Family Trip to Bali Turns into a Holiday Nightmare for Family of 18
Bali, Indonesia—What was anticipated to be an unforgettable family vacation in Bali during the Christmas of 2022 quickly devolved into a tumultuous experience marked by disagreements and health misfortunes. For one family, the journey was fraught with challenges that made them reconsider the idea of planning international trips with extended family in the future.
Planning the Trip: An Early Sign of Trouble
The dream of a grand family holiday began six months prior when the extended family of 18 decided to venture to Bali, straying from their usual Christmas reunion on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. Despite their previous successful trips, the prospect of accommodating a large group proved to be more complex than anticipated.
"Booking accommodations was a complete fiasco and should have been a red flag," remarked an unnamed family member. The planning process revealed a split in preferences—some relatives sought luxury resort-style accommodations, complete with pools and children’s clubs, while others favored a more authentic Balinese experience with budget-friendly lodging. Ultimately, after much debate in their family WhatsApp group, a compromise was reached, resulting in their stay across three separate hotels over the course of 12 nights.
The Arrival: High Hopes Dashed by Reality
Upon touching down at Denpasar International Airport, excitement filled the air. With the youngest family member being just four months old and the oldest at 78 years, there was a sense of togetherness. However, this enthusiasm quickly waned as the group settled into the first resort. Clashing opinions emerged regarding meal options, creating rifts among the family.
Some preferred dining at the resort or in upscale dining scenarios in areas like Seminyak, known for its luxury offerings. Meanwhile, budget-conscious family members longed for the simplicity of local warungs. The disagreements over mealtime not only drained family morale but also prompted one member to retreat in frustration and order room service instead.
Festive Challenges: Gifts and Logistics
Adding to the woes of the vacation was the seasonal celebration. With five families exchanging Christmas gifts, the logistics quickly became overwhelming. Managing the multitude of presents created significant baggage issues as members found themselves unable to fit everything into their suitcases. Some gifts were sent back to Australia with relatives to alleviate the overflow, but they now remain untouched at their relatives’ home.
The Ultimate Misfortune: Health Woes Ruin the Holiday Spirit
Perhaps the most nefarious challenge faced by the family was the onset of "Bali belly," an unwelcome digestive condition that struck nearly all members. The ordeal began with the family patriarch succumbing to severe symptoms on day three of the trip. As a cruel twist of fate, the gastrointestinal distress spread rapidly, leaving only three of the 18 unscathed.
On Christmas Eve, a carefully planned seafood buffet was marred when one family member began showing symptoms, leading to a lackluster holiday celebration. The health issues reached a desolate peak when, on Christmas Day, the youngest family member started experiencing distressing symptoms poolside.
"I can’t describe the feeling of waking up ill on Boxing Day and facing the reality of my situation," one family member lamented about their experience. “It was a real low point.”
Reflections on Family Holidays: Looking Forward
As the family at last prepared to depart Bali, the sentiment amongst many was a longing for solitude and relaxation—a stark contrast to the chaotic conditions they had endured. The tribulations faced during this expansive holiday have prompted a reconsideration of future family travel.
For now, the plan is to confine large family gatherings to their parent’s house in Queensland and save the international adventures for their immediate family of five. As one member summed it up, "If I had my time again, I probably wouldn’t sign up for it."
In light of their experiences, this family’s Bali trip serves as a cautionary tale for large group vacations, emphasizing the importance of compatibility, organization, and consideration in planning.
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