Bali

While planning the perfect Asian retreat, it is impossible to overlook the enchanting island of Bali . One of the most captivating places in the Indonesian archipelago, Bali is a tropical island so picturesque and untouched that its scenery and gorgeous landscapes could readily play the part of the setting for some fantastic fairy tale. It truly is a jewel among Indonesia's many islands, with its terraces of rice fields, towering volcanic mountains with their crater peaks soaring high above the clouds, vast stretches of dense tropical rainforest, immaculate sandy beaches with lagoons and inlets just perfect for a leisurely day out on the beach, world-renowned surf spots and warm, hospitable, unbelievably helpful and friendly locals who are so willing to share their wonderfully unique yet authentic culture with the visitor. In Bali , ghosts, demons and spirits come out to play in the twilight and there's bound to be a celebration, festival, gathering, dance or traditional theatrical performance waiting on every corner, with even a funeral more resembling a carnival than a day of mourning.

Bali is truly the ideal holiday destination for all ages and it offers attractions for every preference. This tropical paradise possesses a one of a kind collage of rich tradition, intermingled with high class tourist facilities and a shopping industry which will leave the unwary traveller with at least one seriously overweight piece of excess baggage at the airport.

Balinese people are proud of their individual blend of Hindu and ancient folk religion and customs. The island is practically the only culturally and religiously diversified place in the whole country, which is predominantly Muslim. This authentic melange can to this day be observed in the local people's regular activities. Breathtaking Balinese temples and towering palaces dot the countryside wherever we turn. These are in fact so numerous that, after a few days' touring the island the unwary traveller almost fails to notice the abundance of cultural artefacts, taking them in as something commonplace. Some of the best surfing beaches on the globe are to be found on the western side of the island. On the other hand, those looking for the perfect family getaway simply must visit the eastern side, with its beautiful rolling hills, paradise beaches and gentle waves.

The island is a haven for shoppers, especially for casual wear and tailor-made clothing, locally made handicraft, good quality gold and silver jewellery, antiques and museum-style artefacts, and, surprisingly – very good quality leatherwear. All this, of course, can be purchased at a fraction of western prices. A tip, though – be wary when changing cash into local Rupees. Try to find an official-looking bureau de change. These usually have a credit note posted on the doors and often an armed security guard. See the hotel desk for advice on money changing. Unfortunately, it is quite easy for the unwary holidaymaker to be cheated by counterfeiters and conmen.

Try your luck and nerves haggling in the street markets of Kuta, Sanur of Nusa Dua. On the other hand, for those looking for a more western style of shopping, the city of Denpasar (even though the name translates literally into 'south market' or 'southern bazaar') is full of modern shopping centres and plazas. Bali simply has it all!

Some of the more recent tragic events in Bali 's long history have turned away many of those who simply saw Bali as a cheap place to let off steam and a party paradise. Needless to say the island is a place which has so much more to offer. And while the local brew – Bintang (or 'half-moon') is both inexpensive and easily meets with the approval of even the more distinguished beer-drinking palate, it is for Bali's temples, ceremonies, beaches, mountains and the ever-present raw passion for life that people flock to the wonderful island in ever growing numbers.

Bali - WHEN To go

Of course, the weather has to be considered as a key issue, with the cooler dry season from April to October being the ideal time to visit Bali . The remainder of the year is more humid, cloudier and has more downpours, but still presents an interesting, and slightly cheaper, option.

Balinese festivals, holidays and celebrations take place all year round, so there's no danger of your visit not coinciding with any local events. Just visit the local tourist information centre or nearest hotel reception for detailed information on upcoming events and be prepared to take a trip around the island.

Bali - Getting There

Regular scheduled flights to Bali are to be booked with British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, Malaysia, Qantas, Qatar Airways, Royal Brunei, Singapore Airlines and Thai Air.

Bali - Getting About

Bali offers the tourist a number of modes of transport, both for the more comfort-loving customer as well as for the more adventurous globetrotter. A variety of excellent half day, full day and overnight tour deals are available from your hotel reception (or just choose from a huge number of travel agents and tour operators). A good tip is to hire a 4x4 with a driver, which actually works out cheaper than a DIY trip, and there's no chance of getting lost. Another option is renting out scooters or motorbikes – be careful however. Balinese drivers are friendly and cautious, but in a slightly more bravado way than in the Old World . You will need show your national driving license country and an international driving license for renting a car (and sometimes a special permit available at police stations for renting a motorbike). The rental company can help you obtain this, but it can take more than a couple of hours out of your schedule to sort out the formalities. Types of cars available are usually small jeeps, the like of the local Toyota Kijang (a slightly larger vehicle with room for 6 people).

There are some important pieces of advice to remember while driving in Bali . Don't be surprised at cars and bikes to suddenly turning into your lane without indication. Because there are often obstacles such as parked cars or the ever present procession on the sides of the road, a system of "sharing lanes" has been developed to overtake them. So stay on your toes.

Generally, things which are sacred in western countries, such as red traffic lights, are treated more as guidance than law in Indonesia . And Bali is no exception. The island, as all of the country, has left hand, British style traffic, so if you're from the UK, Australia, Japan, etc, this will be a big help in getting about and more of your attention will be diverted to safety.

Don't be afraid to "honk your horn" when going around curves on mountainous roads as it is very common to drive in the middle of the road here. This will let oncoming traffic know that you are there. There are a lot of one way roads in Bali , which, by the way, doesn't mean that they are host to one way traffic! But I f you happen to miss your turn, it may be a while before you are able to turn back!

It is better that tourists do not drive at night, especially on the road to Gilimanuk, where the ferry to Java commences. The road is rather busy, poorly marked, full of pot holes and truck drivers who have a nasty habit of overtaking on corners. We also recommend you fill your tank up at a state-owned petrol station. There is a huge number of petrol stall sin the more rural parts of the country. These roadside sellers offer a poorer quality of petrol which may cause damage to your vehicle, but is a must in last resorts. The scooters and motorbikes so abundant in Bali on the other hand, seem to be exclusively filled up in this fashion.

Another, more exhilarating, option for beating the traffic is flying! Air Bali can provide helicopters and seaplanes both for leisure or charter. Or you can also go by sea. You can even avoid the packed streets of the south eastern part of the island during rush hour (constant all day by the way) this way by hiring a boat from Benoa Harbour to Nusa Dua.

While out and about, you will be bombarded with the local tourist-inhabitant mantra of "hey, mister/madam… transport, transport?". It might prove the cheapest option home or to the beach just to hop on to the back of a pick-up truck, or sit cramped as the third or even fourth passenger of a 50-year old Vespa. Just use your common sense, talk to the driver, who more often than not speaks a mix of several foreign languages, tell him where you want to go, and you're off. Of course, always negotiate your fee.

One of the most important virtues of being a motorist in Bali is patience. Although the road system in the heavily populated areas is quite reasonable, it can prove congested at peak periods. Ceremonial processions often overtake the whole road so if you're caught behind a procession, enjoy and take the opportunity to click a few quick snapshots. It pays to keep your camera on you at all times in Bali . You never know when you'll run into an unexpected wedding reception, temple festivity, colourful celebration, or the odd kite-flying festival.

In more rural areas, roads may not be in mint condition and the famous "gang" (a very narrow road just big enough to fit one car, but very often two-way!) is an ever present feature of the countryside.

One of the best ways to see Bali is to go for a walk. You'll be sure not to miss out on any of the fun. If you're walking in Kuta, be careful and watch your step – the pavement is not very safe and it tends to be dotted here and there with open manholes and access holes with broken lids, which can result in a nasty fall especially at night. A cool hint might be something sold in the local street stalls, namely an elastic bandana with a tiny torch affixed to the forehead part – a must when navigating the narrow pathways of Poppies Lane at 3 AM .

The bus and coach system in Bali can generally take you anywhere you want to go. However, you must allow a lot of extra time for your journey. Buses are often jam-packed with passengers and their wares, so they should rather be recommended for short trips only. Wait by the side of the road and sooner or later a mini van or small bus is bound to pass by for you to flag down to stop. Get out where you want, by loudly saying "STOP!" Taxis are also readily available at very reasonable prices. It's a good idea to fix the price beforehand and pay the set amount when you step out.