official response and clearly shows that "The Visa fee issue is on permanent hold." http://www.balidiscovery.com/messages/message.asp?Id=1319

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – no Visa Charge and probably will never be. Strangely enough though I did not feel as comfortable in Bali this time around. My previous visit was in September last year and it was great. This may be caused by the lack of tourists and therefore the atmosphere that is usually there is different. You can feel the urgency in some of the vendors to get a dollar from you, though I do not believe this is the reason I felt the difference. It is nice to know there will not be a visa fees – I am planning to visit in February 2004. I was there in January 2003. What exactly is the difference you felt? Is there a sense that tourism may not return to normalcy, therefore, the available tourists are hassled more?

There is no definite answer on visa fees. Officially it will go ahead but no-one can tell you for sure.

Response:

Plus now Indonesia requires visitors from non-Asean countries to pay for a TOURIST VISA! How stupid to make it MORE difficult for people to visit Indonesia! Even though my wife’s family is there we plan to stay away for a while.

probably will never be. Strangely enough though I did not feel as comfortable in Bali this time around. My previous visit was in September last year and it was great. This may be caused by the lack of tourists and therefore the atmosphere that is usually there is different. You can feel the urgency in some of the vendors to get a dollar from you, though I do not believe this is the reason I felt the difference.

Response:

no Visa Charge and probably will never be. Strangely enough though I did not feel as comfortable in Bali this time around. My previous visit was in September last year and it was great. This may be caused by the lack of tourists and therefore the atmosphere

that is usually there is different. You can feel the urgency in some of the vendors to get a dollar from you,

though I do not believe this is the reason I felt the difference.

It is nice to know there will not be a visa fees – I am planning to visit in February 2004. I was there in January 2003. What exactly is the difference you felt? Is there a sense that tourism may not return to normalcy, therefore, the available tourists are hassled more?

Response:

I have been searching for the answer to your question, My trouble is I have not been able to pinpoint the exact reason. I am going back to Thailand in the first week of December and then once again back to Bali just after xmas day. I am hoping that things have changed when I get there to what they were the last time ( I was not unduly hassled or anything along those lines.) Actually found the pricing to be even better than the past. There was some thought from the Balinese that I spoke to that maybe the tourists will never be back as they were in the past. I think they will be but in even larger numbers than before. Sorry I cannot give an exact answer to your questions.

Response:

Plus now Indonesia requires visitors from non-Asean countries to pay for a TOURIST VISA! How stupid to make it MORE difficult for people to visit Indonesia!

I am sure the Thai and Malaysian tourist authorities will be delighted to hear this Kris

Response:

Plus now Indonesia requires visitors from non-Asean countries to pay for a TOURIST VISA! How stupid to make it MORE difficult for people to visit Indonesia!

I thought that was starting at the end of the summer if it happened at all. miguel — Hit The Road! Photos and tales from around the world: http://travel.u.nu Latest photos: Maldives, Dubai and Vietnam

Response:

Wow, must be a Bali tourist agent. Actually I was there in January with my wife and her family who are Indonesian. It is a nice place but you need to beware. There are so many people there that are desperate–so many are trying rip you off. My brother-in-law- (Indonesian) went to exchange US $ to Rupiah and was ripped off by 40$. I tried to buy a couple of bottles of water and some postcards and they tried to charge me double the posted prices…(I have trouble when the currency is 8700 to 1USD). Fortunately I always have my wife with me when I shop and she caught the "error." My Indonesian wife constantly warns me about the games locals will play anytime we are there.I let her do ALL the bargaining, except I felt I was safe to try to buy 10,000rp worth of goods! Wrong! Bali will suffer more if the people there don’t stop trying to rip off tourist! Yes things may seem cheap but when you are overcharged for this and that and the money changers rip you off, it leaves a BAD taste in your mouth.I feel sorry for the Aussies and Euro and Americans who have no clue the what might happen there if they are not always on their toes! We got better deals back in ‘01 when 1 US$ was about 9500rp. Now it is down to 8100/1USD. Even if you get a discount you may pay more now! Plus now Indonesia requires visitors from non-Asean countries to pay for a TOURIST VISA! How stupid to make it MORE difficult for people to visit Indonesia! Even though my wife’s family is there we plan to stay away for a while.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just returned from Bali and want to encourage anyone thinking about going…GO! I am a lone woman traveller and had not a moment’s trepidation, only very pleasant interactions with the Balinese (very kind and gentle people). They are suffering tremendously from lack of tourism, the major source of income, and I heard many stories of desperation. The perpetrators of the "Bali bombing" were outsiders, and there are no cases of SARS there. Most of the travellers there now are travelling on the very cheap deal offered by Singapore Air, which is itself in trouble. The upside of all this is few tourists means we have all the beaches and eveything else to ourselves and tremendous discounts on everything…like 60%! Do yourselves and the poor souls of Bali a favor and go.

Response:

I just returned from Bali and want to encourage anyone thinking about going…GO! I am a lone woman traveller and had not a moment’s trepidation, only very pleasant interactions with the Balinese (very kind and gentle people). They are suffering tremendously from lack of tourism, the major source of income, and I heard many stories of desperation. The perpetrators of the "Bali bombing" were outsiders, and there are no cases of SARS there. Most of the travellers there now are travelling on the very cheap deal offered by Singapore Air, which is itself in trouble. The upside of all this is few tourists means we have all the beaches and eveything else to ourselves and tremendous discounts on everything…like 60%! Do yourselves and the poor souls of Bali a favor and go.

Response:

I just came back from Bali on the 27/5…it’s quiet there. Don’t worry. I was in the Nusa Dua and Kuta beach area…very safe! A thought is a wish A wish is a dream And dreams come true.

Response:

Don’t worry at all. There were NO recent events in Bali. Best regards from Bali. Peter Rieger BALI HOTEL BARGAIN FINDER http://balivillas.com/hotels.html PRIVATE VACATION VILLAS IN BALI, INDONESIA http://balivillas.com/welcome.html CRUISING THE SPICE ISLANDS FROM BALI http://balivillas.com/si/index.html BALI TODAY — an Insiders’ Guide http://balivillas.com/guide.html POTENTIAL HAZARDS FOR VISITORS TO BALI http://balivillas.com/hazards.html The BALI TRAVEL FORUM http://balivillas.com/baliforum/index.html Am leaving for Bali 5/7 – anyone have any thoughts as to safety given recent events? Thanks!

Response:

I’ll send you comments about the splendid Ananda Cottages (near Ubud) by e-mail (and to anyone else who asks). Larry in Berkeley

Response:

If full try the WISATA just over the road-same price – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ll send you comments about the splendid Ananda Cottages (near Ubud) by e-mail (and to anyone else who asks). Larry in Berkeley

Response:

Am leaving for Bali 5/7 – anyone have any thoughts as to safety given recent events? Thanks!

Response:

Hi, I am looking information & tips regarding accommodation and prices (recent). All info is welcome. Tks Karl

Response:

prices vary greatly in bali Iwould suggest after your arrivel check into a place and than look for something better you should be able to find something quite cozy for around 10 dollars a day bali has lots of hotels and stiff compititionit also is over run with tourists – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I am looking information & tips regarding accommodation and prices (recent). All info is welcome. Tks Karl

Response:

I went in November last year. It was great. Off season, not too many tourists. Only one day out of two weeks did it rain, and then for only a couple of hours. Great time to bring back Christmas presents too. I would go anytime I had the chance. Taking a small group in March, if anyone is interested e-mail me. Will be stopping in Singapore for 3-4 days then on to Bali. Anyone had experience with Singapore Airlines? Lola Wingate San Luis Obispo, CA – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – What is the best time of the year to visit Bali (weather). Between May and August is driest and coolest. I’m just back from there; weather was delightful. Fred Kleinsinger

Response:

What is the best time of the year to visit Bali (weather).

I don’t know what is the "best" time, but I do know that April/May is splendid, both for weather and for major festivals. Larry at Morro Bay

Response:

What is the best time of the year to visit Bali (weather).

Response:

What is the best time of the year to visit Bali (weather).

Between May and August is driest and coolest. I’m just back from there; weather was delightful. Fred Kleinsinger

Response:

Who needs a room? Get a sleeping bag and hit the beaches! All day. All night. All nice. http://www.dwacon.com

Filed under: Human Rights

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <strike> <strong>

TrackBack URL | RSS feed for comments on this post.

Activism Change

Learn, read, react :: Activism

Bali

Question:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response:

Response: