Family Vacation in Bali: An Epic Trip Turned into a Bickering Mess
What was originally planned as a grand family vacation to Bali has turned into a memorable saga of bickering, logistical challenges, and unfortunate illnesses. The experience, intended to be an exciting holiday adventure with 18 family members, quickly morphed into a struggle marked by disagreements and unexpected hurdles.
Planning Challenges
The journey began long before the family touched down in Bali; the planning phase alone proved to be a significant source of contention. For six long months, family members debated and bickered over accommodations, a clear indication that the group dynamic might face challenges throughout the trip.
While some sought luxury resort-style settings complete with kids’ clubs and swim-up bars, others leaned toward more budget-friendly options that reflected authentic Balinese culture. After much deliberation, a compromise was reached: the family would split their 12-night stay among three different hotels. This decision, although not ideal, managed to appease the diverse preferences within the group.
Arrival and Initial Discontent
On the eagerly anticipated day of arrival, excitement buzzed as the family touched down at Denpasar International Airport, with members ranging from their youngest, just four months old, to the eldest at 78. However, the thrill quickly dissipated upon reaching the first resort.
The division between those looking to enjoy an affordable getaway and those wishing to indulge in fine dining split the group further. Families with larger budgets favored eating at the resort and upscale restaurants in Seminyak, known for its luxury and sophisticated dining options. Conversely, budget-conscious members argued for meals at local warungs, small traditional Balinese restaurants that serve tasty and inexpensive fare.
This nightly debate about dining options escalated tensions, leaving some family members overwhelmed by the atmosphere and yearning for the escape of room service.
The Christmas Gift Dilemma
Adding another layer of complexity to the trip was the issue of Christmas gift exchanges. With five families celebrating the holiday together, the number of gifts to transport became a logistical nightmare. Struggling to fit all the presents into their luggage, the family ended up sending some gifts home with relatives who had traveled from another state, only for the items to languish at their parents’ house.
The Unwelcome Illness
Despite the difficulties faced during the trip, the ultimate challenge came in the form of a widespread illness. Dubbed ‘Bali belly,’ this condition took hold of 15 out of 18 family members, starting with the eldest, who became ill just three days in.
The group had planned a festive seafood buffet dinner for Christmas Eve, but by the time it arrived, gastro symptoms had begun to take a toll on participants. The festive atmosphere that should have been filled with laughter and joy quickly turned somber. By Christmas Day, it was the youngest member who fell victim to the illness, leaving parents to care for their baby while grappling with their own discomfort.
The final straw came for one family member after a night of brushing his teeth ended in an unfortunate realization, marking a particularly low point of the vacation.
Looking Ahead
As the family prepared to head home from Bali, the consensus became clear: the vacation had not brought the relaxation and joy they had all hoped for. Reflecting on the experience, the author noted a clear preference to reserve international travels for immediate family trips, suggesting that future family gatherings remain closer to home at their parents’ house in Queensland, Australia.
This tale serves as a humorous reminder of the challenges that can arise from group travel, particularly for large family gatherings, and reinforces the importance of clearly defined expectations and compromise.
For families considering similar ventures, it appears that a well-planned trip may require not just attention to accommodations and activities but also a solid plan for navigating diverse preferences and potential obstacles along the way.
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