Bali - Why You Should Visit Bali and a Few Suggestions of How to Plan Your Vacation

Welcome to Bali

BALI is often described as being too touristy. In my opinion that is a rather superficial statement, as all it takes to discover the Bali which has enticed visitors to return time and again, is to leave the tourist enclaves of Kuta, Legian, Seminyak and Sanur behind.

Let me help you discover Bali - an island which, although quite small, tends to leave a huge impression on visitors who make the effort, and spend the time, to have a good look around.

Bali is easy and inexpensive to get to

Air Asia operates flights to Bali from Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. Jetstar also has direct flights to Bali, making Bali a prime destination, serviced by the best known budget airlines in the region. Of course, most full-service airlines also fly to Bali.

Bali offers a huge variety of hotels, resorts with spas, as well as simple bed and breakfast establishments. Of course there are also the typical Balinese homestays, which are often found in family compounds, offering a rare opportunity to observe how the Balinese live.

If you are planning to stay for any length of time, one month or longer, I would suggest that you base yourself away from the main areas in the south. You could split up your stay as follows:

1 week around Tabanan, which gives you easy access to Tanah Lot and the western part of the island.

1 week around Padang Bai or Candidasa, for access to the north-east coast.

From the East Coast townships of Padang Bai, Candi Dasa, Amed, and Tulamben, it takes but a few minutes to reach some of Bali's most spectacular scuba dive sites.

1 week in one of the small villages near Loving on the north coast, to make it easy for you to explore the north of the island.

1 week in the Ubud area, to explore the cultural heart and the central region of Bali.

Ubud still attracts painters and writers from all around the world, and successfully stages an annual writers festival.The silver and goldsmiths of Mas produce some wonderful jewelry which is exported all over the world, and maybe it's best not to take your credit card when visiting their showrooms.

There is so much on offer in Ubud. You can sign up for silver jewelry making classes, batik making classes, cooking classes - and the list goes on and on. There are also plenty of yoga schools and spiritual retreats. It is not unusual to rent a room in a home-stay, and realize later that the owner is actually a famous artist. For the more energetic, Ubud is a perfect place from which to plan a hike up Mt Agung, Bali's sacred mountain.

Since I am a diver, here is a little more information about scuba diving in Bali.

Scuba diving in Bali is still something of a secret. Having dived in most of the more "fashionable" dive areas in Indonesia, such as Bunaken, Lembeh, Raja Ampat, Ambon, Banda and Komodo, I can say that Bali is still one of my favourite dive destinations. Let me tell you why in a little more detail.

1. Bali offers something for everyone

Whether you enjoy brisk currents, a beautifully, coral encrusted wreck, muck diving, deep diving, or a mix of all of the above, it's all here in Bali. Although some road travel is involved to get from one area to the next, there are no expensive, domestic flights involved, which makes Bali a very cost and time effective dive destination.

2. Taking up scuba diving, or upgrading your certification?

Bali has a large number of professionally run dive operations, offering the whole palette of dive courses. From open water to dive instructor, it can be done in Bali. At prices which are hard to find anywhere else in Indonesia, or for that matter, anywhere.

3. Are you a diver who is traveling with a non-diver?

If you are traveling with a non-diver, you know how difficult it can be to balance your passion for diving, with the needs of your non-diving partner. In Bali that's not an issue. There is plenty to do for non-divers - day tours to cultural treasures, shopping, getting pampered in a spa, hiking, mountain biking, surfing - the list goes on and on - oh, have I mentioned shopping?

Come to Bali, try the diving, and be amazed

How to get from A to B

To get around Bali, and if you can afford it, I would recommend hiring a car with driver. As the traffic in Bali is not for the faint-hearted, it can be a little nerve wrecking to drive on your own, but it can be done. If you ride a motor bike at home and have a license, you may like to hire a scooter. They are actually small motor bikes with 125cc motors. Public transport exists, but it is very time-consuming, and very uncomfortable.

Last, but not least, remember to take out travel insurance

I am here to help you, so please don't hesitate to contact me directly for further Bali information.

Sybille Conrad is an experienced international travel agent, and a specialist dive travel agent. She holds a Grad. Dip. in Recreation Management, usually lives in Cairns, Australia, but has been living and working in Indonesia for the last few years. For information about Bali, or specifically about diving and traveling in other parts of Indonesia.

Bali Villa Holidays - An Affordable Touch Of Luxury

Accommodation will greatly determine the level to which you will enjoy a vacation. Bali is considered a real exotic paradise with its serenity, golden beaches and lush rainforests. A popular tourism destination, Bali has numerous accommodation options to offer. Should you choose a hotel or a luxury Bali villa?

Rent a Villa or Stay in a Luxury Hotel?

There are two possibilities for individuals that like luxury and getting pampered - Bali villas and five star hotels. Choosing one over the other may be a challenge, if you have no idea what the advantages are.

Most people immediately think of hotel accommodation when they travel. There are however, better possibilities that provide a number of benefits unavailable in the hotel room. Accommodation in a Bali villa is one such option.

Villas Provide Privacy

The biggest and probably most important advantage of choosing villa accommodation is privacy.

You will get to enjoy the tropical charm and the nature of Bali without having to deal with noisy crowds and large groups of tourists that traditionally stay at hotels. It will be just you, your family and friends.

The privacy of a Bali villa is something that you cannot get in a hotel, no matter how luxurious. You can relax, enjoy the sun, read a book, sleep all day long or have parties without being disturbed by anyone.

Interior Design and Landscaping

Many Bali villas come with a contemporary, minimalist interior design that will be perfect for the modern traveler. The villas are fully equipped and furnished to provide all of the facilities that you are used to and that you will need for full relaxation.

The exterior design and the landscaping are spectacular and suitable for a relaxing retreat and escape from reality.

High quality Bali villas have beautiful, impeccably maintained gardens. The tropical landscape will create your own little, private paradise. The garden is also equipped with a swimming pool for your convenience.

Available Services and Professional Assistance

Some people think that villa rental means that they will be on their own. This is not the case in Bali, where professional service and assistance is the key to hospitality.

Luxury Bali villas have a butler that is available 24/7. There is also security service, laundry and dry cleaning, babysitting possibilities and tour guides. Just think about the thing you will need for a comfortable and enjoyable vacation. All such services will be available at your Bali villa.

Many Bali villas will also come with the services of an experienced chef. If you like to learn more about local cuisine or to enjoy some international culinary temptations, this is the perfect possibility for your Bali vacation.

Individuals that like to practice sports will get to rely on the services of professional instructors and yoga practitioners. These are just some of the services available at a luxurious Bali villa.

Spectacular Location

The location of the villa is the final determining factor that establishes its superiority over hotel accommodation.

Very often, hotels are located in tourist hotspots that are crowded and noisy. You will be missing the tranquility of Bali and its authentic atmosphere. The villa comes as the perfect alternative.

The private outdoor areas are reserved for you and your family. Enjoy the sunrise or simply relax and meditate there. Most of the villas are conveniently located close to the beach, giving you easy access and tranquility at the same time. You will discover luxury villas at some of the most incredible Bali locations.

You can also opt for a secluded property that will be perfect for a romantic retreat. Some of these villas are surrounded by the Bali rice fields, others border the green rainforests. Such villas can have a second floor that provides incredible view of the area.

The villa will make your family vacation even more special because you benefit from luxury, flexibility and professional service. There are many options to choose among and you will certainly discover the Bali villa to fall in love with.

Bali Villas, Long Term Rental

International travelers know that long term rental is the way to go when staying in Bali. Whether you rent a very private villa in the serene countryside for peaceful relaxation and inspiration, or find Bali accommodation in a "hotel-style" villa collection located in the glitzy seaside tourist destinations, most luxury villas can be rented by the week or even by the month. To get the most out of a vacation on the Island of the Gods, many visitors opt for a long-term stay.

Island Living in Style

Bali villas for rent combine elegant open-style island-living design, local artisanship, and luxury features such as private pools, large gardens, secluded gazebos, and large decks from which to enjoy the spectacular island scenery or ocean views. They may be privately-owned single villas - like many of those located inland among the rice fields and temples where the passage of time has left very little trace on local daily life - or they may be part of a larger collection, managed and staffed much like high-end resort hotels or condos, with a long list of included modern amenities. Many of the villas in Seminyak, for example, offer guests such extras as daily housekeeping, on-site cooks, private parking, babysitting services, complimentary Wi-fi and satellite TV, 24-hour security, and airport pickups and drop-offs.

The English-speaking staff and/or managers at the majority of these Bali villa rental units are attentive and helpful, happy to arrange visitors tours, excursions, spa treatments, and activities of daily life. With modern conveniences, hosts of helpful staff, and proximity to some of the best shopping, recreational activities, and dining on the island, the Bali villa long term rental option provides the ideal combination of exotic tropical charm and modern luxury living.

Many Options for Different Traveler Needs

Travelers come to stay in Bali for a variety of reasons, from family fun vacations to rejuvenation retreats for spiritual wellness to luxury resort getaways. With so many accommodations to choose from across the island, visitors can always find a villa in Bali to suit their needs. There are a wide variety of villas to suit groups of all sizes - from intimate two -bedroom places for individual travelers or couples seeking romance to multi-building palatial compounds that can accommodate multiple families, executive retreats, or corporate conferences.

Quiet Retreats and Spiritual Rejuvenation

Visitors come to Bali from around the world to be steeped in the deep spirituality of the island and its people. Bali is known as a luminous spot of Hindu mysticism in the heart of the largest Muslim nation in the world. As a Hindu people, the Balinese are very spiritual and giving individuals, who love sharing their culture and the many religious celebrations and ceremonies they perform throughout the year. Visitors can experience such celebrations as Balinese Saka New Year, Waisak Day, Eid-ul Adha, Eid-ul Fitr, and many others.

For seekers of spiritual awareness and rejuvenation looking for a serene villa Bali has much to offer. Quiet private villas are to be found tucked away down tiny side streets in unassuming Balinese villages off the beaten "tourist" path, many within walking distance of a number of working Hindu temples.

In Pursuit of Wellness

The Island of the Gods has also established itself as one of the top health and wellness destinations in all of Asia. Many of the newer resorts, hotels, and villas that have begun flourishing recently on the island are top-of-the-line retreats for physical fitness and detoxing, offering villa guests facilities such as heated vitality pools, massage spas, pilates studios, and yoga pavilions. Guests can enjoy healthy indulgences such as seaside massages, spa treatments, Ayurvedic therapies, nutritional consultations, and gourmet vegetarian cuisine.

Wellness resorts offering villas in Bali can be found throughout the island, in seaside villages or further inland among the tranquil rice fields. With their traditional architecture, lush private garden spaces, and open, spacious living areas, guests have plenty of room and a relaxing, rejuvenating environment for yoga, meditation, and energizing personal time.

Experience the Magic of Bali

Visitors to the Island of the Gods find the tropical oasis welcoming, rejuvenating, and exhilarating. Long term rental of luxury villas in Bali makes it possible for visitors to stay for extended periods to soak in the magic of the people and the land. A private villa gives visitors a peaceful and serene living space that can be a "home base" from which they can experience all of Bali's cultural riches, recreational opportunities, and beautiful, inspiring vistas.

The tropical travel destination of Bali, the Island of the Gods, offers so many incredible activities and experiences to visitors that travelers often return home with the feeling that they cut their vacation or holiday far too short. Bali should not really be considered a "weekend getaway", but more of an "extended stay" destination. For that reason, many Bali accommodation offerings provide the option of long term rental.

Bali villa long term rental options include modern luxury villas in the hottest tourist spots on the island - with well-trained, English-speaking staff and every modern convenience - as well as the more private villa experience in off-the-beaten-path and inland locations for those wanting a more authentic experience with the landscape and the local culture. Depending upon the makeup of the traveling party - an individual looking for peace and quiet, a family with children seeking "family vacation recreation," an industry convention, or an executive retreat - different Bali villa rental alternatives are available to suit the various needs of visitors.

Where to Stay

People visit the Island of the Gods for many different reasons, and the best place for you to seek Bali villas for rent depends upon what draws you. Many visitors to Bali come for the island's diverse vistas of beach, volcanic hills, and farmlands. For others, the appeal may lie in the serenity and spiritual culture found in outlying areas and small Balinese villages. Many families are seeking the unique blend of modern luxury and exciting tourist attraction with Balinese culture.

Each region of Bali has its own distinct local flavor, recreation, and accommodation offerings.

• The South-West Coast: The areas of Seminyak, Oberoi, and Petitenget are the most highly-sought vacation areas for those seeking all the modern conveniences and attractions of a tropical tourist spot. The southwest coast is characterized by trendy night clubs and shopping areas, high-end restaurants and cocktail bars, and access to many tours, marine adventures, and family-friendly recreational activities. Travelers renting villas in Seminyak and the surrounding area can enjoy the peacefulness and serenity of their private accommodations, then travel only minutes to the busy white sand beaches and Bali's most popular restaurants and boutique shops.

• The Heart of the Island: Ubud and the surrounding area boast beautiful examples of traditional Balinese architecture, culture, and art. The main road through the region is lined with small villages specializing in different traditional arts and crafts, from silversmithing and woodcarving to painting and dancing. Ubud proper is considered the cultural heart of Bali - and an international art center - with avenues lined by art galleries, craft shops, and charming cafes.

• North and West Coasts: These regions, though less developed than the southern part of the island, offer plenty to see and do, as well as hidden gems of private villas to stay in. Among a long list of activities, visitors can enjoy dolphin spotting, snorkeling, exploring Bali Barat National Park, and even a visit to the Pemuteran Turtle Hatchery Project, where lucky visitors may be able to release a baby turtle into the ocean.

• The East: Time seems to have passed over the eastern region of Bali. Quiet roadways meander through rice fields, banana trees, and ancient settlements, scattered around the base of Bali's largest volcano - Gunung Agung. Visitors can soak up the local culture and spiritual serenity along many peaceful footpaths leading to temples, streams, and mesmerizing waterfalls. Beaches on the east coast are less crowded and have retained all of their natural volcanic beauty.

Bali's gorgeous beaches, swaying palm trees, and amazingly warm azure waters deliver all the most desirable benefits of a tropical island vacation spot. With the extra dimensions of both a sublimely spiritual local culture to immerse yourself in, and an incredible array of activities - from wildly adventurous to relaxing and family-friendly - it is very unlikely that Bali visitors will ever experience a "bored" moment. No matter where you are looking for a long-term stay in a villa Bali offers an incredible array of sizes, price ranges, and amenities. Rent a villa in Bali today, and make your trip to the Island of the Gods an unforgettable journey.

The Open Secret of the Value of Booking a Luxury Bali Villa

So you are considering a vacation on the wonderful paradise island of Bali which has more than one-thousand temples, that's why it's called the 'Island of the Gods'. Great. Bali is a joy to behold, but there are some pitfalls for travellers relating to what sort of accommodation they choose.

If you are like 70% of the tourists who go to Bali, your next thought will likely be 'which hotel should I stay at'. You have made your first mistake, which could make your holiday more expensive than it should be.

Yes, Bali has hundreds, if not thousands, of hotels, so many, in fact, that the Indonesian Government is attempting to implement a ban on any more hotel developments. The problem is, there are now so many hotels, mostly around the capital Denpasar, that the industry is suffering - too many rooms even though Bali's visitor numbers continue to grow each year. If the number of southern Bali hotels continues to grow at its current rate, it will inevitably put many players out of business.

Denpasar and southern Bali to a lesser extent, now has so many hotels, too often they are jammed 'shoulder to shoulder' against each other, mostly in the busy, loud and traffic clogged central city areas. Denpasar has become so crowded that when it once took 30 minutes to get from Ngurah Rai airport to a city hotel, it can now take up to 2 hours. The Bali government has built new expressways which will hopefully ease this congestion.

There is an alternative form of accommodation available in Bali, which is routinely taken up by about 16.5% of visitors. This alternative is the luxury Bali villa and there are an estimated 10,000 of them scattered across this beautiful island. Luxury villa accommodation in Bali is not the first thought of travellers, perhaps because the hoteliers are so good at marketing and spending big dollars on promoting their businesses.

You may be thinking that the nightly rental rate for a luxury villa in Bali is beyond your vacation budget, but you may be wrong because you probably don't have all the facts. The open secret is that, if you make a group booking to stay in a private Bali villa, with its wonderful privacy, peace and space, you could likely save hundreds of dollars you would otherwise spend on the hotel holiday model.

You see, the key to saving your hard-earned holiday dollars is to make a group booking at a deluxe Bali villa. This is the open secret of Bali villas. Most of these impressive houses, which are generally built by private owners, can sleep up to eight people or more. This means you can share the cost of the nightly rental charge amongst your group.

Let's look at an example. A private Bali villa, that I know quite well, located on the absolute beachfront, about 8 kilometres east of Singaraja, on the north coast, currently charges US$340.00 per night. Wow, I can hear you saying, that's expensive. But, if you pulled together a group of friends or family to share the cost, each person would only be paying US$42.50 per head, per night, certainly a budget rate in anyone's language.

And remember, what you pay for a hotel room is just that, one hotel room, unless you splash out and rent a suite, but that's a very expensive alternative. However they dress it up, hotels usually base their business model on booking rooms with a double bed, en suite bathroom, a chair and, if you are lucky, a table. Oh, and they will definitely have a bar fridge, with every item scrupulously catalogued and charged to you, at high convenience rates, which will balloon your hotel expense.

When you chose a luxury Bali villa for your paradise holiday, you get heaps of space. Usually four, or more, bedrooms with their own en-suite, ample living space, including two living areas, plus even private patios for each room in some case. Oh, and then there's the private swimming pools that are almost standard for private Bali villas. Most have the swimming pool just a few steps away from their main living area. If you've even booked a hotel room right next to the pool, you'll know how much extra they will usually charge you for this. And, it can be a mixed blessing, because at hotels, everyone can use the pool, which can mean unwanted company, noise, crowds, screaming, splashing - you get the picture.

Of course, if you book a deluxe Bali villa you have your own private swimming pool, accessible only to people who have rented the villa, unless they want to invite special guests to join them. And, if you are into friendly, personalized service, you can't beat what Bali villas have to offer. The Balinese people are among the friendliest, warm, sincere and lovely group of people you are ever likely to meet. Just check the guest testimonials on the many villa sites and you will see many glowing references to the top quality service that Bali villa helpers offer to their guests. Often, guests comment on the friendly relationships they develop with their luxury Bali villa helpers, way beyond any service experience that hotels can offer.

Of course, hotels have their staff too, usually busy with dealing with many guests at a time, but most sophisticated Bali villas have their own villa manager, who is fluent in English and bahasa Indonesia, plus likely in other languages too. The villa manager is employed to make sure that whatever issue arises for you on your holiday, they will promptly deal with it. If you commit to a luxury holiday in a private villa in Bali, you can expect to become on first name terms with your villa manager and with the other helpers in the villa. It's now unusual for some villas to have up to four or five helpers, so you can expect to receive a standard of service that is way beyond what many hotels can offer.

Having local Bali people employed as villa helpers ensures that guests receive all the very latest and knowledgeable information about local attractions and must see locations. Often, the local Balinese helpers and the villa manager will know of great places to visit that are not even listed in the popular tourist manuals. After all, they live there and know their own backyard.

Many Bali villas are built by their owners to be a home-away-from-home, so they put their heart and soul into the design to make sure they are as comfortable as possible. The decor and atmosphere of many villas is therefore diverse and varied, reflecting the local Balinese culture and that of the owners of the villa. Unfortunately, many hotels, particularly the multi-national ones, are built with profit in mind and can look the same, whatever country they occupy.

If you are an eco-tourist, then the obvious choice for you is to stay in a well appointed Bali villa because many of them are built in particularly beautiful and environmentally appealing locations. To build any villa requires the permission of the local village and they generally welcome the employment opportunities that well-appointed Bali villas offer.

So, you have the choice of thousands of well-appointed and cleverly located Bali villas, in which to stay for a really authentic Bali experience. No matter how well hotels are marketed, they simply cannot offer the same cultural integration and atmosphere of a large holiday house.

The actual choice you have is between one hotel room, or a whole Bali house and the many advantages this offers. If you haven't yet enjoyed the Bali villa experience, do yourself a favour and take up this opportunity the next time you holiday on the Island of the Gods. Ask anyone who has stayed in a luxury Bali villa and you will discover why they enjoyed it so much.

Bali In Brief - The Ultimate Concise Travel Guide

Bali is a destination offering so much to the traveller that a brief guide explaining some of the facets of the island will help to decipher the many options and hopefully assist with your vacation choices. Any holiday is about maximizing your time, even if that simply means relaxing and doing nothing. You still want to achieve the goals you set in the best possible way and depart with the belief that you maximized your experience. In order to help you achieve those goals I have compiled a brief explanatory guide to the myriad of choices the beautiful island of Bali has to offer.

Amed

This has to be one of Bali's best-kept secrets. Amed hosts some of the islands most enchanting beaches in a peaceful, totally relaxing setting. With very little going on in regard to nightlife, this is the perfect destination for families and mature travellers.

Amlapura

Amlapura is the main town in the Karangasem Regency and is home to some of the islands most alluring attractions including the Tirta Gangga (The Water Palace).

Asahduren

Bali's clove plantation located 20 kilometres inland from Negara. The lush bold green of the plantation is an extraordinary sight.

Barat National Park

Bali's largest national park located on the western side of the island and occupies approximately 10% of the islands land mass. The park is considered the last refuge of one of the most endangered birds in the world, the Bali Starling.

Bangli

Bangli offers remarkable views of Mount and Lake Batur. Situated hundreds of meters above sea level, the breeze in Bangli is both cool and refreshing.

Banjar

Providing a rare opportunity to witness cockfighting (for those who like that kind of thing) Banjar also offers the chance to experience the regions wonderful hot springs.

Batubulan

Batubulan village is an artistic rural locale in the western part of Glanyar Regency. It is famous for the artistic 'blessing dance' of the Barong. The village is sustained by the artistic crafts of woodcarving and stone sculpturing.

Bedugul

This is a small village in the mountains regions between northern and southern Bali.

Besakih Temple

Recognized as the most important and most sacred temple in Bali. Known as the mother temple, Basakih affords spectacular views of the tropical surrounds.

Blahmantung Waterfall

This pristine waterfall is located in the Pupuan area of Tabanan. With a higher than average rainfall the area is extremely fertile. Offers the perfect place for a cooling dip in the clear waters below the falls.

Botanical Gardens

A botanists delight! Eka Karya Botanical Garden in Bedugul was founded in 1959 and is the youngest yet largest of the four Indonesian botanical gardens.

Candi Dasa

Candi Dasa is located in Karangasem Regency just 10 minutes from Tenganan villiage. Originally a fishing village it has recently undergone a rapid transformation into a thriving tourist precinct.

Celuk

Located in the sub-district of Sukawati, Celuk is considered the home of gold and silver craft in Bali.

Denpasar

Denpasar is the capital city of Bali with an estimated population of half a million residents. A number of Bali's best museums are located in the islands capital.

Garuda Wisnu Kencana

The islands main cultural park playing home to a giant statue of Vishnu mounted on his ride that is half man and half Garuda bird.

Gianyar

The Gianyar Regency is famous for its artistry and culture. Acknowledged for its beautiful natural scenery form the mountains to the coast.

Gilimanuk

This is the main port for traffic between Bali and Java Island. The port is located west of Negara.

Goa Gajah

Goa Gajah or 'The Elephant Cave' is so named for the shape of its entrance. A skilfully carved depiction of hanging leaves, rocks, animals, ocean waves and demonic humang characters running from the mouth.

Goa Lawah

The name given to a cave inhabited by thousands of bats that spend most of their time hanging from the ceiling. It is also home to one of the most sacred temples in Bali, Pura Goa Lawah.

Jimbaran

Jimbaran is a fishing village that also houses some of the finest hotels in the world. The beaches of Jimbaran are lined with hundreds of seafood restaurants.

Kintamani

Mountain village with impressive panoramic views form the plateau atop Mount Batur.

Klungkung

This is a destination that holds a special place in Balinese history and culture. Once home to the kings of Klungkung and their noblemen who developed the music, art and culture that thrives there today.

Kuta

Perhaps the most recognizable place in Bali. This beachside precinct is known as the centre of nightlife activities in Bali. It is also a thriving shopping area with lines of shops, boutiques and galleries.

Lake Batur

This is the widest lake in Bali and is surrounded by magnificent scenic vistas. Considered a sacred place by the Balinese people, visitors can enjoy the hot springs near by.

Lake Bratan

Located in Bendugul, Lake Bratan is the second largest lake in Bali. Stunning views are seen from the lake of Pura Ulun Danu Temple on its shore.

Lovina

Lovina Beach is a 12-kilometre stretch of coast to the northwest of Singaraja in northern Bali. Lovina is considered by many to be the best family vacation spot on the island of Bali.

Mount Agung

Agung is Bali's highest mountain peak. It is believed to be the home of the gods in Balinese culture. Bali's most sacred temple, The Mother Temple of Besakih is perched on its slopes.

Negara

Negara is best known for the famous bull races. This area is remote and rarely visited by tourists and offers a glimpse of the true Bali.

Nusa Dua

Nusa Dua is home to the largest international five-star resorts on Bali. A peaceful, relaxed atmosphere with calm beaches this location is suited to the more discerning traveller.

Nusa Ceningan

This area is home to Bali's largest seaweed farms.

Nusa Lembongan

A small island located 20-kilometres off the eastern coast of Bali. The island is known as a 'virgin island' with crystal clear water and local seaweed farming. It is also world-renowned for its quality surf breaks.

Nusa Menjangan

This is a small diving island off the northwest coast of Bali and is exclusive to a set number of divers per day.

Nusa Penida

Another of Bali's smaller islands that is renowned for the chances of seeing sharks, turtles and its reef system in crystal clear visibility.

Nusa Serangan

Better known as Turtle Island this small island is used as a turtle sanctuary. Locals house turtle eggs in purpose made huts until hatched and released.

Padangbai

This is a small fishing village in the east of Bali. It is well-known for its beautiful white sandy beaches.

Sengeh Monkey Forest

Located in the south-west of Bali this small section of forest is renowned for its primate population who inhabit both the trees and the local temple.

Sanur

Sanur is one of Bali's largest traditional villages and a well-established tourist area. Recognized as one of Bali's best snorkelling and diving locations.

Seminyak

Seminyak is widely considered to be Bali's premiere tourist destination with its natural relaxed appeal, world-class accommodation and fabulous fine dining restaurants.

Singaraja

Once the capital city of Bali, Singaraja was the main port during the Dutch occupation of the island and retains a strong colonial feel.

Tabanan

The Regency of Tabanan is home to the dramatic temple of Tanah Lot that is best known as the most photographed temple in Bali.

Tanah Lot

This is one of the most popular places of interest in Bali. Tanah Lot is home to Bali's most impressive ocean front Hindu temple.

Tanjung Benoa

A beautiful area of Bali best recognized for its large number of coconut palms. It is one of Bali's most perfect water-sports locations.

Tegallalang

Tegallalang is a major arts and craft location with amazing views of the layered rice fields.

Tulamben

This is a small town on the northeast coast of Bali. It is world-renowned for its famous dive site that contains a stunningly diverse underwater eco-system, especially around the wreck of the Liberty Glo, a US Army Transport ship torpedoed by Japanese submarines in 1943.

Ubud

Ubud is best known as Bali's centre of art, craft, dance and music. The spectacular views of terraced rice fields make it one of Bali's most visited destinations.

Uluwatu

This site is famous for its magnificent cliff top views and surf break. With its spectacular temple overlooking the clear blue water of the ocean below. Large numbers of monkeys inhabit the area.

Hopefully this concise look at the island of Bali will assist you with planning your next visit. With so much to do and so little time it is highly recommended to forward plan and list some of the key elements you would like to incorporate into your Bali holiday. Whatever your choices, I have no doubt at all that your time spent in this magical slice of paradise will be treasured forever.

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Visit Bali And Enjoy An Amazing Holiday

If you would like to go out on a vacation and cannot decide where to go, your answer might be in Bali. For years Bali has been a favorite holiday destination for tourists from around the world. If you love beaches you will probably never find beaches more beautiful than the ones in Bali. If you do not believe me try searching for pictures of Bali beaches. Trust me the pictures do not do justice to the awesome natural beauty of this place.

There is so much to see and experience in Bali, there is something for everybody. If you love mountains you can see the Mount Agung which is also known as the mother mountain on a clear day. It stands more than 3000 meter's high and is an active volcano. A peculiar sight in Bali and also one of the most endearing and memorable ones are the rice fields which are cultivated on terraces of the hill. They slope down towards the beach front and take advantage of the rain water flowing down the hill; this is actually a natural form of irrigation that the native people of Bali have used for years.

As Bali is an island you will never find yourself too far from the closest beach. There are many beaches in Bali and you can find beaches that very few people visit and can virtually have the entire beach to yourself. The amazing rock formations and cliffs that dot the shoreline is another unique geographical wonder formed by volcanic eruptions in the past.

Booking a Bali villa is a lot better than staying at a hotel. You can have the entire villa to yourself and also a personal pool. A Bali villa will offer privacy which very few hotels can promise. The staff at most Bali villas are very friendly and will also point you in the direction of the best places to see and be in Bali.

Bali villa rentals are a combination of the modern and traditional. You will find all the modern amenities while at the same time you will live in a villa that is traditional furnished. The culture and tradition in Bali is very rich and vibrant. Bali rentals are very affordable and economical when compared to the luxury and privacy that you will get. You can also pick the size of the villa based on the size of your family or number of friends who have accompanied you on the trip. You can have the villa all to yourself and feel like Kings and Queens of the villa.

You do not need to spend a fortune to live in luxury when you choose a Bali holiday villa. You will receive the best service and love the entire experience. So gather your friends and family and set course for Bali Island, it is one vacation that you will remember all your life.

Bali Holidays - Perfect Way for Reaching Nirvana

Holidays to Bali are all about creating a collage of everlasting memories. The Indonesian Island is renowned for serene aura that embraces the charm of sun-soaked beaches; grace of pleasant weather and glory of chiselled peaks. The blissful culture of Bali shines amid the incredible natural beauty and portrays a unique melange of awe-inspiring natural splendour and vibrant culture. Besides, abundance of staggering ingredients like vast wildlife, lush parks, imposing monuments, jocund festivals and virtuoso artworks decidedly add zing to one's trip to Bali.

In addition to unique smorgasbord of attractions, the "Ultimate Island", Bali offers lavish hotels to sybarites, delightful beaches to beach lovers and scores of temples to spiritual holidaymakers. The island is an apt destination for all, making cheap flights to Bali a perennial hit among assortment of travel buffs.

Beaches

Beaches are the essence of Bali. Dozens of aqua blue beaches accentuate its beauty and make this heavenly island a haven for beach lovers grabbing flights to Bali. The island boasts a remarkable string of beaches like Kuta, Candidasa, Denpasar, Nusa Dua, Ubud, Seminyak and Legian. The best part is every beach offers a unique ambience and scores of exhilarating activities. It is absolutely hard to resist the urge of trying hands at surfing, snorkelling and other amazing water sports available at diverse beaches.

Temples

Apart from sun basking at Bali beaches, an expedition to explore the marvellous temples strewn across the island is one of the most popular activities on the island. Besakih Temple, known as the Mother Temple of Bali, is one of the famous temples among travel buffs bagging tickets on cheap flights to Bali. It is revered as the biggest and the holiest temple among other Balinese temples. Tanah Lot Temple, Goa Lawah Temple, Pura Penataran Sasih, Pura Samuan Tiga and Gunung Kawi are some of the unique temples that illume the already entrancing aura of Bali.

Shopping

Exciting shopping scene of Bali is another great reason to hop on flights to Bali. The island offers an exciting range of shopping options for eclectic retail therapy. There are countless shopping markets and glitzy malls all over Bali. The island is considered as the treasure trove for laying hands on variety of souvenirs, art and handicrafts items, antique furniture, jewellery, stone carvings and designer clothes. Kuta Square, near Kuta Beach, is apt for sampling the flavour of boulevard styled shopping centre while Sukawati Art Market makes for a finest spot to grab array of indigenous handicrafts. Other popular shopping attractions include Bali Celuk Village, Mall Bali Galeria, Sukawati Art Market and Monkey Forest Road.

Nightlife

Bali livens up with the setting of the sun!! Resort area of Sanur and district of Kuta in Bali are perfect for indulging in after dark entertainment. Both the places house scores of go-go bars and dozens of upbeat nightclubs that enthral the wild-night-owls till dawn. There are many other clubs that showcase mind-boggling performances of live bands. Hard Rock Café near Kuta Beach, Bacio Club near Legian, Boshe VVIP Club in Kuta and Jazz Café in Ubud are among the true hedonistic nightspots to hit after dusk.

Balinese Food

The exotic food scenario of the island caters to all sorts of taste. Bali is abounded with ample of restaurants and stalls offering vast range of scrumptious Balinese cuisines including nasi ayam and nasi campur, betutu and babi guling. Metis Restaurant and Gallery in Kuta, Naughty Nuri's Warung in Batubelig, Ku De Ta Bali in Jalan Laksmana 9 Oberoi and Raja's Balinese Cuisine in Nusa Dua are some of the finest chic restaurants that one must visit during the Bali tour.

Want To Travel And Teach? 10 Reasons You Should Get Your Teacher Training In Bali

Did you know that Bali is now an up-and-coming destination for TEFL (Teaching English as a foreign language) and TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) courses?

If you're a native English speaker (American, Australian, British, Canadian, or New Zealander), you can get certified to become an English teacher while taking a 3-week course in Bali - the exotic island in Indonesia where Eat, Pray Love was filmed.

We give you 10 reasons why you should take your TEFL/TESOL course in exotic Bali.

1) The sunsets

Bali is known for its breathtaking sunsets. The sky is painted orange, blue, purple, as the sun dips into the horizon. Catch the sunset in the Kuta area, or at the Tanah Lot temple, or if you like something more upscale, at the Rock Bar - a bar built on top of a cliff in the Jimbaran area of Bali.

2) The beaches

Bali is also known for its fantastic white sandy beaches and huge waves, great for surfing. The weather is sunny almost all the time! Check out Dreamland beach, Amed beach, Sanur beach and much, much more. Remember that Bali's an island, so there are dozens of wonderful, sandy beaches for you to bask on!

3) The views

There are so many postcard-perfect views in Bali that you just can't find anywhere else. Check out temples such as Tanah Lot Temple, Pura Ulun Danu Bratan, Besakih Temple, clubs and bars such as Rock Bar, Potatohead, and scenic sights such as the Mount Batur volcano, and the padi fields of Ubud.

4) The people

The Balinese are some of the kindest, happiest and most spiritual people in the world. Most tourists return from Bali with a wonderful impression of the Balinese. Customer service in Bali is genuine and sincere, and the Balinese are a very grateful, family-oriented community. There's just no way to put their kindness into words - you simply have to experience Balinese hospitality for yourself.

5) The food

No trip to Bali is complete without tasting some local Indonesian delights such as Pepes Ikan (steamed fish wrapped in banana leaf), Nasi Goreng (fried rice) and Satay. For affordable options, and authentic experiences, check out warungs (small, local-run food stalls) instead of restaurants.

6) Yoga, sports, meditation, diving

The Bali community is big on keeping the body healthy as well as the mind. There is a huge yoga following in Bali, and sometimes you can also find free yoga classes at public parks. There are many sports activities such as surfing, white-water rafting, ATV riding. Bali is also home to stunning diving spots.

7) The nightlife scene

Bali's nightlife scene is fantastic, with many world class DJs coming to visit every few weeks. Check out nightspots such as Sky Garden, Mint, and Club Pyramid.

8) The low cost of... pretty much everything

There is an affordable option for everything in Bali if you know where to look. And when things aren't affordable, the prices are usually negotiable. Avoid touristy areas for the best deals, and use Bali-related Facebook groups and forums for advice from the expats who actually live in Bali.

9) The Eat, Pray, Love experience

Just like Elizabeth Gilbert in Eat Pray Love, Bali is a haven for single female travellers because its relatively safe, offers a variety of activities, and is a natural and spiritual paradise.

10) A hop, a skip, a boat or plane ride away

Bali is also a great base to explore Indonesia. Did you know Indonesia has over 18,000 islands? You can take a budget flight from Bali to Indonesia's bustling capital, Jakarta or take a boat ride to Lombok or the remote Gili islands, (where there is no transport allowed and main transport is horse carriage!)

Snag a Wave Of Bali Surfing Tours

The peak season for Bali surfing tours is from April to November, which is considered to be the dry season, but you can catch a mean wave at any time during the year. During the dry season, Bali picks up the swells from the Indian Ocean so it's possible to find surf up to 12 feet or higher off the reefs on the southwest and southeast coasts.

Kuta is usually the drop-off point for surfing enthusiasts from all over the world as it's only a short distance to legendary surfing spots like Padang Padang, Uluwata, Nusa Dua and Impossibles. Kuta Beach also produces some great beach breaks but it is a popular tourist haunt so the chances of getting on a clean barrel all the way into shore are not good.

Unlike many of the well-known heavy reef breaks around some of the other islands in Indonesia, Bali's surf conditions are milder, which better suits the novice to intermediate surfer looking for consistent, 3 to 5 foot waves.

Bali has so many advantages to offer anyone planning a surfing adventure, it's hard to know where to start. What about the fact that you can get around the entire island in a day, so once you know where the great waves are breaking, it's easy to make your way there. Or how about the fact you don't need a wetsuit because the waters around Bali average a balmy temperature in the low to mid 20 degrees Celsius (just remember to take a good sunscreen!)

Bali is an amazing island surfing location in the Indonesian archipelago of 18,700 islands just 8 degrees south of the equator.

Legend has it that Bali was first discovered as a great surfing destination in the late 1960s by Australian surfers, but whether or not this is true, Bali has since become one of the hottest spots on the world surfing itinerary by leagues of surfing enthusiasts.

These days Bali has a huge surf culture, so whether you're a novice trying out your first beach breaks or an accomplished reef break rider, Bali offers some of the best surfing beaches anywhere in the world.

Catch a Bali Surfing Tour

In addition to the pleasures already mentioned, surfing in Bali has to be on top of the list of premier surfing locations because you don't need to rough it in a crude beach shack. Even the most budget-conscious surfers can stay in premium Bali accommodation with air conditioning and satellite TV thrown in for unbelievably reasonable prices.

What's more, if you travel with one of the expert Bali surfing tour operators, they will make sure that everything you need to make your Bali surfing holiday a treat will be laid on for you. They will even supply you with a board if you want to try a different ride or if you can't be bothered lugging your own board all over the place.

The Bali surf guides will meet you each morning during your stay and tell you where the best waves are breaking, then take you there in one of their air conditioned SUVs or beach craft. They can recommend the top breaks for your style and skill level and you can even take your pick from left or right breaking waves if the conditions are right!

Better yet, their network of local informants know where everyone is headed, so will happily steer you away from the crowds to an equally good location with less riders competing for the breaks.

Bali hotels are fabulous value for money and if you stay in one of the popular tourist spots like Kuta or Legian beach, the best surfing options are close by.

And then after you've spent a monumental day on the waves, you can retire to your luxury Bali accommodation for a refreshing ale before you hit the local night spots for some riotous activity.

What Bali Has to Offer Of Bali Spiritual Vacations

As Bali is made up various religions, Hinduism is the majority (although Indonesia is a Muslim dominated country). Here in Bali, the residents take their religion serious and have strong beliefs that God exists in everything. It is for this basic reason that there are many spiritual ceremonies and rites that have been followed for generations. These secrets of spiritual healing are being offered to all visitors in various fashions like yoga, prayers, meditation and soothing body massages - which gives one a cool and relaxing feeling.

Besides being spiritually enlightened, Bali has other interesting activities that would give pleasure to the tourist. The various extraordinary sites that Bali has to offer is one of the choices that people choose to come to have a spiritual vacation. Then there is the bighearted people and their colorful culture which also attracts people to Bali.

Today Bali, with its focus on tourism, has put together many attractive hotels and resorts which are to modern standards that offer unlimited luxury to visitors. It also offers various water and other sporting activities and an array of delicious Bali cuisine.

Bali, the Indonesian island in Asia, is most chosen for spiritual vacations for numerous reasons. The island which is growing in popularity for its tourism is also considered to be the largest tourist destination in the country. Bali, besides providing spiritual needs to individuals, is distinguished for its art, dance, leather, metal work and music.

Many tourists visit Bali to experience a memorable spiritual vacation which happens to be the most gratifying service that Bali has to offer. The island with its clean beaches has private resorts where one can slip away in serenity and enjoy what nature has to offer. The entire island of Bali, takes much pleasure in the various activities, offerings and services for one to witness. These pleasures are so rewarding to the mind, body and soul that they are enjoyed by one and all who visit the country.

When in Bali there is plenty to do and see and so for these reasons you will find many tourists visiting Bali, especially to experience one of the spiritual packages. Spiritual vacations can be found in plenty in Bali, catered to suit the tight budgeted visitor, the honeymooners, the family pack or the most lavish high spenders.

A very reputable touring company named Spirit Quest Tours is holding a Bali spiritual vacation package for the Spring of 2010. This trip is unique in the fact that it revolves around Elizabeth Gilbert's book, "Eat, Pray, Love". There will be plenty of eating that's for sure - Balinese cuisine is hard to resist! If you are familiar with "Eat, Pray, Love" then you'll be excited to learn that on this Bali vacation, you have the opportunity to meet with Ketut Liyer himself!

Bali Island For Getting Married

Wedding Dresses

Not only because of the transportation issues, but the cost factor is enough to convince you to get your dress made in Bali. Once you have picked out a traditional western dress or decide to go with a Balinese dress, it will only take a few days for your dress to be ready for you to wear. The materials used tend to be much more suited for the climate, so unless you are using an heirloom to be married in it is much better just to get your dress made while in Bali.

Most people who come to Bali to get married leave all the arranging to companies that provide excellent service and only need to worry about color schemes and how many tiers they want on their wedding cake . However big a wedding or wherever you want to hold it, Bali wedding services will be able to provide it for you from flower girls to entertainment.

Required Documents for a Bali Wedding

For the majority of foreigners it is possible to get married in Bali legally and your marriage will be recognized by your government. Under Indonesian/Balinese law the marriage will have to be performed as a legal religious ceremony, no marriages can be conducted in government offices. The religions recognized by Bali are: Christian Protestant, Catholic, Buddhism, Hindu and Muslim and you will need to register your marriage with the district Civil Registrar.

You will need to obtain a Certificate of Non Impediment to Marriage (CNI) either when in Bali or in your own country before the wedding. If possible it is easier to apply for this in your country of residence. Basically this is a letter from your Embassy or Consulate that confirms that there is no legal reason that you should not be allowed to get married in an Indonesian country.

If you are planning to get married there are very few places as romantic and scenic as Bali to hold that special day with you and your loved one. The sunsets and tropical vegetation offer hundreds of different locations to make your Bali wedding day a memorable one. The service that Balinese are renowned for and the popularity of Bali as a tourist destination will ensure that all your wedding dreams will come true if you decide to hold it here, there is no shortage of wedding services from simple cakes to intricately designed wedding dresses.

Wedding Services

Wedding planners are very popular for people planning a Bali wedding as it takes all the stress out of the big day and lets you concentrate on other things, like soaking up the sun. The packages that you will find range from basic bride and groom weddings to elaborate affairs. Bali catering, focuses on fine food, beverage and exceptional service for weddings and other events. Whether you are having a small intimate wedding or a grand affair, Bali catering have been providing services to thousands of delighted clients all over the island.

In order for the Embassy to issue this letter, each person must personally attend their respective consulate or embassy and swear an oath that there is no reason why they should not be allowed to get married. Certain consulates allow you to apply through the post as long as you provide the following documentation. If done in person the certificate is usually issued the same day.

The following is documentation and procedures that you need to be followed. If you are going to get married in Bali, it is important to get all of the necessary documentation long before you get married as there are often delays and can interfere with your wedding day. Many of the documents can be arranged from your own country and it is usually a lot faster to do.

- Passport
- Birth certificates of both marriage parties'.
- Baptismal certificate or other forms of proof of faith.
- For people under the age of 21 a letter will be required from the parents stating that they consent to the marriage taking place.
- If relevant, death certificate of former spouse.
- A decree of absolute divorce certificate.
- At least two witnesses are required to attend your wedding.
- 8 photos of the couple, side by side, looking straight ahead and of the head and shoulders only. The size of the photos needs to be 6cm by 4cm.

For Catholic Marriages additional documents include:

- Baptism certificates are mandatory and should have been issued not more than 6 months before the wedding, but it is safer if they are issued less than 3 months before.
- A "Letter of Freedom" needs to be issued by your Parish Priest or other church official stating that you have never previously been married and you are free to marry.
- A "Letter of Delegation" needs to be issued by your Parish Priest or other church official stating that they have no objection to you being married by a Catholic Priest from a church in Bali.

Visa Requirements Of Bali Tour

Before you enter Bali make sure you are familiar with the different money denominations. The local currency utilized in Bali is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), The Indonesian Rupiah money denominations are:

Paper Notes: 100, 500 , 1,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000, 100,000.
Coins: 25, 50, 100, 500, 1000.

Short term visa free entry of thirty days is available to people holding passports of the following 11countries : Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Morocco, Peru, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Bali and you will need to show an onward of return ticket.

Short term visa on arrival (VOA), 7 day or 30 day visas are available for the following countries at a cost of $10 and $25 respectively. Once again a passport with more than six months left on it and a return ticket must be shown to get the visa. The countries are : Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, India, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Laos, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Suriname, Taiwan, Holland, U.A.E., UK and the U. S. of America.

It is vital to take note of the Bali visa requirements outlined below and also contact your local Indonesian embassy before going to Bali to see if there are any changes in the visa requirements as Indonesian countries can be very stern with regards tourists who over stay their visa date. Finishing off your holiday by landing up in a Balinese or any Indonesian jail for a foreigner could be a nightmare come true. With so many Bali tours and leisure activities available when on holiday in Bali it is easy to get tempted to stay longer that you initially intended, but it is truly not a good idea.

Although these countries are quite forgiving to the western way of doing things, you'll be imprisoned if you can't pay the hefty fine that may be imposed for overstaying. Overstaying your visa is charged at US$20 each day for over stays up to 60 days, anytime over 60 days are your will be liable to five years imprisonment or a fine of 25 million Indonesian Rupiah. If you do intend to stay longer than your visa allows, then you can fly to a nearby country like Thailand or Vietnam fairly cheaply and re enter Bali to renew your visa.

All of the countries noted below will need to contact the Bali embassy in their country to get prior permission to enter Bali. Without a visa in advance you will not be permitted to go into the country. The countries are Afghanistan, Albania, Angola, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Cuba, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iraq, Israel, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka and Tanzania.

Apart from the short term visas that are available, there are other more long term visas that may be applied for before traveling to Bali. It is better to make an application for these visas in your own country, even though they may be a little more expensive they will generally be processed faster. You'll find a Balinese embassy in most countries that you can apply through. Some of the commonest long term visas that people make an application for are, business visa, social-cultural visa, job visa and limited stay permits (KITAS).

When you first arrive at one of the Bali hotels that you have selected to stay in contact your local government agency and tell them you have arrived and once again when you leave. This is recommended by all governments and it is just to ensure that you are safe and they will know if you haven't left on the due date. This way at least you'd be contacted in the event you forget when you're supposed to leave, you would be surprised how many times this occurs.

Bali Island Of Exploring

As island that located in tropical area, Bali given with many various tropical plant. You'll see huge banyan trees in villages and temple grounds, tamarind trees in the North, clove trees in the highlands, acacia trees, flame trees, and mangroves in the South. For flowers, you can find them in many location with many variety. You'll find jasmine, orchid, water lili and many frangipanies. You must knowing that frangipanies is the popular flower in Bali. They used as decorations in temples and statues. Frangipanies are also used during prayers, for dancer crown decorations and even put in the ear. For wildlife, elephants and tigers don't exist anymore, they extincted since early this century. But there are so many activities in wildlife area. Bali have various species of monkeys, civets, deers and more than 300 species of birds.

Bali is place that combined the friendly people, unique culture, the natural attractions, the large variety of local lifestyle and more. Bali has a special characters of religi with mystic and magics. You can explore the cultural heritage start from the visible thing, there are over 20,000 temples and palaces with many colorful festivals and ceremonies. You can enjoyed the local drama, music and dance. You can find one of the unique ritual dance that call Kecak Dance. Kecak Dance is very impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare chested male singer. And for another attraction you will see Fire Dance, Ramayana Dance, Legong Dance and many more.

Bali is part of Indonesia country and is subject to Indonesian Laws. Bali is the island that located in 8 to 9 degrees south of equator between Java Island in the West and Lombok Island in the East. From Java Island, Bali can be reached less than 30 minutes or only two kilometers. Flying time from Jakarta is about 1.5 hours, from Singapore is about 2.5 hours and from Australia is about 3 hours. Bali is the island that recognized as beautiful place, call with name The Gods Island. There are lush tropical forests, pristine crater lakes, fast flowing rivers and deep ravines, picturesque rice terraces, and fertile vegetable and fruit gardens. The beaches in the South consist of white sand, beaches in other parts of the island are covered with gray or black volcanic sand.

In Bali you can do more great activities. You can do the water sports like swimming, snorkeling, boat rides, water ski, surfing, and more. You can do all of that activities in Tanjung Benoa, Kuta Beach or Sanur Beach. If you bored with beach and water activities, you can change your destination tours. Now you must try the nature tour. There are Lake Batur in Kintamani village, the high location, is about 5,000 feet above the sea. Another places that you can visit is Besakih Temple that popular name is The "Mother Temple". You can visit to the Bedugul, Sangeh, Ulun Danu, Tana Lot and many more.

For handicraft you can visit the artisan villages of Batubulan for stone carving, Celuk for silver and gold jewelry, Mas with famous wood carving and Pengosekan for painting. You can also visit Art Market Sukowati and bargain for all kinds of handicraft and apparel. For the most art gallery, you can enjoyed Ubud, that growing with numerous art galleries and shop offering paintings, wood carvings, textiles and all kinds of souvenirs.

An Untouched Tropical Paradise If Bali

Private attractions in Bali

Between the serene accommodation in Bali, and the many private attractions, it would be entirely possible to have a vacation without encountering more than ten people you'd never met before! Checking out Bali's secluded beaches is an obvious must-do; we'll explore the best private beach options in a moment. If you want to do more than just laze around or enjoy the water, why not check out:

* Uluwatu Half Day tour: You'll get to check out 100 metre rocky drops to the ocean, the Kayangan Jagat temple, and the place where holy man Dang Hyang Nirartha came to his enlightenment.
* Besakih Mother Temple Tour: This full day tour takes you to the Old Court of Justice at KlungKung and Goa Lawah, the Bat Holy Cave, as well as spending plenty of time exploring Pura Besakih, the largest temple of the island and consisting of five temple compounds around the main structure.
* BikeBaik Tours: Bike tours are very popular across Bali - this one takes you into the countryside where you can check out how Bali's rice farmers and rural craftsmen actually live - fascinating!
* West Bali National Park: This beautiful national park stretches across 65,000 acres, Trekking, birdwatching and diving in the adjacent ocean are all popular with tourists. You can see giant water monitors, kutjak deer, jungle fowl, violet crabs, macaques as well as ebony langurs.

If you want a holiday in a place where the modern world has reached, but not tainted, Bali is one of the last options open to you in the world! Bali does a thriving trade in tourism, but mostly the island is an untouched wilderness, where locals still speak their own language, and if you've chosen a more secluded villa in Bali, all you'll be able to hear after the sun goes down is the chirping of crickets and croaking of frogs. Today we look at the awesome options for private accommodation in Bali, quiet attractions and beaches in Bali for those who would truly like to get away from the rest of the world.
Private retreats in Bali
Bali is full of beautiful, private, isolated, and tranquil accommodation. In fact, after visiting some of the places that are considered 'quiet' and 'out of the way' in Bali, you might re-think your need for the company of random strangers! You'll be looking mostly for villas in Bali, if you want a private Bali holiday. Previous tourists in Bali on TripAdvisor have recommended these Bali hotels for privacy and seclusion:
* The Laguna Resort and Spa in Nusa Dua
* The Chedi Club at Tanah Gajah in Ubud
* Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali
* Komaneka at Monkey Forest in Ubud
* Kupu Kupu Barong Villas & Tree Spa in Ubud
These Bali villas are much more than little hotel rooms, this is reflected in the price. However, your credit card will soon forgive you when you are sitting on a quiet verandah in the mountains, or sipping cocktails on the pristine beaches!

Bali's private beaches
If you are mostly going to Bali for the beaches, book your beach hotel in Bali through the dry season, which runs from April to October. While most tourists avoid the wet season in Bali, you can actually save quite a bit of money by going in this period of lower demand. Plan your days to avoid the downpours in the afternoons, and you'll mostly have the beaches to yourself and a beautiful, less expensive holiday besides! Here are some of the quietest (and best!) beaches in Bali:
* Mengiet Beach in Nusa Dua: This runs from the Hyatt hotel to Geger Temple, and has gorgeous white sand and blue water as well as few vendors. You can rent chairs from 20 rupiah per day.
* Jimbaran beach: This is easiest to reach if you are staying in one of the adjacent Bali hotels - but even if you aren't, it is worth coming down to get some of the better waves in Bali.
* Sanur area beaches: The beaches here have less of a tourist-y feeling, and much more of a local flavour. This was the first developed resort area in Bali, but can be nice in times of few tourists.
* Balangan: This beach has almost a Hawaiian feeling, and there are plenty if secluded corners. Access can be difficult... which bodes well for you, if you'd rather enjoy the place by yourself!

Looking to book holidays to Bali? Then find Bali hotel accommodation, other tourism resources and Bali island tours with Bali Dream Tours. Make online bookings for hotels and villas in Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Tuban, Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, Sanur and other areas of Bali by visiting Bali Hotels.

Bali Island As a Holiday Destination

Taking time out from the everyday stresses and strives of life to visit an exquisite place is something that everybody looks forward to. Bali, with its famous Balinese residents and their Hindu custom, is an island known more for its art and workmanship and as well as a holiday destination. Each year increasingly tourists from abroad are coming to Bali, enchanted by its natural beauty and its loving and welcoming people. Tourism in Bali is presently at an all time high.

Bali is one of the island that makes Indonesia settled between java and Lombok island and is populated by people with majority in Hindu religion and also blended race of other Indonesian people and heritage. It has a contrasting landscape ranging from exquisite and attractive beaches to extended and craggy mountain chains. Green color on sides of a hill loom over the fields of rice fields, supplying a sensational beautiful view. The natural beauty of Bali and its heritage has shaped the island of Gods to what it is today. This is the only island with Hindu majority faith in Indonesia.

Like several of the Indonesian islands, Bali's primary source of tourism is the civilization of it's people. The island is fortunate with temples to worship Gods, a lot of ceremonials related to Hinduism and also recently reaching popularity are hundreds of miles of sprawling sandy beaches, with fine white sand and crystal like blue water. Tourists visiting Bali expect a large number of choices for the location of their beach vacation. The major resorts of Kuta, Sanur and Nusa Dua are the most famed and here you'll find numerous 5 star hotels and resorts. Despite this, there are also a lot of smaller, quieter beach villas where you can truly get away from it all.

Apart from stunning beaches, Bali also offers a lot of rural towns and cities overflowing of affluent civilization and heritage. A vacation to Bali isn't complete without inspecting at least one of the Bali's towns or cities and meeting the local people. In the middle of the island a bit north from Denpasar city you'll discover the city of Ubud, Ubud - the hub of everything that is Balinese. When you stroll around Ubud you'll feel the affection of the Balinese old heritage - an ample legacy exhaling from the old Bali traditional architecture that beholds the city.

Ubud also has its fair portion of museums, including the Neka Art Museum, the Blanco Renaissance Museum of Painting, Museum Puri Lukisan and Rudana Museum. other city of Bali is Sanur. Sanur is the most popular city in Bali and is settled on the south eastern part of the island. It has a exquisite setting at the beach overlooks a magnificent island of Nusa Penida. Contrary to the other towns and cities in Bali, Sanur features a very extraordinary feel to it. This is as a effect of the influence of the first holidaymakers who comes to Sanur around 1980's. Bali famed city today is Kuta. Kuta, settled in the south west from capital city is one of the city that famous for its waves among surfboarders. The city is filled with luxury hotels and resorts. Its the city where night live activities are abundant.

A Perfect Retreat at Nusa Lembongan - Bali Island

Have you set any plan for your next year holiday? A quiet place where you can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere and retreat from the hectic life you have been living the whole year? An exotic and natural island in Bali might be your perfect destination. If you think Nusa Lembongan is just a small island with nothing to enjoy, then you are completely wrong. It is more than just an island, Nusa Lembongan will be the perfect place for your perfect retreat!

When you are visiting Bali, sail from Benoa harbour through the Badung Strait, to the south east of Bali island. And within approximately 1 hour, you will find a white sandy beach with blue crystal clear water, and beautiful corals surrounding a small island.

You have arrived at the Nusa Lembongan !

Located about 20 km off Bali east coast, with less than 4,000 population, Nusa Lembongan offers its pristine and unspoilt beaches with its adorable underwater living, as well as the quiet but enchanting villages. Both of them would be very suitable destination for a quiet getaway, especially for people who adore peaceful and natural life.

Underwater Activities

The crystal clear water in Nusa Lembongan has been famous to be the great surfing, diving and snorkeling place. The perfect time for surfing is April - October, which is dry season in Indonesia. During these months, the southeast trade winds are offshore on Nusa Lembongan.

There are 2 main beaches in Nusa Lembongan where you can have your activities:

The bigger one is Jungutbatu, in the north side. Many villas and resorts, as well as restaurants can be found here to spoil the tourists.

Mushroom Bay has a more tranquil atmosphere and best beach for swimming. It's located at the south of Jungutbatu.

Surfing...
..is best done at Jungutbatu, which has 3 points of surfing breaks:
Playgrounds - a left-hander, relatively easy
Lacerations - a fast right-hander with bigger waves
Shipwrecks - another right-hander

Snorkeling...
..can be done in the Jungutbatu near Lacerations area.

Swimming...
...is best done at Mushroom Bay, around half an hour walking from Jungutbatu. The beach is more tranquil and has less visitors. You can also have sun bathing there.

Diving...
...can be done in several diving sites around Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Nusa Ceningan, which are closely located each other. The best one is Crystal Bay near Nusa Penida. Find the famous mola-mola (ocean sunfish), beautiful corals, golden sand, reefs and caves, all in one site!

Sunset...
..is an amazing panorama that you must enjoy from the beach of Jungutbatu. The exotic sunset view and the sound of crashing wave would be your unforgettable moment in Nusa Lembongan.

Village Exploring

Jungutbatu is a tranquil village where you can meet with warm and friendly local people. They make their living mostly from seaweed farming and some handycrafts making. Besides the seaweed cultivation, another interesting site to be seen is the local underground house called Gala-gala. Gala-gala is a long cave built under a house, and have separated rooms in the depth of 2 meters from the ground.

And...what would be the perfect retreat at the exotic island of Bali, than to spend the nights at one of many natural-styles resorts along Jungutbatu beach? You are probably staying for two or three nights there, but the sweet memories of the exotic Nusa Lembongan will lasts for years.

Have an Exciting Holiday in Bali Island

Bali is a beautiful Indonesian island situated in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands. This small Indonesian has much to offer to its visitors as it is home to the large majority of Indonesia's Hindu minority. Bali is the largest tourist destination in Indonesia and is well known for its highly developed arts, dance, sculpture, painting, metalwork, and music. There are numerous

Bali holidays can be very adventurous and memorable for you as Bali is considered to be the most visitor-friendly island of Indonesia and thus attracts large number of tourists. In Bali Island you can pamper yourself by taking body massage on the beach or a sybaritic spa. Bali is a perfect place for the shopping freaks as there is much for everyone here. Bali provides wide range of mouth-watering Food and drinks prepared by the best of chefs.

Nusa Dua (Bali islands) is an exclusive resort area known for its picturesque beauty and pristine beaches. This beautiful place is full of tranquillity where families can relax, enjoy and have some memorable moments. This resort can provide you all fun in the premises itself. The resort is at a short distance from the International Airport.

Ubud (Bali Islands), this is an incredible town situated in the middle of the Bali island. Ubud has been the centre for various cultural activities from centuries. This is a well- known place and attracts large number f people.

Sanur (Bali islands) is by tradition a fishing village and most of the inhabitants of this place are involved into fishing activity. The simplicity of the people of Sanur makes this island unique in itself.

Tanah Lot (Bali islands), this is situated across the boundary of Badung regency in Tabanan, Tanah Lot is the most renowned and beautiful temple in Bali. The temple is known for its unique architecture and is built on a small promontory. One cannot enter the temple without a scarf on the head.

Menjangan island (Bali islands), is the famous diving site in Bali, this particular island has preserved corals and is rich in variety of aquatic animals, the island has turquoise clear water, and the sea stays calm. Menjangan Island is the most favourite spot for the divers. Menjangan island is clean and depopulated. "Pura Giri Kencana" is an ancient temple in Menjangan Island it is suppose to have originated from 14th century.

If you plan to spend time with your family then go for Bali Holidays. You can find frequent flights from U.A.E to Bali, one can book the flights according to one's own convenience and comfort.