vacation

2008-05-23T06:11:00.000-07:00

GPS

GPS tourism comes to Montgomery, Alabama

taken from : www.engadget.com

by Marc Perton, posted May 13th 2005 at 8:00AM

GPS-linked tours seem to be all the rage right now, at least in Japan, but we're starting to see them crop up elsewhere, including Montgomery, Alabama, where local developer IntelliTours has hooked up a system using buses and trolleys operated by the Montgomery Area Transit System. According to IntelliTours, the system highlights 45 historical locations, including Civil Rights and Civil War sites, with audio narration coming online automatically as the vehicles enter specific regions. Sounds great, and we expect to see a lot more of this in other cities, though we'll miss those underpaid and underinformed young tour guides who provide unexpected insights by making it up as they go along.

Read

2008-05-23T06:10:00.000-07:00

GPS

"When the G.P.S. system senses that the cart is passing one of the points in the database, the stereo plays a story or gives clear, occasionally imploring directions."

The New York Times
Posted by Richard on June 10, 2004 07:15 PM
taken from :www.byz.org/~rbanks/movableType/webLog/trends/archives/000912.html

Pattaya Island

2008-05-05T22:10:00.001-07:00

Pattaya Islands

Pattaya's islands might not rival the exotic island destinations in the south of Thailand, but they make for the perfect day-trip to enjoy swimming, fishing and coral viewing.

Ferries run daily from the main port, or catch a speedboat from Pattaya Beach.

Koh Larn (Coral Island)

Covering an area of about four square kilometers and known for its beautiful white sandy beaches like Ta Waen, clear water and an abundance of coral, Koh Larn is less then 8 km west of Pattaya Beach - a trip which takes about 45 minutes by ferry or 20 minutes by speedboat. For visitors who are not diving enthusiasts, glass-bottom boats are available to view the coral. Ta Waen Beach is possibly the most popular beach on Koh Larn, and there are also a few stalls with food and souvenirs. Another good place to view coral is Nual Beach on the southern part of the island. Laemtien Beach and Samae Beach is on the southwestern side; two tranquil and serene beaches that will delight sun worshippers.

Koh Pai Group of Islands

Comprising of Khoh Pai (the largest), Koh Manvichai, Koh Leom and Koh Klung Badan, this group of tiny islands are about 13 km from Pattaya, and takes two hours to reach by boat. Presently under the supervision of the Royal Thai Navy, the islands make the perfect getaway for a day of swimming, snorkeling to view the coral, fishing and chilled-out moments under waving palm trees.

Koh Krok

Just a little dot in the ocean comprising mostly of rocks, Koh Krok features just one sandy beach that stretches for about 100 meters on the east side of the island, but it is still popular for coral viewing and to escape from the hustle and bustle on the mainland.

Koh Sak

Shaped like a horse-shoe, Koh Sak is another tiny island - just 600 metres away from Koh Larn and about 10 km west of Pattaya. It has two beaches, one on on the northern and the other on the southern side of the island, with a pathway connecting them. Due to its secluded location, skin-diving to view the coral is popular here.

taken from :www.pattaya.bangkok.com

Pattaya

2008-05-05T22:03:00.000-07:00

Pattaya was simply a small fishing village until it was discovered as a beach resort by Bangkok residents in the 1960s. Soon thereafter, servicemen from all over Southeast Asia, including the United States Air Force base at U-Tapao in neighbouring Rayong province began using the area for "rest and recuperation" (R&R), causing a huge boom in prostitution. When the Americans left following the end of the Vietnam War, the city fell into a crisis. However, modern mass tourism, particularly single men looking for companionship, brought a new lease of life to Pattaya.

The rapid growth of tourism brought about many negative consequences, such as pollution and petty crime. In 1976, the Pattaya City Act was passed by the Thai legislature, making Pattaya a self-administrating municipality governed by a Council-manager government. However, many argue that this administration system has drawbacks (for example, the mayor may disagree with the city manager). Critics have recommended abolishing the system.

In recent years the city has pushed hard to clean up its image, and family-focused entertainment is increasingly available; however, the core sex-industry has ensured that Pattaya retains its position as one of the world's most renowned party destinations. In 2005, more than 35,000 hotel rooms were available in Pattaya and it has seen a large increase in family tourism in recent years, thanks to efforts to present a more wholesome image. Despite these efforts, Pattaya's sex industry is the city's raison d' etre. Pattaya is an especially popular vacation destination for families from Russia, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia. Pattaya also has a large international expatriate population, especially British and Russian residents. In 2008 the newly elected Thai government decided to restrict alcohol sales resulting in Pattaya losing its image as a 24 hour city. In March 2008 Pattaya bar owners, concerned at the fall in revenue resulting from the ban, sought meetings with government ministers seeking to reverse the restrictions.

taken from:wikipedia.org

Bunaken

2008-05-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

North Sulawesi is known as The Land of Smiling People and lies in the very epicentre of the world’s marine biodiversity in the Indo-Pacific Ocean. It offers more than 100 different dive sites, all rich with tropical marine life, with diving all year round. It is also very easy to get to, with direct flights from Singapore 3-4 times a week, depending on the season.

There are three dive areas to choose from. The first area is the clear waters of the Bunaken National Marine Park which was voted the global winner of British Airways Tourism for Tomorrow Award in 2003. The amazing walls of the park teams with thousands of different fish species, with huge sponges and beautiful hard corals, and countless number of fascinating critters.

The second area on the other side of the mainland is Lembeh Strait, and it is known as the world’s best ‘muck-diving’. These waters are full of extraordinary marine critters, many of which are the masters of camouflage.

In the northern tip of the mainland between Bunaken and Lembeh you can find a group of tropical islands with white sandy beaches and beautiful coral reefs. This is the third diving area of Bangka Island with amazing soft corals and even more critters.

There is something for every diver in North Sulawesi. Whether you prefer to admire the steep coral walls of Bunaken National Marine Park, explore the reefs in Bangka area or dive in the enchanting world of nature’s little wonders in Lembeh Strait, we can guarantee that you will leave North Sulawesi rich with memorable experiences.

Between the diving you can visit the area’s other attractions. These include the bustling city of Manado, the lush vegetable gardens of the Minahasa highlands and the tropical jungles in Tangkoko Nature Reserve.

This web site is supported by the North Sulawesi Watersports Association, the local environmental organization participating in the protection of this unique part of Sulawesi. All the resorts listed here are active members of this association, and there is a wide range of facilities available from 5-star accommodation to beach-side cottages. They all have one thing in common, they offer eco-friendly dive services and facilities.

takenfrom:www.divenorthsulawesi.com

Great Bali

2008-04-16T23:38:00.001-07:00

taken from : archive.salon.com

BALI CRUISES

2008-04-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

These cruises and sea safaris offer a convenient way for visitors to Bali to enrich their experience of Asia and catch a glimpse of pre-historic times by taking a journey into regions of Indonesia little known to the rest of the world.

You can do all this either in just a few days on a scheduled cruise or, more leisurely, on board of a chartered Bugis "Pinisi" schooner – and without any of the hardships often connected with visiting remote areas. There are regular departures from Bali throughout the year, and the fares fit all budgets.

		Buginese "Pinisi Sea Safari" Schooners Custom-designed for Western travellers in 1996-1998, equipped with modern navigation and safety machines, cabins are air-conditioned, TV/Video lounge. Sea Safari III, V, VI & Sea Safari VII^New. 7 Days Komodo Safari — from January 2008 8 Days Kalimantan Dive Charter — from January 2008 10D / 9N, Threads of Life Leisure Expedition ^Soon

		Pinisi "Ombak Putih" & "Ombak Biru" Cruises Program Designed by traditional craftsmen in Kalimantan for Westerner travellers in 1996/1997, this schooner is also equipped with modern navigation and safety tools. 12 cabins with 17 crews. 7 Days Sight Sailing Program Bali - Komodo - Bali — from May 2008 8/11 Nights Life Aboard Diving — from January 2008

		Silolona Luxury Cruises A traditional wooden sailboat built by hand by the Sulawesi Konjo people in 2004. This Phinisi is conceptualized as a luxury passenger vessel, offering 5 spacious cabins with 17 crews. Silolona is now sailing in Borneo waters.

		Bali Hai Cruises Daily Cruises. There are six excellent daily cruises to choose from. The Lembongan Island Reef Cruise, the Beach Club Cruise, the Sunset Dinner Cruise, the spectacular trip aboard Aristocat, the Ocean Rafting 3 Island Cruise and Dolphin Cruise. Whichever you choose, you're sure to enjoy some of Bali's best views, a host of exciting activities and a sumptuous buffet. All in the capable hands of the experienced and hospitable crew.

		Island Explorer Cruises Taking you to one day vacation at Coconut Beach Resort, Lembongan Island on any of their four types cruises; relax with yacht, fun with Island Princess, super fast with Quick Cat or ocean rafting with Island Flyer.

		Odyssey Submarine ^New With the normal diving site up to 90ft deep and for 45 minute ride in this unique vessel, you will be taken to the most breathtaking and rarely visited underwater world, and you will surely be able to observe and have firsthand experience of the tropical marine fauna, such as octopus/squids, napoleon, yellow jack and many other brightly colored fish as well as the unusually beautiful flora and delicate corals.

Charter Vessels
You can choose from a range of different charter yachts, sailing boats, and traditional schooners with expert crew and Western tour guide for charter cruises from Bali through the Lesser Sunda Islands, to Sulawesi, and through the Moluccas.

Also available for fishing games or surf safaris.
taken from : www.balicruises.com

Bali Scuba Diving

2008-04-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Scuba Diving in Bali

Bali provides opportunities for those who would like to learn scuba diving, even without theory and pool training, but also some of the best diving spots for the experienced scuba diver. At Sanur Beach you can even experience the sea life from the safety of your diving bubble with the Sea Walker. The only one in Bali - no diving experience needed.

Scuba diving courses

These are more in depth courses provided for beginners by a highly qualified instructor. Special iInternational scuba dive courses in English and Japanese are available. Includes days with an open water diving course program, also theory and practise in the pool, open water dives with all necessary gear like air tanks are ususally included. Open water certificates will be awarded to divers passing the test.

Preferred locations for Bali Scuba diving

Sanur Beach

Sanur beach is well known because of it's beautiful scenery and atmosphere. This white sand covered beach spreads, from Bali Beach Hotel to the south. This beach is facing to the east, so we can always see a beautiful sunrise. Sanur is a very nice place to enjoy marine sports activities such as : Jet ski/wave runner. parasailing, water ski, wind surfing, scuba diving etc. It's under water panorama are also very beautiful with colourful tropical fishes, soft coral, and sponges growing on the 25 kilometers of barier reef up to Nusa Dua. You can enjoy scuba diving here from 6 meters deep up to 15 meters.

Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua is a beach at the south of Bali, part of Bukit Paninsula. It is call Nusa Dua because there are two Islands that are united with Bali Island, and the coast arround the Island is called Nusa Dua Beach. The beach has a very white sand and the waves are quiet in the north and bit bigger at the south. Nusa Dua is also the center of water sports activities. It's under water panorama is similar with Sanur sea, because their reef is part of the reef that lies in front of Sanur Beach.

Padang Bay

Padang Bay is located east of Denpasar, just one and half hours by coach. Padang Bay was once a small fishing village but is now a lively tourist center with small restaurants and shops strung along a white sandy beach a port for visiting cruise ships with ferries going to Lombok. However on most days, the bay is used by local ferries and fisherman in small outriggers. These same outrigger are modified with outboard motors to take divers to local sites just ten to fifteen minutes away. The area is known for it's abundance of soft corals, gorgonias and crinoids. The number and variety of nudibrances would excite divers who enjoy finding photographing them and diverse fish life and coral.

Tulamben

One hour from Padang Bay, or two and half hour from Denpasar by coach, Tulamben is Bali's most famous dive site at the base of majestic Agung vulcano. The main attraction here is the sunken Liberty Ship just off the volcanic beach. The wreck is lying 6 meters from the beach until 35 meters, it is provided an accessible and interesting under water attraction for both diver and snokelers. Arriving at Tulamben, local porter carry the dives gears down to the beach, a short swim over black sand brings you to the wreck, where you are going to meet schools of sergeant majors, battish, wrasse and other small fish. The wreck is fully ground with different varieties of clams, coral gorgonias, here you also can feed fishes. Drop off diving also offered here a few meters south side of this Ship Wreck.

Nusa Penida / Lembongan Island

One and half hour by boat from Sanur beach is the Island of Lembongan. The waters between Nusa Penida and Lembongan are subject to strong currents so the feasibility is generally excellent and the soft coral growth prolific. Along the island rocky cliffs are hard coral gardens and diversity of sea life. Most dives are drift dives and experienced boat men always watch for surficing divers. Lembongan is also great for non divers as it has excellent snorkeling in more sheltered in shore waters and cruising arround the island between dives makes a pleasant day with lunch and refreshments.

taken from : www.bali1.com

My Bali

2008-04-15T06:07:00.000-07:00

WHAT MAKES BALI SO SPECIAL:

There is the combination of the friendly people, the natural attractions, the great variety of things to see and do, the year-round pleasant climate, and the absence of security problems. And then there is Bali's special "magic", which is difficult to explain.

As soon as you step off the plane you might sense the difference. In the villages you'll notice the quietness and wisdom in old people's faces, and the interest and respect in the young's. Old men sit at the road side caressing their fighting cocks. Beautifully dressed women walk proudly through rice fields and forests carrying offerings on their heads to the next temple. There is the smell of flowers, and in the distance you hear the sound of gamelan music.

Gods and spirits have been an important part of Bali's daily life for hundreds of years. Gunung Agung – Bali's holy mountain – is internationally regarded as one of the eight "Chakra" points of the world. This may be more than an coincident. Watch out, the moment you feel the magic of this island, you're addicted for the rest of your life.

taken from : www.baliguide.com

2008-04-15T06:05:00.001-07:00

BALI HOLIDAYS FOR FAMILIES

Bali is a perfect place to take your kids. They'll love the natural surroundings, and there is no problem whatsoever to find a baby-sitter or somebody to take care of them wherever you go. All Balinese adore kids !

Here you will find information about everything that you need to know about a Bali holiday for your family: where to stay, what to do and where to eat.

WHERE TO STAY IN BALI, INDONESIA, FOR FAMILIES

A Bali holiday for families begins and ends with suitable accommodation. There are variety of Bali hotels, resorts and villas to choose from, when planning your Bali holiday.Things to consider in selecting your Bali accommodation for a family group are:

Location - try to choose a location that is popular and close to family oriented attractions i.e. near the beach, shops, restaurants and amusements.
Facilities - make sure your accommodation choice is suitable for kids, it has a children's pool, connecting doors, play ground etc. Some venues are unsuitable for family groups.
Pricing - does your accommodation choice offer discounts for children under a certain age?
Transport - when you travel with a family in Bali, it will be much more convenient if you use private transport. Check with your accommodation venue if they provide private transport as part of the holiday package.

Below you will find links to a variety of Bali hotels, resorts, villas and Bali holiday packages

	Bali Hotel & Resort Bargain Finder
	Many Bali hotels and resorts offer family rooms or children discounts. Find the GUARANTEED lowest rates for famous luxury resorts and budget hotels in all parts of Bali, Indonesia. Reserve on-line to save 70% and more.
	Private Vacation Villas in Bali
	Many families choose to spend a Bali holiday in a private villa. You can rent a private villa with two to seven bedrooms, tropical garden and swimming pool, all amenities, private car and driver and trained house staff. This is an attractive alternative to spending your vacation in a hotel or resort for many families. taken from :www.baliguide.com

Flora and Fauna in Bali

2008-04-15T05:59:00.000-07:00

taken from : www.baliguide.com

FLORA:

The wide variety of tropical plants is surprising. 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. In Bali grow a dozen species of coconut palms and even more varieties of bamboo.

And there are flowers, flowers everywhere. You'll see (and smell the fragrance of) hibiscus, bougainvillea, jasmine, and water lilies. Magnolia, frangipani, and a variety of orchids are found in many front yards and gardens, along roads, and in temple grounds. Flowers are also used as decorations in temples, on statues, as offerings for the gods, and during prayers. Dancers wear blossoms in their crowns, and even the flower behind the ear of your waitress seems natural in Bali.

FAUNA:

Elephants and tigers don't exist any more in Bali since early this century. Wildlife, however, includes various species of monkeys, civets, barking deer and mouse deer, and 300 species of birds including wild fowl, dollar birds, blue kingfishers, sea eagles, sandpipers, white herons and egrets, cuckoos, wood swallows, sparrows, and starlings. You can watch schools of dolphins near Lovina, Candi Dasa, and Padangbai. Divers will see many colorful coral fish and small reef fish, moray eels, and plankton eating whale sharks as well as crustaceans, sponges, and colorful coral along the east coast and around Menjangan Island near Gilimanuk.

CLIMATE:

You can expect pleasant day temperatures between 20 to 33 degrees Celsius or 68 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. From December to March, the West monsoon can bring heavy showers and high humidity, but usually days are sunny and the rains start during the night and pass quickly. From June to September the humidity is low, and it can be quite cool in the evenings. During this time of the year, you'll have hardly any rain in the coastal areas.

Even when it rains in most parts of Bali you can often enjoy sunny days on the "Bukit", the hill south of Jimbaran Beach. On the other hand, in Ubud and the mountains you must expect cloudy skies and showers throughout the year (this is why the international weather reports for "Denpasar" or "Bali" mention showers and rain storms during all times of the year). In higher regions such as in Bedugul or Kintamani you'll also need either a sweater or jacket after the sun sets.

Bali

2008-04-15T05:57:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCTION TO BALI, INDONESIA

WHERE IS BALI?

The island of Bali is part of the Republic of Indonesia and is located 8 to 9 degrees south of the equator between Java in the West and Lombok and the rest of the Lesser Sunda Islands (Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba and Timor) in the East. Flying time to Jakarta is about 1.5 hours, to Singapore and Perth (Australia) 2.5 and 3 hours, to Hong Kong about 4.5 hours, and to Sydney/Melbourne about 5.5 to 6 hours.

GEOGRAPHY:

The island of Bali has an area of only 5,632 square kilometers (2,175 square miles) and measures just 55 miles (90 kilometers) along the north-south axis and less than about 90 miles (140 kilometers) from East to West. Because of this it's no problem to explore the island on day tours. You can go wherever you want on the island and return to your hotel or villa in the evening.

Located only two kilometers east of Jawa, Bali's climate, flora and fauna are quite similar to its much larger neighbour. The island is famous for its beautiful landscape. A chain of six volcanoes, between 1,350 meters and 3,014 meters high, stretches from west to east. 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.

taken from :www.baliguide.com

KUTA, BALI

2008-04-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

Kuta

Since the 18th century, Kuta has served as the entry point for foreigners visiting southern Bali. In the 1830s Kuta was a thriving slave market, attracting a wide variety of international 'lowlife' and many would say that nothing has changed. Since its rediscovery by hippies and surfers in the 1960s, Kuta and Legian have expanded so rapidly that the district is now one of the busiest tourist areas in the world. Hundred of hotels, bars, restaurants and shops provide for all tastes and budgets

taken from :www.bali-places.com

ADVENTURE IN BALI

2008-04-15T05:50:00.000-07:00

ATV Ride - Single

ATV is a motor cycle which has four wheels. It is usually used by the people for agriculture or recreation. Its wheel is specially modified with high tire. So, it just used at unfamiliar route only. It has 250 cc and 350 cc power of engine. Easy driving , at wet condition or some obstacles of up and down hill road.

With its power it can passed which motor cycle commonly doesn't. It is YAMAHA product that has five gear level. Some used automatic clutch and another used manual clutch. It is balance, it can not turn upside down except you turning suddenly very sharp with high speed. If you followed its instruction and ride carefully, it has exciting journey.

It taking location at Tabanan regency exactly in the bottom of Batukaru Mountain. Here its weather is under 20 degree and almost get rain every afternoon. Paddy terraces and beautiful view is remind us that Tabanan is the most of rice field in Bali.

taken from :www.balidiscovery.com

The Arts of Bali

2008-04-15T05:40:00.000-07:00

PAINTINGS

The place synonymous with the traditional form of Balinese painting is the village of Kamasan near Klungkung. In the service of the kings of Gelgel and Klungkung up until the beginning of this century, it was only natural that the painters and illustrators, called 'Sangging', should settle in this one area. As it was not uncommon for ruling families from other parts of Bali of acquire the use of a Sangging to decorate their own palaces or temples, the Kamasan style of painting quickly spread throughout the whole of Bali.

Until the start of this century, the dominant form of painting was the portrayal of Hindu epics, on 'Langse' - large narratives painted either on broad, rectangular cloths or on 'Ider-ider' which were much narrower (about 30cm wide and several meters long). Langse were placed in temples as wall hangings or used as curtains in the palaces. Ider-ider were hung around the roofs of temples and shrines and were used decoratively at court on festive occasions. The artists also painted on wooden boards which were placed between rafters as ceiling friezes. A side from large representational paintings, the 'Sangging' were also expected to decorate everything from gourds, wooden altars, bamboo vessels, headboards for princely bed chambers and in particular to illustrate astrological wall hangings on bark paper or cloth.

The style for which the artists of Kamasan are famous is based on the East Javanese 'Wayang' art. These were basically two-dimensional, iconographic representations following strict rules and guidelines as to how the characters should be portrayed. For example a person's character and status can be seen from the colors used to portray them, his headdress of even the direction in which he is facing. Noblemen always have very refined faces while coarse characters have large, bulging eyes and fangs. Today in Kamasan you can still find people who are dedicated to painting in the traditional 'Wayang' style. One of the most famous Kamasan artists is I Nyoman Mandra, who, aside from producing his own paintings and doing restoration work, has started a school to try and keep the Wayang tradition alive.

It wasn't until the early nineteen hundreds that Western influence reached Bali. The use of Asian symbols in the works of, amongst others, Paul Gauguin, Toulouse Lautrec and Camille Pissaro created a new trend for Asian-influenced art and European painters began to move to Bali. Ubud's fame for art can be traced to the arrival of German painter, Walter Spies and Dutch painter Rudolf Bonnet. Together, with Indonesian artist Gede Agung Sukawati, they established the Pitamaha Group which encouraged Balinese artists to more expressive and less tradition-bound. Aside from the Kamasan school of painting there now exists a wide range of different styles. Some characteristics are listed briefly below.

taken from :www.bali-paradise.com

POPULAR BALI ACTIVITIES

2008-04-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

	Water Sports: Swimming, snorkeling, banana boat rides, water ski, parasailing, etc. are arranged by most hotels and at the Beluga Marina in Tanjung Benoa. There are also small sail boats, catamarans, and boards for wind surfing for rent along Jimbaran Beach. The most challenging of Bali's famous surfing spots are near Ulu Watu (only for experts in top physical condition who are comfortable surfing over coral reefs on large, powerful waves that break in shallow water) and along Bali's West coast North of Canggu; the best time is during the dry season from June to September. For details on the various locations please visit the Baliwaves web site or check Peter Neely's "Indo Surf & Lingo" guide book. You can also buy a day-guest ticket (telephone before as prices vary from US$45 to US$55 per person and seem to depend on their occupancy!) and enjoy all sports facilities at Nusa Dua's CLUB MED until 17:00 in the afternoon. They offer sea kayakking, wind surfing, snorkeling, and many other sports activities such as water aerobics, archery, tennis, and ping pong tournaments, beach volleyball, bocci ball lessons, and a circus school for adults. The day-guest ticket includes a lunch buffet with a choice of Western, Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes and unlimited table wine, beer and soft drinks. A large free-form swimming pool with a life band playing during the afternoon on the center island is the main attraction of the new HARD ROCK BEACH CLUB in Kuta. There is a pool-side restaurant for various snacks, a pool bar serving exotic drinks, and you can even rent your private pool-side "Cabana" if you wish to draw the curtains for some privacy. Pool use is 100,000 Rupiah per day for non-resident guests, and for the "Cabana" they charge 140,000 Rupiah per day. Spending an afternoon in the Aquatonic Pool at the new RITZ-CARLTON THALASSO & SPA is an experience not to be missed! The roofed 650 sq. meter (7,000 sq.ft.) pool contains 700 million liters (153 million gallons) of heated seawater. With a maximum depth of 1.3 meters (4 ft.) the pool includes different zones at variable temperatures with numerous strong jets providing aquatic massages to improve blood circulation, tone up the muscles and provide relaxation. There is a cross current walking corridor, cross current swimming corridor, cubicles for leg, tight and stomach massage, aqua seats and cubicles for back massage, swan necks for neck and shoulder massage, several jet pools, bubble bath areas, geysers and aqua beds providing a relaxing bubble massage and a panoramic Indian Ocean view. One-time access to the Aquatonic Pool for two hours is US$35 +20% tax & service per person (minors below 16 years are not allowed). Not cheap but well worth it!
	Spa & Beauty Treatments: A wide range of treatments is offered in the RITZ CARLON SPA adjacent to the Aquatonic Pool for US$50 to US$80 +21% per hour. Other famous spas in the upper price category are at the NUSA DUA BEACH RESORT, at THE LEGIAN in Seminyak, and the KIRANA in Ubud features a spectacular setting. Numerous other spas in all tourist areas offer treatments at lower prices, and when you stay at many of Balivillas.com's villas you enjoy free massages and spa treatments including the famous Mandi Lulur at substantially reduced rates. For bookings and more information call 703-060.
	Scuba Diving in Bali: A number of PADI certified companies offer diving tours (no spear fishing in Bali) with experienced guides and equipment from one day to several days. The best Bali diving sites (some with ship wrecks) are along Bali's East cost near Candi Dasa, Amed and Tulamben and near Nusa Penida. The area around Menjangan Island near Gilimanuk (ferry to Java) is regarded by many experts as over-rated, and do not try diving near Nusa Dua and around the Southern peninsula — it's a waste of time and money. About US$60 to US$90 (depending on the destination) per person for one-day tours; US$350-US$400 plus extra costs or US$450 including everything for four day courses including your PADI certificate. For bookings and diving information call 703-060.
	Game Fishing: A number of companies offer yachts and fishing boats with guides for charter. The catch includes Tuna, Wahoo, Mai-Mai, Mackerel, or Marlin - and Snapper, Cod and Coral Trout to be caught reef fishing should you so desire. From US$40 per hour for a small boat, US$500 per day (US$250 half-day) for a 30-foot catamaran with satellite navigation, top-of-the range fish finder and sonar as well as Brownie diving equipment, and US$660 per day for a state-of-the-art BLACK WATCH game fishing vessel with experienced crew, full insurance, and all electronics and safety gear. For bookings and charter information call 703-060.
	Day Cruises: There are daily cruises to nearby Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan islands off the South-East coast of Bali. Guests spend the day either at one of the cruise companies' beach clubs (with restaurant, swimming pool, water sports equipment) or on a floating pontoon, and you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, take Banana Boat rides, or view the underwater world from a semi-submersible vessel. You can choose between modern, air-conditioned motor cruisers accommodating 100 and more guests and a number of smaller sailing boats. For the more adventurous there is now also a 12-meter inflatable Ocean Raft carrying up to 24 passengers. Departure is usually around 9.00 a.m., and you return in the afternoon. About US$65 to US$85 per person including lunch, children from 5 to 14 years 50%. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Dinner Cruises: Some of the boats which leave in the morning for the regular Island Cruises offer also a Dinner Cruise starting around 17:45 p.m. After cruising around the Benoa harbour, an international buffet dinner and some entertainment by folk singers and live bands you return around 20:45 p.m. to the pier. US$40 per person, children up to 16 years 50%. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Island Cruises: There are a number of cruises from Bali through the Lesser Sunda Islands, to Sulawesi, and the Moluccas. You can choose from modern cruise liners, luxurious private yachts, and traditional Buginese schooners, and either join a scheduled cruise from 3 days to 12 or 15 days, or even charter your own yacht or schooner with 2 to 16 cabins, experienced crew, and a Western tour guide. Please look at the different cruises and yacht charter options available or call 703-060 for information.
	Submarine Safari: You can book a tour which brings you about 70 feet below the sea of Amuk Bay, Padangbai. The small submarine can carry about 36 guests, and large port holes allow you to view and photograph underwater reefs and corals, many marine creatures, and a large variety of fish including sharks. The Odyssey Submarine offers you 45 minutes dive with 1.5 hour free program. Rate is US$69 per person. For bookings and charter information call 703-060.
	Playing Golf in Bali: The "Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club" near Bedugul in the mountains is probably Bali's most attractive golf course. There is also a 18-hole course at the "Bali Golf & Country Club" in Nusa Dua near the Bali Hilton, a 9-hole course at the Grand Bali Beach Hotel in Sanur, and the new "Nirwana Bali Golf Club" with a 18-hole course near Tanah Lot. If you are interested in playing golf in Bali, please call 703-060 for bookings and information.
	Tennis & Squash: There are Clark Hatch Sports Clubs at the Sheraton Laguna and Nusa Indah Resort, Kartika Plaza Hotel, and Nikko Hotel each of which has several outdoor tennis courts, indoor squash courts, and complete fitness facilities. Playing partners as well as lessons are available. Most other 5-star hotels have at least some tennis courts which can also be booked by outside guests. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Paragliding: Located on the Bukit (the hill South of the airport), a well-trained instructor accompanies you on a 20 minute tandem flight over the most spectacular strip of Bali's coastline. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	White Water Rafting: Several companies offer exciting white water rafting tours (grade 2 to grade 4 rapids) on the Ayung river North-West of Ubud and — during certain times of the year — also on the Unda river North of Klungkung. You pass waterfalls and volcanic cliffs, deep sided gorges, tranquil rice terraces and remote villages. (New: A new up-river track of the Ayung River is now open. The exhilarating journey brings you through a bat ravine to a waterfall stop and warm water cave). From morning to afternoon, US$56-US$85 per person including transfers from and to your hotel and lunch. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Other Organized Adventures: Lake and Sea Kayakking, Jungle Trekking, and Mountain Cycling are arranged by the companies listed above. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Bungy Jumping: A. J. Hackett in adjacent to Double Six, Legian, is the island's only beach bungy tower with a lift. US$62. With the "Sling Shot" at the "Adrenalin Park" in Kuta you can get shot 52 metres into the air in just over one second, and they have an overhanging climbing wall, too. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Horseback Riding: Experience Bali on horse back, ride through rice fields and along deserted beaches. Tours can be organized mornings and afternoons. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Paintball War Games: The newly operated "Paintball Bali" is located on Jimbaran Hill and occupies about 3 hectares of exciting playing fields. Facilities include a large parking area, lobby with audio-video facilities, individual changing rooms and lockers as well as a staging area. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Nature Tours: Visit the Bali Barat National Park in the West of the island, the Butterfly Park "Taman Kupu Kupu" in Wanasari, Tabanan, or the Botanical Gardens in Bedugul. Guided bird watching tours are offered starting from Ubud (in the village of Petulu a few miles north of Ubud you can also watch between 5:30 and 7:00 p.m. every day the arrival of thousands of white herons who are nesting here), and you can visit the bull races in Negara. If you stay near Lovina in the North, get up early one morning and hire a boat to watch hundreds of dolphins. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	The Botanical Garden, Ubud: This covers an area of five hectares and accommodates a natural ravine. There are an Orchid Garden, a vast collection of ferns, palms, bamboos and tropical trees, as well as Bali’s first maze. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Bali Safari and Marine Park: This newly opened safari park is set in 40 hectares of land and located near Gianyar; there are safari vehicles to cruise the park and interact with 400 animals from Asia including Indonesia, India, and Africa. Introductory entrance fee is US$25 per person. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Bali Zoo: "Nature's Education Center" is home of more than 350 animals and located in Singapadu near Ubud. Daily programs include animal feeding (lions, crocodiles, tigers etc.) as well as animal petting e.g. you can touch and hold various birds and baby monkeys. Entrance fee is US$18 per adult. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Harley Davidson Rental: For real bikers who want to explore Bali in a different way, Harley Davidson bikes are available for rent. Various families of Sportster (883cc), Dyna Low Rider (1,450cc), Fat Boy (1,450cc) or Heritage Softail Classic (1,450cc) are available at US$70 to US$150 per day. Additional US$30 if you need a guide for tandem riding. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	ATV Quad & Buggy Tour: An adventurous journey off-the-beaten track on 250-350cc ATV's through lush forests and mountain streams to enjoy some of the best views of Bali's rice terraces. Rates start at US$69 per person. For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Paint A Pot: Jenggala is pleased to offer handpainting of ceramics – raw glazed of ceramics range from US$5 to US$21 each. A course in ceramic hand building is also available. This includes slabwork, pinch and coil techoniques, drop moulds and handthrowing. Rate starts from US$10 (2hrs per session - course completed within 1 week.) For bookings and information call 703-060.
	Not Only for Children: Take a stroll through Denpasar's bird market near the northern end of Jalan Veteran where you see not only a large variety of tropical birds but also tropical fish, cats and dogs, monkeys etc. You can visit the Taman Burung bird park with 1,000 different species of birds (and even a small Komodo dragon in the adjacent Reptile Park) in Singapadu about 20 minutes north of Denpasar, the Waterbom Park with four slides and a flowing river in tropical surroundings in Tuban, or enjoy jungle treks on top of Sumatran elephants starting from the Elephant Safari Park in Taro, a village about 50 kilometers north of Denpasar. Camel rides on the beach are offered at the Hotel Nikko Bali in Nusa Dua.
	Balinese Dance & Music Classes: The YAYASAN POLOS SENI (Foundation for Pure Art) in Banjar Teges Kanginan, Peliatan, Ubud, e-mail polos@goarchi.com, offers Balinese dance and music classes for students who wish to become fully involved with the dance & music culture of Bali. Enrolling in one of these classes (one-to-one tuition and participation in group rehearsals and performances) means becoming a member of the family of students and teachers and an in-depth experience of the world of performers and performances in the Ubud area. There are also 2-week courses to learn playing the Gamelan at the MUSEUM SENI KLASSIK in Klungkung (e-mail anggie@gggamelan.com) which are open for all levels of experience. Beginners as well as "non-musicians" are welcome.
	Meditation Classes: Free Raya Yoga Meditation classes and regular sessions in Ubud and Denpasar, tel. 976-206. There are also free lessons every Monday 19.00 at the Denpasar Meditation Shop, tel. 237-260. Information on daily meetings, classes, books, tapes and videos from Bali Osho Information Centre, telephone 423-595.
	Balinese Cooking Classes: Discover the secrets of Balinese cuisine by joining one of the 1-Day Cooking Classes held by Heinz von Holzen, the author of the book "The Food Of Bali" and former food guru of the Grand Hyatt and Ritz Carlton hotels in Bali. You can visit Heinz in his beautiful BUMBU BALI restaurant in Tanjung Benoa next to Nusa Dua and enjoy their fabulous dishes at any time. If you wish to enrol in one of his popular classes, you better book in advance. Balinese cooking classes are also held in Ubud at the BUMBU Restaurant (tel. 974-217), at CASA LUNA (tel. 96-283), and at the nearby Sua Bali Culture and Information Centre (tel. 941-050).
	Culinary Events: Aimed more at the local community than at tourists are the "Wine & Cigars" and other special dinners at the AMANUSA and RITZ CARLTON as well as the BVLGARI Resort (900,000 Rupiah to 2,800,000 Rupiah per person). The monthly lunch meetings of the "Bali Wine Club" and the "Chaîne des Rôtisseurs" Black-Tie dinners are for members and their guests only. If you've booked a villa through Balivillas.com and are seriously interested in good food and wine, please call their Service Center at 703-060 to arrange your attendance.
	Hash House Harriers: There are three groups of Hash House Harriers holding regular runs on every Monday, Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 p.m. You can find up-to-date information at the GLORY restaurant in Legian, LIPS Country & Western Bar and BALI BAKERY in Kuta, ALAS ARUM supermarket, ARRI'S CAFE and ARENA Sports Bar in Sanur, and at NAUGHTY NURI'S bar in Ubud. For more details please visit their web site.
	Social Clubs: Rotarians, Lions, Scal Club members, etc. hold regular meetings in various parts of Bali. Schedules are published in the local newspapers. taken from : www.baliguide.com

BALI MUSEUMS & ART EXHIBITIONS

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Denpasar

Bali Museum
Jalan Letkol Wisnu, Denpasar
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. except Mondays.
Danes Art Veranda
Jalan Hayam Wuruk 159, Denpasar. Tel. 250 037
Local and regional artists, rotating exhibitions.
Museum of Archeology
Jalan Letkol Wisnu, Denpasar
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. except Mondays.
Taman Budaya Cultural Center
Jalan Nusa Indah, Denpasar.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 3.00 p.m. except holidays.

Kuta/Legian/Seminyak

Randelli Gallery
Jalan Raya Seminyak, Seminyak.
Contemporary mix of pop, figurative and abstact art by young established artists both international and local.

Sanur

Museum Le Mayeur
Jalan Hang Tuah, Sanur
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Fridays.

Jimbaran/Tanjung Benoa/Nusa Dua

Ganesha Gallery
Four Seasons Hotel, Jimbaran. Tel. 0361-701 010
Features local and international artists based in Indonesia often very high profile. Frequent happenings.
Jenggala Keramik Bali
Jalan Uluwatu II, Jimbaran. Tel. 0361-703 311
description here

Ubud

Agung Rai Museum of Art
Jalan Pengosekan, Peliatan, Ubud.
Open daily from 9.00 a.m. to 6 p.m. except holidays.
Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA)
Jalan Bima, Pangosekan, Ubud. Tel. 0361-974 228
One of the most distinguished galeries in Bali, where you can see works of some Bali's celebrated names like Spies, Bonnet, Hofker and Affandi. They also hold high profile events such as national art competitions and rotating exhibitions.
Antonio Blanco Renaissance Museum
Jalan Raya Campuhan, Ubud. Tel. 0361-975 502
Dedicated to the life and work of famed Philippino artists Antonio Blanco, the space includes his original studio, gardens and family temple.
Bamboo Gallery
Nyuhkuning, Pengosekan, Ubud.
Open from Monday to Friday 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
Blue Moon Gallery
Jalan Tirta Tawar, Banjar Kutuh Kaja, Ubud.
900 meters north of Ubud's main road, and Studio Blue Moon, Ubud main road at Jalan Sriwedari
Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, specializing in exhibitions featuring emerging contemporary artists.
Gaya Fusion of Senses
Jalan Raya Sayan, Ubud. Tel. 0361-979 252
High concept space featuring major exhibiton by both international and local artists featuring contemporary art, paintings, performace, installations and sculptures. A real center for the arts.
Komaneka Gallery:
Jalan Monkey Forest, Ubud. Tel. 0361-976 090
A fine art gallery that focuses on young mainly local artists with higher education in the arts, who may have studios abroad.
Low Art Gallery
Jalan Raya Ubud No. 8, Ubud. Tel 081 338 565962
Recently opened gallery specializing in the kitsch and the retro. Includes substantial collection of old movie posters and all kinds of weird and wonderful art.
Neka Museum
Jalan Raya Campuhan, Ubud.
Open daily 8.00 to 5.00 p.m. except holidays.
Museum Puri Lukisan
Jalan Raya Ubud, Ubud.
Open daily 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. except holidays.
Rudana Museum
Peliatan, Teges, Ubud. Tel. 0361-975 779
Boasts an excellent collection of Balinese and other Indonesian fine arts by the likes of I Gusti Nyoman Lempad, Affandi, Supono and Antonio Blanco.
Sika Contemporary Art Gallery
Jalan Raya Campuhan, Ubud. Tel. 0361-975 727
Provides a venue for young creative artists, both local and itnernational. Holds regular temproary exhibitions and events.
Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women
Jalan Sriwidari 2B, Ubud. Tel. 0361-975 485
Seniwati supports and showcases women artists and also houses a shop where crafts can be bought, some of them by artists who exhibit in the gallery.

taken from:www.baliguide.com

SHOPPING IN BALI

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You can go shopping for fine art and handicrafts such as antique, semi-antique and modern furniture, all kinds of paintings, delicately crafted gold and silver jewelry, wood and stone carvings, masks, woven and dyed fabrics, etc. in many shops in the Kuta/Legian area, in Sanur, in various handicraft villages, the Sukawati market on the way to Ubud and in the town of Ubud.

In most of the shops you can and should bargain for the best price. Be especially careful with the vendors near popular tourist attractions such as Tanah Lot or, for instance, the rip-off artists in the Bali Aga village Tenganan who are well-known for selling fake "antique" fabrics (even spray-painted instead of woven cloth) for very high prices.

Popular buys in Bali are DVDs featuring even very recent movies. These are illegal copies but they sell for just 10,000 Rupiah per piece or 100,000 Rupiah for 11 and are available everywhere in Bali. Beach wear, T-shirts, pants and other clothing, shoes and leather goods, sea shells, trinkets, etc. are offered at low prices in numerous shops in Kuta and Legian as well as – much more expensive – in many hotels.

Well-known shopping centers are Geneva, Jalan Raya Kerobokan in Seminyak for very cheap handicrafts, Kuta Square with many shops and a branch of the Matahari Department Store and Supermarket offering everything a tourist could be interested in as well as Bali Galeria behind the DFS Komplex on the By-Pass where you find many different outlets including Vinoti, Prada, Body Shop, Planet Sport, a Periplus book shop, a branch of Marks & Spencer and many shops selling sports shoes, surf and party wear.

The huge, fully air-conditioned beachfront Kartika Discovery Mall in Jalan Kartika in Tuban next door to the Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and opposite the Waterbom Park was opened in 2004. It accommodates a large underground car park and the three storey mall with the Centro Department Store featuring famous international brands and designer labels including Esprit, Guess, Giordano, Polo, Prada, La Senza (for lingerie), cosmetics and fragrances from Bulgari, Gucci, Estée Lauder, Revlon, Clinique, Shiseido etc, surf shops such as Quicksilver, Billabong and Planet Surf, boutiques for ladies and gents fashions, several optical shops, Kids Station and Guess for Kids, Vinoti Living, specialist shops for beautiful watches and jewellry, a Sogo Department Store on street level, a Periplus bookshop, Boots Chemist, Starbucks, Bread Talk, KFC, Pizza Hut, Baskin & Robbins, Black Canyon Cafe and several other restaurants. Opening hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

There are a number of other shopping centers in Kuta, Tuban, Seminyak and Denpasar. The Nusa Dua Galleria has been reopened after renovations in December 2005 as Bali Collection and is dominated by the Sogo Department Store offering hundreds of international brands and designer labels; there are also several other shops and a small number of restaurants.

The newest shopping center is Carrefour at the Sunset Road which features the huge hypermarket of the French retailer on the top floor selling on over 8,000 sq.m. food, baked goods, prepared food, wine, diary products, fridges, TVs, luggage, clothing, furniture, computers etc. all in one place similar to a Wal-Mart in the US. The lower floors accommodate a variety of shops including a Periplus bookshop, an Apple-authorized reseller and many food outlets. Opening hours are daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The attractive tableware you see in many restaurants, hotels, and the better homes in Bali is made locally by Jenggala Keramik Bali. Started by the New Zealand-born designer-potter Brent Hesselyn who disappeared while diving near Nusa Penida in late 2002, Jenggala has been producing for over 20 years hand-made high-quality ceramics which can be seen and ordered at their modern factory in Jimbaran, Jalan Uluwatu II. This new complex includes in addition to a show room an exhibition area for antique and new Indonesian art, a demonstration area where Jenggala's potters display their skills, and a branch of the popular "Kafe Batu Jimbar" serving light meals and a choice of coffee, tea and other beverages.

taken from:baliguide.com

Balinese Dances

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taken from : www.baliguide.com

Balinese Dances

Most Balinese dance performances are held in the evenings, however, you can also see some Barong Dance performances in the morning.

If you prefer to watch one of these Balinese dance performances in a hotel after a sumptuous dinner buffet, the OBEROI is recommended because of the beautiful beach front setting. For those who do not wish to have dinner here, there is a US$10/person fee to enjoy the dances; Classical Dance on Tuesdays and Ramayana Dance on Thursdays, starting from 8:30 p.m.

Bali Dance Festival offers daily dance performance during buffet at US$25 per person. The restaurant opens at 7:00pm for dinner and on 8:00pm the performance starts. For further information and booking, please call 703-060.

If you have rented a villa, you can contact our local Service Center at 703-060 to arrange a private Balinese dance performance in your garden at any time convenient for you. 40 to 60 dancers and musicians in beautiful costumes will perform the Balinese dances of your choice and be afterwards available to explain anything you might wish to know.

	Barong Dance: This Balinese dance is about a contest between the opposing forces of chaos and destruction ("Rangda") and order (the "Barong"). Performances in Suwung and Kesiman (suburbs of Denpasar), and in Batubulan daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.; in Banjar Abasan, Singapadu, daily from 9:30 a.m., and at Puri Saren in Ubud, Friday from 6:30 p.m.
	Legong Dance: A highly stylized, extremely difficult dance performed by young girls. Choreographed to the finest details, and no improvisation allowed. Performances at the Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Dalem, Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m., and at Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.
	Kecak Dance: A ritual dance created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies who combined the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a story from the "Ramayana" legend. Very impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare chested male singers. Performances are held at the Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m., and in Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.
	Fire Dance: The Fire Dance is an exorcist dance against spirit possession. Girls in trance dance barefoot among glowing coals. Performances in Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. In Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m., and in Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.
	Ramayana Dance: There are occasional performances of this Balinese dance Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa. This cultural dinner show is available on Tuesdays from 8:00 p.m at Rp. 240,000 + 21% tax and service charges per person.

If you are seriously interested in Balinese dance and music, you should contact the YAYASAN POLOS SENI (Foundation for Pure Art) in Peliatan near Ubud. They offer dance and music lessons at reasonable prices (see under "Balinese Dance & Music Classes" at Popular Bali Activities).

Wayang Kulit, Traditional Drama & Other Performances

Wayang Kulit: In the Indonesian shadow puppet play, beautifully painted and gilded leather puppets are used although only the shadows are visible to the audience. The stories come from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and myth. A highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets, speaks with a different voice for each character, and controls the musicians. Plays go on for several hours. Performances can be seen at Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.

Balinese Temple Festivals, Drama, Other Performances: See the "Bali Post" daily newspaper and the Friday edition of the English language "Jakarta Post" for details.

Bali Tours

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BALI TOURS

What You Can See & Do in Bali, Indonesia

Bali's natural attractions include miles of sandy beaches (many are well-known amongst surfers), picturesque rice terraces, towering active volcanoes over 3,000 meters (10,000 ft.) high, fast flowing rivers, deep ravines, pristine crater lakes, sacred caves, and lush tropical forests full of exotic wildlife.

The island's rich cultural heritage is visible everywhere - in over 20,000 temples and palaces, in many colorful festivals and ceremonies (including tooth filings and cremations), in drama, music, and dance.

You can experience Bali on many different excursions and guided tours by coach, private car or "Big Bike", by boat or by air plane: seeing Bali's beaches and rice terraces, the famous Besakih Temple on the slopes of holy Mount Agung, Lake Batur and it's active volcano, Ubud, Legian, Kuta, Nusa Dua, and the temples of Tanah Lot and Ulu Watu from a helicopter is a really special experience. For helicopter tours and private charters (3 to 6 passengers) please contact the Balivillas.com Service Center at 703-060 as soon as you arrive.

Most full day tours by car (about 8 to 10 hours) cost about US$30 to US$40 per person, half day tours US$20 to US$25. These prices include a multi-lingual guide and transport in an air-conditioned private car, all entrance fees, but no meals. Which guide and driver you choose can make or break your day: be warned that those who offer very low prices tend to waste your time by showing you hardly any more than those shops which pay them a commission on your purchases.

taken from :baliguide.com

Bali's Map

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BALI MAP

taken from:baliguide.com
Detailed Map of Bali Showing the Major Cities of Bali and Places of Interest

About Bali

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Bali, a tropical island in the Indonesian archipelago, is so picturesque and immaculate it could almost be a painted backdrop. It has rice paddies tripping down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, dense tropical jungle, long sandy beaches, warm blue water, crashing surf and friendly people who don't just have a culture but actually live it. In Bali spirits come out to play in the moonlight, every night is a festival and even a funeral is an opportunity to have a good time.

Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination for all ages offers something for everyone. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. The Balinese people are proud of having preserved their unique Hindu culture against the advance of Islam, the dominant religion throughout Indonesia. This is still reflected in day to day life and can be seen in the numerous ceremonies, Balinese festivals and magnificent temples and palaces. Some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.

Bali Island is a shopper's paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, locally made jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. Leather ware is one of the unexpected local bargains with everything from handbags through to tailor made leather jackets and coats, all at unbelievable prices. In fact, prices are so inexpensive, you're sure to need more room in your suitcase! Try bargaining at the street markets of Kuta, Sanur of Nusa Dua or fixed price shopping at a Denpasar department store. Bali has it all.

For those that want to stay wet, Bali Island has world class scuba diving, snorkelling and wonderful day trips out to Nusa Penida for beach sports and coral viewing.

When the sun sets, the choices are still hard to make - a quiet romantic moon lit dinner or watch the spectacular Balinese Fire Dance or Kecak Dance. For those that want to party, Bali Island has it all with bars, discos and nightclubs.

As a truly international destination attracting visitors from all over the world, restaurants in Bali are extremely cosmopolitan yet inexpensive. Experience not only local delicacies like Nasi Goreng and Sate Campur but also Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese, Italian/European Greek, Moroccan and even Mexican cuisine. We must not forget Bali's wonderful seafood - local lobster at such prices that you will want to keep coming back for more.

For those more culturally inclined, Bali can offer the peace and tranquility of Ubud high in the hills; the spectacular Mother Temple at Besakih; the ancient capital of Bali, Singaraja and the floating palace at Ujung near the pretty beach area of Candi Dasa. The Scenery is nothing less than spectacular. Jungle, picturesque hillside rice terraces and the awesome magnificence of Kintamani Volcano.

The more active, wanting a break from the idyllic beaches, can experience wonderful golf courses in the mountains at Bedugul and beachside at Nusa Dua, the thrill of white water rafting or kayaking down the beautiful Ayung River; mountain cycling amid scenery you will never forget and organized rice paddy and jungle treks to see the side of Bali most tourists never encounter.

Bali Island, a truly international destination, offers every standard of accommodation ranging from charming yet modest bungalow style hotels in lush tropical gardens for the budget minded through to arguably amongst the most exclusive and sophisticated hotels in the world!

takenfrom : www.all-bali.com

Bali's Accomodation

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BALI ACCOMMODATION

taken from :www.Bali.com

Balivillas.com: Private Vacation Villas
Choose from the most beautiful villas in Bali with 2 to 7 bedrooms, tropical garden with private swimming pool, trained cooks, maids and house boys, in-house spa treatments, and free use of an air-conditioned car with a reliable driver. The choice of experienced travelers!

BALI HOTEL BARGAIN FINDER
Find the GUARANTEED lowest rates for famous luxury resorts such as the Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, The Oberoi, etc. and budget hotels in all parts of Bali. Reserve on-line to save 70% and more.

Hotel Villas at Bali's Resorts
Some hotels are offering villa-style cottages within the hotel grounds. Inside a tiny private garden you'll enjoy total informality and privacy, and you can take advantage of all service and facilities these resorts are providing.