Bali Holiday

Welcome to Bali – your haven for rest, relaxation and beauty. Bali is often synonymous to the word “paradise” and when you see it, you won’t have to wonder why. It is, after all, blest with drop dead gorgeous beaches, as well as modern amenities that make it one of the top tourist destinations in this side of Asia. It belongs to the archipelago of Indonesia, which is actually made up of some 17,000 islands. Bali, however, is undoubtedly one of the country’s most famous. Its scenery is marked not just by unforgettably beautiful beaches, fresh water springs, volcanoes (some of which are still active), as well as dense jungles. Also, Balinese culture form part of the attraction that draw people into this island.

One must admit, that with the profusion of tourists, the bane of commercialism has also settled into the island. However, concrete structures and the worsening traffic situation do not detract from the magic and magnificence that is Bali.

Bali is perfect for scuba diving along the coral reefs and ship wrecks. The ones in Pulau Menjangan are one of the tourist favorites. Water sports are, of course, very popular. Choices include snorkeling, para-sailing, water skiing, surfing, sailing, game fishing and banana boat rides. You can also take in the sights of Bali by going on a day cruise, a dinner cruise, an island cruise and a submarine safari.

Now, let’s not talk about the beach anymore, because that’s sure to be amazing. But aside from the beach there are plenty of places you can visit and things you can do. Go on a white water rafting tour which also boasts of scenic views – such as gorges, villages, rice terraces and waterfalls. After a day at the beach, you can get yourself in hot water (literally) by taking a dip at one of their hot springs (thanks to the active volcanoes that are found in the island). You can also explore the wonders of the Elephant Cave at Goa Gajah Bedulu. This network of caves showcases some of Bali’s best pavilions and temples. The first thing you will see is an intricately carved head greeting you at the cave entrance. Another activity you can get into is a trek along the jungle en route to Gitgit waterfall. For those who want a nature trek, head for Taman Burung Bali Bird Park or the Monkey Forest.

After all these exertions, you can wind down by getting a massage at the many spas that dot the island. A popular option is the lulur massage, which makes use of local herbs and spices.

Bali also offers a feast for the senses. There are so many things to see, taste and experience! Enjoy the graceful and sinuous movements featured in famous Balinese dances such as the kecak (monkey dance) and the barong (lion dance that depicts the struggle between good and evil). The island is also known for its shadow puppet theater known as wayang kulit.

Bali also boasts of temples galore (an astounding 20,000!). It seems that every village has at least three temples. What’s great is that these temples usually hold bi-annual festivals, so that means you will get to witness one during your visit. The most famous of these festivals include the Galungan (which is a ten-day island-wide affair where all the Balinese gods are believed to be present during the celebrations) and the Saraswati (which is a feast dedicated to Dewi Saraswati – the goddess of knowledge, arts and literature).

If you want to see how the Balinese artisans craft their masterpieces (wood carvings, gold-threaded textile or silver jewelry), you can visit Celuk, Ikat, Batabulan or Mas. Mas itself has a lot of art galleries. Now, if you are into painting, the best place to go would be at Kamasan, where there is a renowned school of painting.

Now, if you are a bit adventurous and think you have the stomach for it, do try the food offered by the kaki lima or the roving vendors, which are not only highly affordable, but delicious as well. Try the meatball and noodle soup, the spit-roasted pig or duck seasoned with herb paste and wrapped in banana leaves.

Whew! Bali is no doubt a place where unforgettable holidays are made. Be sure to plan that vacation and list down all the things you want to do and all the places you want to go, because really, with the choices you have, you will find that a week would not be enough!