Final Checklist

Your bags are nearly packed, the excitement has hit fever pitch! Not long now until you'll have parked yourself in a scenic location with an impressive looking cocktail.
Before we all head off, here's a list of the most common questions we've received before departure;

1. Money - We take cash as it's easy, gets a great exchange rate and you don't get charged commission. If you're comfortable with this, take good condition $50 notes. It may be a good idea to change up to $50 here so you have some local currency in case of emergency but you'll get a better rate exchanging the bulk of your cash in Bali. Use the safety deposit boxes to store cash and change a few hundred at a time.
2. Visa money. $25US per person to purchase your visa on arrival. This is non-negotiable and must be paid by every person including babies and children. You cannot purchase your visa prior to arriving in Bali. 
3. If you've pre-organised a VIP Visa then it's a good idea to have exact money to cover this, $30 Aus per person if you've contacting Murti.
4. Beach towels aren't really required. You can collect them fresh anytime from the pool at your resort. Or if you find you need one they're less than $2 to purchase, save the room in your suitcase!
5. Wedding attire is smart summer casual so be comfortable! You may find something in the shops over there but bring a back up in case you don't make it past the pool!
6. Cheapest way to handle mobiles is to bring an unlocked, old phone and purchase a local SIM card. The rates are good for texting others on the island and you won't be charged the roaming load that local carriers here will.

We head off Anzac Day morning but will be checking Facebook in case you have last minute questions in the days leading up to your departure. Have a great flight and we'll see you on the beach!

Flight Time Changes

As we hit the final stretch before our holiday, we've been advised by our travel agent that many of the flight times are changing. This affects Virgin mainly but it's a good idea to check your flights with all carriers as they may not alert you to any changes.

Also, heard a great story on the weekend about a Bridesmaid who very nearly didn't make it to an international wedding. She didn't realise that when travelling overseas, your passport needs to have at least 6 months left before the expiry date. While there's still time for you to be issued with an emergency passport - please double check!!

Remember to hit Smart Traveller for all the latest information on local security and health issues. While you're there it's a great idea to register your trip.

And of course, ensure you have all the contact details for your travel insurance tucked into your bag. You never know when you're going to need to use it!

That's it for now. Hope your packing is going well and your countdowns are getting smaller. And if you are having a bad day just think, next weekend you'll be in Bali!

VIP Visa

Since our Airport post we've had quite a few people contact us in regards to the VIP Visas that are available. Here's what you need to know;

• The cost of the VIP Visa is $30 per person in Australian currency.
• You still need to pay the Indonesian Government Visa of $25 US. (You can pay in other currencies however this is easiest)
• You will be met in the arrival hall of Denpasar Airport where you'll need to hand over your $25US, passport and visa form to your guide.
• Your guide will walk you through immigration and take you to collect your bag. They will then go back and complete all paperwork on your behalf.
• Once you have your bag, your guide will walk with you through customs and out to the arrivals area.
• Here you'll be met by Murti, the company owner and you will pay your $30Aus for the VIP service.

If you would like to take advantage of this service please email Murti at murti@iprimus.com.au stating your full names, flight number and arrival day and time. Please also mention you are with the Barry Wedding and you may receive a discount.

If you'd like, Murti can also arrange your transfers to the hotel. Once you've paid your $30Aus to Murti, you can be escorted directly to your car and whizzed away to your hotel!
To get to the Pelangi or Breezes will cost around 110,000Rp (around $12) for up to 6 people. If you have more people headed in the same direction we can look at getting a larger transport where required.

Wedding FAQ's

We've been getting a few questions that keep popping up so here's the answers to the frequently asked questions we've received so far;

What do we do with the kids?

We love that so many of you are making this a family holiday. It's entirely up to each of you but children can certainly attend the ceremony. Please be aware that the area is an open space that leads directly to the beach so you'll need to keep an eye on little ones!

We have arranged transport from each hotel to the ceremony location, this transport is then available after the ceremony and will be available through to the end of the reception.
The reception is an adults only event. The hotels we've recommended can organise babysitters. There will be ample time in between the ceremony and reception to return children to the hotel and settle them for the evening.

On special request, babysitters may be arranged on location at the reception. Children will be inside with babysitters however entertainment and sleeping arrangements will need to be sorted out in advance by parents. With children on site, parents are certainly able to check in during the course of the evening but we respectfully request that children not attend the reception. 

What's 'Smart Summer Casual' AKA the dress code for the wedding?
Bali has a tropical climate and in early May is on the cusp of Dry and Wet season. This means that during the day the humidity is fairly high and it's very hot in the sun.

Boys - We ask that you not wear singlets, board shorts or bintang t-shirts! A nice t-shirt or short sleeved collared shirt will work, as well as a pair of dress shorts and thongs/sandals. The bridal party will NOT be in full suit so you won't be out of style!

Girls - A summer dress would be perfect! Early in the day a longer dress may be too hot but from experience it's quite comfortable to wear a maxi style dress (if this is your preference) or light fabric dress early afternoon through to evening. Heels definitely won't be needed as we'll be on grass or sand most of the night!

Will we need to arrange transport or in-between drinks on the wedding day?

No. All of the wedding day, from pick up for the ceremony to drop off at the end of the night, has been taken care of. So unless you're planning on visiting the Bounty Disco at the end of the night, you shouldn't require any money or alternate plans.

Please let us know if you have any other questions that we can answer. Hope this clarifies things a little further!

Garuda Cheap Flights!

If you haven't booked your flights just yet then here is a great opportunity! I've just checked the Garuda website and return flights for 1 adult are $589.52!

The flights are Saturday 28th April leaving Melbourne at 10:55am and landing in Bali at 1:35pm. Return flight departs Bali at 11:45pm Saturday 5th May arriving in Melbourne at 8:25am Sunday morning.

Considering food, entertainment and drinks (that's Bintang!) are included, this is an amazing price!!!

Get onto Yvonne or go and book yourself by clicking here!

First Timer Tips - Safety

Bali is a beautiful place with many amazing people, however as with anytime you travel overseas, it's important to be aware of safety.

• Beach - Kuta to Seminyak Beach can be quite brutal. The beaches can often be closed for periods of time when rips and currents pop up. The waves are quite strong here so swim between the flags where possible.                                                                                      
• Hotel - Every hotel will give you a safety deposit box - whether in your room or at reception. The boxes at reception can only be accessed with your key and the key from the manager. We usually leave our passport and additional cash in here for the duration of the stay and haven't heard of anything going wrong when using these in reputable hotels.




Dodgy Money Changer sign, doesn't say No Commission


• Money - When exchanging money make sure you go into a shop with a 'No Commission' sign only. There have been instances where tourists have walked down small back lanes to exchange their money and it usually ends with them leaving with no money at all. You should NEVER have to pay commission to exchange money and you should NEVER have to walk down dodgy back lanes. The golden rule here - if the exchange rate looks to good to be true it usually is.
• Nightlife - Usual rules apply here same as anywhere when out and about at night. Secure your cash and phone. Always make sure someone knows where you're going. And remember the name of your hotel so the taxi driver knows where to deliver you at the end of a long night, not looking at anyone here...




Where the sign points, see the little
white square at the end of the alley? Mmmm....



In terms of overall security, check Smart Traveller, an Australian Government website for all current warnings and advice. This also has recommendations on health and where to get help should you need it when away. We strongly advise all guests take out travel insurance, this covers you from when you pay the insurance just in case you can't travel for some reason. And lastly, it is recommended to register with the Australian Government when travelling outside the country. This is a 5 minute task but means that you can be contacted should you need to be while you're away.

The Form Guide - Part Three

Well, onto the ring ins!

• John – Veteran Bail performer to go along with frightening drinking capacity. It’s not an ‘if’, but a ‘when’ will he hurt you? Will enjoy taking some of the younger lads for a ride. Can explode out of the blokes at any moment of any day. One of the true stayers that can be devastating to go with. Double diamond Status also.
• Lyn – The woman who can outstrip John Armstrong is one to be feared. Look out when she gets going…. I see dancing and Karaoke.
• David – Rounds out the three seasoned amigos. Another with solid Bali form behind him.
• Pam – With Bernie and Lyn going, Pam will not be far behind. Or maybe in front…. Looking forward to finding out.
• Rel – First of the big jobs, the Matron of Honour. Does this mean you carry Amy home or does she carry you? Expectations are high. Apparently her nose goes numb after one too many, expecting her to entirely misplace it this trip.
• Rick – One of the quiet ones…. But then again, sometimes the quiet ones are the ones to be feared the most…
• Jess and Beth – Double the Callaghan, Quadruple the trouble. Author is always fearful of this combo, especially as I can tell the difference, but then can’t remember which is which….. Apparently can’t wait to confuse the crap out of everyone. Jess has years of Ballarat Uni training to call on, while Beth loves a Champers and is a nurse, we all know they love a drop! 
• Christie – LOOK OUT, the girl is off the leash….. To politely put it, has ditched the hubby and kids at home and will be looking to run amuck on a girl’s trip for the first time in several years…. Wow, look out. 
• Georgie – Bridesmaid. Baby action could see a dent in her usual sterling performance, will need to wait until closer to the date for better judgement. From solid breeding (Murphy family) and is a Nurse. But seriously, we all have kids! Don’t let them hold you back… I won’t be!
• Glenn – Solid participant will keep up with the front runners. Loves a chat when in the game – don’t let him distract you from running your own race.
• Stuey – Groomsman and Bali veteran of several messy trips, expect him to nearly always start towards the back, but don't ever let that false sense of security deceive you, he will always destroy you on the home straight. Amazing staying power that few can ever compete with. One of the greats who is at his peak.  Has shown his recent prowess in Bali by steering the good ship ‘Bounty’ home…. Another who the Author expects to be hurt by. (That’s a fast growing list)
• Neil – Groomsman with exceptional drinking pace. When I say pace, I mean that not one person in this field can compete on his level! Has been known to occasionally stay, but recent form says he will almost always get run down. Well, not run down technically, has already run the race, then lapped the field and retired to the stables before anyone knows what happened.  Another Double Diamond Status warning with this one. Do not go with ever!
• Razor (Tim) – New to Bali but not to drinking, will hold form throughout the week. Expect him to have a beer with breakfast. Every morning. You think I am joking about that. I’m not. Think this might be a good match up for the author at some stage – I challenge you to a duel!!!!!  (insert glove to face slap)
• Anne – Did some of her best work seeing out her 20’s recently. The people of Mt Hotham will attest to that. Can go on cocktails or wine. Don’t worry if you can’t understand her at the end of the night, just pretend she was speaking one of the 4 languages she has in her arsenal.
• Hilly – Will be seeing out his 40’s in fine form. Watch out dance floors – Mr Hill may well be on his way!
• Em – Ahhh, finally someone Ames describes as a pocket rocket! I love pocket rockets as they nearly always drink me under the table…. Dammit. Expecting dancing and singing.
• Gerard – A survivor of the Oktoberfest and Norway trip. By all accounts goes well. Big expectations placed on him by Ames.
• Kate – Another returning from a nine month absence out with general soreness!!!! Goes well first up, but can she go the distance????
• Will – In his day there was no stopping the big fella, a legend of the Geelong nightclub scene envied by Stu Harrison and could be found every weekend on any night, bar hopping his way through the night. But unfortunately as what happens to all true champions, father time eventually catches up with you and you become a shadow of your once glorious self.. Does he have enough in the tank to bring himself up for an occasion like this? Most champions always find more, and don't be surprised  if glimpses of his former self still come to the forefront, although beware the common gardening fertilising that comes with it.
• Amanda – Will need some prep work in the lead up but if up and about will show good form. Another nurse here people – you know the drill.
• Coley – Has Bali’d before with Will and Mick but that was many years and was a much younger man, expecting some sensational dance moves…
• Sara – Strong chance of a couples dance off here if things go the right way. I’m running the book and am already taking large bets on this event. Another nurse, be wary.
• Reece – Does Bali his own way; spends the entire trip drinking, drunk or hung over. “Big man go down!” Wow, what a life! Wonder if his new occupation, or as he likes to call it, being ‘semi-retired’ will hamper him? If found by the pool and quiet, a quiet offer of ‘Fizzy Bubbley’ should awaken the beast..
• Senji – Recent Achilles injury and old age has hampered his preparation, hoping for big things from the Best Man. It’s ok, that’s why they invented the swim up pool bar Senj – no walking required.
• Rach – Another solid performer. May need to get in on the life saving training to save Senji when he falls off his pool bar stool…. Can go on champagne and wine.
• Gede – Our trusted Bali Guide!!! Can’t wait to meet him!
• Ani – Gede’s better half!
• Damo - Danger, Danger, Danger….. Bandit 1 – Heard a whisper that in combo with Shane, Simo and Jasey will go coco banana’s…. Should be awesome!
• Jac – Has raced this track before in 07 when she smashed out of the blocks for an easy BOG performance on the opening night, only to retire hurt for the rest of the trip. Arak is a hell of a drink.
• Simmo - Bandit 2 – Read above. Will strangely not worry about anything that the field is doing and run his own race. Has the owners and punters worried that if let lose in Bali, may never come home. The Vegas like lights, party scene, techno music, may see him be lost forever.. It’s ok… Bali has him now…
• Nazpot – More of the same, small and dangerous.  Is anyone involved in this wedding not a drinker??? Or was that a qualification of being invited? Another who will need to be watched closely.
• Jasey – The Silent bandit, that is until the end of the night, when words are the only indicator that the enormous amount of bourbon he has drunk has had an effect on him. Also one of the strongest stayers in the field. Will run all day and night without a sign of fatigue.

 That's it for now, stay tuned for any last minute tips. Until then, you stay classy San Fransisco!

P.S   There are some exciting awards that will be presented to the best performers of the wedding week at the ‘recovery’ party.

Hang on, does ‘recovery’ mean we stop drinking or drink some more?

I’m confused.

My head hurts.

Pass me another beer.

Categories for these awards will be announced closer to departure time!!! Bagus!

The Form Guide - Part Two

Well the last edition certainly seemed to stir up some contraversy. Let's see how we go with this next edition...
The Hardiman/Bliss contingent

• Bernie – Along with Lyn and Pam should basically be considered an Indonesian resident due to spending about 10 months a year in Bali (It feels like that long because we are not there!) Loves wine. No, No, No, REALLY LOVES WINE. Expect a mixture of laughs and tears, possibly all at once.
• Mick H Snr – Some say this is his Grand Final. Spent 4 years in Canberra inhaling VB schooners, before returning to hurt the younger generation in Victoria. Another super experienced Bali campaigner who’s form in the Munga bar since his return has raised eyebrows, with a number of Judd-like performances. Can go, will travel. One of the great Veteran stayers who is very dangerous. True Double diamond status, only experienced campaigners should tackle.
• Mick H Jnr – The burning question. What will I bring to the table? I will tell you. If it’s breakfast, a bintang. If it’s brunch, a bintang…. You get the idea. In solid training. Will be ready.  
• Zin – Will go hard or go home. No in-between for her. In full flight is an unbelievable performer. If she brings it, will destroy her husband….
• Lisa – Will sample a cocktail and will remember everything from the night before. You’ve been warned...
• Michael C – Another in heavy training, believed to be currently holed up in his brother’s shed. One who truly understands the rigors of a Bali trip.
• Liv – Ballarat Uni…. Enough said.
• Tom – Unknown quantity, may surprise with solid showing.
• Kerry – Must run in the family, loves a wine!!!!! Will enjoy the surroundings.
• Jack – By all accounts, also performing well this pre-season. Interested to see if he can go with the more experienced campaigners….
• Molly – It’s Bali Kez, surely she can have one champers!!!!! 
• Adam – In true Derek Rose style, has literally come from the clouds for this trip. I considered him a doubtful starter when invites went out, but has qualified! Will have had a full summer of Thomson Cricket Club functions behind him, so should be in supreme condition and looking for the championship.
• Sean – HEY HEY HIPPIE!!!!! All aboard. Another fine performer. Has been training hard (non drinking style), will be interested to see if he’s still got form. Will be in it for a long way.
• Clare – May have her hands full trying to control a rampant McGrath. Or maybe it will be the other way around...
• The Hardiman Crew (John, Shauna, Chris, Leanne, Janet, Paul, Tim and Deb…. Maybe others) – Seriously, how good a catholic family are we from!!!!! There are way too many to write about individually. All will enjoy the trip and make themselves known to the barmen at one point or another…. Often…..

The Form Guide - Guest Author

Since getting the invite (thanks guys!), I have been unbelievably excited to combine one of my favourite holiday destination with my favourite thing (outside any sporting event) a wedding! And not just any wedding, my sister’s wedding. But I also have the overriding feeling of being just a little bit afraid.

Some may wonder what I am afraid of? Others already have this feeling and are in severe denial about it. The fact is, I am frightened by the heavy drinking artillery that will be bombarding the Bali coast in the week beginning the 30^th of April 2012. (Only 241 days!  Great iPhone app for that, anyway….)

HAS ANYBODY LOOKED AT WHO IS COMING TO BALI!?!? 

The attendee list reads like a ‘who’s who’ of drinkers. It’s like the All Star game and it’s going to last for up to three weeks! With Ames and Mick’s  help, I’ve decided to put together a little early season form guide about the attendees. Feel free to leave your comments below.

One more important point. My gut feeling is that Grand Final day at Amy and Mick’s this year will be a bit like the Round 24 Geelong v Collingwood game. The top ranked players feeling each other out before the big dance….Be prepared!

Over the next few weeks the full form guide will be revealed. But let's start today with the happy couple and Barry Clan.

Without further ado...The Form Guide

Mick: With true panache and style, is involved in a HEAVY training load at the moment. This is evident after taking Darcy for a walk and being found five hours later holding the bar up at the Petrel hotel. To go along with this, an Oktoberfest/Crazy Norwegian wedding experience has him primed to lead the charge. Has been occasionally known to pull the pin without a moment’s notice, and an off day can see him peak too early and finish dead last. When he's up, among the best. Without pre-empting the match committee’s decision, will be happy to appoint him Captain for the trip!

Ames: The Joel Selwood of this trip (easy Ames, yes I did just compare you to Joel. Please stop drooling on your keyboard). In true Hardiman/Bliss style, will go head first into any bottle of wine/champers/cocktail (I think they make glasses over there that your head will actually fit in!!!!!!). Will be called upon to lead when our courageous captain can go no more… Looking for a massive performance.

The Barry's

• June – The good oil is that June loves a Brandy and Coke. In my eyes that already means she can go. Combined with the fact she has experienced the Bali lifestyle before and knows the conditions better then the Cats know Kardinia Park, big things are expected.
• Steve – Has played this game before. A proven performer, but a query if he will run the trip. Suggested that will lead out the pack and peak too soon. Only time will tell….
• Chez – The true hard nut of the Barry clan. Puts all the Barry boys to shame...Tequila anyone?
• Dave – The first of our Smiling Assassins. Apparently we won’t hear much from him until we hit double figures in Bintang's. I say better late then never.
• Ness – Recent pregnancy could stunt her chances but her return from bub one was absolutely spectacular. (Titanic...)
• Shane – An esteemed member of the Centurion club at the Munga Bar. Also a master of shenanigans. Place these two factors in the powder keg that is Bali and expect fireworks… High expectations from the author….
• Mandz – Will hold her own in this battle. Heard on the down low that she loves a brew.  Heading to the right place for that. Can go when challenged.
• Aunty Julie – Ex Bali local. Will enjoy watching everyone struggle on the Arak. That’s just cruel really!!!!!

Til next time punters!

Hards

Travel Lesson - Check your passport!

On our last flight to Bali we were ready to pull out of Brisbane airport when two young guys had to be removed from the flight. Unfortunately , they had just waited 6 hours for a delayed flight that they weren't allowed to catch.

You see, they had less than 6 months left on their passports until they expired. These days airlines aren't letting you take the risk of flying to a foreign country just to get shoved on the next plane home. They are denying passage to anyone without the appropriate amount of time remaining on your passport.

Now is a great time to double check the expiry dates of your documentation. If it expires between now and December 2012 - it might be a good idea to get a new one. We don't want to leave a man behind!

Stay informed - sign up!

Hi all,

We don't have a schedule for our blog updates but we don't want you to miss out on the important stuff!

If you look to the right of this page, you can enter your email address to be sent the information once we post. This may be particularly handy if you can't access our site on a regular basis but can check your emails.

So sign up and stay informed!

Booking - UPDATE

Hi all,

Thanks so much for the lovely feedback on your invites. Glad to hear they made it safely to you! Our travel agent has already had emails from many of you looking for indicative costs which is fantastic.

Here's some of the info that I can pass along;

• A superior room at the Pelangi (this is the one we've stayed in previously and is the most basic) has been quoted at $107 per night for 2 people, including breakfast. This is a brilliant group rate, on previous stays we've paid around $120 and all room rates in Bali increase 10%-15% year on year.        
• A superior room at The Breezes Resort costs $138 per room for 2 people including breakfast.             
• A superior interconnecting room which sleeps 4 including breakfast is $247 per night. Additional roll away beds are charged at $45 per night. There are 9 interconnecting rooms, we believe our group would need a maximum of 4 of these.
• Flights for May next year haven't been released by all airlines at the moment. Comparing the cost to flights later this year may not give you an accurate idea.
• Transfers are $12 per person one way. We would recommend not getting transfers. The cost to get a taxi from the airport to the Pelangi is $8 and you can fit 4 people plus luggage in the taxis.

Our advice at this stage is this; if you would like to, lock in your accommodation costs now. These costs will not change as Yvonne has secured group rates based on the hotel's 11/12 rates.

Wait on locking in your flights. All airlines will have plenty of sales between now and December so save yourself some $$$$ and hold off on these. You should easily be able to get an adult return fare for until $900.

Alternately, you could wait to book everything for a few more months, as we are!

If you're a family and looking to stay longer than the wedding week, we're currently looking into cheaper family options in Legian and Kuta. Stay tuned for further information.

The destination before the Destination!

Hi guys!
Glad you've found our little blog. Our intention with this was to create a central location for all information. This means that you won't be receiving a wedding invite that resembles 'War and Peace'!
A quick tour of the site before we start.

• Home - This will continually be updated with new ideas, First Timer Tips, trip updates and answers to any questions you've posed.
• Flights - We'll update this page with any great deals for flights that we find. With 3 airlines to choose from there will be plenty of sales between now and the end of the year. Of course, by going through travel agents, you may be able to score a great Flight/Accommodation package deal!
• Accommodation - This is probably the most pressing element once you decide if you'll be attending. May is NOT peak season and with an early Easter next year (April 6-9), we shouldn't have to deal with crowds. Each of the hotels selected have over 100 rooms so plenty of space for all of us! 
• Our Travel Agent - We've been working closely with a travel agent, Yvonne Shaw. Although located in Noosa Heads, Yvonne has been a big help to us in planning several of our overseas ventures. She is well versed in our wedding plans and ready to help you get a great deal.
• Suggested Itinerary - We've listed the parts of the trip that we know about as well as suggested itineraries for anyone unsure of how to plan their trip. This will be further updated as we go.
• Maps - On this page you'll find maps of Bali! We've also zoomed in to the area where all the recommended hotels are so you can see the proximity between them.
• Links - You can find links for any hotel, airline, restaurant or activity in Bali that we recommend on the site, provided of course that they have a site! We also have links to the well known Bali Travel Forum so you can see what other people are saying about your hotel or flight before you book it.  

While the wedding planning will certainly be enough to keep us busy, we want to make sure that you have what you need to plan your own Bali escape. So please enjoy your planning and as always, contact us on email to let us know if there's anything we've missed. Remember to keep up to date with any changes and updates we make to this site to subscribe by entering your email address in the box on the right. Feel free to comment away on anything you like to talk about as well by pressing the "comment" link on each post.