I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been to Bali. Probably more than 12.

This time was a four day family trip to “turn around” Nanay. She’s on a tourist visa and has to leave the country every three months. We found cheap airfares and accommodation in Bali … so why not?

Bali is the number one destination for Perth travellers for probably one good reason: it’s cheap. As Perth is so isolated going on a vacation to another country usually involves a long (and expensive) plane flight. Bali is only 3 hrs 45 min from Perth and there’s roughly a million flights a day. You can usually snare a cheap flight. Our family of five flew Air Asia return for $1565 (AUD).

It’s not only its cheapness that lures Perthites to Bali. There’s something for everyone here. Whether you just want to get away from it all and laze by the pool, or pamper yourself with massages and beauty treatments (not that I need it of course), or you’re into adventure or water sports or you just need to experience a different culture – Bali is your place.

Anyway, as I said, I’ve been to Bali many times. This was going to be just a relaxing weekend for me. Jane and the girls had other ideas. Shopping, hair, nails and massages were the go. I spent most of my time sitting around waiting for them (mostly with a Bintang in my hand). I had to escort them so they wouldn’t get lost.

I watched the world go by and took some “street photography”.

We stayed at the Sun Hotel and Spa, just off Jn Melasti in Legian. My review is here.

We ate in a different restaurant every meal. A few noteworthy were:

Mozzarella (at the Magani Hotel, Legian)

Mid range prices. The menu selection was large. We all enjoyed our meals and the service was excellent.

Koko (Legian)

Cheap, but the food is great and staff are very friendly (and funny). The location is great on Jn Melasti.

Yuyake Teppenyaki (at the Legian Beach Hotel)

We decided to splurge on our last night. Yuyake is expensive, but it was worth it with great food and great entertainment from Teppenyaki Chef Gusti

Waroeng Tan Poh (down an alley way off Jn Legian, Legian)

We loved this place for the decor. Lots of retro machines and signs. We went for breakfast. The food was nice and cheap.

On out last night we checked out the sunset on Legian Beach. Very nice way to end our trip.

Next trip: Manila.