This was posted 11 years 10 months 4 days ago, and might be an out-dated deal.

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7 Night Bali Accomm for 2 Adults + 2 Kids for Just $249 (+ $30 Booking Fee) - 2 Years to Travel!

34
7 Night Bali Accomm for 2 Adults + 2 Kids for Just $249 (+ $30 Booking Fee) - 2 Years to Travel!
Go to Deal
Store RepLikOala Australia on 18/01/2013 - 08:43 ikoala.com.au (475 clicks)
Last edited 18/01/2013 - 10:45

Bali Holiday! Get your accommodation voucher right here! You get 7 nights for 2 Adults and Up to 2 Kids under 5 years at a tropical retreat (Medewi Bay Retreat) for only $249 + $30 Booking fee! Valid for travel within 2 years with No Block Out Periods!

VIEW THE OFFER ONLINE
http://www.ikoala.com.au/index.php/2-adults-2-kids-stay-7-lu…

WHAT YOU GET

7 x Nights at the Medewi Bay Retreat $249
Stay in the Beautiful New Hibiscus Villa’s
Perfect for 2 Adults or 2 Adults and UP to 2 Children aged 5 or under!
Lush Tropical Gardens Featuring Large Swimming Pool
On-site Restaurant with Italian, Western & Local Cuisines
Located just 2 1/2 Hours From Airport according to Google maps
Offer Valid for 2 Years with No Blackout Periods!
Buy UP to 4 Vouchers to Stay Additional Weeks!

Close to World-class Surfing Spot, Cascading Waterfalls, Dolphin Watching, Snorkelling, Hot Springs and Beautiful Village with Rice and Coconut Plantations

Spacious bedrooms with living and dining areas, a fully-equipped kitchen with microwave, private toilet and bath. Each villa has cable TV and is air conditioned, room luxuries, Internet and laundry and dry cleaning is available. Some have a veranda or balcony.

CONDITIONS

Cannot be redeemed for cash
Subject to availability.
$30 booking fee payable to PVB group at time of booking your accommodation
Flights are not included in this offer.
$249.00 is valid for 1 to 2 adults or Valid for 2 adults and UP to two children under the age of 5 years.
You can buy UP to 4 vouchers and stay additional nights / up to 4 weeks!
Vouchers are fully transferable, great for gifting!

For additional children under 5 or any children aged 5-16, a $60 surcharge applies (you are not required to pay this now, this is paid directly to the resort at the time of booking the accommodation)

VIEW THE OFFER ONLINE
http://www.ikoala.com.au/index.php/2-adults-2-kids-stay-7-lu…

Check out all the latest Hotels Coupons & Deals
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closed Comments

  • asa79 on 18/01/2013 - 08:48
    +2

    Including flights?

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 08:50

      Hi, no sorry this offer doesn't included flights. This information is also listed under the conditions for your convenience. Thank you

      • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 08:59
        +2

        Bali Holiday! Get your ticket right here! You get 7 nights for 2 Adults and Up to 2 Kids under 5 years at a seaside tropical retreat (Medewi Bay Retreat) for only $249 - the lot!

        Ticket? Ticket to/for what or to where exactly? Whenever I've stayed in a hotel or resort, I didn't need a ticket, however when getting on a plane…

        • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:01

          Hi, we have just updated the post wording to "accommodation voucher" which is what we referred to as "ticket" - thank you and hope this is more helpful.

      • ylangylang55 on 18/01/2013 - 09:57

        how much will be 3 adults and 2 kids- one over 5yrs old?

    • Bypass on 18/01/2013 - 08:56
      +4

      If it did include flights to bail for 4, and a week it bali then this would be the bargain since the word ozbargain was invented.

  • muncan on 18/01/2013 - 09:05
    -4

    Scathing reviews… Perhaps you should remove the TripAdvisor link?

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:07

      Ok, this has been removed however not sure how much value these can be sometimes but if you want it back on happy to do the same. thank you.

      • SBOB on 18/01/2013 - 09:53
        +3

        removed however not sure how much value these can be sometimes

        Tripadvisor normally provides a good indication of what places are like as long as you weed out the extreme reviews

    • Chris McMahon on 18/01/2013 - 09:21
      +14

      Perhaps you should remove the TripAdvisor link?

      Who's side are you on? I suggest everyone thinking of buying a voucher read the below reviews and let them speak for themselves.

      http://www.tripadvisor.com.au/Hotel_Review-g608491-d1198466-…

      • muncan on 18/01/2013 - 09:24

        Sorry I didn't have my sarcasm face on. Here it is… :-P

  • FXx on 18/01/2013 - 09:08
    +5

    The beach in that pic looks fantastic… it sure as hell isn't Bali though, I know that much. The place is a 3rd world toilet. Lovers of cheap alcohol and fake designer shopping need only bother.

    • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 09:12
      +2

      You've gotta be brave or stupid to drink alcoholic beverages over there that's for certain, unless you're immune to the devastating and potentially fatal effects of methanol.

      • ilikeit on 18/01/2013 - 09:20
        +3

        Drink beer from bottles. Bali can be amazing depending on your interests. Those in the know do not stay in town that's for sure. That being said this place looks rubbish.

      • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:21

        Are you stating that they do not sell branded alcohol we know and trust from major companies in Bali?

        • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 09:27
          +7

          No not at all, everyone knows that everything that you can buy in Bali with recognised branding is clearly legitimate and not fake in any way whatsoever, who would do such a thing?

        • R3b3l66 on 18/01/2013 - 09:33
          +7

          Rep - can you please confirm that the photo that you are using in your promo is in fact taken at the resort that is on offer?

        • kwaker on 18/01/2013 - 09:34
          +2

          strawman argument? seriously

        • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:44

          Please see the images of the deal on the deal page. These are the images supplied to us by the merchant. I wouldnt take too much notice of the first image as this is really very generic and doesnt show anything more than sand, beach and palms. The other images listed are the actual resort, the pool, room etc. Hope this helps.

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 09:52

          Are you stating that they do not sell branded alcohol we know and trust from major companies in Bali?

          I will give you the benifit of doubt and hope you are just nieve and not truly stupid and/or dishonest. It is highly likely that one would be purchasing, and drinking, drinks by the glass while in Bali. When these drinks include spirits there could be a considerable risk.

          Of course spirits purchased by the bottle (most likely as duty free) and opened and consumed in ones accommodation should not be suspect.

          I note that one has to be carefull anywhere. I used to purchase full bottles of spirits when out at some venues in Australia. Looking closely, in some cases, I could see that the seal had been broken and screwed back on. No doubt when replacing the expensive brand name spirit with some cheaper generic one.

        • SBOB on 18/01/2013 - 09:55
          +4

          Rep - can you please confirm that the photo that you are using in your promo is in fact taken at the resort that is on offer?

          considering the resort is over 1km from the beach (according to the map i found) I wouldnt be using it as a guide

        • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 10:15
          +3

          come on… it's just a 6,5 km walk away :D

        • R3b3l66 on 18/01/2013 - 10:30
          +2

          The only reason that I ask is that the same image can be found on iStock and states that it was taken at the Virgin Islands.

          *kwaker - pardon my ignorance but what is a "strawman argument"? I do not know what you are referring to.

        • R3b3l66 on 18/01/2013 - 10:33
          +2

          don't bother kwaker I just searched.

          I was not trying to make up a stupid argument by pointing out a pointless flaw of the opponent. I asked this question because I was ripped off previously by misleading images and I hate the fact that this still happens.

          My intention was to hold the supplier accountable for any images or references that they are using to sell their product.

        • Flyeroz on 18/01/2013 - 12:35
          +1

          Definitely not Bali beach photo.
          It's just a stock photo > http://www.istockphoto.com/stock-photo-15366527-chairs-under…

    • [Deactivated] on 18/01/2013 - 09:36
      +3

      If I can go get a heap of fake stuff that looks authentic to give to my wife and get drunk all while paying diddle that suits me. I just worry about safety especially for the family.

  • beaudilo on 18/01/2013 - 09:11
    +2

    Shouldn't the title include the $30 booking fee?

    • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 09:14
      +3

      The stated price should include that, afterall it's $249 - the lot!, isn't it?

      • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:21
        -1

        Sorry, this has been updated and "the lot" wording removed. Thank you

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:15

      Hi, this has been updated however due to character limits, the kids under 5yrs has been removed. This is listed in the detailed information. To confirm, the $30 fee is payable directly to the resort. Thank you

  • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 09:13
    +5

    Verging on a scam.

    Too many things to go wrong.

    Factor in the commission and the seaside tropical retreat gets $125 to $175 for a weeks accomadation.

    Add the reviews, and this deserve lots of negs so as to warn other OzBargainers.

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:19
      +2

      Hi, just to confirm - this is not a scam. The merchant PVB Group has several properties located in Bali and New Zealand. This offer has sold thousands in the past across various group-buying websites. PayPal payments are also accepted with ikOala which should give more reassurance that this is not a scam. Hope this information is helpful.

  • Xetrok on 18/01/2013 - 09:27
    +4

    Title is still kind of misleading. Please put accommodation somewhere in there.

    • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 09:31
      +2

      You know you're quite right, I hadn't taken much notice of the title until just now -

      7 Night Bali Holiday … 2 Years to Travel!

      It definitely sounds like it includes travel reading just the title, terribly misleading.

      • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:45

        Ok, this has been updated further and removed word Holiday and replaced with Accomm (for accommodation). Hope this is more suited for the listing. Thank you so much!

  • pyramid on 18/01/2013 - 09:31
    +3

    I'll not buy anything from IKOALA. I bought some necklace and earnings from them and it arrived after 3 weeks, in different parcel on different dates, one parcel from Melbourne and other from China.

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:36

      Hi, that would be correct as we have different merchants for each deal that runs. Some are located locally and some are located internationally. The delivery time frame is always stated on the Conditions Tab of the deal listing as well as on your vouchers. If you had any problems with your products, we are always more than happy to assist. Simply email our support team on [email protected] for assistance. We value your feedback and look forward to solving any issues you may have. Thank you

    • pmupsinep on 18/01/2013 - 09:36
      +5

      Half their deals on here are negged to shit, I wouldn't trust them with my accomodation plans in another country

      • pyramid on 18/01/2013 - 09:54
        +6

        I wouldn't trust them with my accomodation plans in "ANY" country.

        • dak52 on 19/01/2013 - 14:15
          +1

          +1

  • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 09:35
    +3

    Hi, just to confirm - this is not a scam.

    I said "verging on a scam".

    The merchant PVB Group has several properties located in Bali and New Zealand.

    So, what? This property is a time-share.

    This offer has sold thousands in the past across various group-buying websites.

    Another reason to be careful. There are warnings about being unable to find a suitable period to stay.

    PayPal payments are also accepted with ikOala which should give more reassurance that this is not a scam.

    Why would accepting payments via PayPal give any extra assurances about anything? Please explain?

    Hope this information is helpful.

    Nup, didn't help me at all.

    "Medewi Bay Retreat – is 2.5 hrs from Kuta – thats a long long way from any nightlife and western style places to go to. So it would be boring if you wanted the normal bali experience as you have 5 hours of travel each day."

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 09:41

      Thanks for your information.

      This is not verging on a scam. The property is not time share (well the offer is not set out as a time share deal).

      The fact that thousands have sold in the past shouldnt be a worry, this was some time ago and customers do have TWO FULL YEARS to travel without any block-out dates.

      Paypal offers buyer protection, so all we are trying to identify here is if this were a scam (or verging on one), you could raise a dispute with paypal however ikoala will ensure our customers are happy - 100% of the time and take extra care when selecting merchants to ensure a positive experience for all.

      Thank you so much!

      • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:02
        +4

        customers do have TWO FULL YEARS to travel without any block-out dates.

        Paypal offers buyer protection, so all we are trying to identify here is if this were a scam (or verging on one), you could raise a dispute with paypal

        Two years - PayPal has a 45 day limit on lodging a dispute. This is calculated from the purchase/payment date. Also, this would be classified as a service, so I am not sure that PayPal's buyer protection would apply anyway.

        however ikoala will ensure our customers are happy - 100% of the time and take extra care when selecting merchants to ensure a positive experience for all.

        Nice to know. However, means nothing without a stated guarantee. How about stating that payment will be refunded if a suitable reservation date can not be obtained?

        • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 10:48
          -1

          Hi, you are welcome to always see if your preferred dates are available before purchasing the offer. That should help ensure your preferred dates are available. Hope this is helpful. Thank you

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 12:32
          +1

          you are welcome to always see if your preferred dates are available before purchasing the offer. That should help ensure your preferred dates are available.

          How do I do that. Please post an exact link to where I can check for available dates, AND make a reservation (even if I have to pay a non-refundable deposit for the reservation - as I understand is the case).

          Also, as I asked before - How about stating that payment will be refunded if a suitable reservation date can not be obtained for a purchased voucher?

      • Chris McMahon on 18/01/2013 - 10:09
        +6

        Paypal offers buyer protection, so all we are trying to identify here is if this were a scam

        FYI: Paypal Buyer Protection "only applies to claims of 'item not received' Section 2.ii and only for "tangible, physical goods that can be shipped or delivered." (Section 3.a.)

        Also "PayPal may try to recover your payment from the seller, but recovery of your payment whether in whole or in part is not guaranteed."

        In fact services (like rental of a room) are specifically excluded in Section 3.a.

        In short, Paypal's buyer protection isn't much protection at all.

        I always use my credit card for anything over $20. You have a lot better consumer protection, by law, if something goes wrong.

    • baker bob on 18/01/2013 - 10:04
      +1

      "thats a long long way from any nightlife and WESTERN STYLE places to go to."

      "So it would be boring if you wanted the NORMAL BALI EXPERIENCE"

      Which one is it, do you want to have a wetern experience or a bali experience?

    • UncleRico on 18/01/2013 - 10:58
      -2

      Is it just me, or some of the comments challenging posted deals on this site starting to verge on the wrong side of petty?

      This deal certainly isn't for me, but for someone shopping at the value end of an overseas trip, it could be. Accordingly, rather than get into a series of pointless queries and semantics with the original poster, I'll move on to the next bargain. Life's too short campers!!!

      • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 11:23
        +2

        Is it just me, or some of the comments challenging posted deals on this site starting to verge on the wrong side of petty?

        a series of pointless queries and semantics with the original poster

        It is just you.

        The OP hiding behind a new user name as a REP is not a petty matter.

        Nor are:-

        it being described as "seaside" when it is not near the water

        a seaside picture of a Virgin Islands beach being used to promote this 'resort' in Bali that is not near a beach.

        the word "ticket" being used instead of the word "voucher"

        the false claim that as Payment was via PayPal it was safe (ie. ones purchase would be covered by PayPal's buyer protection)

        This deal certainly isn't for me, but for someone shopping at the value end of an overseas trip, it could be.

        No, too risky, and for those "shopping at the value end" $249 is a lot to lose.

        I'll move on to the next bargain

        Fine, but I do not believe that this offer is a 'bargain'.

        • UncleRico on 18/01/2013 - 11:48
          -4

          So don't buy it. If you feel that strongly, cast your neg vote and move on.

          And by the way, I never said it was a petty matter - only that some of your comments may have been verging on petty. I can see from your unerring insistence on complete accuracy above and below, that you'd appreciate the difference… ;-p

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 11:57
          +3

          cast your neg vote and move on.

          I never said it was a petty matter - only that some of your comments may have been verging on petty.

          You said -

          "Is it just me, or (are) some of the comments challenging posted deals on this site starting to verge on the wrong side of petty?"

          I took this to mean that you thought that some of the comments challenging this so called 'deal' were verging on petty. Where was I wrong?

          I then pointed out some of the challenges/comments on this particular posting that I thought were far from verging on petty.

          This how/why OzBargain 'works'. Offers/deals/bargains are posted and OzBargainers comment on them. This serves to promote the offer/deal/bargain OR to warn other OzBargainers of any pitfalls, misinformation, problems, etc. with the posting

        • UncleRico on 18/01/2013 - 14:39
          -3

          Well that's me told. In retrospect, I can't believe I suggested you may be spending too much time on this!

          I now accept that neither this post, nor your previous 18 regarding a product you have no intention of purchasing, infer that you may be a pedant or inclined towards pettiness.

          Thanks for clearing that up - man, was I way off target!

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 15:55
          +2

          I now accept that neither this post, nor your previous 18 regarding a product you have no intention of purchasing, infer that you may be a pedant or inclined towards pettiness.

          Thank you for what may be your version of an apology.

          If you read those 18 posts you will see that I have never been impolite or expressed any rudeness towards fellow OzBargainers. As you appear to be doing here ->

          Would you say you are more or less likely to purchase this deal than, say, make a donation to help find a cure for anal-retentiveness?

          I do not wish to assist you in promoting your little flame war. I will merely point out that you have no idea what my intentions may be, or may have been, regarding purchasing this accommodation package. I obviously went to some trouble in order to find out how to check for availability of accommodation.

          I may have had a 'bit of a go' at the OP/REP by suggesting he was naive or even stupid - but even this seems to be justified now, especially as his history on OzBargain has been revealed.

  • Chris McMahon on 18/01/2013 - 09:44
    +4

    I believe this is the resort on Google Maps. A fair distance from the beach, IMO.

    And here's the trip from the airport to the resort - 3.5 hours+, each way.

    • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:05
      +1

      And here's the trip from the airport to the resort - 3.5 hours+, each way.

      That is not allowing for delays due to accidents.

      There are reports that this road is badly maintained and has lots of traffic such as trucks. Leading to many accidents and delays. 4.5 hours was reported as the travel time in these cases.

      I note that this can happen anywhere. Last night I was at Marigold restaurant in Sydney and noted that it was not full, as it usually is - I was informed that it was fully booked, but that an accident on Sydney's Harbour Bridge meant that many diners could not reach the restaurant.

      • davidl2 on 18/01/2013 - 14:10
        -1

        oh no….accident and no one could get there….oh god….

        what if this happens with this deal? :-P

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 15:29
          +1

          oh no…. accident and no one could get there…. oh god….

          It seems that there is but one road, not wide, and with 'heavy' traffic (trucks as well as other vehicles).

          The accidents block (or at least partially block) the road and so delay other traffic. There were reports of the 3.5 hour trip being 4.5 hours due to this.

          One will still 'get there' eventually.

          One has to keep in mind that reports/reviews have stated that there are no nearby restaurants, cafes, etc. So, if one was going out for a meal, or returning from a meal or other excursion, or even returning to the airport to catch a flight, a long delay could be important.

          In reference to my comment regarding the Marigold Restaurant in Sydney. Obviously many customers could get there - including most of my party. We came from Sydney's East and West. However, it must have been customers coming from the North of Sydney who could not 'make it' for their bookings.

          According to today's news reports, the Harbour crossing was blocked for hours as, unfortunately, there were people injured. My son made the first comment, as he noticed far fewer people there for a Thursday. We have dinner there almost every Thursday evening.

    • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 10:08
      +4

      i wouldn't call that retreat "seaside" !

  • Brick50 on 18/01/2013 - 09:50
    +2

    7 nights accomodation has been $225 before. So this isn't the best deal

    • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:11
      +1

      7 nights accomodation has been $225 before. So this isn't the best deal

      I saw several references to deals at $199 as well. Yet, they still left early (after 5 days) due to the remoteness of the accommodation.

  • Timski on 18/01/2013 - 09:57
    +2

    Good deal, only problem is you have to go to Bali.

    • foobar on 18/01/2013 - 10:02

      Indeed, there's boatloads of them trying to get away from the place and yet we pay to holiday there?

      • muzzamo on 18/01/2013 - 11:00
        +2

        Really? I didn't know Australia had a problem with Balinese boat people.

        I'm guessing you haven't been there and/or are fairly ignorant.

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 14:32
          +1

          foobar - "Indeed, there's boatloads of them trying to get away from the place and yet we pay to holiday there?"

          muzzamo
          I didn't know Australia had a problem with Balinese boat people.

          As the island of Bali is part of Indonesia I thought it was quite clear that foobar was referring to boatloads of 'people' trying to get away from Indonesia. Granted, those people (other than captains and crews) are not Indonesians, nor Balinese.

  • flashi007 on 18/01/2013 - 10:12
    +4

    Credit to the rep who seems to be answering questions as quickly as they are being asked

    • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:16
      -1

      Credit to the rep who seems to be answering questions as quickly as they are being asked

      Yes, it was his first post. So he is in there still trying.

      I am just a bit concerned that he appears to be a bit nieve about these so called 'deals' or 'bargains'. As he is supposedly in the business, he should know about the tricks and pitfalls.

    • kwaker on 18/01/2013 - 10:17
      +1

      i think its more being defensive though

      • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:40
        +2

        I think its more being defensive though

        In the light of the further information being revealed, such as his previous identity on OzBargain, I would say devious instead of defensive.

    • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 10:22
      +2

      Agree, but the rep's prompt replies is the only positive thing about this "deal"

  • baker bob on 18/01/2013 - 10:20

    The problem is that people see the word resort/retreat and expect a resort like the one that they usually pay thousands of dollars for.

    In Asia, the words used to describe accomodation are used very loosely, we stayed in a "Resort" in Malaysia that was basically 1 bedroom, a wet room and no amenities.

    The negative reviews on TA are from people who are missing their first world comforts and expecting them for $35 a night for 2 people, thats how much a hostel costs in a lot of Asia.

    I would never buy this deal as hanging out with toursists when I travel isn't my thing but if i did buy it, I certainly wouldn't be expecting club med as many negative reviewers seem to do.

  • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 10:33
    +3

    Dear rep,

    As it has now been established that this accommodation is far from any beach/sea/ocean (6.5kn?). Would you please further edit the description so as to remove "at a seaside tropical retreat"?

    Thank you.

    • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 10:46

      Hi, the advertisement has been updated as per requested. Thank You

    • [Deactivated] on 18/01/2013 - 10:51
      +1

      Google seems to have some unverified links to the resort.

      Rep, can you confirm the actual distance to the seaside?

      • Store RepikOala Australia @ ikOala.com.au on 18/01/2013 - 10:59

        Hi, we have submitted the question to the merchant. As soon as we get a response we will update it here for everyone. Thank you

    • UncleRico on 18/01/2013 - 11:05
      +1

      Out of interest A3A, are you contemplating buying this deal, or just being a pedant? If it's verging on the latter, I think you've made your point.

      If the deal doesn't appeal to you, it just might be time to move along and just let it go…

      • bobolo on 18/01/2013 - 11:30

        I know right…some people need a life

        for the price, this deal has its merits albeit some misleading wording which has since been rectified

        • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 12:59
          +2

          misleading wording has not been rectified yet, according to google maps time to/from airport is 3,5 hours and not 2,5 , maybe the REP can remove this info too from the description

      • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 12:53
        +6

        i disagree, A3A has the right to express his opinion/worries about this deal! IMHO he has been more constructive than anyone else in here(REP included). No matter if he is a potentional buyer or not!

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 13:28
          +3

          A3A has the right to express his opinion/worries about this deal! IMHO he has been more constructive than anyone else in here(REP included).

          Wow! Thanks for that.

          No matter if he is a potential buyer or not!

          Well, I am a 'potential' buyer. We all are really.

          I don't care that the place is so far away from anything else - restaurants, attractions, safe beaches, etc. After all, I can always hire a car or bike with the money I am saving (allowing for that perhaps dangerous road).

          However, this is a worry -

          "No cancellations, refunds or exchanges are available with this offer.

          WHEN YOU RECIEVE YOUR IKOALA COUPON, YOU MUST FOLLOW THE REDEMPTION PROCESS (listed on ikOala coupon) TO RECIEVE YOUR ACTUAL ACCOMMODATION VOUCHER FROM THE MERCHANT. PLEASE DO THIS AS SOON AS YOU GET YOUR COUPON FROM IKOALA"

          It seems that there may be no way to check for available dates BEFORE buying a voucher - and then no way to get a refund if there is no suitable date.

          Although the REP stated -

          you are welcome to always (sic) see if your preferred dates are available before purchasing the offer. That should help ensure your preferred dates are available.

          And I then asked him -

          "How do I do that. Please post an exact link to where I can check for available dates, AND make a reservation (even if I have to pay a non-refundable deposit for the reservation - as I understand is the case)."

          He has not replied to this question.

          Also, as I asked before -

          "How about stating that payment will be refunded if a suitable reservation date can not be obtained for a purchased voucher?"

          He has not replied to that either.

          I am concerned that the rep has appeared to have 'gone to ground'.

        • UncleRico on 18/01/2013 - 14:50
          -3

          Gone to ground? I think he's shown remarkable willingness to answer and address an Increasingly tenuous succession of issues raised by proverbial tyre-kickers. I'm sure he'll be back to answer other "potential customer's" questions as soon as he's sourced some more panadol…

          I must admit to still being confused by your interest in this thread. Would you say you are more or less likely to purchase this deal than, say, make a donation to help find a cure for anal-retentiveness?

        • GregFiona on 18/01/2013 - 15:01
          +2

          are you having a bad day PiperTard, or it's just the heat? :)
          BTW i'm willing to donate if this is what you suffer from :D

        • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 15:15
          +3

          Gone to ground?

          Yes, that is correct.

          I think he's shown remarkable willingness to answer and address an Increasingly tenuous succession of issues raised by proverbial tyre-kickers.

          Hardly tenuous (very weak or slight). Many of the issues raised by fellow OzBargainers the REP has addressed by editing his original post. So, he found them to be important enough.

          However, others he has not addressed. Such as a money back guarantee.

          One, which I consider to be very important, was 'addressed' not by the REP but by myself. See below…

          Here is the only way, I could discover, to check for available dates BEFORE purchasing a coupon from ikoala.

          Go to http://www.dreamholiday4u.com.au/contact-us/

          Fill in the form - giving the name of the accommodation and some dates that would be suitable for you.

          Wait for their reply.

          Note that even if they say your preferred date is available, you still do not have a reservation until after you:-

          1) purchase a coupon,
          2) receive the coupon,
          3) follow the redemption process listed on the ikOala coupon,
          4) receive your actual accommodation voucher,
          5) make a reservation using the voucher number, and
          6) pay the $30 reservation fee.

          It took some searching and a call to Queensland to get this info.
          Hope it helps other potential buyers.

  • bhm133 on 18/01/2013 - 11:06
    +1

    Years ago when I lived in Yogya I rode my motorbike to Bali. I passed through this area and have to say that anything out west is a bit if a hole. No longer Bali but an extension of East Java.

    Just saying that I would rather stay in banyuwangi.

  • Davros on 18/01/2013 - 11:08
    +2

    Google map link https://maps.google.com.au/maps?q=Medewi+Bay+Retreat&hl=en&l…
    "B" matches up with location on agoda
    Worth dragging yellow man across to look at photos of dark sand and rough wave condition beach

  • xtanda on 18/01/2013 - 11:37
    +7

    Hi, I am originally from Indonesia but now an Aussie for 12 years.
    I now Bali area quite well (more than 10 visits as domestic tourist)

    I concur what bhm13 mentioned above - the west part of Bali is not fully developed as good as Kuta and surrounding. If you want a bit further from the noise, the best place is Ubud area.

    But more importantly, Bali is very prominent with "2 tier" pricing. This is quite official as if you go to tourist destination (entry fee), they charge you different amount whether you are a local or a foreigner ("tamu" or "bule")

    SO, while 7 days for $249 is a bargain for Australian standard, if you just walk in and bargain (yes, you can bargain on receptionist there, even on 4 star hotels) probably you can get as cheap as Rp 150000 per night (that's around AU$15) and end up about $100 for the whole week. You just need your trusted local to make a call and probably pay for you.

    Just a tip. Hope this helps

  • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 14:06
    +6

    OK - here is the only way, I could discover, to check for available dates BEFORE purchasing a coupon from ikoala.

    Go to http://www.dreamholiday4u.com.au/contact-us/

    Fill in the form - giving the name of the accommodation and some dates that would be suitable for you.

    Wait for their reply.

    Note that even if they say your preferred date is available, you still do not have a reservation until after you:-

    1) purchase a coupon,
    2) receive the coupon,
    3) follow the redemption process listed on the ikOala coupon,
    4) receive your actual accommodation voucher,
    5) make a reservation, and
    6) pay the $30 reservation fee.

    It took some searching and a call to Queensland to get this info.
    Hope it helps other potential buyers.

  • cvas on 18/01/2013 - 17:57
    +4

    I think A3Australia is totally justified.

    ozbargain is meant to be for bargains, not a free forum to advertise.

    • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 18:11
      +3

      I think A3Australia is totally justified.

      ozbargain is meant to be for bargains, not a free forum to advertise.

      Thanks for the support cvas.

      After reading the posts at the link provided by foobar (above), I am very surprised that the REP was alleging that PayPal payment offered any kind of protection.

      It is now quite clear that ikoala does not provide any items, or even services, at all. They sell an intangible - a coupon sent by email. This coupon then leads to a voucher, the voucher is used to obtain the service or item. There is no PayPal buyer protection for intangibles.

    • Flyeroz on 18/01/2013 - 18:51
      +5

      I agree.
      131 sold - I bet there will be many disappointed people…
      The stock photo of the beach is deceptive - that area is nothing like it!
      "Located just 2 1/2 Hours From Airport according to Google maps" - the way it is worded it seems like a plus. Trust me - you do not want to travel for 2 1/2 hours after getting out of the airport, especially if it's your first time in Bali.
      Most people would expect Bali they see on TV or hear about - Kuta, Legian etc
      It is way too expensive for that area, so IMHO not a bargain. That area is FAR from it.
      Good on you A3Australia - thanks to you at least some people will take some time to do a bit of research before wasting their money.

      • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 19:24
        +3

        The stock photo of the beach is deceptive - that area is nothing like it!

        Yes, because the 'stock' picture shows a beach in the Virgin Islands.

        "Located just 2 1/2 Hours From Airport according to Google maps" - the way it is worded it seems like a plus. Trust me - you do not want to travel for 2 1/2 hours after getting out of the airport, especially if it's your first time in Bali.

        According to Google, and an online review or two, it is actually 3.5 hours (as long as there are no traffic delays due to accidents).

        Most people would expect Bali they see on TV or hear about - Kuta, Legian etc. That area is FAR from it. It is way too expensive for that area, so IMHO not a bargain.

        It seems that everyone has to take their 'cut'. Not much left of the $279 after ikoala, Dream, and the PVB Group take their shares.

  • Davros on 18/01/2013 - 19:40
    +1

    Have a look at airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/s/Bali--Indonesia
    Private Bali properties that stack up a lot better than this place

  • A3Australia on 18/01/2013 - 21:03
    +1

    From http://www.productreview.com.au/p/ikoala.html

    "I paid $349 for a 7 nights stay in Bali to save money on our honeymoon!

    Without reading the conditions, seems there were special requirements that had to be made an only selected people were accepted.

    For having genuinely making a mistake it cost me over a $100 booking fee, for a deal that I was rejected from!

    It's funny how they are quick to take your money first, and Then have you fill out the application form hoping you would not be eligible, then Bam that's easy moneys for them!!
    The most frustrating part is, it's been over 3wks an I have not seen the rest of my money refunded!!
    I've spent wks of countless calls an emails with only one response!

    They had the time to delete every single one of my posts on Facebook but not get back to any emails or just refund my money! There were also other customers leaving negative comments also an they manage to remove all there's as well!
    Don't know why they have a 1800 number to call when it has never Once been answered by anyone!

    The booking company which u make the reservation through at dreamholidays4u ate just as rude! They proceeded to tell me they had no compassion for my situation an continued to distance themselves from it!

    Both these companies ikoala
    an dreamholidays4u are dreadful!
    They rely on people honest mistakes so wrip the benefits!
    But worst not give back what is rightfully there's!
    I now have to go through the draining process of getting the banks involved!

    Never Again iKoala.com.au!"

    In their defense, an ikoala rep did reply - I think it must have been Ben, as it does not 'read' as being Sam (the ikoala REP on OzBargain).

    "We are very sorry to read this post. ikOala lists all the conditions of the deals upfront and on the website. We also (with these deals in particular) ask you to read the conditions before making your purchase.

    The conditions section of the deal lists all the eligibility criteria. It also lists that a booking and admin fee will apply if you do not meet the criteria.

    We are not here to take your money and run, in actual fact we are and have always been here to assist our customers and merchants.

    It is so important to read conditions before buying to ensure situations like these do not occur. This should apply to anything you buy online and with any company.

    Every deal is different and come from different merchants and would have different conditions.

    If you are still completely unhappy, then we want to make it right. Please email us at [email protected] and attention to MANAGEMENT for immediate assistance.

    Thank you
    ikOala Team"

  • Davros on 19/01/2013 - 08:16

    "only selected people were accepted"

    Explain that further please.

    • muncan on 19/01/2013 - 10:00
      +1

      I suspect that on the form where it says "Do not write below this line"
      they wrote "OK".

      • A3Australia on 19/01/2013 - 12:12
        +1

        I suspect that on the form where it says "Do not write below this line" they wrote "OK".

        I love this!

    • A3Australia on 19/01/2013 - 12:15
      +1

      "only selected people were accepted"
      Explain that further please.

      You will have to ask the ikoala rep here on OzBargain,
      or go to http://www.productreview.com.au/p/ikoala.html
      and ask there.

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