About Bali

The strikingly beautiful island of Bali is part of the Indonesian archipelago and is located just off the east tip of Java and to the north west of Australia. While relatively small in size being 144 kilometres from east to west and 90 kilometres from north to south it is rich in natural beauty, culture and populated by a captivating beautiful friendly people.

Bali is predominately Hindu with the first people of Hindu origin settling there in 100 B.C. It gained its independence for the Indonesian island of Java in the early 1600’s and from that time its arts, literature and Hindu religious culture flourished. However Bali also experienced a bloody history with frequent raids from Java and nearby islands. Then in the 1800,s it was captured and colonised by the Dutch in a series of brutal encounters. Bali then became a member of the Indonesian Republic in 1945 at the end of the Second World War. Even then the conflict and bloodletting was not over as in 1965 after a failed communist coup there was violent reprisals and killings with an estimated 5% of Bali’s population killed.

Bali today is a strong and stable economy and fascinating destination for the estimated 2.8 million visitors who will make their way to Bali in 2011. Drawn by stirringly beautiful landscapes of rice paddies and rainforest, some of the most spectacular coastlines and beaches in the world and a warm friendly people, visitors flock to this island paradise.

Balinese Hinduism evolved from mainstream over 500 years ago and is an integral part of life for the Balinese. The many colourful ceremonies and daily offerings are one of the most fascinating aspects of Bali. The island of Bali has many spectacular temples and you would do well to visit the temple of Pura Tanah Lot which is a short 40 minute drive from the main tourism area of Seminyak. Set in the Indian Ocean a few metres off shore it is a strikingly beautiful sight especially on sunset.

The island of Bali has numerous areas to visit. From the major tourism hubs of Seminyak, Legian and Kuta on the beaches in the south, the artisan village of Ubud surrounded by lush rice paddies and gorges, to the pristine islands of the Gili Gili and Nusa Lembongan and rugged volcanic regions of the North West there are many wondrous days of enjoyment to be experienced.

Bali is also renowned for its world class surfing breaks. Blessed by natural reef breaks and beach breaks there is an adventure for all levels of surfer from beginner to intermediate.

For the most cosmopolitan holiday experience Seminyak is a must to visit. Upmarket boutiques and shopping, numerous world class restaurants and a lively nightlife make this area the most sought after on the island.