Bali

Fast Facts

Location: East of Java Island in Indonesia
Attraction Type: Exotic island
Significance: A vibrant amalgamation of culture, tradition, and awesome landscape
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
How to Reach: By direct flights from Houston, Melbourne, Tokyo, Seoul, Tai.pei, Hong Kong, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok; alternatively by ferry from other Indonesian destinations.
Nearest International Airport: Ngurah Rai Airport near Denpasar in Bali

Bali, irrespective of its small size, offers variety as myriad as the colors of an artist's palette. Heart pounding sea waves, pristine rice terraces, bewildering dance recitals, and ethereal temple ceremonies all add up to form a wonderland that Bali is. So tempting is the appeal of the place that it has been ranked among the top ten honeymoon destinations in the world. Bali can take pride in the fact that in spite of its miniscule size it has been able to attract visitors in millions every year.

Be the beach towns of Lovina and Amed, or the tranquilizing laid-back isle of Nusa Lembongan or the buoyancy of Kuta nightclubs, Bali is eternally beautiful. You could enjoy Bali either idling away among the most serene surroundings or joining in the unbridled merrymaking in the Seminyak nightclubs.

Visiting Bali

Bali in Indonesia might be explored on foot, on mountain bikes, and in boats. On foot discover the hills, waterfalls and orchards of Munduk. At Gunung Batukau, the rice terraces along the slopes of misty hills and a temple make a worthwhile visit. Another inspiring site is the cliff-top temple at Ulu Watu. At Ubud you get to immerse yourself in Balinese culture exhibited through its exuberant music and dance shows.

The Pura Ulun Danu Bratan 17th century temple dedicated to water goddess Devi Danu is revered to ensure proper water supply to the farmlands throughout the year. Discover 10 rock cut shrines carved out of a single rock face representing Bali Island's largest and earliest ancient monuments. The Bali Orchard Garden and Museum Le Mayeur are two of the popular places to visit. You must never miss the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary famous for its three sacred temples.

Activities in Bali

Bali, being a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, offers alluring water activities. Pemuteran is well known for its beach and excellent diving location. For unparalleled surfing experience, Nusa Lembongan is the place to be in, while Kuta beach has a classical and timeless appeal to sunbathers and swimmers.

In case you are not too much of a water sport enthusiast, visit Amed for its idle fishing villages, and quaint hotels. And if you just wish to laze around, then there is no better place than Lovina in Bali.

Eating and Sleeping in Bali

Eating in Bali is an unusually pleasant experience. 'Babi guling' is a local preparation of roast suckling pig, which is required to be ordered some days in advance. This exotic dish is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends in ceremonies. Other exotic recipes are minced seafood satay, grilled chicken with red chilly and shrimp paste, 'urufan' or Balinese spicy sausage, and Balinese special slated dry fish. Among the drinks available in Bali, Blintang and Bali Hai branded beer are popular. Hatten, a locally made wine in red, white and pink varieties is sold widely.

You could check into a hotel of your choice in Bali as the selection is exhaustive. Some of the noteworthy hotels include Ramayana Hotel and Kuta Seaview Hotel in Kuta, Novotel Nusa Dua in Nusa Dua, Puri Bambu in Jimbaran, and Samur Beach Hotel in Samur.