For today, we've engaged a driver to bring us around. We got this driver according to Tripadvisor's reviews. First impression counts. Made's (pronounced Mah-Dei) email responses were fast and helpful. Take a look at his website at Bali Discovery for his tour options.
As Made was not available that day, his uncle, Ketut, met us instead and was our guide for the day. Not wanting to visit any temples nor attend the religion-related Barong dances, Ketut altered our itinerary for the day. He brought us to the Batik factory and then to the wood-carving factory. Not much of factory though, more of a few craftsmen showing their skills and guides ushering you to the showroom to buy related products.
As Made was not available that day, his uncle, Ketut, met us instead and was our guide for the day. Not wanting to visit any temples nor attend the religion-related Barong dances, Ketut altered our itinerary for the day. He brought us to the Batik factory and then to the wood-carving factory. Not much of factory though, more of a few craftsmen showing their skills and guides ushering you to the showroom to buy related products.
Next , we headed to the Coffee Luwak showroom. We could really smell the frangrance from the coffee beans being roasted in the pan. Enjoyed the view overlooking the valley. There was free coffee/ tea tasting. However, the tasting of the famous Luwak coffee was chargeable at Rp30,000 per cup. Taste of the drinks were not bad so we thought of buying some as souvenirs but a look at the prices nearly caused us to faint! Over-priced!
The highlight of the trip was going up for a view of the volcanoes. Ketut drove us to a restaurant, Batur Sari for our lunch, buffet-style. It offers a panaromic view of the three volcanoes of Bali, especially of Mount Batur and Lake Batur. For a good view, Ketut mentioned that we have to reach the place before 3pm. Anytime after that, the mount will be blocked by the clouds. The waitress initially quoted us Rp80,000 per person; thank God Made had mentioned earlier that it was Rp70,000 per person!
After lunch, Ketut brought us to the rice terraces and the waterfall. At the tourist spot overlooking the terraces, we could really see farmers at work and of course there are those who did not miss the chance to set up shop around the area selling souvenirs and sorts. At the waterfall area, we did some trekking to the river. It is also visited by many local couples and children.
Not wanting to return to our hotel so early, we got Ketut to alight us in the Kuta area, where it's famous for its nightlife and shopping. Of special mention is the shop Cinderella Souvenir and Handicraft at Legian Street. There is a wide range of souvenirs at very reasonable prices (as compared to the Ubud market and other tourist areas), so there is really no need to bargain.
Dinner was at the famous Poppies restaurant. It's situated in a small lane actually and we had to ask around for the way there. Not to worry though, it's so well-known that all those whom we asked knows exactly where it is. We love the cosy and warm atmosphere and glad that we have our Canon DSLR to bring out the effect.
Wanting to try Indonesian delicacy, we ordered Rijsttafel or Rice table set for 2 which features small portions of Indonesian dishes (including sates) with steamed and fried rice. The customers around us were so amazed at the display that they asked to take a photo of the set which we obliged of course. Bernard had iced tea to go along and I had my lime soda Highly-recommended! =)
As we walked out to the main streets, the blasting music from the bars and pubs were obvious. It's such a difference before and after sunset. A good thing we did not stay in this area. Walked around the area a little before taking a taxi back to our hotel.
Dinner was at the famous Poppies restaurant. It's situated in a small lane actually and we had to ask around for the way there. Not to worry though, it's so well-known that all those whom we asked knows exactly where it is. We love the cosy and warm atmosphere and glad that we have our Canon DSLR to bring out the effect.
Wanting to try Indonesian delicacy, we ordered Rijsttafel or Rice table set for 2 which features small portions of Indonesian dishes (including sates) with steamed and fried rice. The customers around us were so amazed at the display that they asked to take a photo of the set which we obliged of course. Bernard had iced tea to go along and I had my lime soda Highly-recommended! =)
As we walked out to the main streets, the blasting music from the bars and pubs were obvious. It's such a difference before and after sunset. A good thing we did not stay in this area. Walked around the area a little before taking a taxi back to our hotel.
RSS Feed