Where
Bali is an Indonesian island located in the westernmost end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east.
How to get there
Delhi flies direct to Denpasar Airport, the capital of Bali. Chennai flights are via Singapore. Singapore Airlines has special deals to get to Bali at certain times of the year.
Weather
The best time to visit Bali are during the dry months, where humidity is low and the monsoon wont dampen your activities; from May to September. The wet season is between October and April, so stay clear of beach activities during this time.
Through the crowded airport, the swarms of money exchange tellers with smiling faces, and the sultry air, one cannot but feel at home in this island of Indonesia.
Must see must do
- Elephant Safari- Try an elephant safari at the park. Watch these magnificent animals as they bathe, and even try your hand at feeding them. Bird tours are also included at the Safari Park.
- Reef Cruises are a hot favourite with every age group, as there is something for everyone on a cruise. Go to Lembongan Island for a day of swimming, snorkelling and scuba diving. This is an ideal day trip with either a loved one for some alone time, or your children for a fun filled day of activity.
- Bali Eco Cycling – Go cycling with friends and family through the rice paddies, downhill as you see the landscape where local fruit are grown.
- Waterbom waterpark – This is a must do for families with young children. A day full of watersports, swimming and other rides is sure to leave the kids exhausted, but in a good way!
Eat here
Food in Bali is mostly vegetarian, with plenty of seafood options available as well. Hugely an organic based restaurant community, Ubud is great for those health conscious freaks in Bali to tone up. Some of the best cafes in each area are given below. Be sure not to miss out on these while hunting for food in Bali.
- Fly Café in Ubud is a hot favourite among locals and tourists alike.
- Kunis in Seminyak is an authentic Japanese, for those that crave their sushi and tepanyaki.
- For the vegetarians, here are some exclusive options when in Bali: Bali Buddha café in Ubud is a raw food, vegan café suitable for those who eat organic raw produce. Don’t miss the sandwiches and juices here.
- Aromas café in Kuta has fabulous vegetarian fare, known for its consistency and taste. Don’t miss the curries, gado gado and other continental fare here.
- Zulas in Kuta is a vegan, gluten free café option for those that have strict dietary requirements and wish to hang out with the yoga enthusiast crowd in Bali. Be sure to grab a fresh coconut water while on your way out.
Shop here
It has been a haven for tourists for various reasons, and as you wander through the streets to get to your hotel, you see why. It is possibly the cleanest island getaway in all of Southeast Asia, and has plenty of street shopping options! From delicate carved jewelry to bag, shoes and clothes, Bali has it all. The local markets also store paintings, semi antique furniture, dyed fabrics and wood handicrafts.
Like in India, bargaining is not uncommon practice in Bali, and it usually the norm! Visitors must also make sure to carry cash as credit cards are not accepted at these markets. Nusa Dua and Kuta Beach are some of the areas you can shop in Bali.
We recommend
In addition to all these “different” activities, there are the standard water sports that can be enjoyed at any 3-5 star hotel in Bali, that the hotel will provide for you. Temples and spas adorn every stretch of Bali, and there is no dearth of finding a suitable one to cater for your every ache and sore muscle. Be sure to visit a local spa for an authentic Balinese massage and foot reflexology treatment.
Bali is an amalgamation of spirituality, warmth, art and culture. The tourism industry is predominant in the south of Bali, in areas like Kuta, famous for its beaches. Bali recently received the Best Island award from Travel and Leisure in 2010. Famous for quality spas, art and heritage sites and not to mention fantastic local fare, Bali lives up to this award and much more.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see this wonderful island, that will charm you, caress you, and make you feel light inside!
