Saturday, May 23, 2009

Bali Videos Reveal New Ways To See This Tropical Island

We did read the Bali guide books, seen all the web sites, have been to travel discussion forums and now it's time to watch some actual videos that say more than 5000 words.

Not all web pages about Bali are of promotional nature, there are certainly exceptions that stand above the fold and have personal commentary and recommendations. That would be called professional advice given by longtime professionals that value the wellbeing of their clients above all the short sighted quick sale. That's how travel relationships should be in the ideal case. But what about the reliability of what other people put up on the Internet as an information resource?

That is the current wave of user generated content in the form of 'actual experience' videos, created during vacations and then put online for the world to see. The good thing is that a great percentage of these are real life stories and totally unbiased. Done by real people filming their own island impressions, travel excursions and all the worthwhile moments they had here while visiting the dream island of Bali.

Now these videos are all collected and presented on a new site dedicated to videos about everything related to Bali as a destination. Now we can see the waves, watch the sunsets and meet some of the local folks in their daily walk of life.

It's not just memorable 'heart candy' for the people that already have been there, and probably get emotional while watching some of these videos. However that's also most interesting for people that plan to go there in the future and just want to see how all the different destinations on the island look like in real life. There is a search engine included so you can find related videos for all the great spots of Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Ubud and Kuta beach. Not to forget Legian beach and Seminyak, the true hotspots on the island.

Unbelievable good value to get some free peek previews of some of the up market Bali villas and resorts as well. And all that without leaving the comfy seat, just yet. Even for us 'Bali experts' we find something new here we didn't know exists, as many people made some great videos of some of the rare and unknown places of Bali. Of course some things may shock you, when watching the crowds on some beaches dancing like on any other party island of the Ibiza style. But that's not the real Bali as we all know, many other videos can clearly show you that.

Travel to Bali is much easier planned with some basic information where to go and where to stay. There are some huge differences in resorts and if you're a "Legian" type of person you might maybe not get happy staying anywhere in Nusa Dua, and vice versa. So here is where the true value of research based on actual video footage comes in most handy.

For all the Bali lovers out there it's of course an endless source of memories and fun to watch several thousands of Bali videos over and over again. Since it's free there are no restrictions. It makes sense however to know how to save these videos to your computer, so you can keep the ones you like for later reference or collection. Best to get all the new ones that people just made a moment ago as well, so it's a good idea to bookmark that web site and come back and check for frequent updates, whenever you are looking for some sunny inspiration. Great to have such a resource and a virtually endless supply of new videos full of sunshine and the 'smells of the ocean'. So all I can say is "See Bali Now - and watch all the free Bali Videos", even we here in Bali have endless fun watching these. We had no idea what some people are doing while they are here.....

Gateways Of Bali

Bali is a tiny island among some 13,000 islands of a large archipelago stretching from Sabang (the West border) to Merauke in West Papua (the East border). Due to its location in the middle of southern series of islands of this country it has several ports of entry.

Before visiting Bali, some visitors may prefer to start their journey in the country's capital, Jakarta and take an overland tour by bus along the Java Island. If you have time and want to enjoy the amazing culture and panorama of the island. There are many places to discover, for example ancient Borobudur and Prambanan Temples, magic crater of Bromo and so many others. Then cross the Bali strait by ferry at Ketapang (East Java) to Gilimanuk (West Bali).

Other alternatives are to take a cruise. Bali is frequently chosen as a stopover for cruise lines. Prior to continuing to the next destination, passengers take the opportunity to have a sight seeing on this island. Padangbay and Benoa harbor are two main harbors for that. Padangbai is located in the Karangasem regency, Eastern Bali. It connects the island to Lembar in Lombok Island. While Benoa harbor is located on the southern Bali tip (inter island and international gateway). Other than used as tourism port, Benoa harbor is also used for anchorage of fishing vessels.

Ngurah Rai International airport is the airport located in southern Bali, in Tuban exactly. Named after I Gusti Ngurah Rai, a hero of Bali that led the troops against the Dutch in 1946. It becomes the main international entrance for tourists that visit Bali. During the past few years the number of visitors arrival through the airport tended to increase, after the bomb blast at Kuta it dropped in a big way, now recovering once again.

The airport becomes an important hub for the next destinations beyond Bali. It connects flights to Jogjakarta for the destination of one of the seven worlds' wonder of Borobudur and its neighboring Prambanan temples. Visitors can buy one day tours where they already return to Bali in the afternoon. Or they may take one night stay in Jogja and return to Bali on the next day. The airport also connects some cities in East Indonesia like Mataram in Lombok Island, Kupang in East Nusa Tenggara and Makassar in South Celebes.

Visitors who would like to enjoy and explore the jewels of eastern destinations may choose the next island of Lombok by air or sea, using a speed jetfoil boat on the route Benoa to Lembar. Lombok Island is famous for its stunning coastal mountain scenes, lots of undeveloped nature, Taliwang food (crispy chicken) and pottery. One of the many trips you can plan while having Bali as your main destination that has air connections to all main Asian and international airports.

Bali Hotels Or Bali Villas

One says that traveling is not an exact science, to combine between their cultures, traditions, countries and different languages sometimes are not easy. Trust an expert, contact your reputable travel agent may be important.

Most people come to Bali want to see and enjoy its arts and cultures, its fabulous nature’s views, its nice beaches, its friendly people, for pure relaxation and some for business and stay on. Whatever is one’s aim, the accommodation is one of the most important aspects in order to get the comforts and memorable holiday.

There are a myriad of accommodations to choose from in Bali, from five-star luxury Bali hotels or Bali Villas to budget one just a few dollars a night. The main tourist hub is in the southern triangle formed by Sanur, Kuta and Dusa Dua. For those who prefer the comforts of home and the relaxation of the beach, this is a good starting place. Other beach areas are Lovina in the north, Candi Dasa in the east and Canggu and Yeh Gangga in the west.

If you are a sun’s lover, then stay at Kuta (a wild and crazy kind of place) or its quieter sister beaches Legian and Seminyak up the road, Candi Dasa on the east coast, Sanur and Nusa Dua in the south or Lovina in the north. If you are a culture’s lover, then stay in Ubud in central Bali.

Thus for your accommodation what do you prefer Bali Hotels or Bali Villas? Both hotels and villas shall give you some advantages. For those who want a hotel that has a nice beach front or hotel by the sea or a room that facing the ocean, Bali Hotel is an easier choice, because most of luxury Bali Hotels that line the coast of Bali. There are plentiful of hotels either in building style or in Balinese style bungalow, both offer modern comports and excellent service, but without maximum privacy. Most Bali Hotels have one or more restaurants and bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisines. Also sports and Spa facilities are usually available like tennis, billiards, squash, fitness center, games room, and some with golf course.

For those who want to enjoy a total privacy and perhaps a perfect Balinese lifestyle, stay at a private villa is a right choice. One can enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical bathrooms to dream about, spacious living and dining areas and spacious terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool, and well-trained house staff to take care of everything around the clock. And you’ll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.

Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.

You can even save up to 50% - 70% of meals and drinks if you stay at a private villa with full furnished kitchen if you decide a self-service vacation. Order your groceries, favorite snacks and drinks to be brought for you at the local supermarket or wine wholesaler. You’ll be surprised at the low cost when you pay the same prices as locals do. Or just ask the villa manager to do so, and a trained cook (with reasonable extra cost) to prepare you delicious meals or any special diet. And also Bali’s 21% tax & service charge and airport transfer is included on villa rental.

There are numbers of luxury villas at Bali’s hotels & resorts. If you prefer a hotel environment and services and don’t mind to pay inflated prices for accommodation and food & beverages, you can also book some villa-like accommodation at one of luxury Bali’s hotels through a reliable travel agent and still enjoy savings and extra benefits.

So, do not hesitate to choose the island of Bali in Indonesia for your memorable holiday. Bali is the most enchanting travel destination in the world, its year-round pleasant climate, its friendly people; its fabulous nature’s views, its nice beach and the absence of major criminal activities guarantee a completely relaxing stay. Because of the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety of attractions, Bali has become for many experienced travelers the “ultimate island”.

Go online and search your preferred Bali hotels or Bali villas or contact your reliable travel agent. The wide choice can be confusing especially for first time visitors, and it’s sometimes difficult to select the right Bali Hotels or Bali Villas. So just let your travel agent knows your personal needs and preferences that he can recommend those hotels or villas it feels will suit you best.

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Top Sights to See During Bali Holidays

It is well known that Bali holidays bring travelers to one of the most famous and exotic island destinations in all the world. Long beloved by holidaymakers for its beautiful beaches and cloud covered mountain peaks that make it appear as something out of a dream, this tropical paradise offers much to do and see. The problem for many is trying to figure out what not to miss whilst visiting Bali.

Although holidaymakers might find themselves unable to take in all the sights that make Bali holidays so revered, there are some major stops that are worth considering for a "must-see" list. They include:

* The Tanah Lot - This destination offers holidaymakers a chance to take in some of the most famous sights in all of Bali. It is often included as a destination in Bali tours. The Tanah Lot is found just outside Tabanan City and is known for its sandy beach, the temple Pura Tanah Lot and its spectacular sunsets.

* Lake Batur - This lake was created more than 30,000 years ago after an eruption of Mount Batur and is a favourite destination for holidaymakers because of its incredible beauty. The lake is often covered in a mist and features the temple of Pura Danu Batur, or the Goddess of the Lake.

* Mount Agung - This stunning, but active, volcanic mountain towers over Bali. It is also known as Gunung Agung and is sometimes called the "navel of the world." The mountain is sacred to the Balinese and is said to have been erected by the Gods. It was thought to give them a focal point from which to view the world. Holidaymakers who make the trek to the mountain will find the temple Pura Besakih is located here, dedicated more than 1,000 years ago to Vishnu, Brahma and Agung. The temple complex also houses a number of other temples dedicated to various Hindu gods.

* Gunung Batur - This active volcanic mountain is the "female" to Mount Agung's "Male."

* Klungkung Royal Palace - Whilst the original palace, built in 1710, was ruin by the Dutch in 1908, a recreation now exists that pays homage to Bali's past. Today those on Bali holidays will find a destination that offers a beautiful blending of nature and architecture.

* The beaches - Bali has many beaches that call to visitors with their pristine white sands and beautiful turquoise waters. Those on holiday in Bali will discover the beaches are distinct, but equally welcoming.

* Jalan Monkey Forest - Located in Ubud, this forest is known to be a home to three separate troops of gray monkeys. Those on Bali holidays are free to purchase food to feed the monkeys and they can also explore the Temple of the Dead, or Pura Dalem, whilst taking in this attraction.

Bali holidays offer visitors a wide variety of things to do and places to explore. From the natural splendors of Mount Agung and Lake Batur to the royal palace and beyond, the island will entrance holidaymakers with one breathtaking sight after another.

Bali Weather

Bali is located 8 degrees to the south of the equator, and hence it has a tropical climate. Bali does not have the usual four seasons, but just has just two - the wet and dry seasons. Each season lasts for about six months. Dry season is from March to August and wet season is from September to February. Though the weather does not vary that much by season, the wet season may have some downpours for an hour or so in afternoons, followed by warm sea breeze at the beaches of Kuta and Nusa Dua.

Wet season is not a bad time to visit Bali, because most of the downpours are in the mid afternoons and if you plan well, you can really enjoy the rest of the day.

Bali experiences a 6am sunrise and 6pm sunset almost year-round. The average temperature in Bali is usually around 30° C. The dry seasons are quite hot, especially in the afternoons, when the temperatures are at their highest.

Though wet season can have few downpours, most of the time it is hot and humid. The best time to visit Bali is from April to September. June, July, and August are said to be the best months when one can plan a cool visit to these wonderful beaches. This is the time when humidity is comparatively less, though there will be light and infrequent rain showers.

Along Bali beaches, sea breezes temper the heat, but as you go towards the inland, weather becomes more pleasing and sometimes even chilly. Evenings are really splendid with cool breeze flowing through the beaches and Balinese bamboo windows making the most out of them.

Though many details about Bali weather are available, it is better to check with the current weather conditions in Bali before planning a trip to this island.