maybe I've been too easily influenced by sensational press reports...am leaving for Bali on Sat. 22..could.anyone who has just returned let me know if there is evidence of serious political unrest developing before June elections?
am looking for a quiet, relaxing holiday...am I being unrealistic?
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nothin wrong with bali, don't worry, go and have fun!
Your biggest concern should be the Indonesian giggolos who
will come-on to you. Avoid them and beware of the evil
intentions! Also be very careful of your valuables. Take
your camera and money with you. Keep your money in a money
belt that you wear or someone else wears for you at all
times. Don't lose sight of your valuables. Be careful on
bemos and public transport. Political violence is no a
concern on Bali but the other things I mentioned above are
very real concerns and should be taken seriously!
Hi,
I am going to Bali then too. Which parts do you plan to
visit??? Nothing is unsafe, but I have heard that avoiding
the main tourist areas might be best, i.e., Kuta, or Ubud,
or other "much written about" places. My boyfriend says
Ubud has changed quite a bit(he it there now) and is no
longer the lovely place it once was. The food is good
though. Sounds as if you are looking for something more
peaceful?? Try the "off the beaten track" beach areas. We
will be taking off for the islands of Komodo, Rinca, Sumba,
etc. NOT Lombok as I have heard it is a bit trashed. All
of it I hope, is still beautiful though. Let me know, if
you would like, what your plans are. Sounds wonderful.
Ayy! Bali is a fantastic and safe holiday. Do not avoid
the main tourist places -- they are great. Kuta is great
fun if you want ultra tourist land with hawkers, Aussie
bars,discos,etc. Take money for lots of cheap junk. The
Gigolos are there -- quite funny, typically coming on to
Japanese and Caucasian single females. Flirt if you want --
just don't take them seriously!
Ubud is one of my favorite places on the planet. Rent a
jeep and drive up into the mountains. Great restaurants /
cafes. Stay several nights. Rent a motorbike. Take a day
trip or two up into the mountains to see the rice paddys
and the Hindu Temple at the top of the volcano. See a
cultural show.
Finally, have fun. There are pickpockets, but no need to be
paranoid about your personal safety. Bali has an easy way
about it. Just use a little common sense, and by all means
no not spoil it for yourself.
Hi!
We just got back from Bali and Singapore, and found the
entire trip relaxing and safe. My mum and I travel alone
together alot, and found that we felt safer in Bali than we
do in any European countries, and certainly felt safer than
we do in North America. Our tour guide made us aware of the
upcoming election because we asked what all the red banners
were about, but other than that we encountered no other
politics. The Balinese are a very gentle people, so my
advise is not to worry, and go have a relaxing, fun
vacation. By the way, we stayed at Sol Elite Paridiso in
Kuta, and LOVED it. Fabulous pool, and we loved the hussle
bussle of Kuta...great clothes shopping!!!! (see why I
travel with my mum and not my husband!) Our favourite
places were Uluwatu (lots of monkeys and a spectacular
view), Mount Agung, Ubud, and the seafood on Jimbaren beach!
If you eat in Kuta, Made Warung's and T.J's are both good
bets. Hope you have a great trip!
Jen
Another question for those who answered Bail Danger in Paradise. When were you in Bali? I have heard from someone who just returned on May 17, 1999. They said they were unable to leave their hotel area for 5 days and that someone was murdered very near their hotel. Who do we believe?
Thanks for any advice from someone who is in Bali or who has just returned.
Robin