A quick report to let everyone know that Bali is still as good as ever. Family of 5 travelled Sydney to Bali with Garuda and of course they provided the usual delays as we expected (it's always that darn right engine that won't work!!) but who really cares when you save at least $200 per person flying with them. This trip we decided to stay somewhere a little less expensive and thanks to all forumites who convinced me it was a good idea. We stayed at the Rama Beach Cottages (formerly the Rama Baruna) and what a great place! Freshly rennovated, new pool area, spa, poolside pizza restaurant and great rooms and the staff so friendly - the kids loved it. We saved over $600 with this choice and I would highly recommend it.
Did the normal tourist things - Waterbom Park, Monkey Forest, Uluwattu,Ramayana etc. etc. The rain did not interfere with many plans plus it's warm rain so who cares! Exchange rate always hovered aroung the 5100 mark and bargains still available at most places, although we spent a little more money in boutique style shops this time rather than the market & beach sellers. The Pantai restaurant is still my all time favourite. I would not recommend the new Green Garden restaurant next door to the Rama Beach Hotel - it was the worst meal coupled with the worst service we had in Bali.
We are already planning our next trip to Bali.