219 replies to this topic

[uwfan]

I'm not sure what my internet connection will be in the next few days, so I thought I'd throw my two cents in now, knowing others will have their own input.

I'm interested in an afternoon in Ubud, I'm thinking a half day tour would be worthwhile. I'd be interested to see some of the Ubud shopping areas. I'm somewhat interested in the temples and am interested in the museums.

I am intrigued by the rice terraces. I'm not sure about the monkey forest, sounds like they're a little too mischievous, but somewhat interested. I'm not interested in the spa or cycling or rafting.

[Kuraman]

I'm not sure what my internet connection will be in the next few days, so I thought I'd throw my two cents in now, knowing others will have their own input.

I'm interested in an afternoon in Ubud, I'm thinking a half day tour would be worthwhile. I'd be interested to see some of the Ubud shopping areas. I'm somewhat interested in the temples and am interested in the museums.

I am intrigued by the rice terraces. I'm not sure about the monkey forest, sounds like they're a little too mischievous, but somewhat interested. I'm not interested in the spa or cycling or rafting.

You will see some of the most spectacular rice fields in Bali going to Tulamben (make the stop both ways if you can for pics) the drivers know the spots, but some are more spectacular in the morning, and others in the afternoon.

[WreckWench]

IMPORTANT UPDATE:

Here is the local contact info for the resorts we are staying at:

BALI: Padang Bai Beach Bungalows Resort

Reception phone number is +62 363 42088

Fax number is +62 363 41417

Padang Bai Beach Bungalows Resort
Jalan Silayukti
Padang Bai
Manggis
Amlapura
80872
Bali
Indonesia

WAKATOBI: Wakatobi Resort and Pelagian - Bali Admin Office
Manager: Mr. Crispin Jones

Kuta Poleng Blok D-1
Jln Setiabudi - Simpang Siur
Kuta - Bali
80361 Indonesia.
office@wakatobi.com
Telephone +62 361 759669
Fax : +62 361 752729

Cell [Crispin] : +62 81 2381 1084
If dialed locally: 081 2381 1084

PLEASE NOTE CRISPIN'S CELFONE NUMBER...he is our primary contact in Bali and you can call him if you have any problems arriving.

Also note that we are staying first in Bali and then Wakatobi.

[Kuraman]

First off folks let me say that I'm NOT a travel agent, just trying to be helpfull, becuz i know Bali.

Below is a very nice hotel in Sanur, rekkie included, Ok pool, but close to beach and cafes

http://www.tamukamibali.com/accommodation.html

SPECIAL OFFER (for direct booking via internet, etc)
ROOM TYPE USD EURO
SUPERIOR ROOM 73.00 54.00
FAMILY ROOM 118.00 84.00
BUNGALOW SUITE 89.00 64.00
BUNGALOW SUITE (Family set up) 109.00 79.00
TAMUKAMI SUITE 134.00 94.00
SUPPLEMENTARY BED (Extra bed) 18.00 13.00
HIGH SEASON:
Supplement of US$ 18.00 or EURO 13.00 is applicable from December 24th until January 10th and 1st July up to 15th September.

Kuraman

[Kuraman]

I know Bali is "new" to most people, but it really is a friendly place. There is a full range of accomodation from Losman (Hostel) to 5 star just depends on what you want. You can find a nice clean room w/ few amnities ie no TV from $25, to a Holiday nn equivalent $50-60, to the Grand Hyatt Bali $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$,

I will help anyway i can.
The hotel I posted earlier is basically across the street from the dive shop (Absolute Scuba) in Sanur, so you can sleep an extra 30 min.

Mike

If you want something cheaper or nicer in the same area (close) I can give you suggestions

[WreckWench]

Hey everyone...I've been asking Mike to help me supplement what I know about the area and Mike stayed in Bali EXTENSIVELY for work over the past few years.

This is where we'll stay on our return and its also where I will now work to place the two early arrivers since the original options we looked at are not available.

Thank you, kamala

[WreckWench]

TRIP UPDATE:

1. A question was asked if the resort or resorts rented cameras...and sadly they do not.

2. DON'T FORGET SCHOOL SUPPLIES....we've be giving the supplies to needy children in Bali.

3. Does everyone have what they need for the trip as far as information goes?????

[Kuraman]

TRIP UPDATE:

1. A question was asked if the resort or resorts rented cameras...and sadly they do not.

2. DON'T FORGET SCHOOL SUPPLIES....we've be giving the supplies to needy children in Bali.

3. Does everyone have what they need for the trip as far as information goes?????

I thin Absolute rents camera and Video cameras, at least they used to, but if you really want to try, just take the underwater photo course at the resort, and have them supply you with camera. Agus has got great eyes, and I know he will be one of your guides, and he is an instructor.

Kuraman

[SpaceDiver]

TRIP UPDATE:

1. A question was asked if the resort or resorts rented cameras...and sadly they do not.

2. DON'T FORGET SCHOOL SUPPLIES....we've be giving the supplies to needy children in Bali.

3. Does everyone have what they need for the trip as far as information goes?????

I thin Absolute rents camera and Video cameras, at least they used to, but if you really want to try, just take the underwater photo course at the resort, and have them supply you with camera. Agus has got great eyes, and I know he will be one of your guides, and he is an instructor.

Kuraman

Thanks, Kuraman, for your help with accommodation suggestions and photography advice. Amazingly, I was able to buy a good and very reasonably priced u/w camera package today - a Nikon Coolpix L20 and u/w housing. I've used several types of u/w cameras over many years, but my digital experience is limited. Nevertheless, digital cameras are very user friendly, and I have been very happy with my previous results to date. I think I'll get some great photos of our adventures and I'll be happy to share :-)

[uwfan]

Thanks Kuraman, the info is great. Enjoying my time with tall nieces...looking forward to seeing everyone at LAX. Borrowing my niece's computer- I think it rivals WW's computer for size!

School supplies, school supplies, school supplies!

[WreckWench]

I believe you need to use a network cable to get internet in the rooms. And there is a shared computer in the photo room but it was always busy. I do not recall wifi working but I also may of just did the cable thing since it was so easy.

[rkymtwy]

I just got the new iPhone also, love it.....

Anyway in Wakatobi, in the rooms there was not WiFi last year. I do remember there being WiFi in the lounge, however it is slow....

You all have a great time....wish I was going back to Wakatobi with you

[DivingDeb]

Kamala,
Is it better to use a credit card or cash & how much should I bring-Not familiar with this area.
Thx, Debra

Great question!

As many of you know I NEVER use credit cards on trips. First off I can never be sure it will work...with all the anti-fraud precautions that our cc companies employ these days that end up stopping GOOD transactions...who knows if it will work when you need it. (Several members had this problem in Bonaire this past week.) Secondly at least one person on many of our trips report back later that 'somehow' their card number was compromised and they have unauthorized transactions on their cards. Heck I've had that happen in the states so I never give someone overseas the chance.

Third...most of what you need cash for is minimal... tips, gifts, trinkets, alcohol. Ok the latter for some of you may not be minimal but you get the idea. For the record I think its safe to allow Wakatobi to run your credit card but why take a chance if you don't have too. Nitrox is $200 and your tips will be 10-15% of your trip cost or $350-$500 for both resorts. So even if you travel with $1000 or so its still safer in my opinion than having your credit card stolen. Think of your credit limits and how long it might take to find out not to mention the hassle of changing your card with all the auto charges most of us have set up using our credit cards. (PLUS you often pay 5-7% of the transaction price for cc fees on top of what your credit card company charges you for international transactions. And traveler's checks are not much better...they are expensive and many places do not want to accept them. I personally hate accepting them as I'm sitting on about $400 in uncashable traverler's checks due to not being able to read the signature and they signed on the wrong line so the bank will not accept them.)

So if you MUST use a credit card then go and get a disposable or gift card type and use that. Even if its stolen they can only get the amount you put on it for the trip.

OR just carry the cash. When is the last time you heard anyone stealing someone's cash? I've never had anyone ever on our trips report that their cash was stolen...sadly I can not say the same for credit cards.

So everyone is free to make their own decisions but since you asked I thought I would share my opinion based upon all the trips I've run and my experiences. Kamala

Folks,
Another way around this problem (if you have a good bank) is get a 2nd ATM card and put a limit per day, and a total wilthdrawal limt on it. There are almost always ATM machines at airports, and both UOB and BCA banks in Bali are safe to get Rupiah. The locals really do not like small bills (its not like Mexico and other places in the Caribbean, they can not usually change small bills for local money, and if they can they get ripped-off by the money changer.

Almost every place in Indonesia will charge 3%-5% for CC charges.

Kuraman

Has anyone used a loaded gift card in Bali? The only one I know of is American Ex & they charge 4% for regular CC transactions vs 3% for MC & Visa so I wonder if they are accepted.I can use the ATM at the beginning of the trip & I guess there must be one at the end when I am in Ubud but probably none at Tulamben. How much can be withdrawn at one time from the ATM?
Now for the delicate question-tipping. As I can't join your group I am on my own & have a private guide for the 1st 2 days then share him for 2 more then a different guide for the last 2 days & probably the same driver for the week. What is expected or if not expected what would be a good tip as a thank you?

Mike you said they don't like small bills but I heard we pay our departure tax in USD or can it be in RP & do I have to pay for my VISA on arrival? At that time are small USD accepted?
Also I would like to do a tour from Sanur to Pura Luhur Ulu Watu & Tanah Lot Is it doable in one day? Should I ask my hotel to get me a driver or go out on the street & find one. Also can I do Titra Gangga from Candidasa going after I finish diving around 2pm?

Sorry to hijack the thread but as I couldn't travel with SD for your trip I have been reading this for helpful hints
Thanks Deb