Hi All!

I will be traveling to Bali in August, and I would love some help and your best thoughts and recommendations regarding my itinerary. I have thoroughly read through the posts about all of the prime properties in Indonesia, but I have some questions and topics I would like to run by everyone regarding my specific trip. I will be in Indonesia/Bali for 10 nights. This will be my first time in Indonesia, but I have traveled all over the world particularly in Europe and stayed in the best properties, so I have high expectations but I am certainly realistic.

I was also planning on flying to Jogyjakarta from Bali in order to experience Amanjiwo, and this very cultural area. Thougts? How many nights? I will be leaving Jogyjakarta and flying directly back to Singapore.

In Bali it seems travelers on this board think the Nusa Dua and Ubud, are very touristy and un Bali - like, can you elaborate please? How are the nice resorts - St. Regis, Four Seasons Sayan, Amandari affected?

In selecting my hotels I think I would want to be near the ocean for part of my stay, and in the jungle for the other part. Maybe Ocean for a few nights and Jungle for a few night in Bali - then fly to Amanjiwo?

The hotels that I have considered in the Bali area are: Amankila, St. Regis, Four Seasons Sayan (not Jimbaran), Alila Ulluawatu, Bulgari, Como Shambhala Estate, Amanusa.
- Anything else to consider? Any to definitely stay away from?
- What are the surrounding areas like? In terms of excursions and visits to authentic villages and areas will all the hotels offer about the same access?
- Would it be a good choice to stay a few nights on the ocean and then transfer inland.
- I have heard Alila has great design but lacks service - thoughts?
- Any other Amans that would be better than above.
* I do not golf but I do enjoy biking, hiking, outdoor excursions etc. I also like shopping and would love to check out the local goods.

The Four Seasons Sayan has an excellent promotion right now 4 for 3, say maybe I would stay there, and then head to Amankila for a few nights and then to Amanjiwo? From what I have read Jogyjakarta is a must, so I think Amanjiwo needs to be on the list, but let me know if you think otherwise. Some say the service at Sayan is shaky - is this true? If I did 4 nights at Sayan 2 at Amankila, and 4 at Amanjiwo would that be good, or should I switch some?

As you can see I have a lot of considerations to make. I tried to organize as best I could and I look forward to your replies.