I agree with letiole. Wayan is a fabulous driver. He knows where to go, both in terms of major tourist attractions and quiet side roads. He knows the island thoroughly, and can knows where to take you for any activity that appeals, whether it is hiking, shopping, eating, sightseeing, or beaches.

Wayan lives outside Ubud. If you were staying in Ubud, his rate would be less. But he has a two hour drive to the south of the island, and two hours back - so it is an issue of time and gas (as letiole has mentioned).

If you need a third recommendation for Wayan Sueta- here it is! He is a wonderful guide and driver and loves to share his culture. His email saddened me.

I have been thinking about it a lot, and i think we are still going. I live in new york and was there at 9-11 and lived through it all. I would like to suppor the people of Bali as well.

Going to Bali
 

Rajnyc,

My wife and I also have thought it over and are going to Bali Nov. 12-18 (as part of a broader trip to Asia).

As JPATOKAL put it (approximately) on another forum, the odds of being struck by a car on a blind curve, or of dying of clogged arteries, are infinitely greater than those of being struck by a bomb. It's impossible for most of us to do the math, but the statistics are pretty compelling. [Statistics, of course, don't make compelling CNN pictures.]

I really appreciate the information gleaned from these forums, without which, as an example, I might never have contacted Wayan Sueta. Thanks all.

Going to bali in nov/dec too, had a friend who was just near the blast, but she decided to stay, staying at www.damai.com which doesn't seem to be in "tourist haven" so not gona be overly worried.

i contacted wayan and we are going to use him as well. I am happy we are able to help the locals.

I will also add my high praise of Wayan Sueta. He is the best and his knowledge of Bali sights and temples can't be beat.

I also have plans to visit Bali in 2006 and will NOT be changing them. The people of Bali are wounderful and our support by our visits is very important to their economy. Yes, large hotel changes own many of the properties but the jobs provided are local and I prefer to eat at local restaurants than the hotels. Even if you use a taxi its a better deal.