Bali

1. Amed Beach-Bali
Amed Beach East Bali is everything you dreamed it would be: a rare and special paradise of outstanding exotic beauty, vibrant culture and friendly people. Here you can finally find peace and quiet, enjoy great food and take advantage of comfortable and inexpensive accommodation. From the beach, Amed offers an excellent site for training dives. It has a flat bottom lagoon for instruction and a coral reef only 5 minutes swim away. This location is highly recommended for introductory dives. By boat, Amed has a nice wall dive just a few minutes away. It is a fun, easy dive for everyone. Snorkeling and diving off the black-sand beaches here is exceptional, the variety and numbers of fish on display are among the best on Bali and the water temperature is a constant 28 degrees. Schools of cardinal fish, triggerfish, black snappers, pyramid butterflies, banner fish, and damselfish can be seen on the sand slopes, while table corals, big fan gorgonians, and magnificent stag horn Acropora and Dendronephthya trees, dense growths of sponges, crinoids, and sea fans are commonly found within 20 meters of shore. Cemuluk, on a protected bay, is an ideal place to begin snorkeling. Four kilometres further south along the coast is Banyuning, where there's a small wreck and some of the most beautiful coral gardens to be seen anywhere in the Lesser Sundas. The water is a little deeper here and sometimes there is a slight swell, so this area suits people with experience.
2. Bali: Simply the World's Best Island
Probably the most famous island in Indonesia, and probably is more well known for its beautiful beaches. Bali has been awarded the World's Best Island 2009 by Travel & Leisure Magazine (www.travelandleisure.com) and has been included in Lonely Planet's Best of Travel 2010 as the second place in Top Regions. Bali is also called the Land of the Gods, due to its sheer beauty and miraculous sceneries. Bali will appeal to both urbanites and suburbanites, for this exotic island has many things to offer, from sophisticated dining and meeting experience to exhilarating treks in the wild. Indeed, this relatively small island contains lots of miracles. A miracle indeed, for after all these years, Bali still can amaze both local and international visitors. You can find interesting variety of people here, from the ones who prefer to surf in the beaches of Kuta, Sanur, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Dreamland, Nusa Dua and others, to people who love the serene view of the mountains and lakes in Batur, Kintamani, and Beratan Lake in Bedugul. People continue to flock to Bali, for it serves as a beacon of good time filled with magical moments.
There are many modes of transport to help you get around in Bali. A variety of excellent half day, full day and overnight tour packages are available from your hotel desk or any of the numerous travel agents and tour operators which abound in Bali. Or you can find a car and driver who will also act as your guide. Whilst walking about, you will be barraged with constant questions of "Transport, transport?". Competition is tight and many drivers know several languages. Tell the driver your desired route and negotiate a fee. An important virtue to have while on the road in Bali is patience! Although the road system in the heavily populated areas is quite reasonable (condition wise) in comparison to other developing countries, it can be heavily congested at peak periods. Ceremonial processions often overtake the whole road so if you're caught behind a procession, enjoy the colorful experience.
Too many to mention. You'll realize it soon after arriving. Part of the miracle of Bali is that, even in modern life, most Balinese still adhere to their unique traditions, especially the Hindu ones. Spirits are respected and sometimes worshipped, and rituals have integrated themselves into the daily lives of the local people. Many artists consider Bali both as a haven and heaven. Too many people have tried to capture the spirit of Bali into paintings, sculptures, even writings and more will continue to do so. Bali provides endless fascination and inspiration. Hence international, annual event like Ubud Readers and Writers Festival. But enough about inspiration. How about perspiration? A number of beaches in this island are the favorite resorts for surfers. While some others offer variety of water sports or family recreation, such as banana boats, parasailing or jetskiing. In the northern part of Bali, there are Kuta Beach, Sanur, Jimbaran, Uluwatu, Dreamland, and Nusa Dua, to name a few. While on the other side there are the attractive Lovina, Amed, and Tulamben beach. For mountainous nuance, devotees will find Batur Lake at Kintamani and Beratan Lake at Bedugul to their liking. Other than Bali, there are number of small islands nearby like Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan. Both small beautiful islands also have nature fascinating sceneries.
Many beautiful resorts offer fine lodgings. Most of the starred hotels are located near the beach. Otherwise, they usually have their own private spots at certain beaches. You can find them easily at popular spots like Kuta or Sanur. If you're in a serene highland like Ubud, forget starred hotels. You're there to embrace the atmosphere. Just pick one of the small lodgings lining up the streets. And even the smallest one's ready to make you feel welcome. During the 2007 Ubud Readers and Writers Festival, a man in a wheelchair checked in at a small inn on Monkey Forest. He had some difficulties in navigating through the stairs to his bungalow. He then left for the Festival. When he returned at night, the owner had already paved an ascending lane to his bungalow. That's a typical Balinese hospitality. When you've already picked a certain destination in Bali, just check out our Travel Directory. See what options are near.
Like the food of other regions in Indonesia, Balinese staple food is rice, served with small portions of spicy, pungent vegetables, fish or meat and served almost always with sambal or chili paste. Bali is a few of the regions in Indonesia whose majority of its people are non Muslims, thus babi guling or roasted suckling pig is a specialty, as is bebek betutu, smoked stuffed duck wrapped in bamboo leaves. In Jimbaran area, for instance, you can sample seafood dishes while sitting on the beach. Visit this place in the evening, the cool atmosphere and caressing breeze will make your dining experience remarkable.
3. Bali Bird Park
Find yourself at the Bali Bird Park to witness the largest and finest collection of Indonesian birds in the world plus fantastic birds from Africa & South America. Encompassing two hectares of botanical landscape, the park provides sanctuary to almost 1000 birds of 250 different species. Our innovative approach towards the display of rare and tropical birds has progressed from traditional exhibits to that of showcasing mixed species in their natural habitats & in large walk in Aviaries and free range throughout the park. The park accommodates an amazing display of flora with more then 2000 tropical plants including 50 varieties of palms alone and attracting numerous butterflies. Incorporating a breeding, research and veterinary facility within the complex, the park has a high success rate in the captive reproduction of exotic birds such as the Bird. of Paradise and Hornbill.
Join us for an adventure that has no boundaries as we take you on a journey across the Indonesian archipelago, Latin America and South Africa. The park is divided into regions that recreate the natural habitats of our birds, complete with indigenous plant life and traditional artefacts for authenticity. Experience the original Jungle birds of Bali and encounter the world's rarest bird, the Bali Starling. Discover the exotic birds of Papua and one of the most comprehensive collections of Bird of Paradise in the whole world. Travel to Far East Indonesia, home to an amazing array of birds as well as the extraordinary Komodo Dragon, a giant carnivorous lizard which is a direct descendant of the dinosaur and rarely seen in captivity. See the fantastic Javan Hawk and Serpent Eagles - & listen to the sweet sounds of Java's song birds echoing through the foliage. Visit the deep jungle and misty mountain ranges of Sumatra for rare and strange endemic birds.
Venture to other tropical continents to view our collection of South American exotics such as the Scarlet Macaw and Toucan, witness the Congo Grey Parrot and other birds of the African Savannah. See Cassowaries, Cranes, Storks & Pelicans and many more birds as they wander freely living and breeding uninhibited throughout the park. Stroll within the boundaries of our giant walk-through aviaries that replicate the natural eco-systems of the Bali Jungle and Papuan Rainforest. Pathways and bridges are carved through the dense foliage where only filtered sunlight manages to penetrate the canopy of greenery overhead.
Several vantage points have been strategically positioned to catch glimpses of free flying birds as they follow their survival instincts of foraging for food, nesting and mating. These protected enclosures safeguard rare species from outside predators, whilst still exposing them to the various aspects of living in the wild. Within two hectares of Balinese landscape and a free range birds, Bali Bird Park is a popular place for:
o arranging a special program for family gatherings
o corporate programme
o group arrangements
o student group special education
o other creative competition such as photo shooting
o painting
o drawing, or
o annual gathering
4. Eat, Pray, Love and Escape in Ubud
What can you tell about the journey of this passionate woman? In search of revelation and clarity, Elizabeth Gilbert treaded on an adventurous trip of a lifetime, only to come to appreciate that what truly matters is self-acceptance. Spending her time across many countries, she believed the best retreat from life is enjoying life itself. Mistaking insights as worldly experiences, she found herself craving for fulfillment. Not even Italy or India could give her the peace that she longed for. And she found it in Bali, an island of gods and goddesses. It drew Elizabeth Gilbert’s attention for its richness of nature, culture, cuisine. And love. Join us for a journey of eat, pray, love and escape in Ubud, Bali.
The escapade in Ubud can easily start right at the time you unpack your bag in a nice quiet hotel of your choise just as Liz Gilbert did, as she relaxed her body and mind in front of the beautiful scenery. She knew she had little to worry about because she could always converse with the locals. They'd be more than happy to explain what and where to go. Such is the friendliness of Ubud.
To Do:
See
Most people would recommend sightseeing at Jalan Raya Ubud. The Ubud Palace is a nice stop. But you shouldn't miss gazing at the rice fields at Tegalalang. Smell the air and feel the breeze on your skin. Embrace the butterflies in your stomach. Go see a Kecak Dance exhibition, a marvelous gallery at Bianco’s or at Biasa Gallery. If you come at the right time, the yearly festival is as fascinating as it is. Find out what ceremony does the locals do along your days in Ubud. Witness how they live daily by embracing their spiritual side, just like Ketut Liyer (the healer which encouraged Liz to love again).
Do
Meditation is good for your mind and soul. But don't get the wrong impression, meditation comes in many forms. Ask around and decide what suits you best.
Staying a few days, weeks, or even more than what you originally planned, will always be a wonderful moment to treasure. Exclusive hotels are optional. Even Liz enjoyed the blunt look of tropical tree tops, swimming pools and a fresh tropical fruits at a reasonably priced hotel down at Monkey Forest Road. "It’s good to be back," she said once along the journey.
Dash a lick of a strong spicy Balinese ‘Warung Babi Guling Ibu Oka’ (Balinese suckling pig set menu) down at Jalan Sweta Ubud, across the Ubud Palace. It's a five-minute walk to the leftside of Pasar Ubud. But if you miss home and want to munch a wider choice of culinary options, cruise along Jalan Raya Ubud (Ubud main road). During the filming of Eat, Pray, Love, Julia Roberts was invited by the local ruler to dine in an enjoyable restaurant in Ubud. That'll be be The Lotus in Jalan Raya Ubud. Carry on, let's maybe sip down a few evening margarita at Nuri’s, plus a giant juicy ribs with sambal kecap (mixture of chili and soya sauce ), or a Japanese elegant at Ryoshi Ubud. You don't have to come at the same place twice since there are countless restaurants and delicacies to explore.

5. Kuta Beach – Bali
Once a lonely village on the road from Denpasar toward the Bukit Peninsula, Kuta is now a thriving tourist resort, popular mainly among the young. It owes its claim to fame owes to two factors: its beach (originally Bali's best) and the sunset. The beach front is now host to many hotels, except for Legian and Seminyak, where much of the social scene is now centered. The main shops are located along Legian street. Kuta has become one of the most dynamic places in Indonesia. It is a place to encounter new ideas and lifestyles and a place to experience all manner of pleasures. It is a popular beach for surfing although, currents make it less suitable for swimming. Life guards are on constant duty during the day. Kuta faces the West, offering beautiful sunsets. The popular Kuta Beach, overlooking the Straits of Bali, attracts foreign and local water sport enthusiasts and sun worshippers. Throngs flock to this 1.5-kilometer stretch on weekends. The period April to September/October promises favorable reef and beach breaks, enabling surfers to take to the waves. Amateurs should stick to the milder beach breaks for safety reasons. You can also swim here--make sure you do so only within the designated area--or just join the carefree sunbathers. Wandering hawkers and guides offer their wares and services, while others provide a relaxing massage for a reasonable fee.
Beside watching sunsets and surf, the other things that you may see or do here are shopping, watching performances of Balinese music and dance in Kuta, staged specially for tourists and anywhere else in Bali and some of them are staged nightly. If you're looking by night, various foreign and locally restaurant, clubs, pubs and bars start to fire up.
6. Lovina Beach-Bali
Lining up of busy losmen and hotels with the depleted shady sea makes Lovina one of the most stirring beaches in Bali. Tranquility, incredible under water world and popular attraction is the dolphin watching. A small traditional boat called, jukung, may be hired form the villagers in the morning to bring us off shore to meet these smart and cute creatures. According to the news, theres about 500 - 1000 dolphins here in Lovina Beach.
Beside dolphin watching, the other things that you can do or see near Lovina Beach are:
o Singsing waterfall
o This is quite a nice waterfall on the way to Bedugul
o Bedugul temple, this is an absolutely marvelous temple and not to miss while in, It's quite a long way to go there from Lovina by motorbike but also quite fun if you like mountainous roads
o Hot springs, quite nice springs, take your swimming suit. You can have lunch with a view of the springs
7. Mount & Lake Batur- Kintamani,Bali: The volcanic caldera with its deep crater lake
The mountainous region around Kintamani, centering on the spectacular volcanic caldera of Mt Batur with its deep crater lake and bubbling hot springs, is rugged with a high and wild beauty. Wonderful mountain air and dizzying views in all directions, as well as several important temples, are what makes Kintamani one of the most memorable stops on the Bali tourist itinerary. Mount Batur is actually just a small volcano, but its setting is in the heart of a huge crater 14km in diameter. Adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. The sheer size of the crater conjures up images of the massive eruption of the original Mount Batur that occurred tens of thousands years ago. The volcano is still active today as Balinese all over the island who still remember the great eruption of 1917 will testify. It claimed thousands of lives and destroyed hundreds of temples. Old people might tell you this was "the year when the world shook" Other eruptions have taken place since, forcing the local population to be relocated, along with several of their temples including one of the main Bali temples, Pura Ulun Danu. Initially inside the huge crater, this temple has been relocated to the top of the ridge overlooking it. Here it now offers an impressive view of Mount Batur.
Pura Ulun Danu Batur - near Batur village. This is the most important temple after Besakih, housing more than 90 shrines. Worth visiting at any time of year, especially during the Odalan festival, usually in March depending on the full moon, which is dedicated to the goddess of the crater lake, who is said to control the irrigation systems for the entire island. Trunyan Village - mortuary traditions. From Toya Bungkah, lot of boats will cross the lake to a Bali Aga village called Trunyan. This place is notorious for its mortuary traditions. Instead of cremating the dead, as Balinese do throughout most of the island, the Trunyan communities leave the bodies to decompose naturally in a special cemetery. Trekking Around Gunung Batur. The most popular trek is from Toya Bungkah to the top of Gunung Batur for sunrise. You may ask for this to a group of local guides or some of tourist service there.
8. Ubud: A Place of Serenity and Peace
You either come to Bali to be entertained or to relax. For the romantic atmosphere and fabulous nightlife, beaches in Bali offer a mixture of excitement, adventure and pleasure. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, then Ubud is the place for you. Enriched with culture and verdant vista, Ubud offers a respite from humdrum of your busy life. In the past it was just a small village, but now this place has grown bigger. Ubud seeks to pamper the visitors—in body and soul. Fine dining restaurants and spas here will delight and relax the senses. A walk near the paddy fields will leave a lasting impression, and the sight is fantastic enough to make you want to hold your breath. The best way to observe traditions and culture of Balinese is through mingling with the locals and watching their day to day routine. In this relatively small place, you can visit the temples and villages, relatively unchanged. Shown on the upper left is a traditional ritual you can find almost daily. Since Ubud is relatively small, you can explore it on foot or hire a bicycle/motorcycle. Bear in mind that due to hilly terrain, you should ask locals first which places are more comfortable explored on foot, by bicycle, motorcycle or even car. Taxis are available but they are considered somewhat of a rare species. If you prefer traveling by car, use “taxis” in the shape of private vehicles with drivers, they usually can be found in the street corner.
This region is filled with history and culture. Many remnants from the old kingdom of Bali can be found here, and unique crafts and arts are waiting to be discovered. Known for its tranquility, Ubud offers several natural retreats. The lush, green view and cool atmosphere makes morning and afternoon stroll pleasant. You might be interested in doing some sightseeing in the remnants of Bali kingdom. Tirta Empul is nearby, only 15 km away. Here you can see Tirta Empul temple. About 8 km away is Pejeng, here you can visit the museum and temples. When you’re around why not complete your trip by visiting archeological sites in Bedulu? It’s only 3 km away. Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), shown on the upper right is also worth visiting. Located about 1 km from Teges, legend says that it was created from a giant’s fingernail. It probably was first utilized in 11th century, during Majapahit occupation of Bali. Dutch archaeologist rediscovered this place in the 1920s but the bathing area was not found until in the 1950s. It’s interesting to note that the entrance of this cave is carved in the shape of a demon-like creature. Statue of Ganesh adorns the inside. Bathing pools with water still gushing out can be found nearby, and some say the water will help you look younger. Ubud is the perfect place to indulge in watching cultural events and performances. Kecak, Legong and Barong dances are performed weekly. Ramayana and Mahabharata ballets, gamelan (orchestra made of traditional music instruments) and wayang kulit (traditional Indonesian puppets from leather). The picture on the right shows Ngaben, the traditional way of cremating the departed. Too tense and caught up in everyday world? Indulge yourself in the spas around Ubud, with exotic spices to tease your senses and relaxation is the ultimate goal. Adventurous folks might want to try white water rafting in Sungai Ayung. Many outdoor activities are available as well, contact the local tour agencies. While your spouse relaxes in the spa, you can pump your adrenaline and enjoy a different way to relieve your stress! The artist in you just yearns to come out of the surface—so take some art classes and courses in Ubud! Ever wondered how batik is done, and how rare masterpieces can be created? Or perhaps you’d love to design and create your own silver jewelry? Learn them here. For those who are more interested in culinary skills, cooking classes are also available.
FESTIVAL & EVENTS
Ubud is the home of Ubud Writers & Readers Festival where book enthusiasts, namely writers and readers around the world gather and share their experiences and of course, stories. It’s usually held in October every year.
9. Ubud Monkey Forest
The Ubud Monkey Forest is a nature reserve and temple complex in Ubud, Bali. It houses approximately 340 monkeys which are known as long-tailed Macaques (Macaca fascicularis). There are four groups of monkeys each occupying different territories in the park. The Sacred Monkey Forest is a popular tourist attraction in Ubud, and is often visted by over 10,000 tourists a month. The Monkey Forest is owned by the village of Padangtegal and village members serve on the Monkey Forest's governing council. The Padangtegal Wenara Wana Foundation manages the Monkey Forest and serves to maintain its sacred integrity and to promote the sacred site as a destination for visitors.
Walking around Ubud is an experience of its own. There's a famous story told by Janet DeNeefe, initiator of the Ubud Readers & Writers Festival, that once, a speaker had a block before his event and decided to went out for a walk around Ubud. He was so fascinated by the beautiful landscapes that he forgot to return for his talkshow. You can also rent a bicycle or a motorbike. A lot of visitors prefer bikes for environmental reasons. However, since Ubud's located on a mountainous area, the roads tend to be steep. If you have something against sweating, motorbike's a more logical choice. Cars are usually only used when you want to to go outside Ubud.
Walk around. Enjoy the serene atmosphere. The forest comprises approximately a tenth of a square kilometer (approximately 27 acres) and contains at least 115 different species of trees. The Monkey Forest contains the Pura Dalem Agung Padangtegal temple (shown on the left) as well as a "Holy Spring" bathing temple and another temple used for cremation ceremonies.
10. Uluwatu: The Most Famous Wave in Bali
Uluwatu is the most famous wave of Bali. There is always some swell here so it's also always crowded. The spot offers several waves which are working with different swells and tides:
The Peak: best at mid and high tide. Closes out at low tide. In front of the cave. it's the most consistant. Short and powerful waves, tubes. The take off is moving. It works from 1ft to 8ft. The most crowded. One of the sections closes more than the others.
Racetracks: 100 meters further. fast wave, a lot of sections with easy tubes. Best at low tide and at 6ft. Can hold bigger swell. On the right tide and the right swell, "The Peak" connects with "Racetraks" (you need to be a good tuberider). Over 10ft, Racetracks breaks until "The Corner".
Inside Corner: best at mid and low tide with a 6ft swell. At first, it's a fun wave and the final bowl is a tube. Don't do a cutback just before the bowl! Take plenty of speed, stay high in the face and trim. You will pass the tube.
Outside Corner: the REAL Uluwatu. Works only with big swells (>8 feet) and at low tide. The lower is the tide, the better is the wave. Take at least a 7' board. It is a succession of long walls good for carving and, sometimes, a beautiful final tube. The length is around 300 meters.
Temple: less surfed. Two waves in fact ("Outside temple" and "The Bombies"). Only for experts because the water is very shallow. For them, it is a incredible tube when it works.

(references: www.indonesia.travel and www.my-indonesia.info)