BootsnAll Travel Community

I am planning a round the world trip and Bali (with a side trip to Java) is on my agenda. I just had to redo my dates and I can probably be in Bali for New Years. I also have the possibility of meeting a friend there at the same time.

I guess my question is - at Chrismas and New Years is Bali overrun with vacationers? Nothing against them per se, I'd just like to avoid the crowds and inflated prices if they are all jacked up for the holidays. I would like to be somewhere lively for New Years possibly but I'm not looking for the biggest raging party, and I would like to experience Bali and Java in its normal state, see the Temples, the volcano, etc.

Is it better come when it is more mellow, or does it not get that crazy?

Since I'm booking the trip now I have options of whether or not I would like to be there during this time, or be in Hanoi or Bangkok instead and visit Bali a few weeks after the holidays.

Thanks for your help.
chris

Hi Chris
Firstly with the trend in Bali post Bali bomb 2 its hard to gauge just how many people will be returning at any given time.Usually being a school holiday period there would be quite a few Aussie familys up there Christmas and New Year period.
Some of my family members were up there during the festive season a few years ago.They said that it was great there were no more or no less tourists than usual.One thing did bother them was that most of the bigger hotels have a compulsary Christmas and new Year dinner/party which is paid in with your booking fees.Being regular Bali visitors they would have liked to spend these occaisions at venues of thier choice.
I would suggest,also that staying further out of town say Ubud,may be the answer.
Cheers Laurs

Chris,

Bali will be busy at Christmas / New Years, particularly the Kuta / Seminyak / Nusa Dua area.

You can still find what you're looking for, as far as traditional culture, beauty, peace and quiet. Head to east Bali, the coast of west Bali (Balian, Yeh Gangga,) or any of the less travelled places. People come at Christmas / NY's to shop, eat, drink party.

Alright!!!

I'm writing from Macau, then back to Hong Kong for 2 nights, then BALI!!! The time has finally arrived!

Indonesia and it's sights and culture are the root of my RTW trip. My plan is to sit on the beach/pool, relax, and actually act like a "vacationer" than a backpacker for a few days up to New Years. (not to mention i'm only a few days in to my trip and my body hurts.)

Then New Years day I'm going to make the trek to Borobudur.

Soooooo, can I buy Nick or anyone a beer??? My reservations are in Kuta for Dec 28-Jan 1.

can't wait.
chris


http://blog.chrissipe.com

Chris, I would love to met you when you come to Bali. Give me a call when you're in town.

081 736 2830

Cheers

Nick

quote:

Originally posted by Nick:
Give me a call when you're in town.

will do after I get settled in.

I'm splurging for those first few days and staying at Satriya Cottages, hope that's a good place. And I'm ok with a compulsory dinner i guess, I've got other nights to venture elsewhere.

Splurging in Bali = only a few $$$ more than I'm paying for a hostel in Hong Kong, haha.

- chris

So far so good.

I've certainly had enough of Kuta. It's way too touristy, more than I expected.

Nick I left a message on what I think was your voicemail but I don't speak Bali. I have a cell phone but barely know how to use it and the indo sim card.

So let me know what you're up to.

Wish me luck on my journey to Java and back.
- chris

Chris,

I'm not to smart aobut the Voicemail thing. If you call me I'll probably be able to answer.

081 736 2830