Tourism On The Rise In North Bali

A place of jaw dropping beauty that offers a whole host of exhilarating activities, Bali is the most well known island in the Indonesian archipelago and one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. Bali offers tourists a heady mix of authentic traditional culture, breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches with amazing sunsets. The people of Bali are very friendly and welcoming of the many visitors to their island every year.

Government figures show that tourist numbers in Bali have been steadily increasing every year since 2005 and are projected to grow in 2010 and beyond. While most of the tourist arrivals congregate in places like Kuta, Nusa Dua, Ubud or Denpasar in South Bali, many are looking to escape to other less congested parts of the island. A popular destination for anyone looking for a more serene and natural location in Bali is Lovina Beach in north Bali. A tiny resort town nestled on the coast, Lovina is home to many excellent hotels and tourist attractions like dolphin tours, diving spots, temples, waterfalls, hot springs and spas.

More tourists in Bali seek quiet and secluded spots like Lovina Beach with its laid-back atmosphere, unspoiled stretches of black sand beach and low priced guest accommodation. The government in Bali and Indonesia have taken note of the growing international interest in North Bali and Lovina Beach in particular, and have announced the construction of the island’s second international airport located in Kubu Tambahan, some 23 kilometres east of Lovina.

Unlike the highly commercialised south, Lovina in North Bali remains an oasis of calm and class in a cacophonous maelstrom of excess. The popularity of Lovina Beach as a place to get away from it all has lead to the creation of Lovina Beach Resort, the north’s only world class five-star beachfront luxury resort. Lovina Beach Resort offers visitors to Bali in love with the peace and quiet an excellent lifestyle investment opportunity at much lower prices than comparable properties in Bali’s overdeveloped south. Lovina Beach Resort allows anybody to own their very own slice of tropical paradise at affordable prices.

25 Things You Did Not Know You Could do in Bali

As they say, ‘one trip to Bali is never enough’. Vast, seemingly endless beaches, beautiful tropical landscapes, the fascinating culture, amazingly hospitable people and shopping for local crafts continue to attract repeat visitors to Bali, time and time again.

However, as I have been discovering in my recent trips, there is more to this tropical paradise than meets the eye.

Today you can also add to my list above, the attraction of a myriad of activities catering to both the action oriented holiday maker and the more staid.

Here is a starter list of 25 new things you may want to try when you are next in Bali:

1) Bird Park
You don’t need to be a bird watcher to enjoy this colourful park. Take a morning off, and discover the beauty of an array of tropical birds Bali has to offer. Even better, arrive later in the afternoon, and enjoy some amazing sun-set melodies. A great choice for enthusiasts and families. (located at Taman Burung – open 08:00 – 18:00 daily)

2) Cruising
Pick a boat of your choice, and head for the high seas! Nowadays Bali has a great selection of safe boats to choose from. Go for a fun filled family outing or go more adventurous with some of the latest cutting edge crafts which deliver the speed. (Bali Hai Cruises, Sea Safari Cruises, Bounty Cruises)

3) Dance Performances
Be enthralled by unique Balinese dances! Try to catch one of each of: Kecak, Legong and Fire Dances, at least. There are dozens of different troupes to choose from, each with their own following. Keep in mind, shows in hotels and tourist restaurants offer vanilla flavour, and sometimes mechanical re-creations of the real thing. Head out to some of the villages, and you will be handsomely rewarded with the authentic fare.

4) Designer Shopping
No, I am not talking about the ‘fake originals’ that litter the streets of many other Asian locations. In the recent years, Bali has attracted some of the most talented original designers, and artists from around the world (both the East and the West). This coupled with the inherent artistic capabilities of the Balinese, means that Bali today enjoys a large number of original designer shops. You can find anything from post-modern lighting installations, to Imperial Chinese style sideboards, and from original water fountain designs to some of the best jewelry designed and manufactured anywhere in the world.

5) Diving
Put your PADI license to use, or if you are a diving newbie, just do it, and get your PADI certificate in Bali! A range of dive organizers for the experienced, and dive schools for the new comers are available to choose from. Some offer PADI ‘Youth Scuba’ courses for ages 5+.

6) Dolphin Watching
Enjoy these all-time favourites in their natural habitat. They are at their best first thing in the morning. Also, the soft hues of the sun-rise provide amazing colours for the photography enthusiasts. However, you will need to plan ahead for this one, since Lovina is in the North of the island, and you will more than likely be staying in a hotel or a rental villa in the south.

7) Fishing
Go after that marlin or try your hand at yellow fin tuna! Most boats provide full tackle, bait and a running commentary, a friendly, giggly banter which makes the day out that much more enjoyable. (fishing boats from Benoa Harbour or Sanur)

Elephant Safari Park
Arguably, one of the best in South East Asia! Great location and landscaped gardens. Don’t forget to do the elephant safari ride.

9) Jet Skiing
Re-create those favourite Baywatch moments! Due to their environmental impact, only available at some selected beaches across the island. (available at Grand Hyatt Nusa Dua).

10) Go-Karting
Only for those who get withdrawal symptoms from being away from the hustle and bustle of big-city life! All the noise, thrills and danger of the real thing! Choice of single or double carts.

11) Golfing
A number of 18 hole courses are available across Bali. As you would expect, each more beautiful than the other. Relax on an easy course, or challenge yourself to one of the more demanding courses designed by professionals. Either way, don’t miss the spectacular views over the Indian Ocean or one of Bali’s great volcanoes. Most courses in Bali are to international standards, and many offer clubhouses and recreational facilities for the rest of the family.

12) Helicopter Tours
Go on, splash out for that once in a life-time experience! Spectacular views over Bali even Lombok. Take in the gentle rice terraces from the best vantage point, or get up close and personal with a volcano! Not cheap, but certainly an experience never to forget. (Air Bali)

13) Horse Riding
Enjoy one of the equestrian centres at your doorstep! Selection of horses, with courses for the beginners. Wonderful escorted tours through the rice terraces and tide permitting down the beach. (Umalas or Saba Bay Stables)

14) Kite Boarding
Some great wind and lift, as well as the equipment for rental is available at Nusa Dua beaches. But make sure you have a great story lined up for your insurance company! Keep in mind, this really is an Extreme Sport.

15) Monkey Watching
Experience mischievous macaques in full action! Also, some good restaurants and eateries nearby. However, be careful of your cameras, glasses and the like! (The Sacred Monkey Forest – Ubud)

16) Mountain Cycling
If you like cycling, why not enjoy a leisurely cycle with views of the Batur volcano! Lots to see, lots to learn, all on two wheels with an experienced guide. (Bali Adventure Tours)

17) Paragliding
Throw yourself off the sheer cliff faces of Uluwatu into the Indian Ocean! As a beginner you can enjoy great tandem jumps with well qualified professionals with great safety records.

18) Slingshot (Reverse Bungee)
Defy gravity Bali style, with some spectacular 50m views! (That is, if you remember to open your eyes!) Not for the faint-hearted. Organisers follow international safety standards.

19) Surfing
If you’ve come with your board you’ll know where to go! If you are keen to learn, there are many schools to choose from, just head for the beach! Whilst Kuta is a good all rounder, Uluwatu, Padang-Padang, and Balangan can provide some great tubes to test the more experienced. (some offer surfing lessons for ages 5+, so the whole family can enjoy surfing all together)

20) Temple Ceremonies
Few visitors to Bali realise that in most instances you will be welcomed to attend local ceremonies as an observer. The great thing is, there is a temple ceremony every single day of the year in Bali, just ask around to find the nearest one during your stay. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to catch one of the Full Moon or Dark Moon ceremonies which attract devotees from far a field and are some of the most colourful events on the island. Please remember that a sensible dress code, and polite/respectful behaviour are essential for continued hospitality towards foreign guests. (Also, please note that women are not allowed in the temples during their menstrual period.)

21) Tennis
Choose from one of many open or some covered courts! Whilst most better tennis courts are located at major hotels, you can use these facilities on a pay-per-use basis. Many will provide a partner to match your skills.

22) Wake Boarding (or Knee Boarding)
Have a go at that double flip, or just learn to stand up! Whilst most beaches are more suitable for surfing, you can enjoy wakeboarding at the Condrad Bali Resort, and surrounds.

23) Waterbom Park
Water slides and rides galore, both kids and adults will have a blast! World class park, with well trained staff. Go early to make the most of your day! (open 09:00 – 18:00 daily)

24) Wind Surfing
Maximise the almost continuous winds found in Nusa Dua or Sanur. You can rent a board, and head out, or take one of the courses designed for beginners.

25) White Water Rafting
A thrilling experience through 8 kilometers of rapids! (believe it or not, still suitable for ages 5+) Organisers follow international safety standards. (Bali Adventure Tours)

Like me, if you manage to fit in five of these activities into your schedule, every time you visit Bali, you will still want to come back for more. Because, at the end of the day, it is the people of Bali, with their welcoming smiles, and willingness to help, which will make mere adventures into even more precious memories.

One final thought. If you are attempting something new, or slightly dangerous, please make sure to check that you are fit/suitable enough for the adventure ahead, and that the organisers have the necessary experience/safety record so as not to spoil your wonderful Bali adventure.

Many happy returns to the Island of the Gods!

Visit Kuta Bali, Buy Handicraft Souvenir

Talking end for end Bali, there is many beautiful and interesting places that you can visit, for a month you going around at Bali, I think, it is not enough to exploring that graceful Deities lovely Island.
First if you visit Bali, please let ask your tour guide that you have to endure to Kuta, and I guaranty that you will get some experience that in no degree same with your other visit.

Interesting Place Around Kuta.

Kuta Beach.
Kuta Beach is very famous. You can remark the beautiful sunset at this beach everyday. In that place is many hotels, restaurant and other places you can stay or pure relaxing by enjoying the beautiful sunset. The International hotels/places like Mercure Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel etc, or any other restaurants just a few step from the sands. You do not believe how imaginary it is, until you come and be delighted with it.
You may go around to other place, however do not remember to go favor to Kuta beach about 04.00 PM o clock to enjoy the sunset.
If you like to surfing or just want to learn about surfing, you know that Kuta is the right place for it. There are many tourists from Europe, USA or Australia or other countries come to Kuta for one thing, surfing and surfing.

Bali Water Boom.
Of course you can find the best water boom in Indonesia at Kuta. There is clean, many foliage with a scarcely any leaves and safety. Here the place to swimming, sunning, and you could do the water sliding as high as 30 meters heights. This place is located at Kartika Plaza Road (about 3 kilometers from Kuta Beach).
There are many hotels, restaurants, and cafes through the Kartika Plaza Road. You can buy the handicraft souvenirs at this place.

Legian.
Through that street, you testament find many souvenir shops and cafe/restaurant. Like at Kuta beach, the nightlife in Legian is very attractive to. I recommend to you to make a photograph at Bali Bomb II Monument at Legian.

Kuta Square – Kartika Plaza.
Kuta Square at Kartika Plaza is the center of sales the exported handicrafts. At Kartika Plaza there is a shopping mall named Discovery Mall, there is a cafe at behind mall that you can relaxing and enjoy the beach at there. And you can buy the handicraft at this mall moreover. Near the Discovery Mall there is various famous places probable Kuta Centro, Musro, Cabaret Cabaret, There is many luxurious hotels through the Kartika Plaza Road.

Visit to Indonesia? Do not slight to endure to Bali, If you visit to Bali, do not forget to stay at Kuta, and in imitation of all you will find the beautiful and interesting really hand made handicraft, souvenir and gift.

Indonesia in Extreme Style

For most travelers Republic of Indonesia is mainly associated with Bali island. However, the country has a lot to offer for those who are eager to take a rest far from trendy resorts and beach exotics. Those who love everything out of ordinary can choose an extreme tour.

Travel managers say that the number of tourists who choose adventurous trips is getting bigger and bigger. Indonesia is probably one of the best places to spend your time this way. The country includes: Greater Sunda Islands (Kalimantan, Sumatra, Sulawesi, Java and Madura), Lesser Sunda Islands, Maluku islands and the western part of the New Guinea island, formerly known as Irian Jaya. This is the real expanse for extreme travelers.

The most typical pastime is a trip to Java and Bali islands. This is in fact not an extreme tour, and it suits simple tourists who love active rest. Having arrived at Jakarta, travelers change their means of transport to Jeeps and ride along the Java island, admiring volcanoes, national parks, active geysers and wild animals. I trip like this usually includes a tour around huge internationally renowned temples, like Buddhist Borobudur and Hindu Prambanan. In Borobudur you can observe 1500 VIII-X century bas-reliefs and sculptures whereas Prambanan offers stunningly graceful and realistic sculptures that portray gods. After a week of walks along rural roads tourists find themselves on Bali. At day, the best pastime is sunbathing and swimming whereas at night you can spent your time clubbing and partying. Such 15-day tour costs no less than $1500.

Those who value real adventures are offered other kinds of trips. For instance, you can pay $2,5-5 thousand and spent your time on Irian Jaya island living among cannibals (better not to spend too much time here) – an ancient nationality which managed to preserve its world-known traditions. Tourists live in real Papuan villages, raft along tropical rivers, participate in magical rituals and wild hunting using primitive tools. You will also get your doze of adrenalin when participating in tours called “Visiting head hunters”. This is a trip to Kalimantan island, during which you will travel on Jeeps, boats and by foot along the primeval jungles surrounded with rhinoceroses, giant butterflies, orang-utans and bears. Travelers spend two weeks on getting acquainted with customs and tempers of local wild tribes, familiarizing themselves with a fabulous sultan’s palace in Tenggarong, dancing at Tanamur – the country’s most famous disco and doing shopping at local floating market.

Another kind of extreme tour is a trip to Sumatra island, where you can enjoy Krakatoa volcano, which erupted in 1883 – this was one of the largest cataclysms in history of human being. Travelers will also float along the Palembong canals – the Venice of the South-Eastern Asia, visit Bukittinggi, the capital of Minangkabau ethnic group. Some scientists say that it is in this city that descendants of Macedonian warriors and Amazons live. The journey is accomplished with a tour around the jungles.

Bali Hotels – Designed for Ultimate Relaxation

Bali is a tropical island of Indonesia. Meet with the friendly Balinese people, soak yourself in the past culture and heritage of the land, learn more about the temples and the shrines and actively participate in one of the festivals and events of the region. Bali is a place that has entertainment options for all types of travelers. Known as one of the best surfing lands of the world it is a paradise for all adventure lovers. To cater to the needs of all travelers, all the Bali hotels offer a wide range of facilities to all its guests. The Bali hotels are the best places to experience true Balinese hospitality.

There are innumerable hotels dotted all along Bali. Some of the popular places of Bali where you can find a good number of hotels are Kuta, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Sansur and Ubud.

All the Kuta Hotels in Bali are known for their wonderful ambiance and traditional hospitality. Some of the popular hotels of the area are Alam Kulkul Boutique Resort, Bounty Hotel Kuta, Barong Hotel Kuta, Dewi Sri Cottage Kuta and others. Travelers with limited budget constraint can reserve a room in the 2-star Green Garden Hotel, 1-star Ida Hotel Bali and others. All the hotels in this region are well known for their wide range of facilities and services. Most of the hotels overlook lush greenery and azure blue waters.

Tourists planning their trip to Sansur can find a good number of excellent accommodation options. There are many 4- star, 3-star and cheap hotels in this part of Bali. Enjoy a luxurious stay in Inna Grand Bali Beach Hotel which is reputedly the first international hotel in Bali. You can choose one of the thatched roof bungalows in the La Tavern Hotel. The Mercure Resort Sansur Bali after its recent renovation is one of the most preferred hotels of the region. Most of the hotels have on-site restaurants where guests can relish a variety of regional sea food delicacies. After a fabulous meal you can pamper yourself in the private beach of the Parigata Resort and Spa.

June to September is the mainly the tourist season in Bali. If you are planning your trip in July or August then make sure that you make reservation in any one of the hotels. As the rates of the hotel during these months can be a bit high you can save your expenditure by planning your trip during the off-peak season. Most of the hotels in Bali have provision for online booking.

Tourists from all corners of the world come to North Bali for spending a wonderful vacation. Marvel at the panoramic mountains and treat your eyes by the wonderful views of the Java Sea. Most of the hotels in the northern part of Bali provide an easy access to the beach areas. Indulge in the varied water sport activities that are loved by all adventure enthusiasts. Some of the popular hotels where you can find in South Kuta are Asdi Jaya Hotel Tuban, Aston Inn Tuban Bali, Febri’s Hotel and Spa, Green Garden Beach Resort and Spa, Rama Beach Resort and Villas.

Visitor Attractions in Indonesia

Indonesia is a land of mountains, volcanoes, dense forests, attractive beaches, spectacular natural beauty, which draws the attention of various tourists throughout the year. With its glorious temples, huge mosques, museums Indonesia is a house of several magnificent Indonesia Tourist Attractions.

Attractions in Indonesia

Java- Jakarta – The capital city of Jakarta retains much from the colonial Dutch and British periods, with many fine colonial-style buildings and the recently restored old quarter. You can visit at The National Monument towers, Merdeka Square, The Central Museum, Portuguese Church, Istiqlal Mosque etc. If you want to shop, then antiques market on Jalan Surabaya and batik factories in the Karet are the perfect place for you. Throughout the island, puppet shows are staged in which traditional wayang golak and wayang kulit marionettes act out stories based on well-known legends; performances can sometimes last all night.

Sumatra- The second-largest island in Indonesia is Sumatra, which is a house of the volcanic mountain range, hot springs, unexplored jungle and extensive plantations. Bengkulu, Gedung Wani and Mount Loeser Reserve are some of the amazing Reserve forests. The popular Indonesia Tourist Attractions situated in Sumatra are, Lake Toba, Lingga village, Bukittinggi’s Fort de Kock that located close to the zoo, market, a refurbished rice barn and the Bundo Kandung Museum and the most attractive beaches on the east coast.

Sulawesi-

Popularly known as Orchid Island, Sulawesi is a land of high mountains, misty valleys and lakes, geysers and hot springs like Karumengan, Kinilow, Lahendong, Leilem and Makule. In the south is Bantimurung Nature Reserve which has thousands of exotic butterflies. The island has geysers and hot springs, the most celebrated of which are at Karumengan, Kinilow, Lahendong, Leilem and Makule. Torajaland is known as the ‘Land of the Heavenly Kings’ and its people are noted for their richly ornamented houses and custom of burying the dead in vertical cliffside tombs. Ujung Pandang, formerly Makassar, is celebrated for the Pinsa Harbour where wooden schooners of the famous Buganese seafarers are moored. Fort Rotterdam, built by Sultan Ala in 1660 to protect the town from pirates, is now being restored. Racing is a popular island activity; there is horseracing and bullock-racing and at Ranomuut there are races with traditional horse-drawn carts.

Bali-

With its spectacular white beaches, verdant jungle and mountain, Bali is a tropical paradise.

The landscape of Bali ‘is made up of volcanic mountains, lakes and rivers, terraced ricefields, giant banyans and palm groves and, on the coast, bays ringed with white sandy beaches. Bali is famous for its crafts and adventurous activities, which are organized on the southern beaches. The island lies a short distance from the eastern coast of Java, across the Strait of Bali. The tourist areas are in the south, around Sanur Beach and at Kuta, which lies on the other side of a narrow isthmus. The island also has thousands of temples – the exact number has never been counted – ranging from the great Holy Temple at Besakih to small village places of worship.

Lombok-

It is a land of temples local handicrafts like rattan baskets and woven fabrics. Lombok is a popular tourist destination where you can visit at the Senggigi Beach, Gili Islands, Gunung Rinjani, and Desert Point well known for surfing. The island possesses one of the highest volcanic mountains in the Indonesian archipelago, Mount Rindjani,. The two main towns are Mataram, the capital, and the busy port of Ampenan; both are interesting to explore. The south coast is rocky. The west, with shimmering rice terraces, banana and coconut groves and fertile plains, looks like an extension of Bali. The east is dry, barren and desert-like in appearance. The north, the region dominated by Mount Rindjani, offers thick forests and dramatic vistas. There are also some glorious beaches, some of white sand, others, such as those near Ampenan, of black sand. At Narmada there is a huge complex of palace dwellings, complete with a well containing ‘rejuvenating waters’, built for a former Balinese king. At Pamenang, visitors can hire a boat and go diving, entering a clear-water world of brilliantly colored coral and inquisitive tropical fish.

Yogakartas-

Capital of Java Yogakarta is the centre of educational, cultural and economic activity. You must see the premier university of Indonesia, the Gajah Mada University and various arts centers, markets, galleries, craft shops and bazaars.

Moluccan Archipelago-

Also known as the Maluku Archipelago, it is made up of 1000 islands, many uninhabited and the rest so isolated from each other and from the outside world that each has its own culture and very often its own language. Halmahera is the largest island in the Moluccan group and one of the most diverse. Banda, in the middle of the Banda Sea, is often referred to as the original ‘Spice Island’ and is famous as a nutmeg-growing center. At present, the islands are popular for diving and snorkeling.

Nusa Tengara Archipelago-

Nusa Penida was at one time a penal colony but now attracts visitors to its dramatic seascapes and beaches. Komodo is home to the world’s largest and rarest species of monitor lizard, while Sumba is noted for its beautiful Ikat cloth. Mount Keli Mutu is one of Indonesia’s most spectacular natural sights, famous for its three crater lakes, whose striking colors change with the light of the day. little since the Bronze Age, yet the islands’ inhabitants are renowned as musicians and palm weavers. The Terawangan Islands is a small group with beautiful beaches and coral gardens. Lucipara has excellent waters for snorkeling. Bone Rate, Kangean, Tenggaya and Tukang Besi is a group of isolated islands in the Flores and Banda seas, epitomizing a tropical paradise.

Indonesia – A Hidden Treasure Trove

With its incredible diversity, India is a feast for the senses for people around the world, with its colour, character, philosophy and organised chaos. All my life I have revelled in this and considered myself very fortunate to be a part of it. However, it has made my search for such diversity and vibrancy elsewhere much harder.

Having planned some time off to travel last year, my wife, Sophia, and I narrowed the list of places we wanted to visit to South America or Indonesia; and when a good friend related fascinating stories from Indonesia, it seemed like a sleeping giant that the world knew little about so we decided to go and see it for ourselves.

Consider some of these facts: The largest archipelago in the world with about 18,000 islands, Indonesia stretches along the equator for more than 5,000 km. Almost 60% of Indonesia’s land is forested and it has more than 500 volcanoes – 12% of which are still active! The fourth most heavily populated country in the world after China, India and the United States with close to 250 million people, comprising some 300 ethnic groups who speak an estimated 600 languages and dialects.

Part 1 Bali – the island of the Gods!

As a first time visitor to Indonesia, I was excited as well as a little nervous. It’s a massive country, spread over thousands of kilometres. So like India, yet so unlike India, with its endless islands forming a chain along the equator.

Indonesia to me was a slightly incomprehensible mix of a remarkably beautiful tropical paradise and danger; with communal troubles and civil disturbances, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, and earthquakes. During our trip we hoped to find a fascinating reality that lay between those two opposing themes.

The excitement stemmed also from the fact that we had a month to spend there exploring these marvellous islands; home to active volcanoes, spectacular beaches and unique wildlife, like the Komodo dragon.

We started our trip in the relative comfort of the well developed tourism infrastructure on the island of Bali. In fact only thing that was difficult was trying to get a reasonably priced flight from New Delhi, as we had left it so late! Everything worked out finally and an uneventful Malaysian airlines flight later through Kuala Lumpur, we landed in Bali at Denpasar airport. The landing was spectacular as the plane comes down close to the white sandy Jimbaran beach; as you fly in, all you can see is the sea coming closer and closer until a few seconds before touch down the runway is suddenly visible.

As Indonesia has recently relaxed its visa regime for Indians, it was possible to get a visa on arrival – as an Indian passport holder, it is still a novel experience to travel to countries and get a visa on arrival! Laos, Thailand, Hong Kong (interestingly enough one needs a visa for China though), Cambodia and Maldives are a few of the others.

It was a hassle free experience and one can straight away see the advantages it brings to tourism and business travel. This is even more important in light of the Indian Tourism Board’s efforts to push a similar proposal through for visitors to India.

Having pre-arranged some budget accommodation in the nearby beach town of Sanur, we hired a taxi to get us there. Bali’s excellent tourism infrastructure made it an easy and painless process, we didn’t even need the Indonesian we had been learning, a language much easier to learn than many.

Bali, appropriately called ‘the island of the gods’ is an excellent example of the religious and cultural diversity which exists in Indonesia, and consists predominantly of Hindu communities. By contrast the island of Java, where the capital Jakarta is located, is predominantly Muslim and the island of Flores (where we headed to later in our trip) is mostly Christian.

The widely spread islands with their mix of peoples, cultures and religions means that Indonesia has faced a similar problem to India in terms of language. Bahasa Indonesia is the national language but interestingly has faced similar challenges in many parts of the country to that with the adoption of Hindi as the national language in India. Indeed in Bali, Balinese is widely spoken.

The Balinese worship the various gods of Hindu mythology and are all as familiar with the Mahabharatha and the Ramayana as many Indians are. Each house is in fact considered a minor temple, adding further to the astounding statistic of some 20,000 temples on this small island of no more than two million people.

Offerings are made twice daily to the gods of the house and to the gods honoured in small shrines everywhere. As you drive around Bali, the sight of women carrying rice-and-flower offerings on banana leaves is common. Indeed, the word Bali, dating from the 9th century, means “offering.”

Sanur – rather unfairly nicknamed ’snore’ by us – was a very sleepy town, that had begun to lose its charm through its efforts to pander to all kinds of tourists. Our sense of discovery, lead us to search for the real Bali and we headed to a small island, Nusa Lembongan, about two hours away by boat.

Nusa Lembongan is one of 3 islands that sit across the Badung Strait on the Southeast coast of Bali along with Nusa Ceningan & Nusa Penida. These 3 islands are somewhat impoverished, relying on seaweed farming, cattle and other low-return activities, with tourism the brightest light on the horizon. The boat ride across the Badung Strait was smooth to begin with, but as we had been warned, the straits are extremely deep and there is always a large swell in the middle -finely illustrated by the teenage girl sitting behind us unable to keep her breakfast away from the fish!

Although we had to get off at the main jetty, we had made up our minds to make our way to Mushroom Bay, an amazing white sand beach which we had spotted from the boat. Getting there meant either taking a small, but expensive, motor boat taxi, or hiking with our heavy back packs up and downhill for a couple of hours.

Of course, having decided on the water taxi option, we couldn’t find one until a booming Australian drawl asked if he could help. Indeed he was the owner of the water taxi company who had been living on Nusa Lembongan for years. Mushroom Bay was every bit as pretty close up and we booked ourselves into some Balinese style lodging for a few nights.

Breakfast by the beach is a luxury for anyone and we certainly indulged at the rather aptly named but predictable Bali Café. There was a sense of exclusivity to Mushroom Bay which was only disturbed at about mid-day for a few hours by day trippers from mainland Bali. We spent that time exploring the island and the first time around decided to do a walking tour. Incredibly greenery, and some stunning beaches, were our reward although after a while the humidity made the walk more of an effort than we would have liked. And, of course, temples and offerings were everywhere.

The next day we decided to explore a bit further by hiring a motor cycle, with my wife bravely (according to her!) agreeing to ride pillion. The roads were not great and extremely steep in places, but off we set off. It is hard to lose one’s way around the island and we made it to the other side of the island, stopping off to admire the views and when stopped by friendly inquisitive children.

Our plan was to visit the other two neighbouring islands, if possible, and were told we could drive our bike across a narrow bridge. The bridge was indeed narrow but what worried us even more was the approach ramp – a small miscalculation of a few inches and the probability was that we would miss the bridge and land in the sea. As not-so-brave adventurers, we decided that I try it alone without my passenger. Success!

Driving through Nusa Ceningan, it was apparent that the island was much poorer than Nusa Lembongnan; the difference was tourism. Residents of Nusa Ceningan survived mostly through sea weed farming and when the trade wasn’t going well they had a difficult life.

We stopped at a site where there were clearly plans to build a resort. Most of the structure and layout were in place, but now had been left to rot. As we were enjoying the views and thinking, how wonderful it would be to resurrect the resort, and would it ever be feasible, a man appeared from behind the buildings and came over. Suddenly worried that we were trespassing and that there was no other soul in sight, we tried to apologise and move away. But he was very friendly and told us about the plans for this place and how it had all gone wrong when his foreign business partner decided to pull out when tourism in Bali went into a tailspin after the bomb attacks several years ago. At last our few phrases of Bahasa Indonesia had come in useful! That, with English and body language had helped us communicate.

Having had a relatively quiet and relaxed introduction to Indonesia we were ready to make our way back to mainland Bali and get intrepid in pursuit of the Komodo dragon and to see whales in the remote village of Lamalera, in one of the eastern most parts of the archipelago.

To be continued…..

The Leading Tourist Attractions on Bali

Bali is the premier travel destination of Indonesia and there are plenty of things to do for tourists and travelers. This Indonesian island is primarily known for its beautiful white sandy beaches however there many other types of wonderful activities which you can enjoy during your vacation.

If you are planning a trip to Bali then be sure to enjoy some of the excellent activities and places to visit listed down below.

Ubud

Ubud is the center of the island’s art community. There are various art galleries where you can purchase local art work and the Purl Lukisan Art Museum and the Neka Museum are also definitely worth a visit.

Beaches

There are many wonderful beaches on Bali which you can visit. Some of them are suitable for snorkeling and swimming whilst others are excellent for surfing. Some of the nicest beaches on the island include Jimberan beach, Nusa Dua, Sanur and Kuta beach.

Gunung Agung

This volcano is also known as Mount Agung and plays a very important part in Balinese culture and religion. If you have never been to a volcano before this you should definitely head over to Gunung Agung.

Tanah Lot

One of the most visited and most photographed attractions on Bali is Tanah Lot which is located on the west coast of the island. It is a magnificent temple which was built on a large piece of rock and is surrounded by the water. Many travelers prefer to visit Tanah Lot during sun set as this temple is simply stunning with the sun setting behind it.

Dolphin Watching
An activity which should be on every traveler’s to do list is to go dolphin watching. There are two places where you can do this and which are at Nusa Dua and at Lovina. Lovina is located on the north side of this isle but most people tend to agree that this is the best location for dolphin watching.

Nightlife

If you like to party then you will definitely have a great vacation. The best nightlife venues are located in Kuta beach, Seminyak and Legian and include Double 6 and Gado Gado. There are also full moon parties organized every month for those of you that enjoy trance and techno music.

Waterfalls

There are plenty of beautiful waterfalls on Bali which you can visit during your holiday. Some of the most popular waterfalls include the Gitgit waterfalls, Blahmantung waterfalls and the Daybreak waterfalls.

Top Resort Spas In Asia

A resort is a large and luxurious place people choose to visit for a holiday to relax and participate in recreational activities. Top Resort Spas in Asia include Jiwa Spa at the Conrad Bali Resort and Spa in Indonesia, the Evason Hideaway Hua Hin & The Earth Spa By Six Senses, Thailand and the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, Malaysia to name a few.

The Jiwa Spa concentrates on awakening your five senses so you come away refreshed, revitalized and knowing yourself completely. The Jiwa Spa boasts twelve secluded treatment rooms, luxury suites, a Jacuzzi, cold dip pool, sauna and steam room, reflexology lounge, twenty five meter spa pool, a beauty salon and retail outlets. They focus on healing through water and aromatherapy, along with traditional and ancient healing rituals. It is a beauty spa, massage spa and health spa.

The Earth Spa by Six Senses is certainly one that is unique in it’s design and concept. Made completely from clay-like mud, rice husks and straw, the circular and dome shaped structures have walls over thirty inches thick and spread over almost fifteen thousand feet of landscaping and water. Their concept originated in traditional rural North Thailand villages and is not only fantastic for privacy but also maintains cool temperatures on the hottest days. The design of the Earth Spa has been fine tuned by an expert Feng-Shui master, resulting in a harmonious and fresh atmosphere.

There are nine buildings in total that include four treatment rooms with private outdoor Jacuzzis, two steam rooms, a meditation cave and relaxation area that serves fresh juice and cool water. Each building has it’s own natural, fresh breeze coming off the water and through natural roof ventilation. They focus mainly on skin food, believing that nothing should ever be put on the body that wouldn’t be good to put in the body. They use heat treatments such as hot stones, body wraps, herbal compresses, steam and saunas to introduce the element of fire, which balances perfectly with the structures and landscape of fresh air, water and earth. Their philosophies are based in traditional medicine modalities such as Chinese and Ayurveda, and there is a menu of workshops and treatments for clients to choose from. They also mostly use locally grown ingredients in their food and treatments.

Four Seasons Resort Langkawi in Malaysia offers Massages, Body treatments, Facial treatments, Yoga, Salon services and other speciality treatments. Although it is a sophisticated health spa venue, they believe in honoring their ancient eastern traditions. The six health spa pavilions appear to float on the crystal ponds, with a backdrop of limestone-granite and exquisite interior decoration and design. The indoor celadon soaking tubs or the outdoor private showers mean couples can enjoy health through water together, spiced with some romance as well.

The Four Seasons Resort Spa is a nurturing experience in luxury accommodation with amazing views. It is also one of the top resort health spas in Asia, without a doubt.

Choosing a resort Spa for your rejuvenation vacation will give everyone plenty of options on how to spend their time. This is good if not all travelers wish to spend every day soaking up the benefits of a health spa experience. While some enjoy massages, facials, body treatments, fitness regimes and lifestyle education, others can enjoy the bars, nightclubs, restaurants and accommodations. However, if each individual wants a health spa or beauty spa holiday, you should consider choosing a destination spa instead.

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