Bali Romance
Bali, a tropical island in the Indonesian archipelago, is so picturesque and immaculate, it could almost be a painted backdrop. Synonymous with style, entertainment and fun, Bali attracts large volumes of tourists. A unique atmosphere is created by rice paddies tripping down hillsides like giant steps, volcanoes soaring up through the clouds, dense tropical jungles, long sandy beaches, warm blue water and friendly people who don't just have a culture but live it. In Bali, every night is a festival. 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 options and a rich heritage.
Why Bali
The Balinese people are proud of having preserved their unique Hindu culture against the advancement of Islam, the dominant religion in Indonesia. This is reflected in their day-to-day life and can be seen in their 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 the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas. When the sun sets, the choices are hard to make, between a quiet romantic moon lit dinner or the spectacular Balinese Fire Dance or Kecak Dance. For those who like to party, Bali has it all - bars, discos and nightclubs. For the culturally inclined, Bali can offer the peace and tranquihty 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 spectacular-jungles, picturesque hillside rice terraces and the awesome magnificence of Kintamani Volcano.
The more active, wanting a break from the idyllic beaches, can enjoy playing golf in the mountains at Bedugul and beachside at Nusa Dua, white water rafting or kayaking down the beautiful Ayung River; mountain cycling amid scenery you will never forget and organised rice paddy and jungle treks to see the hidden side of Bali most tourists never encounter. Bali also offers scuba diving, snorkelling and wonderful day trips to Nusa Penida for beach sports and coral viewing.
Restaurants here arc extremely cosmopolitan, yet inexpensive. Experience not only local delicacies such as nasi goreng and sate campur but also Chinese, Malaysian, Japanese, Italian/European, Greek, Moroccan and even Mexican cuisine. Bali Island is a shoppers paradise particularly for casual and tailored clothing, local jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artifacts. leather ware is one of the unexpected local bargains.