NK2013

We are heading to Bali in December with a 7 and 9 yr old for 2 weeks. We have our tickets in and out of Bali (returning on Dec 25).
Looking for recommendations on places to stay and things to do. We would like to spend at least 3 nights in each place if possible.

Looking forward to ideas from fellow travellers!

Many thanks!

Kathie

Bali is a small island. I think it makes sense to spend some time inland near Ubud and some time at a beach. Avoid Kuta beach (full of drunk party types) and Nusa Dua (a sterile tourist enclave). I like Sanur, and Seminyak is lovely as well. But I'd spend a week at each - no need to pack up and move more often than that.

Pick up a good guidebook about Bali and decide what things interest you most. Some of the traditional dance shows would likely wow your kids (and you). There is so much to do and see on Bali (in addition to relaxing and enjoying) that you'll have to choose what interests you.

Smeagol

I would definitely opt for Ubud and Seminyak and possibly the lesser visited North coast, although with 2 weeks I would encourage you to maybe do a few nights on Lombok at Quncy villas..... If you are ok with moving around....

Kathie

As much as I love Quncy Villas, I wouldn't recommend it with children.

marmot

If your children want to swim in the ocean, you should concentrate on the east coast beaches (Sanur, Nusa Dua) and maybe parts of Jimbaran. The west coast beaches are rough during high tides and big swells and can be stormy during the rainy season. It's unpredictable though; some days will be calm and clear.

If your happy with walking on the beach and swimming in the pool, then Seminyak/Petitenget is a lot of fun because of the variety of restaurants, shops, spas etc. There are many resorts right on the ocean and many, many villas with private pools within walking distance of the beach.

You should definitely spend some time in the Ubud area -- either in town or along one of the river valleys in the surrounding countryside. There are a lot of outdoorsy activities like river rafting, walks in the rice paddies and through the little villages, bicycle tours on the back roads.

Kids usually enjoy the Balinese dance performances. Try to see a Kecak or Barong dance. They're performed all over Ubud. Your resort or the Ubud information center will give you a schedule.

Let us know your budget and how many rooms you need and we'll give some resort recommendations. Many resorts have special kids' programs.

If you hire a guide for sightseeing you can ask to visit a village compound. You will be welcomed by the family. Large and small temple ceremonies take place every day somewhere in Bali. Your guide or resort can tell you what's on and get you properly attired. Great photo opportunities!

Some other random things that are good for kids (and their parents)
Surfing lessons at Double 6 beach in Legian
Waterbom Garden water park in Kuta
Balinese cooking class in an Ubud village
The Bird Park and Butterfly Garden, both near Ubud
Tour the Green School near Ubud
Tour Big Tree Farms chocolate factory near Ubud

I'm not a fan of the monkey forest, but if you must, be careful!

NK2013

Thanks everyone for the response.

Marmot: What is the range for the resort prices? We are not looking for anything over the top, but something that is mid/upper mid tier would work for us.We would like to get a 2 room place, or anything that allows us to lounge in the villa without feeling like we are cramped in. Do the villas come with a kitchentte? If yes, that would be awesome.

Are there any classes/lessons that we could take as a family? We have heard about silversmithing/jewelry making, and cooking. How soon should I book these classes and where do I go to book them?

marmot

You'll find resorts priced from luxury to moderate to budget in all parts of Bali. Some have family suites with two bedrooms.

Seminyak has the most villas, but they are also available in other areas. Villa prices depend on the number of bedrooms and the amenities offered (e.g., cook, driver). Most come with full kitchens and a staff that will cook for you if you wish. Breakfast is often included; other meals are ala carte.

I think the best approach is to choose the areas where you want to stay first, then find accommodation. There are just so many choices that it's hard to isolate a few, but some of my favorites would be:

Luxury
The Legian on Petitenget Beach
Samaya Petitenget Beach
Alila Petitenget Beach
Uma Ubud

Upper moderate
Padma in Legian Beach
Any of the Komanekas in Ubud

Moderate to budget
Alam Sari in Ubud
Alam Shanti group in Ubud

For villa rentals, I'd start with Elite Havens' website. If these are too pricy, you'll find other sites that offer a wide ranger range. AirBnB also has many, many properties in Bali, though reliability has been mixed.

Alam Sari offers wonderful family oriented activities. I think you'll find this true of many resorts in Bali. It's probably not necessary to book activities too far in advance.

NK2013

Thanks marmot!

NK2013

I had heard from one person that there are geckos in these villas. Is that true?

werth

We recently rented a villa a little north of Ubud managed by Red Lotus Management. We had a great experience. I would recommend them.

marmot

Little finger-sized lizards called cikcaks (chee-chocks) are everywhere in Bali, even in 5 Star resorts. They eat mosquitos and are generally terrified of humans. Geckos are larger (about foot-sized). While you often hear their characteristic call at night, they seldom show themselves. I think in 20 years in Indonesia I've actually seen a gecko less than half a dozen times.

kja

@ marmot -- so that's what they were! I loved the cikcaks who shared my rooms.

marmot

Sorry, that should be cicak (or cecak).