I was rather sick for a couple of days. I thought it was flu but later I was told is was urine infection. Blessing in disguise I guess because I got to think about Jasmin' school refusal behaviour lately while not being at work.
Yesterday, she did it again exhibiting behaviour that she didn't want to go to school. As usual, I was really firm about school and my husband sent her at 8.00am (school starts at 7.40am). While on his way, I Whatsapp-ed to my husband about being firm on going to school regardless circumstances. Then my husband replied 'we have to support her in her difficult times' because she told her father she doesn't have friends at school. Being suspicious whether that's true or she is just giving excuses, my usual response would be 'Really? Or she just making this up?'
But I didn't. I had told myself I really have to sort this out TODAY because this has been going on for 4 weeks. So whatever I do today must be effective to solve this issue. It came to me that I have to change my approach. I have to do something different or else this won't go anywhere.
I have always wanted to be a mother where her children can talk to about anything. Unfortunately I don't exhibit that aura of 'being open' but I keep asking my children to talk to me. Do you think they can? Of course not and I admitted my weakness yesterday. I drop tears because I admitted I myself keep everything to myself. I don't really open up my heart to anyone. Now I understand why my children don't speak up although I keep asking them to tell me their problems.
Instead, I just replied 'Ha'ah kan' agreeing to my husband's statement and I felt so relieved. I don't know why. Maybe all this while I was too focused on Jasmin not telling her problem. I was being suspicious. I was in anger of not getting things the way I want it (Jasmin to tell her problem). By agreeing to my husband's statement, I actually admitting my own weakness. All this while, all the screaming was about me not being able to see the real problem. The problem was me, not Jasmin. Oh Jasmin! I'm really sorry....
That afternoon after school, I talked to her while driving to get some desserts from a cake shop. I asked her about friends at school. She actually responded and I felt so happy because she did. I didn't mind what her answers were but I felt like I want her to talk more. That moment was a good moment for me to remember. I felt like I was giving her a moral support.
I should do a lot more on giving moral support. I have to make time to provide support for my children.
And Jasmin is a lot better today.
Thursday, August 28, 2014
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
SHOCK!
I was glancing through my blog and I was shocked to see an x-rated act promo on my blog! What-the-hell?
The section was titled 'Colour Me Happy' and it supposed to show pics of beautiful things such as babies and flowers. All this while it only shows still pictures and exactly pics of cute adorable babies and blooming flowers. However, lately I've noticed it also included video play symbol (the triangle) but I thought it should be no harm. Until today! Gosh!
Well, I don't want to show you the x-rated one of course but now it has included not only pics of flowers and babies anymore. I have to check and make some changes....
Since I'm currently surveying for my Bali Holiday, I've changed the keyword to 'Bali'....
The section was titled 'Colour Me Happy' and it supposed to show pics of beautiful things such as babies and flowers. All this while it only shows still pictures and exactly pics of cute adorable babies and blooming flowers. However, lately I've noticed it also included video play symbol (the triangle) but I thought it should be no harm. Until today! Gosh!
 |
| The 'colour me happy' section on the right.... |
 |
| Original keyword was 'flowers' |
Bali diet_ Week 1 Progress Report #2
I was supposed to write this on Monday i.e to update the progress weekly. But I was not feeling well and was caught up in office work. Weight on Monday was 67.9kg thus week 1 weight loss is
Start/ end date: 18 - 25 Aug (wekk 1)
Weight : 69.4kg - 67.9kg = 1.5kg loss
If I maintain my diet this week, I hope to lose the same rate in Week 2.
Fingers crossed.
Start/ end date: 18 - 25 Aug (wekk 1)
Weight : 69.4kg - 67.9kg = 1.5kg loss
If I maintain my diet this week, I hope to lose the same rate in Week 2.
Fingers crossed.
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
Bali diet_Mid week 1 Report #1
Since I declared my weight on Monday (read here), I didn't eat much because I was fasting until today. Today is my 7th day fasting in Syawal where 3 days are within the Bali Diet Period. My weight has been stagnant at 68kg since Monday night. Hmmmm....
Weight loss until today is 69.4 - 68 = 1.4kg
But I think it is just water weight. Not truly reducing any fat because my hips and belly still feels big and 'muffin tops' is getting uglier.
Calorie wise, I've been very low on the intake. My sahur was:
500ml plain water + aloe
500ml plain water + tea mix
200ml milk + 200ml plain water + 2 scoops F1 + 1 scoop protein
Total calorie for sahur = 200. Then no calorie during the day because I was fasting. And I had the same thing for fasting break. I had small portion of white rice and chicken maybe around 300. Thus overall total is 700 calories. Is this too low?
My BMR is 1278 @ 66.5kg. I supposed it's too low but I don't each much at night because bedtime is about 10.00pm. Will I have enough time to digest the food?
I haven't start exercising since Ramadan. May be I should. Start moving Rafiza!
Weight loss until today is 69.4 - 68 = 1.4kg
But I think it is just water weight. Not truly reducing any fat because my hips and belly still feels big and 'muffin tops' is getting uglier.
Calorie wise, I've been very low on the intake. My sahur was:
500ml plain water + aloe
500ml plain water + tea mix
200ml milk + 200ml plain water + 2 scoops F1 + 1 scoop protein
Total calorie for sahur = 200. Then no calorie during the day because I was fasting. And I had the same thing for fasting break. I had small portion of white rice and chicken maybe around 300. Thus overall total is 700 calories. Is this too low?
My BMR is 1278 @ 66.5kg. I supposed it's too low but I don't each much at night because bedtime is about 10.00pm. Will I have enough time to digest the food?
I haven't start exercising since Ramadan. May be I should. Start moving Rafiza!
Monday, August 18, 2014
New buy
This year I bought a Fossil watch and Coach slim wallet from PVS.
Fossil watch Riley ES3378 was not like what I pictured but I guess it's the trend that people prefer bigger watches now. It is a bit bulky to me (compared to my old watch) and I can't really see the dates. But it has grown on me and as an overall the watch looks nice and feminine.
Love my new wallet to replace the tattered old Esprit bought at JPO 3 years ago (read here). Chose Coach wallet 50923 Navy Blue to match with my blue Pliage Cuir and coin purse.
During Ramadan, I nearly bought a Tod's at RM1,600. I was contemplating and trying to justify to see whether I can afford the bag. Then someone has grabbed the offer while I was doing my reasoning.
The bag fits what I want for my next bag:
Well, better luck and maybe enough funding next time. Currently, I'm still looking for my next buy and no preference at the moment.
I also bought a pair of blue wedges (I'm blue crazy at the moment). Also to go with my blue Pliage Cuir. Love it as well.
Fossil watch Riley ES3378 was not like what I pictured but I guess it's the trend that people prefer bigger watches now. It is a bit bulky to me (compared to my old watch) and I can't really see the dates. But it has grown on me and as an overall the watch looks nice and feminine.
 |
| I want a watch with dates |
Love my new wallet to replace the tattered old Esprit bought at JPO 3 years ago (read here). Chose Coach wallet 50923 Navy Blue to match with my blue Pliage Cuir and coin purse.
During Ramadan, I nearly bought a Tod's at RM1,600. I was contemplating and trying to justify to see whether I can afford the bag. Then someone has grabbed the offer while I was doing my reasoning.
The bag fits what I want for my next bag:
- Something European. Not a Coach or American brand or brand that I already have.
- Something bright in colour and not from leather. The yellow was perfect.
- I don't want to worry too much about the handbag because it's gonna be an every day bag including balik kampung.
Well, better luck and maybe enough funding next time. Currently, I'm still looking for my next buy and no preference at the moment.
I also bought a pair of blue wedges (I'm blue crazy at the moment). Also to go with my blue Pliage Cuir. Love it as well.
Hectic week & BALI DIET START!
Not so much on work, more on personal life... which is good. At least something is happening in my life.
Jasmin & school refusal
Hubby went to Langkawi for 4 days 3 nights from Wednesday. Had to deal with Jasmin not wanting to go to school in the morning. I didn't deal with it quite well although I used the 'psychology' approach because she missed school for 3 days from the day her father left on Wednesday.
Weight management
Then there were jamuan Hari Raya on Friday at the office and my lorong so it was a not stop eating from morning till night. There goes my diet for Bali....
Visitors
My parents came on Friday and I entertained them until they left for Sabah on Saturday. They will be back tomorrow. I can't wait for Bali looking at their updates on Whatsapp.
Bali Diet START!
Today, is a new day. A restart for my DIET for BALI. My weight today is 69.4kg :(
Target to lose 1kg per week from today until 18 October 2014 which is roughly 2 months = 8 weeks.
My plan: eat food from home. Cut down on junk food, kuih raya. Benefit from fasting for 2 weeks (qadha and puasa sunat 6 Syawal)
Jasmin & school refusal
Hubby went to Langkawi for 4 days 3 nights from Wednesday. Had to deal with Jasmin not wanting to go to school in the morning. I didn't deal with it quite well although I used the 'psychology' approach because she missed school for 3 days from the day her father left on Wednesday.
Weight management
Then there were jamuan Hari Raya on Friday at the office and my lorong so it was a not stop eating from morning till night. There goes my diet for Bali....
Visitors
My parents came on Friday and I entertained them until they left for Sabah on Saturday. They will be back tomorrow. I can't wait for Bali looking at their updates on Whatsapp.
Bali Diet START!
Today, is a new day. A restart for my DIET for BALI. My weight today is 69.4kg :(
Target to lose 1kg per week from today until 18 October 2014 which is roughly 2 months = 8 weeks.
My plan: eat food from home. Cut down on junk food, kuih raya. Benefit from fasting for 2 weeks (qadha and puasa sunat 6 Syawal)
Thursday, August 14, 2014
School. Attendance. Attitude
Last Monday, I yelled and dragged Jasmin to the door because she didn't want to go to school. She did go because I sternly said 'I don't care whether you've finish your homework or not, you still have to go to school'....
Yesterday, she purposely didn't want to get up although I wake her up like I always do. She was not tired, she slept early, she didn't have any homework to finish. She just didn't want to wake up and go to school.
After a few attempts to make her get up (I know she was all awake ), I finally sat at the edge of the bed trying to put some sense into her. I said I didn't want to get angry like I did last week, I don't like to get angry. I said I've always ask her why but she just kept quiet for reasons why on some days she doesn't want to go to school. If she doesn't tell what's her problem, I would not know. If she thinks she can do whatever she likes, fine.... And I left.
I totally ignore her when I got home from work. I just didn't say a word.... to anyone. I was tired. I don't know what else to do. I don't know how should I handle this problem with school absence.
Jasmin is smart, manja, helpful and sometimes independent. Her bad habit is making excuses. Sometimes she does not conform to the normal routines.
Today, I asked Irdina to wake her up. I just want to see how is she gonna behave today. She didn't get up although she was awake. I just ignore her.... Let her go to school at her own will. Let her to be responsible for the consequence of her own doing.
My take for tomorrow. She will either;
I will not go and wake her up. Let her to be responsible for the consequence of her own doing.
Yesterday, she purposely didn't want to get up although I wake her up like I always do. She was not tired, she slept early, she didn't have any homework to finish. She just didn't want to wake up and go to school.
After a few attempts to make her get up (I know she was all awake ), I finally sat at the edge of the bed trying to put some sense into her. I said I didn't want to get angry like I did last week, I don't like to get angry. I said I've always ask her why but she just kept quiet for reasons why on some days she doesn't want to go to school. If she doesn't tell what's her problem, I would not know. If she thinks she can do whatever she likes, fine.... And I left.
I totally ignore her when I got home from work. I just didn't say a word.... to anyone. I was tired. I don't know what else to do. I don't know how should I handle this problem with school absence.
Jasmin is smart, manja, helpful and sometimes independent. Her bad habit is making excuses. Sometimes she does not conform to the normal routines.
Today, I asked Irdina to wake her up. I just want to see how is she gonna behave today. She didn't get up although she was awake. I just ignore her.... Let her go to school at her own will. Let her to be responsible for the consequence of her own doing.
My take for tomorrow. She will either;
- behave the same as today. Will not go to school
- wake by herself and go to school.
I will not go and wake her up. Let her to be responsible for the consequence of her own doing.
Tuesday, August 12, 2014
Post Raya weight
I really need to lose 4kg to get to pre Ramadan weight. Today was a let down. Stuck at doing work, I didn't go the gym although I was readily dressed (sports bra & tights) under my clothes. Shame on me.
I need to strengthen my belly muscle and thighs. My plan, sit ups EVERY morning.
I need to control portion and my choice of food.
Drink a lot...
I want to be slim for Bali!
I need to strengthen my belly muscle and thighs. My plan, sit ups EVERY morning.
I need to control portion and my choice of food.
Drink a lot...
I want to be slim for Bali!
Monday, August 11, 2014
Loan agreement
I accepted the loan offer by returning a signed offer on 9 April.
I took the Maybank offer @ BFR - 2.4% and the monthly payment is RM1,291.It's fixed payment for 372 months (31 years). Current BFR is 6.6%
I signed the S&P on 1st May at the developer's office.
Next step is to sign the loan agreement with the bank because the one signed on the 9th is just the offer.
Contacted the bank loan handler on 6 Aug. They still have not received a copy of the S&P to start the loan agreement.
It's been about 3 months since S&P signed.
Ya Allah! Permudahkan lah! Hanya Engkau yang mengetahui apa yang terbaik. Aminnn....
I took the Maybank offer @ BFR - 2.4% and the monthly payment is RM1,291.It's fixed payment for 372 months (31 years). Current BFR is 6.6%
I signed the S&P on 1st May at the developer's office.
Next step is to sign the loan agreement with the bank because the one signed on the 9th is just the offer.
Contacted the bank loan handler on 6 Aug. They still have not received a copy of the S&P to start the loan agreement.
It's been about 3 months since S&P signed.
Ya Allah! Permudahkan lah! Hanya Engkau yang mengetahui apa yang terbaik. Aminnn....
How to face problems in life
Imagine problem as a handful of coffee. Mix it in a coffee cup, the bitterness is overwhelming. Imagine throwing it in a swimming pool, would you taste the bitterness?
Imagine you as either the coffee cup or the swimming pool. If you take on the coffee as a coffee cup, the coffee seems all wrong, too strong and overwhelming.
If your courage is as big as the swimming pool to take on the handful of coffee, will it even stain your swimming pool?
Be as strong as Ultraman!
As normal human, definitely you can fight the gigantic monster. You can't change anything about a problem = monster. You can't make it smaller, or make it nicer. Instead, make yourself BIG like Ultraman does whenever he faces those big creatures. Face it with bigger confidence, strength and courage. And you know how the story always end.
So chin up.
Problem = Coffee
Problem = Opportunity
You = Swimming Pool
You = Ultraman
Have a good day!
Points from 'Motivasi Pagi' of IKIM FM....
Points from 'Motivasi Pagi' of IKIM FM....
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Bali_Itinerary
Flights = checked Accomodation = checked
Itinerary is next...
What are we going to do in Bali?
I'm travelling with my kids so I have to make them priority so we as parents can enjoy the trip.
In Krabi it was free and easy and we stayed at Krabi town, near the beach. We walked to Krabi beach (sightseeing, not really for swimming), we just booked island trip ad-hoc (we went there during low season), we rent a bike to get things to eat. Based on my readings, Kuta is like the modern Bali and apparently the happening place with lots of tourists, hotels, shops etc. and beach or amenities are within walking distance. Sounds like Krabi town.For Bali, there's so much to see and do as recommended by forumers and bloggers. I will have to prioritize.
Keeping the kids happy
Swimming pool is a must for my kids to enjoy this trip and having a private pool, I confidently say this will wow them. As such, I have to balance between time spent for tours with time at the villa. I have to cut the tour hours short from 12 to maybe 7-8 hours so my kids can enjoy the pool in the afternoon, also give me an opportunity window to enjoy a spa treatment nearby (planning to go to Murano Spa).
DIY or tour guide
We can choose to travel by our own but Bali's attractions is all over the island (5,670 km sq). Since this is a 4D3N trip, we have 2 full days to discover Bali. To me, hiring a tour guide saves time and enable us to cover more places than DIY.
Where to go? What to do?
I will have to prioritize the places we going to visit to meet the time frame and keep my kids interested. Since this is our 1st time, we'll try to cover all the MUST DO:
Kintamani
Bedugul
Ubud
Tanah Lot
Tegalalang
Kuta
Buy paintings
Buy souvenirs at Krisna
Experience spa
Try local delicacies
I'm using Yantohood Tour as frequently recommended in Cari.forum, see LoveBali99 blog for the prices.
I hope the kids will gain some knowledge from this trip and provide them a glimpse of culture other than ours.
Itinerary is next...
 |
| Bali temples |
What are we going to do in Bali?
I'm travelling with my kids so I have to make them priority so we as parents can enjoy the trip.
In Krabi it was free and easy and we stayed at Krabi town, near the beach. We walked to Krabi beach (sightseeing, not really for swimming), we just booked island trip ad-hoc (we went there during low season), we rent a bike to get things to eat. Based on my readings, Kuta is like the modern Bali and apparently the happening place with lots of tourists, hotels, shops etc. and beach or amenities are within walking distance. Sounds like Krabi town.For Bali, there's so much to see and do as recommended by forumers and bloggers. I will have to prioritize.
 |
| Batur Lake |
 |
| Ubud/Tegalalang |
Keeping the kids happy
Swimming pool is a must for my kids to enjoy this trip and having a private pool, I confidently say this will wow them. As such, I have to balance between time spent for tours with time at the villa. I have to cut the tour hours short from 12 to maybe 7-8 hours so my kids can enjoy the pool in the afternoon, also give me an opportunity window to enjoy a spa treatment nearby (planning to go to Murano Spa).
DIY or tour guide
We can choose to travel by our own but Bali's attractions is all over the island (5,670 km sq). Since this is a 4D3N trip, we have 2 full days to discover Bali. To me, hiring a tour guide saves time and enable us to cover more places than DIY.
 |
| Tanah Lot temple |
Where to go? What to do?
I will have to prioritize the places we going to visit to meet the time frame and keep my kids interested. Since this is our 1st time, we'll try to cover all the MUST DO:
Kintamani
Bedugul
Ubud
Tanah Lot
Tegalalang
Kuta
Buy paintings
Buy souvenirs at Krisna
Experience spa
Try local delicacies
 |
| Uluwatu. Temple on a cliff top |
I hope the kids will gain some knowledge from this trip and provide them a glimpse of culture other than ours.
Saturday, August 9, 2014
Where to stay
Flight tickets purchased, next is to think about where to stay. Common choice would be hotels but where?
There are a few areas where travelers reside in Bali: Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, Sanur, Benoa are among the famous ones. I have to sync between people's blog and maps to know where these areas are before deciding where to station our stay.
Area to stay
I'm really interested in private villas because there are lots of them in Bali which i personally think very seldom available at other places unless you really want to splurge for your vacation. That's how I decided to choose Seminyak as an area to stay because it offers the most numbers of villas compared to other areas. Why not Kuta, it's the happening place, near to everything? Why not Ubud? My husband said there have been a number of conferences held in Bali some years back. So I thought there might be a possibility we might tag along if he attends future conferences. Usually the conferences are held in Kuta, the centre so why not we try other areas. My choice of Seminyak is also influenced by the activities we plan to do, how are we going to travel and kids.
So many things to think about before making decisions. That's just who I am.... I believe in doing some research and planning to avoid unnecessary stress, circumstances and waste.
Type
You'll be spoilt for choice in terms of price and type of accommodation. Budget hotels, hostel, homestays, hotels, villa etc. I decided to choose private villa because I think it's affordable. Compared to Malaysia's Grand Lexis in PD which has a private pool too, it costs about RM600++(promo price) for a one bedroom.
I limit maximum of RM500 per night but my choice should be prudent. I browsed 27 pages of Booking.com for villa in Seminyak area as well as Agoda. I shortlisted 4 villas:
Esmee vs Bali Swiss
I was really attracted to Esmee Villa (45 sqm) because architecture seems balinese and I could imagine walking to get some groceries while the kids having a swim in the afternoon. Though rating seems ok, -ve points about Esmee were rather elaborate.
Bali Nyuh Gading seems the most attractive offer because you won't get the Groupon price in Agoda or Booking.com. But it does not fit my proximity criteria and I was worried they may have hidden charges as I will be travelling with 4 children.
Gatra Villa is rather new but receive all the good reviews. Though, pool seems small and why should I pay higher price for a smaller space?
In the end, I chose Bali Swiss Villa (210 sqm all) It has more elaborate +ve reviews than Esmee and it takes 6 minutes walking to Murano Spa, spa I intend to go in the afternoon while the kids having a swim in the afternoon (see how the planned activity changes with the choice of accommodation..heh)
I choose to book on their website just to establish contacts with them since the price is only RM10 more than Booking.com.
So in the end, our choice shall depend on our judgement and rationale. Reviews is just one aspect to assist you in making decisions. Also, promotional pictures may not reflect true state of the accommodation and this is when TripAdvisor becomes handy because they have traveler pictures who have really gone there. To avoid disappointment. just lower your expectation.
I will update whether the accommodation is as nice as the pictures.
I felt one burden is off my shoulder now that I have decided. Next, finalizing the itinerary.....
There are a few areas where travelers reside in Bali: Kuta, Ubud, Seminyak, Sanur, Benoa are among the famous ones. I have to sync between people's blog and maps to know where these areas are before deciding where to station our stay.
Area to stay
I'm really interested in private villas because there are lots of them in Bali which i personally think very seldom available at other places unless you really want to splurge for your vacation. That's how I decided to choose Seminyak as an area to stay because it offers the most numbers of villas compared to other areas. Why not Kuta, it's the happening place, near to everything? Why not Ubud? My husband said there have been a number of conferences held in Bali some years back. So I thought there might be a possibility we might tag along if he attends future conferences. Usually the conferences are held in Kuta, the centre so why not we try other areas. My choice of Seminyak is also influenced by the activities we plan to do, how are we going to travel and kids.
So many things to think about before making decisions. That's just who I am.... I believe in doing some research and planning to avoid unnecessary stress, circumstances and waste.
Type
You'll be spoilt for choice in terms of price and type of accommodation. Budget hotels, hostel, homestays, hotels, villa etc. I decided to choose private villa because I think it's affordable. Compared to Malaysia's Grand Lexis in PD which has a private pool too, it costs about RM600++(promo price) for a one bedroom.
I limit maximum of RM500 per night but my choice should be prudent. I browsed 27 pages of Booking.com for villa in Seminyak area as well as Agoda. I shortlisted 4 villas:
Esmee vs Bali Swiss
I was really attracted to Esmee Villa (45 sqm) because architecture seems balinese and I could imagine walking to get some groceries while the kids having a swim in the afternoon. Though rating seems ok, -ve points about Esmee were rather elaborate.
 |
| Picture taken from Agoda. Esmee 2 bedroom villa |
Bali Nyuh Gading seems the most attractive offer because you won't get the Groupon price in Agoda or Booking.com. But it does not fit my proximity criteria and I was worried they may have hidden charges as I will be travelling with 4 children.
Gatra Villa is rather new but receive all the good reviews. Though, pool seems small and why should I pay higher price for a smaller space?
In the end, I chose Bali Swiss Villa (210 sqm all) It has more elaborate +ve reviews than Esmee and it takes 6 minutes walking to Murano Spa, spa I intend to go in the afternoon while the kids having a swim in the afternoon (see how the planned activity changes with the choice of accommodation..heh)
I choose to book on their website just to establish contacts with them since the price is only RM10 more than Booking.com.
So in the end, our choice shall depend on our judgement and rationale. Reviews is just one aspect to assist you in making decisions. Also, promotional pictures may not reflect true state of the accommodation and this is when TripAdvisor becomes handy because they have traveler pictures who have really gone there. To avoid disappointment. just lower your expectation.
I will update whether the accommodation is as nice as the pictures.
I felt one burden is off my shoulder now that I have decided. Next, finalizing the itinerary.....
Bali here we come!
Booked tickets on Friday 23 May 2014. Decided to go during Deepavali...
Japan... Not this time but will keep in mind ;-)
Bali. When I was not married, I heard it's a great place to go for honeymoon. People say it's romantic. I guess so....
Now that I'm married, Bali never crossed my mind as a destination to bring kids for a holiday due to the general label of Bali. When Japan was not possible this year, I was looking for something outside Malaysia, other than Thailand (because I've brought them to Krabi), kids friendly and within this year's budget.
Bali. OK, let's look at the fare...Hmmm, divide by two..Not so bad, I can afford that. But what's in Bali that suitable for kids? The bombing tragedy, is Bali safe? What are going to do in Bali if everyone are on their honeymoon? (imagining I would have to close my kids eye from whatever honeymooners do)....
Those were my primitive thoughts before I googled information of Bali and here are things which have switched my thinking:
Now everyone can fly. Bali is not a destination for honeymooners anymore. The fare is so affordable that you can bring your whole family there.
IT gives access to information specific to your needs. Thanks to blogs and forums, you'll find Bali is not just a place for newly weds. It's a travel destination for people who want to see and experience different things from home except for Indonesians, I guess. Because Bali is part of Indonesia so the culture, place may be similar.
Suddenly I have this interest to go and experience Bali although with 4 kids!
I found Bali has a variety of accommodation and the most popular is the affordable 'luxurious' villa compared to other destination like Phuket, Koh Samui etc (not that I've been there). It was hard for me to choose but I have finally chosen.
Accommodation
1st I approached Agoda & Booking.com looking for hotels. Included in the list were also these places with word 'villa' attached to it and 'private swimming pool'. I thought I could not afford them because the list always put recommended and popular listing first. Yeah, some villas can go up to >RM1,000 per night.
This is when some research and perseverance will definitely help you and it pays to plan than to book at the last minute. Unless, the unknown excites you, of course....As for me, I don't want to get dissappointed after paying so much and travelling with kids, I have to be prepared to avoid chaos...
Using Krabi as a yardstick, I estimated the cost should be around the same about RM1,200 for 3 nights. Now this is why I agree when people say Bali is affordable.... With additional RM200 to that RM1,200, I can get a private swimming pool! Yes, Somkiet Buri Krabi was really good but Bali villas seems so.... luxurious!
But I still reserve some excitement because the problem with Bali, the pictures sometimes don't really show the truth. This is when TripAdvisor is a very good reference because it has pictures taken by people who have really gone to the place. Yet, you still have to use own judgement and rationale because your travel needs or goals may not be same as others.
Japan... Not this time but will keep in mind ;-)
Bali. When I was not married, I heard it's a great place to go for honeymoon. People say it's romantic. I guess so....
Now that I'm married, Bali never crossed my mind as a destination to bring kids for a holiday due to the general label of Bali. When Japan was not possible this year, I was looking for something outside Malaysia, other than Thailand (because I've brought them to Krabi), kids friendly and within this year's budget.
Bali. OK, let's look at the fare...Hmmm, divide by two..Not so bad, I can afford that. But what's in Bali that suitable for kids? The bombing tragedy, is Bali safe? What are going to do in Bali if everyone are on their honeymoon? (imagining I would have to close my kids eye from whatever honeymooners do)....
Those were my primitive thoughts before I googled information of Bali and here are things which have switched my thinking:
Now everyone can fly. Bali is not a destination for honeymooners anymore. The fare is so affordable that you can bring your whole family there.
IT gives access to information specific to your needs. Thanks to blogs and forums, you'll find Bali is not just a place for newly weds. It's a travel destination for people who want to see and experience different things from home except for Indonesians, I guess. Because Bali is part of Indonesia so the culture, place may be similar.
Suddenly I have this interest to go and experience Bali although with 4 kids!
I found Bali has a variety of accommodation and the most popular is the affordable 'luxurious' villa compared to other destination like Phuket, Koh Samui etc (not that I've been there). It was hard for me to choose but I have finally chosen.
Accommodation
1st I approached Agoda & Booking.com looking for hotels. Included in the list were also these places with word 'villa' attached to it and 'private swimming pool'. I thought I could not afford them because the list always put recommended and popular listing first. Yeah, some villas can go up to >RM1,000 per night.
This is when some research and perseverance will definitely help you and it pays to plan than to book at the last minute. Unless, the unknown excites you, of course....As for me, I don't want to get dissappointed after paying so much and travelling with kids, I have to be prepared to avoid chaos...
Using Krabi as a yardstick, I estimated the cost should be around the same about RM1,200 for 3 nights. Now this is why I agree when people say Bali is affordable.... With additional RM200 to that RM1,200, I can get a private swimming pool! Yes, Somkiet Buri Krabi was really good but Bali villas seems so.... luxurious!
But I still reserve some excitement because the problem with Bali, the pictures sometimes don't really show the truth. This is when TripAdvisor is a very good reference because it has pictures taken by people who have really gone to the place. Yet, you still have to use own judgement and rationale because your travel needs or goals may not be same as others.
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