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Bali Island Geographic and History

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 07:13:00 +0000

Bali Island

Bali is the name of one of the provinces in Indonesia and also the name of the largest island that is part of the province. In addition consists of the island of Bali, Bali Province region also consists of islands smaller in the vicinity, namely the island of Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan Island, Island and Island Ceningan attack.

Bali lies between Java and Lombok. Denpasar is the capital of the province which is located in the southern part of the island. The majority of the population of Bali is Hindu. In the world famous Bali as a tourist destination with a unique variety of art-culture, especially for the Japanese and Australian. Bali is also known as the Island of Gods and Island of Thousand Temples. Bali is mostly famous for it's beautiful scenery and the amazing culture of their people.

Bali's Geographic

The island of Bali is part of the Lesser Sunda Islands along the 153 km and 112 km wide approximately 3.2 km from the island of Java. Astronomically, Bali is located at 8 ° 25'23 "south latitude and 115 ° 14'55" East Longitude tropical climate that makes it like the rest of Indonesia.

Mount Agung is the highest point in Bali as high as 3,148 m. The volcano last erupted in March 1963. Gunung Batur is also one mountain in Bali. Around 30,000 years ago, Mount Batur erupted and produced a terrible disaster on earth. Unlike in the north, the southern part of Bali is irrigated lowland rivers.

Based on the relief and topography, in the middle of the island of Bali lies the mountains that extends from west to east and in between the mountains which are clusters of volcanic Mount Batur and Mount Agung and the mountains are not volcanoes, namely Mount Merbuk, Mount Patas, and Gunung Seraya. The existence of these mountains cause by Geographic Area Bali is divided into 2 (two) parts are not the same, namely North Bali with a narrow lowland and less sloping, and South Bali with a broad lowland and sloping. Bali slope consists of flat land (0-2%) covering an area of 122 652 hectares, undulating land (2-15%) covering an area of 118 339 ha, steep land (15-40%) and an area of 190 486 ha of land is very steep (40%) an area of 132 189 ha. Province of Bali has 4 (four) lakes located in mountainous areas, namely or Bedugul Lake Beratan, Buyan, Tamblingan, and Batur. Natural beautiful Balinese make the island famous as a tourist area.

The capital of Bali is Denpasar. Places Ubud Other important as the art center and resort, located in Gianyar regency. Nusa Lembongan is as one of the dive (diving), located in Klungkung regency. While Kuta, Seminyak, Jimbaran and Nusa Dua are some places that become major tourist destination, both tourist and beach resort, spa, etc., is located in Badung regency.

The total area of Bali Province is 5636.66 km2 or 0.29% of the territory of the Republic of Indonesia. Administratively, the Province of Bali is divided into 8 districts, 1 municipality, 55 districts, and 701 villages / wards.

Bali's History

The first inhabitants of the island of Bali is expected to come in 3000-2500 BCE who migrated from Asia. Remains of the stone tools were found in the village Cekik located in the western part of the island. Prehistoric Period then ended with the arrival of Hinduism and written English Sanskrit of India in 100 BC.

Culture of Bali later gained strong influence of Indian culture that the process is getting faster after the 1st century AD. Name Balidwipa (island) began to be found in various inscriptions, including the inscription Blanjong issued by Sri Kesari Warmadewa in 913 AD and mentioning the word Walidwipa. It is estimated that around this time that Subak irrigation system for rice cultivation began to be developed. Some religious and cultural traditions also began to develop at that time. Majapahit Empire (1293-1500 AD) who are Hindus and centered on the island of Java, had founded the kingdom of subordinates in Bali around the year 1343 AD It was almost across the country are Hindus, but with the coming of Islam stood Islamic kingdoms in the archipelago which, among other cause the collapse of Majapahit. Many nobles, clergy, artists and other Hindu community when it withdrew from Java to Bali.

The Europeans who first discovered Bali is Cornelis de Houtman from the Netherlands in 1597, though a Portuguese ship had previously been stranded near the Bukit peninsula, Jimbaran, in 1585. Netherlands through the VOC also began to implement the occupation of the land of Bali, but continue to get resistance, so until end of the power of their position in Bali is not as solid as their position in the Java or the Moluccas. Starting from the northern region of Bali, since the 1840s the Netherlands has become a permanent presence which was originally done by pit-sheep of various rulers of Bali that mutual trust each other. Dutch major attack by sea and land against the Sanur area and was followed by the Denpasar area. Bali party who lost in numbers and armaments do not want to experience shame for surrender, thus causing the war to the death titk bellows or war involving all the people both men and women including the king. An estimated 4,000 people were killed in the incident, although the Netherlands has ordered them to surrender. Furthermore, the Dutch governors who ruled only a few gave its influence on the island, so that local control of religion and culture generally does not change.

Japan occupied Bali during World War II and then a military officer named I Gusti Ngurah Rai Bali forming forces 'freedom fighters'. Following the Japanese surrender in the Pacific in August 1945, the Dutch promptly returned to Indonesia (including Bali) to re-establish its colonial rule as a state before the war. This was opposed by the forces of resistance Bali who was using Japanese weapons.

On 20 November 1945, Bellows Margarana battles broke out happened in the village of Marga, Tabanan, Bali middle. Colonel I Gusti Ngurah Rai aged 29, led his troops from the eastern region of Bali to carry out attacks to death on the Dutch armed forces. All members of the battalion Bali killed everything and make it as a last Balinese military resistance.

In 1946 the Dutch made Bali as one of the 13 areas part of the State of East Indonesia was proclaimed, named as one of the rival state to the Republic of Indonesia which was proclaimed and headed by Sukarno and Hatta. Bali then also incorporated into the United States of Indonesia when the Netherlands recognized Indonesian independence on December 29, 1949. Years 1950, Bali officially leave the company with Dutch and legally became a province of the Republic of Indonesia.

Mount Agung eruption that occurred in 1963, had shaken the people's economy and led to many of the Balinese transmigrated to other areas in Indonesia.

In 1965, along with the failure by the G30S coup against the national government in Jakarta, Bali and many other areas there was a crackdown against members and sympathizers of the Indonesian Communist Party. In Bali, it is estimated that more than 100,000 people were killed or missing. Nevertheless, the events of the early days of the New Order until now has not succeeded disclosed by law.

Terrorist attacks have occurred on October 12, 2002, a bomb attack in the 2002 Bali Kuta Beach tourist area, causing as many as 202 people were killed and 209 others injured. Bali bomb attacks in 2005 also occurred three years later in Kuta and Jimbaran beach. These incidents received extensive international coverage because most of the victims were foreign tourists and causing Bali's tourism industry faces severe challenges in recent years.

BALINESE CULINARY: Spicy and Full Taste Of Seasoning

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 26 Apr 2009 17:53:00 +0000

Actual Balinese food is common on the island, but it has made few inroads in the rest of the country due to its emphasis on pork, which is anathema to the largely Muslim population in the rest of the country. Notable dishes include:

Babi Guling — Roast suckling pig, a large ceremonial dish that must usually be ordered several days in advance, but also often available at night market stalls and restaurants. It is served with rice. One of Bali's most well known babi guling outlets is Ibu Oka's in Ubud.
Bebek Betutu — Literally "darkened duck", topped with a herb paste and roasted in banana leaves. The same method can also be used for chicken, resulting in ayam betutu.
Lawar — Covers a range of Balinese salads, usually involving thinly chopped vegetables, minced meat, coconut and spices. Traditionally, blood is mixed into this dish, but it's often omitted for tourists' delicate constitutions. Green beans and chicken are a particularly common combination.
Sate Lilit — Minced seafood satay, served wrapped around a twig of lemongrass.
Urutan — Balinese spicy sausage, made from pork.

* Grilled Chicken with Sliced Shallot Chilie and Lime (Ayam Panggang bumbu bawang mentah)
* Grilled Chicken with Red Chili and Shrimp Paste Sauce (Ayam Panggang bumbu merah)
* Steam Chicken Cooked with Balinese Herb and Spicy (Ayam Tutu - Ala Kak Man Restaurant)
* Steam Duck Cooked with Balinese Herb and Spicy (Bebek Tutu - Ala Kak Man Restaurant)
* Minced Chicken with Shredded Rind combine with Spicy Sauce (Lawar Ayam, Klungah, Buah Kacang)
* Sliced Chicken mixed with Herbs and Spices Steam in Banana Leaf (Tum Ayam / Ketopot)
* Grilled Snapper (Ikan Bakar Bumbu Terasi)
* Special Balinese Salted Dry Fish (Sudang Lepet)
* Sliced Fish mixed with Herbs and Spices Wrap in Banana Leaf (Pepes Ikan Laut)
* Special Mixed Vegetables from Klungkung (Serombotan ala Klungkung)
* Water Convolvus with Shrimp Paste and Lime (Pelecing Kangkung)
* Fern Tip Vegetables with Shrimp Paste and Lime (Pelecing Paku)

Vegetarian

There are plenty of options for vegetarians in Bali - from indigenous Indonesian fare to international cuisine. A word of caution: the Indonesian spice paste "Sambal" is a hot paste of ground red chillies, spices and shrimp paste. Always check to see if the Sambal being served to you contains shrimp paste. You can even get Sambal without the shrimp paste at a few places. Additionally, kerupuk crackers with a spongy appearance, including those always served with nasi goreng, contain shrimp or fish. (Those that resemble potato chips, on the other hand, are usually fine.)

Budget

A meal in a tourist-oriented restaurant will be around Rp. 20-40k per person. In a local restoran the same meal might be about Rp. 15k or less. On the road,and even in Kuta, simple warungs sell "nasi bungkus", a pyramid shaped parcel of about 400gm of rice with several tasty extras for as little as Rp. 3-5k. One very reliable option is nasi campur ( rice with several options, chosen by the purchaser) for about Rp. 10k or so. Note that rice is often served at ambient temperature.

Drink

Not being Muslim, the Balinese have nothing against a drink and alcohol is widely available.

Indonesia's most popular beer Bintang is ubiquitous, but local brand Bali Hai is nearly as popular. Bintang is a fairly highly regarded classic light Asian beer, but Bal Hai is a rather bland lager. Also available is the Bali-brewed microbrew Storm, available in several different flavors. Beer is, however, relatively expensive, though still cheap by Western standards: at Rp. 10,000 and up, a small bottle costs at least the same as a full meal in a “local” eatery. In tourist centres, happy hours are widely available before and after sunset, with regular bottles of beer going for Rp. 7,000 and the giant sizes for around Rp. 12,000.

Bali produces its own wines, with Hatten being the most popular brand, available in white, red, rose (most popular) and sparkling varieties. Quality can be inconsistent, but the red is usually OK and cheaper than imported wines, which can easily top Rp. 100,000 per bottle. Wine aficionados are better off bringing their own bottle in from Singapore or other countries from which they fly into Indonesia. Imported wines are readily available in Bali, but are very expensive relative to everything else. Nicer restaurants will let you bring your own bottle; some will charge a (very modest) corkage fee. Smaller establishments likely won't mind, but neither will they have a corkscrew!

Bali's traditional drinks are arak, a clear distilled spirit that packs a 40° punch, and brem, a fermented rice wine sold in gift shops in attractive clay bottles that are much nicer than the taste of the stuff inside.

Tap water on Bali is not drinkable, but bottled water is universally available and extremely inexpensive (Rp. 3000 or so per 1.5L bottle) and restaurants usually use purified water for cooking. "Filtered" water shops are also common, providing on-site treatment of the mains water to a potable standard. These shops are much cheaper than retail outlets, selling water for about Rp 5000 per 11-liter reusable container, and avoid the waste created by plastic bottles.

Very cheap (Rp. 10,000) are fresh juices or their mixes (it can be watermelon, melon, papaya, orange, lime, banana or any other possible juice). In Bali, avocado (alpukat) is used as a dessert fruit. Blended with sugar and ice — and sometimes chocolate — this is a beverage you can rarely get in any other locales!

If you do not consume alcohol, Bali's fresh juices and creative combinations of fruits will please you to no end. Almost all restaurant menus have a section devoted to various non alcoholic fruit based beverages.

Kuta Beach, The Most Famous Beach in Bali

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 03:06:00 +0000

Kuta is a town in southern Bali, Indonesia. A former fishing village, it was one of the first towns on Bali to see substantial tourist development, and as a beach resort remains one of Indonesia's major tourist destinations. It is known internationally for its long sandy beach, varied accommodation, many restaurants and bars, and many renowned surfers who visit from Australia. It is located near Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport.

Kuta is now the center of an extensive tourist-oriented urban area that merges into the neighboring towns. Legian, to the north, is the commercial hub of Kuta and the site of many restaurants and entertainment spots. Most of the area's big beachfront hotels are in the southern section of Tuban.

Legian and Seminyak are northern extensions of Kuta along Jl. Legian and Jl. Basangkasa. They are somewhat quieter suburbs with cottage-style accommodations, where many of the expat crowd live. Also to the north are Petitenget, Berawa, Canggu, and Seseh - new and quieter continuations of Kuta's beach. They are easy to reach through Abian Timbul or Denpasar and Kerobokan. Several large hotels are located in this area: the Oberoi Bali, Hard Rock Hotel Bali, the Intan Bali Village, the Legian in Petitenget, the Dewata Beach and the Bali Sani Suites in Berawa.

To the south, Kuta Beach extends beyond the airport into Jimbaran. Other nearby towns and villages include Seseh (6.4 nm), Denpasar (4.5 nm), Ujung (1.8 nm), Pesanggaran (2.0 nm), Kedunganan (2.9 nm) and Tuban (1.0 nm).

The Balinese Provincial Government have taken the view that the preservation of the Balinese culture, natural resources and wildlife are of primary importance in the development of the island. To this end they have limited tourist development to the peninsula on the extreme southern aspect of the island; Kuta beach is on the western side of this peninsula and Sanur is on the east. To the north of the peninsula no new tourist development is supposedly permitted.

BALI BOMBING MEMORIAL

1st Bali Bombing in 2002 at Kuta: A permanent memorial was built on the site of the destroyed Paddy's Pub on Legian Street. (A new bar, named "Paddy's: Reloaded", was reopened further along Legian Street). The memorial is made of intricately carved stone, set with a large marble plaque, which bears the names and nationalities of each of those killed. It is flanked by the national flags of the victims. The monument is well-maintained and illuminated at night.

The memorial was dedicated on 12 October 2004, the second anniversary of the attack. The dedication included a Balinese Hindu ceremony and the opportunity for mourners to lay flowers and other offerings. The Australian ambassador and Indonesian officials attended the ceremony as most the victims were Australians.

The Balinese mark their commitment in a nine-day long event. After major cleansing ceremonies, establishing a memorial for the lost lives, and paying respect to those who left loved ones behind, the people of Kuta look forward to restoring Bali’s image through an event named "Kuta Karnival - A Celebration of Life”. The community event consists of traditional art performances such as Balinese Sunset Dances, sports on the beach as well as in the water for young and old plus rows and rows of culinary displays along the one kilometre of sandy beach.

In line with the return of tourism to Kuta, Kuta Karnival has grown into a tourism promotional event with major coverage from television and newspapers from across the globe. Companies, embassies, Non-Government Organizations, associations and even individuals come forth to get involved in the various events such as a Balinese dance competition presented by a surf-wear company, an environment exhibition presented by an embassy, a fun cycle presented by a group of individuals, a seminar presented by an association and a parade on the streets presented by an NGO. Tourists and locals alike, more than ninety thousand people participates in the numerous events, year after year.

A repeated tragedy in Bali in 2005 did not reduce the Kuta community’s determination to carry out this annual event. Kuta Karnival is conducted to commemorate and give respect to the victims of human violence and show the world the true spirit of local community survival despite terrorism attacks.

Denpasar City, The Capital Of Bali Province Of Indonesia

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 02:34:00 +0000

Denpasar is the capital city of Bali Province, Indonesia. This city is the center of Bali Island's economy. Here we can found mixed culture between Balinese traditional and western culture. A long time ago this city was called "Badung City", where the "Puputan War" (the war between Balinese combatant with the Dutch collonists) happened in 1906. The name of "Denpasar" means "Pasar Baru" or "The New Market", which explain the stature of the city as the center of governance, economic trade, education, industry, and tourism of Bali Island.

Place Of Interest:

Kuta Beach
Sanur Beach
Jimbaran
Bali's Museum
Badung Traditional Market
Gajah Mada Street
Sulawesi Street
Puputan Park
Catur Muka Statue
Jagatnatha Temple
Bird Market
Pemecutan Royal Fort
Pasar Senggol
Bali Art Center

Balinese Religion: HINDU, The Way Of Life fo Balinese

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 05:48:00 +0000

The majority of Balinese believes Hindu as their spiritual religion and it has become their main identity until now.

Balinese Hinduism is deeply interwoven with art and ritual, and is less closely preoccupied with scripture, law, and belief than Islam in Indonesia. Balinese Hinduism lacks the traditional Hindu emphasis on cycles of rebirth and reincarnation, but instead is concerned with a myriad of local and ancestral spirits. As with kebatinan, these deities are thought to be capable of harm. Balinese place great emphasis on dramatic and aesthetically satisfying acts of ritual propitiation of these spirits at temple sites scattered throughout villages and in the countryside. Each of these temples has a more or less fixed membership; every Balinese belongs to a temple by virtue of descent, residence, or some mystical revelation of affiliation. Some temples are associated with the family house compound (also called banjar in Bali), others are associated with rice fields, and still others with key geographic sites. Ritualized states of self-control (or lack thereof) are a notable feature of religious expression among the people, who for this reason have become famous for their graceful and decorous behavior. One key ceremony at a village temple, for instance, features a special performance of a dance-drama (a battle between the mythical characters Rangda the witch (representing evil) and Barong the lion or dragon (representing good)), in which performers fall into a trance and attempt to stab themselves with sharp knives.

Rituals of the life cycle are also important occasions for religious expression and artistic display. Ceremonies at puberty, marriage, and, most notably, cremation at death provide opportunities for Balinese to communicate their ideas about community, status, and the afterlife. (The tourist industry has not only supported spectacular cremation ceremonies among Balinese of modest means, but also has created a greater demand for them.)

A priest is not affiliated with any temple but acts as a spiritual leader and adviser to individual families in various villages scattered over the island. These priests are consulted when ceremonies requiring holy water are conducted. On other occasions, folk healers or curers may be hired.

Balinese Priest

NYEPI: BALINESE RELIGIOUS CEREMONY

Nyepi is a Balinese "Day of Silence" that falls on Bali's Lunar New Year (March 26, 2009). It is a day of silence, fasting, and meditation. The day following Nyepi is also celebrated as New year Gudi Padva in Maharashtra and Ugadi in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka in India

Observed from 6 a.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Nyepi is a day reserved for self-reflection and as such, anything that might interfere with that purpose is restricted. The main restrictions are: no lighting fires (and lights must be kept low); no working; no entertainment or pleasure; no traveling; and for some, no talking or eating at all. The effect of these prohibitions is that Bali’s usually bustling streets and roads are empty, there is little or no noise from TVs and radios, and few signs of activity are seen even inside homes. The only people to be seen outdoors are the Pecalang, traditional security men who patrol the streets to ensure the prohibitions are being followed.

Although Nyepi is primarily a Hindu holiday, non-Hindu residents of Bali observe the day of silence as well, out of respect for their fellow citizens. Even tourists are not exempt; although free to do as they wish inside their hotels, no one is allowed onto the beaches or streets, and the only airport in Bali remains closed for the entire day. The only exceptions granted are for emergency vehicles carrying those with life-threatening conditions and women about to give birth.

On the day after Nyepi, known as Ngembak Geni, social activity picks up again quickly, as families and friends gather to ask forgiveness from one another, and to perform certain religious rituals together.

* First, The Melasti Ritual is performed at the 3-4 previous day. It is dedicated to Sanghyang Widhi/Vishnu-Devas-Bataras and is performed at the beach to respect them as the owner of The Land and Sea.
* Second, The Bhuta Yajna Ritual is performed in order to vanquish the negative elements and create balance with God, Mankind, and Nature.
* Third, The Nyepi Rituals is performed with the following conditions:
o Amati Geni: No fire/light
o Amati Karya: No working
o Amati Lelunganan: No traveling
o Amati Lelanguan: Fasting and no revelry/self-entertainment
* Fourth, The Yoga/Brata Ritual starts at 6:00 AM March 26 and continues to 6:00 AM March 27 (24 hours, dates provided are for 2009).
* Fifth, The Ngebak Agni/Labuh Brata Ritual is performed for all Hindu's to forgive each other and to welcome the new days to come.
* Sixth and finally, The Dharma Shanti Rituals is performed as the Nyepi Day or "Day of Silence."

Balinese Ceremony in Temple (Pura)

BALI: Introducing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:13:00 +0000

Bali may be small in size – you can drive around the entire coast in one long day – but its prominence as a destination is huge, and rightfully so. Ask travellers what Bali means to them and you’ll get as many answers as there are flowers on a frangipani tree. Virescent rice terraces, pulse-pounding surf, enchanting temple ceremonies, mesmerising dance performances and ribbons of beaches are just some of the images people cherish.

Small obviously doesn’t mean limited. The manic whirl of Kuta segues into the luxury of Seminyak. The artistic swirl of Ubud is a counterpoint to misty treks amid the volcanoes. Mellow beach towns like Amed, Lovina and Pemuteran can be found right round the coast and just offshore is the laid-back idyll of Nusa Lembongan.

BALI: The (Beautiful) Island of Gods

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 14:48:00 +0000

Bali is an Indonesian island located at 8°25′23″S 115°14′55″E / 8.42306°S 115.24861°E Coordinates: 8°25′23″S 115°14′55″E / 8.42306°S 115.24861°E, the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island. With a population recorded as 3,151,000 in 2005, the island is home to the vast majority of Indonesia's small Hindu minority. 93.18% of Bali's population adheres to Balinese Hinduism, while most of the remainder follow Islam. It is also the largest tourist destination in the country and is renowned for its highly developed arts, including dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking and music.

HISTORY OF BALI

Bali was inhabited by Austronesian peoples by about 2000 BCE who migrated originally from Taiwan through Maritime Southeast Asia. Culturally and linguistically, the Balinese are thus closely related to the peoples of the Indonesian archipelago, the Philippines, and Oceania. Stone tools dating from this time have been found near the village of Cekik in the island's west. Balinese culture was strongly influenced by Indian and Chinese, and particularly Hindu culture, in a process beginning around the 1st century AD. The name Balidwipa has been discovered from various inscriptions, including the Blanjong charter issued by Sri Kesari Warmadewa in 913 AD and mentioning Walidwipa. It was during this time that the complex irrigation system "subak" was developed to grow rice. Some religious and cultural traditions still in existence today can be traced back to this period. The Hindu Majapahit Empire (1293–1520 AD) on eastern Java founded a Balinese colony in 1343. When the empire declined, there was an exodus of intellectuals, artists, priests and musicians from Java to Bali in the 15th century. The first contact with Bali is thought to have been made by Dutch explorer Cornelis de Houtman who arrived in 1597, though a Portuguese ship had foundered off the Bukit Peninsula as early as 1585. Dutch colonial control was expanded across the Indonesian archipelago in the nineteenth century. Their political and economic control over Bali began in the 1840s on the island's north coast by playing various distrustful Balinese realms against each other. In the late 1890s, struggles between Balinese kingdoms in the island's south were exploited by the Dutch to increase their control. The Dutch mounted large naval and ground assaults at the Sanur region in 1906 and were met by the thousands of members of the royal family and their followers who marched to certain death against superior Dutch force in a suicidal "puputan" defensive assault rather than face the humiliation of surrender. Despite Dutch demands for surrender, an estimated 4,000 Balinese marched to their death against the invaders. In 1908, a similar massacre occurred in the face of a Dutch assault in Klungkung. Afterwards the Dutch governors were able to exercise little influence over the island, and local control over religion and culture generally remained intact. Dutch rule over Bali had come later and was never as well established as in other parts of Indonesia such as Java and Maluku. Imperial Japan occupied Bali during World War II during which time a Balinese military officer, I Gusti Ngurah Rai, formed a Balinese 'freedom army'. In the 1930s, anthropologists Margaret Mead and Gregory Bateson, and artists Miguel Covarrubias and Walter Spies, and musicologist Colin McPhee created a western image of Bali as "an enchanted land of aesthetes at peace with themselves and nature", and western tourism first developed on the island. Following Japan's Pacific surrender in August 1945, the Dutch promptly returned to Indonesia, including Bali, immediately to reinstate their pre-war colonial administration. This was resisted by the Balinese rebels now using Japanese weapons. On 20 November 1946, the "Battle of Marga" was fought in Tabanan in central Bali. Colonel I Gusti Ngurah Rai, 29 years old, finally rallied his forces in east Bali at Marga Rana, where they made a suicide attack on the heavily armed Dutch. The Balinese battalion was entirely wiped out, breaking the last thread of Balinese military resistance. In 1946 the Dutch constituted Bali as one of the 13 administrative districts of the newly-proclaimed "Republic of East Indonesia", a rival state to the Republic of Indonesia which was proclaimed and headed by Sukarno and Hatta. Bali was included in the "Republic of the United States of Indonesia" when the Netherlands recognised Indonesian independence on 29 December 1949 The 1963 eruption of Mount Agung killed thousands, created economic havoc and forced many displaced Balinese to be transmigrated to other parts of Indonesia. Mirroring the widening of social divisions across Indonesia in the 1950s and early 1960s, Bali saw conflict between supporters of the traditional caste system, and those rejecting these traditional values. Politically, this was represented by opposing supporters of the Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) and the Indonesian Nationalist Party (PNI), with tensions and ill-feeling further increased by the PKI's land reform programs. An attempted coup in Jakarta was put down by forces led by General Suharto. The army became the dominant power as it instigated a violent anti-communist purge, in which the army blamed the PKI for the coup. Most estimates suggest that at least 500,000 people were killed across Indonesia, with an estimated 80,000 killed in Bali, equivalent to 5 per cent of the island's population. With no Islamic forces involved as in Java and Sumatra, upper-caste PNI landlords led the extermination of PKI members.
As a result of the 1965/66 upheavals, Suharto was able to maneuver Sukarno out of the presidency, and his "New Order" government reestablished relations with western countries. The pre-War Bali as "paradise" was revised in a modern form, and the resulting large growth in tourism has led to a dramatic increase in Balinese standards of living and significant foreign exchange earned for the country. A bombing in 2002 by militant Islamists in the tourist area of Kuta killed 202 people, mostly foreigners. This attack, and another in 2005, severely affected tourism, bringing much economic hardship to the island.

Bali blast monument.

BALI GEOGRAPHICS

The island of Bali lies 3.2 km (2 mi) east of Java, and is approximately 8 degrees south of the equator. East to west, the island is approximately 153 km (95 mi) wide and is approximately 112 km (69 mi) north to south; it's land area is 5,632 km². The highest point is Mount Agung at 3,142 m (10,308 feet) high, an active volcano that last erupted in March 1963. Mountains cover centre to the eastern side, with Mount Agung the easternmost peak. Mount Batur (1,717 m) is also still active; an eruption 30,000 years ago was one of the largest known volcanic events on Earth.

In the south the land descends to form an alluvial plain, watered by shallow, north-south flowing rivers, drier in the dry season and overflowing during periods of heavy rain. The longest of these rivers, Sungai Ayung, is also the longest on the island (approx. 75 km).

The principal city is the present provincial capital and largest city, Denpasar, near the southern coast. Its population is around 300,000. Bali's second-largest city is the old colonial capital, Singaraja, which is located on the north coast and is home to around 100,000 people. Other important cities include the beach resort, Kuta, which is practically part of Denpasar's urban area; and Ubud, which is north of Denpasar, and known as the island's cultural centre.
Southern Bali in the foreground and Mount Agung behind

There is a coastal road surround the island, as well as three major two-lane arteries that cross the central mountains at passes reaching to 1,750m in height (at Penelokan). Minor roads branch off of these major highways. The Ngurah Rai Bypass is a four-lane expressway that partly encircles Denpasar and enables cars to travel quickly in the heavily populated south. Bali has no railway lines.

The island is surrounded by coral reefs. Beaches in the south tend to have white sand while those in the north and west have black sand. The beach town of Padangbai in the south east has both[citation needed]. Bali has no major waterways, although the Ho River is navigable by small sampan boats. Black sand beaches between Pasut and Klatingdukuh are being developed for tourism, but apart from the seaside temple of Tanah Lot, they are not yet used for significant tourism.

To the east, the Lombok Strait separates Bali from Lombok and marks the biogeographical division between the fauna of the Indomalayan ecozone and the distinctly different fauna of Australasia. The transition is known as the Wallace Line, named after Alfred Russel Wallace, who first proposed a transition zone between these two major biomes. When sea levels dropped during the Pleistocene ice age, Bali was connected to Java and Sumatra and to the mainland of Asia and shared the Asian fauna, but the deep water of the Lombok Strait continued to keep Lombok and the Lesser Sunda archipelago isolated.

Three decades ago, the Balinese economy was largely agriculture-based in terms of both output and employment. Tourism is now the largest single industry; and as a result, Bali is one of Indonesia’s wealthiest regions. The economy, however, has suffered significantly as a result of the terrorist bombings of 2002 and 2005.

Although in terms of output, tourism is the economy’s largest industry, agriculture is still the island’s biggest employer[citation needed], most notably rice cultivation. Crops grown in smaller amounts include fruit, vegetables, Coffea arabica and other cash and subsistence crops.[citation needed] A significant number of Balinese are also fishermen. Bali is also famous for its artisans who produce batik and ikat cloth and clothing, wooden carvings, stone carvings and silverware.

The Arabica coffee production region is the highland region of Kintamani near Mount Batur. Generally, Balinese coffee is processed using the wet method. This results in a sweet, soft coffee with good consistency. Typical flavors include lemon and other citrus notes.[9] Many coffee farmers in Kintamani are members of a traditional farming system called Subak Abian, which is based on the Hindu philosophy of "Tri Hita Karana”. According to this philosophy, the three causes of happiness are good relations with God, other people and the environment. The Subak Abian system is ideally suited to the production of fair trade and organic coffee production. Arabica coffee from Kintamani is the first product in Indonesia to request a Geographical Indication. [10]

BALI DEMOGRAPHIC, CULTURE, AND TOURISM

Although significant tourism exists in the north, centre and east of the island, the tourist industry is overwhelmingly focused in the south. The main tourist locations are the town of Kuta (with its beach), and its outer suburbs (which were once independent townships) of Legian and Seminyak, Sanur, Jimbaran, Ubud, and the newer development of Nusa Dua. The Ngurah Rai International Airport is located near Jimbaran, on the isthmus joining the southernmost part of the island to the main part of the island. Another increasingly important source of income for Bali is what is called "Congress Tourism" from the frequent international conferences held on the island, especially after the terrorist bombings of 2002; ostensibly to resurrect Bali's damaged tourism industry as well as its tarnished image.

An offshoot of the tourism business is the growing real estate industry in Bali. Bali real estate has been rapidly developing in the main tourist districts of Kuta, Legian, Seminyak and Oberoi. Most recently, high end 5 star developments are taking place on the Bukit peninsula on the south side of the island. Villas in the million dollar category are springing up along the cliff sides of south Bali, commanding panoramic ocean views.

Unlike most of Muslim-majority Indonesia, about 93.18% of Bali's population adheres to Balinese Hinduism, formed as a combination of existing local beliefs and Hindu influences from mainland Southeast Asia and South Asia. Minority religions include Islam (4.79%), Christianity (1.38%), and Buddhism (0.64%). These figures do not include immigrants from other parts of Indonesia.

Balinese Hinduism is a heterogeneous amalgam in which gods and demigods are worshipped together with Buddhist heroes, the spirits of ancestors, indigenous agricultural deities and also with places considered sacred. Religion as it is practiced in Bali is a composite belief system that embraces not only theology, philosophy, and mythology, but ancestor worship, animism and magic. It pervades nearly every aspect of traditional life.

Balinese Hinduism has roots in Indian Hinduism and in Buddhism, and adopted the animistic traditions of the indigenous people, who inhabited the island around the first millennium BCE. This influence strengthened the belief that the gods and goddesses are present in all things. Every element of nature, therefore, possesses its own power, which reflects the power of the gods. A rock, tree, dagger, or woven cloth is a potential home for spirits whose energy can be directed for good or evil. Balinese Hinduism is deeply interwoven with art and ritual, and is less closely preoccupied with scripture, law, and belief than Islam in Indonesia. Ritualizing states of self-control are a notable feature of religious expression among the people, who for this reason have become famous for their graceful and decorous behavior.

Balinese and Indonesian are the most widely spoken languages in Bali, and most Indonesians, the vast majority of Balinese people are bilingual or trilingual. There are several indigenous Balinese languages, but most Balinese can also use the most widely spoken option: modern common Balinese. The usage of different Balinese languages was traditionally determined by the Balinese caste system and by clan membership, but this tradition is diminishing.

English is a common third language (and the primary foreign language) of many Balinese, owing to the requirements of the tourism industry.

Bali is renowned for its diverse and sophisticated art forms, such as painting, sculpture, woodcarving, handcrafts, and performing arts. Balinese percussion orchestra music, known as gamelan, is highly developed and varied. Balinese dances portray stories from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana but with heavy Balinese influence. Famous Balinese dances include pendet, legong, baris, topeng, barong, and kecak (the monkey dance).

The Hindu New Year, Nyepi, is celebrated in the spring by a day of silence. On this day everyone stays at home and tourists are encouraged to remain in their hotels. But the day before that large, colorful sculptures of ogoh-ogoh monsters are paraded and finally burned in the evening to drive away evil spirits. Other festivals throughout the year are specified by the Balinese pawukon calendrical system.

National education programs, mass media and tourism continue to change Balinese culture. Immigration from other parts of Indonesia, especially Java, is changing the ethnic composition of Bali's population.

The Balinese eat with their right hand, as the left is impure, a common belief throughout Indonesia. The Balinese do not hand or receive things with their left hand and would not wave at anyone with their left hand.

*source: Wikipedia

BALI Public Transportation: A Little Difficult To Find But Easy To Rent

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 03:42:00 +0000

Getting Around

The main forms of public transport on Bali are the cheap buses, minibuses and bemos that run on somewhat set routes within or between towns. Having your own transport can be arranged; there are bemos, cars, motorbikes, and bicycles for rent. Tourist shuttle buses that run between major tourist centers are more expensive than public transport but are definitely more comfortable and convenient. If you are using a travel agent, they will always provide you transportation to anywhere you like. But if you come by yourself, then you need to find the best transports that will suit you in Bali.

Bemo

This is a generic term for any vehicle that is used as a public transport, which is normally a minibus or van with a row of low seats on each side. It is a great way to meet the locals, even though it is hot, dusty and full of diesel exhaust. The exciting part is that you do not have to get to a bemo stop to board a bemo, just extend your arm and flag one down! The fares may be cheap but beware of pickpockets.

Chartering A Bemo

It is easy to charter a bemo or minivan in Bali, and it is an excellent way to travel anywhere with a group or family. The benefits of chartering a bemo are: there is no worry about having a license or insurance, the driver can be a real asset especially in Denpasar or larger towns where they speak English, and you do not have to worry about the horrific traffic. The chartered bemos with yellow plates are the only ones allowed to carry passengers anywhere around Bali. This type of bemo usually has conventional seats rather than benches and is often air-conditioned. They are more expensive than common bemos but are more convenient and comfortable. You would only have to listen for the frequent offers of 'transport' in the streets around the tourist centers or ask hotel staff; everyone knows someone who runs a bemo service.

Car/Motorcycle/Bicycle Rental

Renting a car is simple in Bali but do consider the drawbacks. Firstly, you are removed from the people and the countryside, and you wouldn't want to stop too long in one place, no matter how appealing the place is as you are paying Rp. 100,000 to Rp 400.000,- (you can find a small minibus with US$ 10/day or a more larger vehicle for US$ 25 - 40/day) or more on a daily basis. Secondly, driving in Bali is potentially hazardous and the consequences of an accident can be quite serious. Lastly, its effects on the environment are obvious and severe. Of course, you must be in possession of a valid Indonesian or international driver's license. Petrol is not included in the price and it is advisable to buy extra insurance. Test drive the car before paying in advance.

Motorcycles

Motorcycles are popular means to get around Bali, but several tourists are killed in motorbike accidents each year, and many spend time in hospitals. There is no denying the dangers of riding a motorcycle in Bali and the island is no place for beginners to learn motorcycle riding. If you decide to rent one, drive slowly and very defensively. This is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around the island, helmets are required by law, and the ones provided by rental agencies are not much help when it comes to protection. Bring your own helmet from home if you know that you'll be using a motorcycle in Bali. The major advantage of traveling on a motorbike is the enormous flexibility. It is easy to stop wherever you want and recommence your journey whenever you choose. You do not really require motorbikes that are more than 200 cc as the distances are short and the roads are rarely suitable for traveling fast.

The cost of hiring a motorcycle is negotiable in Bali and varies according to the condition of the machine, length of rental, and time of year. They are could be rented for US$ 4 to US$ 10 on average. With US$ 10, you will get a nice motorcycle. Buying insurance is a good idea to avoid being responsible for damages, but be sure to test drive the vehicle to see that everything is in good working order. A valid International Driving Permit should be in possession or else spend a morning at the Denpasar Police Office to obtain a temporary permit, which lasts for three months, but the process can be a huge hassle. It would be wise to get an International Driving Permit in your own country.

Bicycles

Seeing Bali by pushbikes has become increasingly popular in recent years and the quality of rental bikes have improved. More visitors have been bringing their bicycles with them and there has been an increase in rental outlets. Some airlines will even carry your bike in for free. The most common ones offered are mountain bikes as their low gear ratios and softer tyres are better suited to Bali. Do make sure that the wheels are aligned properly, the brakes are working well, and that the bicycle has a light.

On Foot

The most pleasant way to see Bali is by foot as it is a small island. It would be possible to traverse the entire island by foot and many people do day hikes in and around Danau Batur, Danau Bratan, West Bali National Park, and around Ubud.

So have your holiday in Bali as fun as it can be by choosing the best transportation way for you. Bubye..!

BALI'S NightLife: Life Never End, Get Young Forever!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:53:00 +0000

Night life in Bali starts late, which means around midnight. Many visitors wonder where crowds of expats suddenly come from around 1:00 in the morning – even when all of Kuta has been very quiet during the whole evening, the IN-places often become crowded after midnight.

There's a simple explanation: during the early evenings many of Bali's night owls either still work, visit friends at home, or simply sleep. Most of them visit pubs, bars, or discos only in the early morning hours. Therefore, if you plan a night out don't start your dinner too early. Between 9:00 p.m. and midnight there are not many places we can recommend.

Visitors looking for company don't need to worry. Wherever you go in Sanur and the Kuta area, there are many other single travellers with the same problem around – day and night. In Bali's discos you'll meet also many "kupu kupu malams" ("night butterflies" or working girls) and young boys who compete with the females and service all sexes. All taxi drivers know the more popular karaoke bars and massage parlours in Kuta and Denpasar, and the various "Houses of ill Repute" in Sanur's narrow back lanes.

As reported in the BALI travel FORUM: "Prostitution is illegal in Bali. However, like in many countries, everyone turns a blind eye. Many girls can be found in nightclubs and bars in most areas. They look usually just like the girl next door, albeit with a bit more make up on, and they usually dress to please the eye. For the most part, they are gentle, easy to be with, and a lot of fun if you want to dance, drink and have a little fun with. Most will be yours for the whole night for about 300,000 Rupiah although prices range from 100,000 Rupiah to 1,000,000 Rupiah and more – depending on the season, the time of night, the situation and the quality of service".

SANUR and NUSA DUA

Some quite popular places in Sanur are the BORNEO PUB on Jalan Danau Tamblingan and the TROPHY PUB in front of the Sanur Beach Hotel. Both, however, close around 1:00 a.m.

The JAZZ GRILLE, located at the Komplek Pertokoan Sanur Raya No. 15/16 at the By-Pass opposite the Radisson hotel, was opened in February 1999 and attracts tourists and locals alike with live bands (from 9:30 to 12:00 p.m.), a smallish menu, and a billiard table upstairs. KAFE WAYANG in the same building has life music with a good local band and jam sessions with foreign guests every Friday – no wonder it's very popular with many residents. JANGER is currently the only disco in Sanur. Most tourists and even the expats living in Sanur prefer to go to "Kuta" if they look for some fun.

The discos and pubs in Nusa Dua's 5-star hotels are often rather empty. They are mostly frequented by those visitors who stay in-house and are too tired to make the 30 minutes drive to Kuta.

KUTA AREA

Everybody looking for some action and fun in the evening goes to "Kuta" which nowadays means the area extending about 4 miles or 7 kilometers North from the original village of Kuta and includes now Legian, Seminyak and even Basangkasa. Here are most of the better entertainment places offering EVERYTHING single male or female visitors as well as couples might be looking for.

There are several places such as CASABLANCA etc. – down-market open-air pubs and very noisy discos full of stoned Aussies courting Javanese "Kupu Kupu Malams". PEANUTS Discotheque on Jalan Raya Legian at the Jalan Melasti corner (about the border between Kuta and Legian) has been re-opened very soon after it was gutted by a fire. The huge (air-conditioned) dance floor is often crowded, guests are a mix of locals and younger foreign visitors.

Closer to the center of Kuta you find the BOUNTY SHIP with a noisy, over-air-conditioned disco in the basement and the re-built PADDY'S not far from the original PADDY'S. Much more "IN" nowadays is the newer M-BAR-GO which features really good music and a better crowd than most other places. SKY GARDEN is also on the main road and an interesting place to go. The bar is on the top floor, the three storeys below feature all different lounge areas. The menu is huge but the food is often disappointing. When most places close around 2.00 or 3.00 in the morning, night owls of all kinds continue drinking at nearby MAMA'S until sunrise.

For a somewhat more civilized evening out, you can have dinner and a couple of drinks at the bar at either TJ's or KORI in Kuta, at POCO LOCO in Legian, at the open street side bar at NERO Bali right opposite AROMAS Restaurant in Kuta, at the re-built MACCARONI CLUB in Kuta, at MADE'S WARUNG in Basangkasa (see BALI - Restaurants to Enjoy), or at the trendy HU'U Bar & Lounge near the Petitenget temple, LA LUCIOLA and THE LIVING ROOM.

One of the most trendy venues in Bali is KU DE TA right on the beach adjacent to the Oberoi hotel. This is the place to see and be seen, and from late afternoon on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays there is a DJ providing rather noisy entertainment for Bali's beautiful people. Hot contender is SUNSET ON SIX (SOS) on the sixth floor rooftop terrace of the up-market ANANTARA RESORT — set right on the beach next door to GADO GADO and opened in May 2008. Both places are great to watch Bali's famous sunsets, but expect to pay for a cocktail around US$7 and more.

Something more outrageous and only for open-minded people is HULU CAFE in Garlic Lane between Jalan Padma and Jalan Melasti in Kuta/Legian, a place which calls itself the "only real gay bar in all of Bali" with drag shows starting at 11:00 p.m. three times per week. The performances are actually kind of funny!

You'll find a large and quite popular HARD ROCK CAFE right at the beginning of Kuta's beach road with live music from 11 p.m. to 2 a.m. Expect to find many singles of all kinds here looking for company. If you think this is too noisy, too crowded, or the air-conditioning too cold for you, try the CENTER STAGE at the HARD ROCK RESORT located in the back of the CAFE. As the name implies, the band performs on a raised stage in the middle of the huge round lobby bar until 11:00 p.m. Both HARD ROCK outlets are expensive by Bali standards.

The JAYA PUB on the main road in Seminyak features also live music and attracts many Indonesian customers who don't mind the chilling air-conditioning and the sometimes horrible bands and singers.

Seminyak's best place to have a drink and some fun at night are nowadays probably OBSESSION World Music Bar and SANTA FEE Bar & Grill, Jalan Abimanyu (also known as Gado Gado Road or Jalan Dhyana Pura). Life music, reasonably priced cocktails, a surprisingly good wine list (you have to ask for it, but the prices are very low for Bali standards), and a menu offering local, Mexican, and Japanese dishes as well as a choice of pizzas around the clock and the friendly service attract many visitors until the early hours. If you feel too hot downstairs, you can move to the small air-conditioned "Wine Lounge" upstairs where you find also a rather good choice of wines to take home.

Other popular night spots nearby in the same street are SPY BAR, LIQUID, Q BAR ("for the alternative lifestyle"), SPACE and THE GLOBE. New bars and "Chill-Out Lounges" are opening all the time, and most of them feature DJ's and/or live music on certain nights. Just walk down the road and check them out !

Later, from 2:00 a.m., it's party time at the SYNDICATE, BACIO and DOUBLE SIX, a large open-air disco with several bars, big dance floor, and many tables. All three are located next to each other on the beach in Seminyak and charge an entrance fee of 30,000 to 100,000 Rupiah (depending on the day) for which you get a voucher for a free drink. Here and in nearby DE JA VU you'll find most of Bali's night owls drinking and dancing the night away until 4:30 a.m. or so. (The legendary GADO GADO Disco has been re-converted into a restaurant.)

Also, watch out for notices and small posters in Kuta and Seminyak announcing special events such as Full Moon Parties, House Warming Parties, Body Painting Parties, etc, etc. If these "parties" are announced to the public (even if only by word-of-mouth), they are open for everybody. You'll have to pay for your drinks, therefore, don't be shy.

UBUD AREA

Don't expect too much here. We are not Ubud nightlife experts, but names frequently mentioned include PUTRA BAR, Jl. Monkey Forest (every night live music ranging from Reggae to rock), MAGIC BAR, Jl. Monkey Forest (live music and sometimes great atmosphere), JAZZ CAFE, Jl. Tebesaya (live music and jam sessions on different nights), EXILE BAR (Saturday nights only, great music), and FUNKY MONKEY (early hours cafe).

Have fun!

BALI Hotels and Villas: From Cheap To Expensive, All of Them Giving You A Lot of Choice!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 10:46:00 +0000

It's very easy to find a hotel or villa to stay when you spend your holiday in Bali. There's a thousands choice that you can have even you're just searching for it on the net! For example, if you are looking for cheap hotels in the most famous beach in Bali, The Kuta Beach, you can easily find it by just walking around there, there's hundreds of cheap hotels lies in Kuta Region, such as The Poppies Lane I, II, and III.. Price? Don't be surprised, it's only between US$ 10,- to US$ 100,- per night.. Very cheap right? And you must know that your money don't lie, the price will always describe what you will get, it depends on your budget. But hey? maybe you can get a comfortable place to stay with just small amount of money to spent if you are lucky and willing to spend some time to walk around. So why don't you have your fun holiday by walking around and see the unique life of Balinese People meanwhile you try to find the hotels you want.. Remember to keep the hotel's number if you already find one that suit you, so you won't be difficult to find another one on your next holiday in Bali.

In Seminyak Region, including Petitenget Region, you will find a lot of villas which offering you a new experience of staying for your holiday where you will get a complete house that you can rent and mostly it's designed with beautiful Balinese artwork. Seminyak and Petitenget is a region near Kuta Beach which has some beautiful surfing spots and and lots of restaurants. It's also close to the capital of Bali province, Denpasar City, so you won't be difficult to have some walk around the city. Most tourist won't do this, because you don't want to see a crowded city life aren't you? Of course you don't, now you're on a holiday!

There's also some expensive choice which offering you many luxury and exotic experiences of holiday in Bali, as it have very good locations, luxury rooms, some exotic views of Bali nature, free traditional dancing and music shows every night, and other first class facilities. Mostly this kind of hotels lies in Nusa Dua Region, and some of them in Tanah Lot Region. Nusa Dua and Tanah Lot are two place that have so many tourism objects and surf spots which will suit you who wants a quite holiday with a marvelous nature view. One more time should I remind you that your money will never lie to you, so if you are having more budget for your holiday, why don't you try to stay in some sophisticated hotels in Bali, comfortable place are guaranteed.

Then if you are looking for a traditional Balinese culture, you should stay in Ubud Village, where you can find a lot of hotels and villas, from cheap to expensive, a lots of Balinese paintings, carvings, jewelries, and art shops, live performance of Balinese traditional music, and some unique traditional Balinese dancing, and outbond activities to explore the Bali Island's nature such as Elephant Riding, Bycicling, Rafting, and many other fun activites.

Balinese Dancer (Oil Painting).

Balinese Carvings.

Bali Surf Spots: The Exotic Surfing Experience, 7th Best Surf Spot In The World!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:18:00 +0000

It’s been 25 years since the island of Bali became the epicentre of exotic surf adventure. Bali is still an excellent destination a quarter of a century on and offers true surfing magic. The southeast trade winds start in March and continue through to November each year offering good offshore conditions in Bali and providing classic and sometimes hollow tubes of pure surf fun!

Surfing Bali is a fun and very tropical experience it offer nice size waves at Kuta Beach between 2-6 foot. Although at times larger waves do occur on some of the exposed reefs, due to its 180 degree swell window you can always find a quality and relaxed surfing waves in Bali all year long.

Bali has surf breaks both on its west-facing and east-facing coasts, it is the majority of the time offshore somewhere on the island on any given day. Given the number of surfing waves and the quality and consistency of the waves, the possibilities of finding great surf with only a small to moderate crowd are still plentiful.

Surfing has really gained popularity in today's Bali. As the sun approaches the horizon, you can see line of young Balinese men approaching the beach on their surfboards, controlling them with the same gracefulness as in their traditional dances and mastering the surf.

Contrary to popular belief, Bali's waves were being surfed by both visiting and local surfers as early as the late 1930s and not, as popular surfing legend has it, that the island of Bali was first discovered as a great surfing destination by a group of Australian surfers. Although, when these first Australian surfers began arriving on the island of Bali in 1967 they introduced the island to the first serious surfing equipment. While Bali may no longer be a "frontier" surf destination, it still lies at the heart of the Indonesian surfing experience and is a mandatory stopover for anyone on their first surfing trip to Indonesia. Bali is also the first and last stop for most of the surfers traveling on to some of the legendary breaks in G-Land.

Bali is an ideal family and regular surfing experience for all with safe waves and fun to be experienced.

This is the map that might you can use to explore some surf spots in Bali:

You can find the complete information about Bali's surfing spots at www.surfingbali.com

Komang Jumena, The Right English and Russian Speaking Guide for You to Choose for Your Holiday in Bali.

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 10:21:00 +0000

Komang Jumena was born and grew up in Banyuatis (a small village in the north of Bali Island, lies at Buleleng District) with the unique Balinese charm and hospitality as most of all Balinese do have.
He start to work as an English Guide since 1995 in Tour East Indonesia, a Travel Agent service unrivalled in Bali based on its policy of discipline, efficiency and attention to every detail.
After the "Bali Bombing" in 2002 which cause a collapse in Bali's tourism industries, he start to learn Russian Language that brought him to work with VISI TUR, a Tour Operator and Incentive Program.
Now, Jumena proudly wears the coveted 'Golden Bird of Paradise ' badge as member of the Indonesian Guide association.

As he was born to an agricultural life, his village of Banyuatis specialises in growing cloves, and the picture on the right shows cloves drying in the road near his village and Jumena showing the growing cloves on the tree.
Since Balinese farming was famous by the "Subak" irrigating system, Jumena could give you all the information you need about the island's farming culture. Jumena knows most of the "English" names for the plants, but not the latin. So for your English and Russian speaking guide to explore this varied agriculture, choose Jumena Komang.

Jumena and his family were brought up in traditional villages. Although now living near the city of Denpasar, they continue the traditional practices and often return to their own villages for family ceremonies. That is why Jumena is so understanding about the temples, and he can answer your questions. "Why do the entrance gates have flat inside faces?" (See the picture on the left of the gate at Batuan Temple) "Because if an evil spirit tries to enter, they will be squashed!"

For your own English speaking guide, Jumena will introduce you to the culture, the many temples, ceremonies on the island, as well as giving you detailed knowledge of the farming techniques, economy, the fruits, crops and trees of the island. He can even take you to either a Catholic Balinese-style church or Protestant churches at Palasari, situated at the extreme West of the island. He is a Tour Coordinator and can also provide a "Meeting Service" and discuss with you, one or two days after your arrival, a suitable itinerary. You can discuss NOT just sightseeing but also accommodation ( for those who still have free days at end of the pre-booked package.) and flight reconfirmations. He can take you 'off the beaten track' and can, obviously, include the established 'tourist tours'. On your own, in pairs or large groups; as an experienced and trained official guide, Jumena can satisfy all your requirements.

Quote: "When Jumena took us to the temple at Tanah Lot and to view the sunset, there were thousands of people. He carefully took us down to the beach and made us walk away from the crowds. "Please will you stand on this piece of sand" he instructed. We stood alone, away from the crowds. When the sun set, it passed in a line just behind the temple ,we were standing on exactly the correct spot, within one/two metres! " He knew the spot - the picture confirms it.

That's why Jumena Komang is not just any Bali Guide; he has the knowledge and the experience.

Bali Map, The Complete Information About Tour Destinations In Bali

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 21:42:00 +0000