Bali was our second experience with Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO) and it was just as amazing as our first experience in Roatan. The great thing about renting vs. hotels for us, is the ability to prepare our own meals, saving us the cost of eating dinner at restaurants. When renting a home, it is crucial to factor in the cost of food. We were able to go to the market and pick up all of the food we would need for the week, as well as beverages. Since we were gone during the day, we also had to budget for eating at restaurants for lunch. It is important to have an idea of what you think you might spend on food, because it might be more budget-friendly to stay in an all-inclusive rather than rent. We did the math ahead of time, and the rental made more economic sense for us. We were definitely on a budget in Bali, but by buying our own food and alcohol, we were able to stay in a luxurious villa and not have to pull out the credit cards. It is also important to read the previous guests’ reviews of the property. We have fallen in love with several houses over the years, only to read unsavory reviews. Negative reviews range from the property not being as shown, to owners with less-than-ideal refund policies. As with anything, do your research. If renting a home is the most cost-effective option and you find the perfect rental, you will have a vacation unlike anything you have experienced. Our advice is always to explore the area you are vacation in and really try to immerse yourself in the culture. Renting a home is the perfect way to do this. You are living within the communities and the locals you meet have the potential to become life long Facebook friends, as is the case with us and Mendra, our driver. Since Bali, we have rented homes and we have done resorts. There is no wrong or right way to travel, but the one thing we always say about rentals is don’t knock it until you try it! Who knows, you might just open a whole new world of travel for yourself.
