Bali, situated between Lombok and Java, is one of the major tourist destinations in the world. Its wonderful scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage draws millions of tourists each year. White sandy beaches, volcanic lakes, rice terraces and magnificent ancient palaces and temples contribute to the beauty of the place. Tourists can also engage in a number of adventure activities while they are here including surfing, diving, snorkeling, hiking, kayaking, trekking, climbing and many more activities.
Climate
The country of Bali, being close to the equator, has a tropical climate. The year round temperature averages 31 degrees Celsius. There is high humidity in the wet season from October to April. June to August is usually pleasant with cool breezes blowing all day long.
Tourist attractions
Some of the major tourist attractions in the region are:
Ubud – This is one of the focal points of Balinese painting. The museum at Ubud, Purl Lukisan has an extensive collection of Balinese art. There are also a number of art galleries that are located here.
Kuta – It is a popular beach that offers numerous beginner to intermediate surf spots. The place abounds in shops, restaurants, clubs, bars and other tourist traps and is swamped mostly by young people from Australia, Europe, Brazil and North America.
Uluwatu – Well known surf spot on the southern tip of the Bukit with lots of places to stay at varying levels and prices around Uluwatu and nearby Padang Padang. Oh, and there’s a famous temple at Uluwatu that affords amazing views out to the ocean from the tall cliffs.
Nusa Dua – This resort is popular for its clear waters and white beaches. Some of the best luxurious hotels of the country can be found here.
Tanah Lot – This is one of the most important sea temples in the country. The best time to visit is during late afternoon.
Batubulan – It is a small village where demons and divinities are carved out of sandstone for decoration at homes and temples.
Pura Besakih – This thousand year old temple is the biggest temple in the country.
Pura Kehen – It is one of the biggest religious complexes in the region and is visited by tourists in large numbers.
Culture
Bali is well known for its diverse art forms including sculpture, painting, handcrafts, woodcarving, and performing arts. Some of the well known Balinese dances are legong, pendet, topeng, baris, gong keybar, barong, and kecak.
Festivals
There are a number of festivals that are celebrated in the country. Most of these are dedicated to percussion instruments, art of woodcarving, birth of goddesses, temple festivals, fasting ceremonies, harvest festivals and many more.
Accommodation
Bali has ample accommodation facilities for every kind of budget. The hotels in the region are equipped with facilities to ensure that you have a wonderful experience while you are there. Bali Niksoma Beach Resort & Spa, Alam Indah, Oka Wati Hotel, Oberoi, Puri Tantra Bungalows and Amandari are some of the best hotels where you can be put up.
Dining
Food is one of the major attractions of Bali. Traditional Balinese dishes including Bebek Betutu, Babi Guling, grilled marinated fish, Sate Lilit, and Nasi Kuning are very popular among the tourists. There are also many restaurants serving a range of international cuisines. Travellers can look forward to a wonderful time sampling the many dishes that are on offer at the restaurants.
Shopping
Another activity that one can engage in while in Bali is shopping. Antique furniture, handicrafts, paintings, jewellery, stone and wood carvings, fabrics are some of the best items that you can find in the region. With some of the best natural spots, Bali is one of the most wonderful places to head for a vacation.