Kuta is Bali-on-a-budget, a raucous, infamous holiday enclave dedicated to fun and sun. A bustling network of narrow lanes lined with bars, losmen (basic accommodation), and stalls piled high with fake surfwear, dodgy DVDs and lurid football shirts, Kuta is all about bacchanalian nights and rampant commerce. Prepare yourself for plenty of attention from the shopkeepers and armies of hawkers that comb the streets here.

Yet a few steps away, Kuta’s raison d’être remains as wonderful as ever, as another set of perfect rollers washes over its magnificent golden sands. And while subtlety is not Kuta’s strength, the resort retains a slice of Balinese charm – incense wafts down the gang and offerings of flower petals are laid out each morning to placate the Hindu gods.

And if you’ve had your fill of Kuta’s frenetic energy, consider shifting just up the coast to the less manic surrounds of Legian or stylish Seminyak with its designer bars and legendary clubbing scene. Both are continuations of the same strip that creeps up the coastline; the further north you get from central Kuta, the less built-up and more exclusive the area becomes. But even in the heart of Seminyak there are a few budget hotels, and some terrific, authentic warung.

Following the bombs of 2002 and 2005, the area is not quite as busy as it used to be, but the locals remain upbeat, and stylish new places are emerging. So if you’ve spent weeks hiking the jungle trails of Kalimantan or thirsting for a bar in deepest Papua, Kuta could be ideal for a few nights R and R, for this is where Indonesia slips on its boldest board shorts and really lets its hair down.

BALI BOMB MEMORIAL
This is a memorial to the 202 people murdered by the bombs on 12th October 2002, and is on Jl Legian opposite the corner of Poppies II. This is the former site of the old Paddy’s Bar, and opposite the former site of the Sari Club, which is still an empty space, next to the Billabong shop. Every year on the anniversary date there is a ceremony mourning those killed or wounded by the bombs. Whilst viewing the memorial, please be calm and silent out of respect. The local Balinese will often be curious to learn if you knew or were related to any of the victims.

Ubud, a town in central Bali, is far removed from the drunken bikini scene in Kuta, and is regarded as the cultural center of Bali. It is famous as an arts and crafts hub, and much of the town and nearby villages seems to consist of artists’ workshops and galleries. There are some remarkable architectural and other sights to be found, and a general feeling of well being to be enjoyed, all thanks to the spirit, surroundings, and climate of the place.

Ubud is located 35 km northeast of Bali’s International Airport. It is attractive to tourists for a variety of reasons. On a relatively small island with a horde of attractions, Ubud is centrally located, There are plenty reasons why Ubud was voted in recently as the most fascinating city of Asia by Condé Nast Traveler.

The Ubud area is around two- to three hundred meters above sea level and surrounded by rice fields, which makes it noticeably cooler than then other tourist destinations in Bali. Neighbouring villages are well known for unique bamboo crafts and furniture, wood- and stone carving and many other crafts.

Ubud is famous for it’s regularly nightly traditional dance performances, which are part of the traditional culture and are arranged for tourists on a regular schedule. Hindu-Balinese ceremonies take place on a nearly daily basis, especially in the European summer, which is the driest and coolest season here.

Ubud is popular in part today because it is the best place in Bali to break out of the tourist mode and get off the beaten path, although far from undiscovered. Hotels are plentiful; home stays and Indonesian guesthouses (losmen) are easily available to the foreign tourist. Many tourists simply base their entire stay in the city and travel to other destinations from Ubud.

Denpasar is the largest city and capital of the island of Bali, Indonesia. It is located in South Bali. Denpasar is a bustling, multi-cultural city and although it can seem a little intimidating the first time you visit, just do not believe those travel guides which say it has nothing to offer.

Denpasar is bristling with temples, palaces and museums and its occupants are outstandingly friendly. You will be off the beaten tourist track here, so bring lots of time for a chat with the locals and a decent map of town. You can see many of the main sights comfortably on foot.

This is also a notable shopping city with options to please even the most jaded of world shoppers.

GETTING HERE

Denpasar is centrally located and easily reached by car or taxi from the main tourist regions of south Bali. A trip from Kuta, Legian and Seminyak will take 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic. Sanur is just 15 minutes to the east and Ubud about 30 minutes to the north. Tabanan is about 40 minutes to the northwest.

GET AROUND

By taxi

Taxis are widely available for hailing. If you have a group of people, you may want to negotiate a bemo (small van) for a set rate to your destination. Remember that pricing is negotiable. Indonesians are great people, however, they won’t think twice about overcharging you if they can, as would happen anywhere else.

By Bemo

Bemo routes in Denpasar are extremely complicated. In addition to the three terminals described in the section above which operate longer distance bemos, there are three more which handle the local routes (as do the long distance terminals!) – Gunung Agung, Sanglah and Kereneng. Unless you are very patient and somewhat adventurous, bemo transport within Denpasar is best left to the locals to figure out. As a rule of thumb though most routes in the city seem to come through Kereneng Terminal on Jalan Kamboja at some stage!
Non-Indonesians may be asked to pay much more. A taxi can work out cheaper, is certainly faster and is indescribably more comfortable.

By motorbike

As elsewhere in Bali, motorbikes can be rented, although it is more normal for a visitor to arrive with a bike rather than rent one here.

PLACE TO SEE

When visiting any of the temples in Denpasar, remember to bring a sarong and sash with you. These temples receive relatively few foreign visitors and are unlikely to have temple dress available for hire.

• Alun-Alun Puputan (Puputan Square)

  

  Jl Gajah Mada/Jl Suprati. The huge four-faced, eight-armed Catur Mukha statue is situated here at the centre point of the city. Representing the Lord Brahma and it serves as a guardian of each cardinal point. The square is a key point of orientation for the whole city. If you get lost, find your way back here and all will be clear.

• Bali Museum (Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali)

  

  Jl Mayor Wisnu (eastern side of the Alun-Alun Puputan), +62 361 222680. Sa-Th 8AM-3:30PM, F 8AM-11AM. A much under-patronised place by visitors which offers an informative introduction to all things Balinese, both historical and modern-day. Originally opened in 1910, the building was brought down in the 1917 earthquake and languished until 1932 when resident German artist Walter Spies sparked a major revival. The grounds and architecture are quite charming, and the museum is housed in four separate pavilions. The main pavilion has a great collection including anicent stone, bronze and wooden artifact. The southern pavilion houses many textiles, the northern pavilion concetrates on the history of Baliense performance art, and the central pavilion is devoted to Balinese Hinduism and ritual.

• Lapangan Puputan Margarana (Puputan Park)

  

  Jl Raya Puputan. This rather grandiose park is home to the huge Bajra Sandhi monument (literally Balinese Peoples Struggle). The design of the grey stone monument symbolises the date of Indonesian independence, August 17th 1945. There are eight entrances, 17 corners and the height is precisely 45 metres. The monument is most significant though for its commemoration of the various puputans (suicidal fight to the death) of the Balinese in the struggle against the Dutch in the early 20th century. At the nortern edge of the park you will find the governor’s office and other government buildings.

• Palace of Satria and the Royal Temples

  

  Jl Veteren (about 300 metres north of Alun-Alun Puputan). 8AM-4PM daily. The palace and temple of the royal family of Denpasar which is beautifully kept and admirably, open to all residents of Denpasar for worship. Some wonderfully ornate carvings here, even by Balinese standards.

• Pura Agung Jagatnata (Jagatnata Temple)

  

  A state temple which was built in 1953. Dedicated to the supreme being Sanghyang Widi Wasa, this temple is open to all worshipers without any restriction as it is a government building and not a village temple. There are large ceremonies here twice a month at full moon and dark moon. Ask at the tourist office for a detailed schedule.

• Pura Maospahit (Maospahit Temple)

  

  Located at Jl Sutomo. An ancient temple with a long and glorious history thought to originate in the 14th century. This is a temple typical of the peak of the Majapahit period being constructed largely from red brick. Sadly, much of it was destroyed in the early 20th century earthquake but there are some original remnants including the guardian statues in the inner courtyard. This is a charming temple and one which is seldom patronised by tourists.

• Sidik Jari Museum

  

  Located at Jl Hayam Wuruk 175, +62 361 23511. 9AM-5PM daily. A small, private fine art museum established and owned by I Gusti Ngurah Gede Pemecutan and which exhibits his own work as well as that of other artists. Also has facilities for public dance and other peformances.

• Taman Wedhi Budaya Cultural Centre

  

  Located at Jl Nusa Indah,. 8AM-3:30PM daily. A museum that covers the history and essence of Balinese art. The classical schools are well represented by both paintings and sculpture and there is a large section featuring contemporary Balinese art. Gamelan orchestra performances are also held here.

Villa Grasia is located in Gili Trawangan, a small beautiful island that can be easily reached after a 75 minute drive from the Lombok International Airport and 20 minute boat ride from Bangsal or in 1.5 hours by a fast boat service directly from Bali. In Gili Trawangan, guests have the choice of experiencing the serenity of a small island, the Excitement of the underwater world and the energy of the island’s nightlife. The calmness of the island, where motor vehicles are banned and horse-drawn carriages ( Cidomo ) are the preferred method of transportation is contrasted by the adrenaline rush of diving with barracudas, manta rays, sharks, and last but not least with hundreds of turtles.

Each of Villa Grasia has twenty three elegantly furnished Deluxe Cottages has an open-air terrace, a spacious bedroom, and a well-appointed bathroom with a private courtyard. This beautiful resort brings together an enticing blend of spacious cottages, excellent standard of dining outlets, bar, spa, and ocean recreational facilities.

Facilities 

• Safety Deposit Box
• Telephone and IDD calls
• Complimentary coffee and tea maker
• High quality, anti-allergic shower gel and shampoo
• Hair dryer
• Beach and pool towels
• Bath towel according International Standard
• Fully equipped bathroom with hot & cold fresh water shower
• Private terrace facing the garden
• Satellite TV with International Channels
• Air Conditioner
• Mini Bar
• 20 Deluxe Cottages and 3 Family Cottages – each family cottage can accommodate a family of 4 persons (2 adults + 2 children).
• An ocean view restaurant serving International and Asian cuisine
• Seafood barbeque by the beach
• Themed buffet dinner with live entertainment
• An ocean-view bar with open terrace
• in-room dining 24 hours
• A beautifully appointed spa offering rejuvenating massages & therapies based on ancient Eastern techniques; Jacuzzi; gym; and the main swimming pool with views of the ocean.

Room Types 

• Deluxe Cottage
• Family Cottage
• Extra Bed
• High Season Surcharge

NOTE :

• DURING LOW SEASON, No Cancellation Fee will be charged on cancellation received by us 10 days prior to arrival date and for cancellation received less than 10 days prior to arrival, or in the event of no show, 1 (one) night room charge plus applicable 21% for government tax & service charge will be applied.
• DURING HIGH SEASON (from the whole August and from 20th December to 5th January) Cancellation Fee will be charged on cancellation received by us 14 days prior to arrival date and for cancellation received less than 14 days prior to arrival, or in the event of no show, 1 (one) night room charge plus applicable 21% for government tax & service charge will be applied.

Includes

• American Breakfast
• Welcome drink upon arrival
• Fruit Basket presented in the room
• Cool towel presented upon arrival
• Free afternoon tea or coffee at Cilantro Restaurant and Bar
• Free use of Gym facilities

Villa Almarik, luxury accomodation on Gili Trawangan Lombok, is the only resort on Gili Trawangan that provides hot and cold water showers with desalinated fresh water. Gili Trawangan is the largest Gili on Lombok that offers beautiful life under the water. Villa Almarik located on Gili Trawangan, Situated 54 kilometers to the east of Bali lies the Island of Lombok. Villa Almarik is on the island of Gili Trawangan, near Lombok, Indonesia. Originally home only to a handful of fisherman, it is surrounded by underwater coral gardens and covered in tropical blooms and trees. Whether you’re looking to dive some of the best sites in Indonesia, snorkel, explore or simply relax in sun, Villa Almarik is the place for you. We will feed you the best of local and international cuisine, show you the best parts of the island both on land and under the sea, spoil you with massages and make sure you have everything you want and need.

Easy way to reach Villa Almarik is by fast boats. Most of the fast boats transfer from Bali to Gili Trawangan and than Lombok. There are many fast boats to Gili such as: Gili Cat, Black Pearl, Bluewater Express, Eka Jaya, Narooma-Getaway, Mahi Mahi and the new comer fast boat Ocean Star Express.
The other option to get Villa Almarik on Gili Trawangan is by flight from Bali to Lombok. You will drive around a hour from airport to the harbour of Villa Almarik and transfer by speed boat around 20 minutes.

Facilities 

• Villa Almarik has 20 simply and elegantly appointed cottages.
• Each is air-conditioned and has a spacious living area
• A terrace and a traditional outdoor courtyard attached to the bathroom
• Each also had IDD telephones
• Satellite TV and a mini-bar and is finished with traditional furnishings
• A Balinese bale (elevated lounging area) completes each cottage.

Room Types 

• Standard Room
• Superior Room
• Extra Bed
• High Season Surcharge

NOTE :

• DURING HIGH SEASON
  (from the whole August and from 20th December to 5th January), Cancellation Fee will be charged on cancellation received by us 14 days prior to arrival date and for cancellation received less than 14 days prior to arrival, or in the event of no show, 1 (one) night room charge plus applicable 21% for government tax & service charge will be applied.

Includes

• Daily Breakfast for 2 people only, if more than 2 people, additional charge shall be applied accordingly.
• Of 21% for Government tax & service charge.
• Occupancy of Rooms: No Charge for 1 kid under 12 years old sharing bed with parent.
• If an extra bed needed, there will be additional charge of USD 55 net / pax /day.

Qunci Villas located in Mangsit area, 30 minutes from Lombok International airport in Mataram. The Villa complex is comprised of 20 units on a beautifully landscaped beachfront property peppered with swaying palms and lush tropical plants. The Villas are a tasteful mixture of modern architecture combined with the architectural style of Lombok and Bali. Designed by Joost Van Grieken, the renowned Dutch architect residing in Bali, Qunci Villas is specifically designed to take full advantage of the stunning views across the exotic gardens out across the sparkling blue waters of the Lombok Straits.

Qunci Villa rooms comprise a minimum spacious 40 sq meters of living space. The decor of the Villas feature cool and refreshing natural polished timbers, warm and inviting textiles, comfortable furnishings, and a touch of local art, all of which provides our guests with a restful and relaxing vacation in a local environment.

Facilities 

• Swimming Pool, Qunci Villas boasts a 15-meter beachfront swim pool with a pool-length, underwater bench perfect for relaxing on and enjoying the spectacular Lombok sunsets with Bali’s Mount Gunung Agung as the idyllic backdrop.
• Bar and Restaurant, Stay at Qunci Villas includes a complimentary breakfast, served either at the privacy of your room’s veranda or at the Bai Bar & Grill Restaurant. Bar & Grill is located at the beachfront of Qunci Villas to offer you a peaceful beginning to your day in Lombok. With calm waves lapping at the shores of Mangsit Beach, and Mt Gunung Agung of Bali rising on the horizon, Bai Bar & Grill is the place to relax and enjoy your meals and drinks in Lombok. Bai Bar & Grill is open from 7 am to 11 pm and serves a Happy Hour from 5 pm to 7 pm. Dinner may be served either on the premises of the restaurant or on the beach facing serene rolling waves while fisherman’s boats float in the distance using their small lanterns to fish under the evening’s moon. By special request, Qunci Villas also has available a private dinning area for 2 under a Balinese Bale for your enjoyment.

Room Types 

• Ocean View Room
• Garden View Room
• High Season Surcharge

NOTE :

• DURING LOW SEASON, No Cancellation Fee will be charged on cancellation received by us 10 days prior to arrival date and for cancellation received less than 10 days prior to arrival, or in the event of no show, 1 (one) night room charge plus applicable 21% for government tax & service charge will be applied.
• DURING HIGH SEASON (from the whole August and from 20th December to 5th January) Cancellation Fee will be charged on cancellation received by us 14 days prior to arrival date and for cancellation received less than 14 days prior to arrival, or in the event of no show, 1 (one) night room charge plus applicable 21% for government tax & service charge will be applied.

Includes

• Daily breakfast for 2 person
• 21 % for the government Tax and Service
• There will be extra charge for the extra bed USD 25/pax/day

The 1963-1964 Eruption

The lava flows missed, sometimes by mere yards, the Mother Temple of Besakih The saving of the temple is regarded by the Balinese people as miraculous and a signal from the gods that they wished to demonstrate their power but not destroy the monument the Balinese faithful had erected. However, over 1,000 people were killed and a number of villages were destroyed in this eruption.
There are two routes up the mountain, one from Besakih which proceeds to a higher peak and starts at approximately 1100metres and another which commences higher from Pura Pasar Agung, on the southern slope of the mountain, near Selat and which is reputed to take 4 hours.

From Pura Pasar Agung

The mountain can be seen from various directions in video, there is a well produced video of the climb from Pura Pasar Agung and a short video from the top above Besakih. Greg Slay den describes a climb from Besakih claimed to have taken a remarkable four and a half hours to the peak and Ken Taylor describes a climb that took much longer and which included getting lost.

Indonesia Map

Lombok Tourism Map

Bali Tourism Map

East Nusa and Komodo Island Tourism Map

East Java Tourism Map

Toraja and South Sulawesi Tourism Map

Bali is a land that seems to have a magnet at its very heart. It is a feeling that is difficult to understand unless experienced but once visited you are surely compelled to come back and you may even want to stay forever, such is its pull. Maybe its Bali’s beauty, maybe the friendly people, or maybe even the influence from spirits that certainly abide in this place.

Bali goes under many names. Some call it the ‘island of the gods’, others Shangri-La. The ‘last paradise’, the ‘dawning of the world’ and the ‘centre of the universe’ are yet more names for this truly beautiful tropical island inhabited by a remarkably artistic people who have created a dynamic society with unique arts and ceremonies.

Bali is small, just 140 Km by 80 Km and lies between Java, the most highly populated and influential of all the islands, and Lombok, one of the quieter and moderately slower paced islands. Like many islands, Bali has developed a world of its own. It not only captures what is special about Indonesia but also has a uniqueness of its own.

Daily life on Bali is culturally linked to satisfying and appeasing the gods, spirits and demons in the midst of breathtaking panoramas of cultivated rice terraces, impressive volcanoes and pristine beaches. Bali’s main volcano, Gunung Agung, is still active and sometimes explosive and is considered sacred among local people as it is believed to be the centre of the universe.

Lying just 8o south of the Equator, Bali can boast a tropical climate with just two seasons a year and an average temperature of around 28o Celsius. It has a whole range of different environments and activities for the tourist, many of which are covered in these homepages.

Economically and culturally, Bali is one of the most important islands of Indonesia. Rice is grown on irrigated, terraced hillsides; other crops include sugar cane, coffee, copra, tobacco, fruits and vegetables. Cattle and hogs are also raised. The Balinese are skilled artisans, particularly in woodcarving and in fashioning objects of tortoiseshell and of gold, silver and other metals. The Balinese are noted for their traditional dance, the distinctive music of the gamelan and for their skills in weaving cloth of gold and silver threads, Songket, as well as for embroidering silk and cotton clothing.

Bali of today is one of the twenty six provinces of the Republic of Indonesia, divided administratively between eight districts that take their names and boundaries from the island’s old Hindu kingdoms.

Related Pages:

• Bali tourism map
• Denpasar, Capital city of Bali
• Kuta Bali, party beach
• Ubud, Cultural center of Bali