|
|
A paradise
island often referred to as the 'Morning of the World' Bali
offers any lucky visitor a haven of beautiful beaches,
aquamarine seas and a patchwork of emerald rice terraces.
Bali
Stunning.
This was the overriding impression I got of the tropical
paradise island that is Bali when I first visited as a
backpacker. From the sheer majesty of the string of ancient
volcanoes across the centre of the island, to the
beautifully terraced rice fields which seem to flow down its
hillsides, no other country I've visited has scenery quite
so breathtaking.
Once known as the Spice Islands, Bali is one of the Republic
of Indonesia's 13,000 Islands, and is located between Java
to the West, and Lombok to the East. Rich in tradition, art
and culture also form a large part of Bali's charm. Aside
from year-round festivals, almost every day there are
colourful processions in the village temples to celebrate
weddings, births and funerals.
When you arrive in Bali, no doubt your initial impression
will be of just how friendly and gentle the smiling Balinese
are. That's because on the paradise island of Bali,
everything is a cause for celebration. As for accommodation,
take your pick from five-star resorts overlooking white
sandy beaches or lush valleys, to friendly family-run hotels
nestled in lush tropical gardens. One thing's for sure - you
won't be disappointed. Whether you stay at Nusa Dua or Sanur
in the south, Ubud in the centre or at one of Bali's
northern black-sand beach resorts like Lovinia, you'll find
the hospitality as warm as the water. Once you've soaked up
some glorious Bali sunshine it's time to take a trip inland.
This is where you - as I did - will truly fall in love with
Bali.
Whether you're in the audience at a temple ceremony,
admiring one of its immense volcanoes or marvelling at the
beautifully crafted rice fields wrapping themselves around
hillsides, you can't help but be awed.
Be sure to pay a visit to the home of Balinese culture, Ubud.
Packed with art galleries, craft shops selling batiks,
hand-made furniture, woodcarvings and paintings, and a wide
variety of restaurants to boot, this is the place where you
can get a flavour for the real Bali. For the more active
there's rafting down the Ayung river, world-class golf and
surfing, as well as the option to hire a jeep and explore
the island for yourself.
Once thing's for sure, whatever you choose to do on your
holiday, you'll never be far from a friendly face.
Book your Holidays to Bali here
|
