Experiences of Bali or alternative ideas please

cottonhead

We are thinking of booking a nice holiday in advance so we have something to look forward to. We were thinking of Bali and all the pictures online look lovely but some people have told me its not the peaceful place it once was and has bars and clubs and can be quite busy.

We are 2 adults and a young child looking to stay for 10 days either next April or August. Top budget of about £6000. Want somewhere tropical and warm with a lovely beach but the main point is we want quiet in terms of the hotel, beach and resort. We want escape the crowds not join a new one! Is Bali still in the running or is there somewhere else we hadnt thought of.

Any ideas where we could go please ?

blue_haddock

I'd recommend the Cook islands - fantastic place but off the beaten track so not too busy.

Locals are so friendly and accomadating.

Bob_the_Saver

I know some on this site don't agree with me but I think Bali must be one on the most over-rated places in the world.

If you must go Air Asia do cheap flights for Kuala Lumpur and check out the visa (on arrival). $25 each in Dollars.

Ms_Chocaholic

I would recommend the Maldives; lots of different islands to choose from (most with only one hotel on each island), all offer something different; some are busier than others with over 200 rooms, some are as small as 40 rooms.

If you're interested in finding out more, PM me for details (I may not be back to see this thread that's all)

Ms C x

lovesgshp

Bali is very touristy. Quite a few years ago, we were spat at as did not want to buy from one of the street stalls. Luckily we were only there for one night before going to Lombok which was far better.

frankie

Skip Bali - go over to Lombok much quieter and more 'natural'.

Agree with Cook Islands but not quite as 'authentic' as Samoa. Stay at Coconuts or Aggie Greys in Apia town.

What about Sabah - Borneo, Rasa Ria excellent at Kota Kinabalu, can get a trip over to Sandakan see the orang-utans.

cottonhead

Thanks all, I'm glad I asked now. I had a feeling that Bali might not be the quiet paradise we were hoping for. The main thing we want is somewhere not pakced with other people.
We did think of the Maldives but as we have been before we fancied a change. Was looking at one of the cheaper and more family orientated islands like Bandos and its still in the running if we can't find somewhere 'new' that takes our fancy.
Cook Islands look fab but the travel time is probably a bit far. I know its not that much more than Bali but our child is only 5.
Did have in my mind Indian ocean direction but have nveer been to the Carribean and have heard varying stories there too.

shaunskankdog

el nido in the philippines.....mmmmmm

Incapuppy

Bali is what you make of it. Check out Trip Advisor reviews of the Griya Santrian

Bob_the_Saver

shaunskankdog wrote: »

el nido in the philippines.....mmmmmm

I'd be thinking more about El Niño in the next 12 months!!


http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/summers-coming-at-lastbut-not-until-2013-7855035.html

Mr_Wang

As Bob said, one of the most overrated destinations on earth.

Tip up at Bali looking for a couple of weeks amongst rice fields and jungle with a big wad of cash and a shed load of patience and you'll be fine.

Expect jaw dropping beaches and temples and you will be mildly disappointed. The surf around Bali is some of the best in the world for surfers, which means it's some of the worst in the world those who like to paddle or have kids.
Throw into the equation tourism tax, the fact it takes about a year to get anywhere and some of the most dishonest people in Asia and you won;t be far off Bali.

That said, if you've never really travelled you might well come to Bali and love it. But to be honest it's really not worth the hassle - Unless you are in that part of the world anyway.
But for me, really Bali offers not a single thing that can't be found elsewhere. Oh actually it does - The 30% or whatever it is tax on food just for being a tourist Not really seen that anywhere else.