a' visit to BALI

HARD ROCK HOTEL BALI

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Nestled against the shores of Bali's famed Kuta beach on an impressive three-hectare prime site right in the heart of Bali's entertainment and shopping district, Hard Rock Hotel Bali (Google Map) is Asia's first Hard Rock Hotel.

For your accommodation in Bali, this Bali resort features 418 tribute rooms and suites fit for a rock star. The walls are adorned with images, memorabilia and icons reflecting the revolution that changed the face of music, fashion and arts, celebrating artistes from the 50's to late 90's. Rockin' Tots to Grunge Grand Dads, the hotel is here to rock yer socks off!

With Hard Rock's signature of limitless energy, unparalleled creativity and quality service, Hard Rock Hotel Bali is a place where hotel guests can rekindle the atmosphere of the past 40 years of rock and roll culture! Music maniac can try out their vocal skills at the Boom Box Recording Studio in Hard Rock Hotel Bali.

For fitness and recreation enthusiasts, it is a high FIVE. Splash your body with cool waters at the free-form swimming pool or enjoy wonderful body therapy treatments at the hotel's Rock Spa, or opt for 5-meter of rock climbing within the premises. Follow a healthy routine by exercising at the in-house gym centre which is equipped with equipments, sauna and steam rooms.

With a wide selection of dining choices available in this beatutiful Bali resort, travellers can choose from the many cuisine each featuring a distinctive style.

For meetings in Bali, business travellers can discuss corporate strategies or organize themed events, private functions or dinners, at the meeting and conference rooms of the Hard Rock Hotel in Bali. The ballroom can hold up to 400 guests.

Come to Hard Rock Hotel Bali and feel like a star! It is all about the experience.

Rock On!

HELFULL INFO A-Z

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» Alcohol

One of the biggest expenses associated with a wedding in Bali is the cost of alcohol (if you are hosting a group of guests anyway). The taxes on alcohol are extremely high in Indonesia which is the reason it has been difficult to obtain good wines locally in the past.

Hotels and Restaurants ofcourse markup the prices of alcohol considerably but most will allow you to bring your own wines and champagne if you prefer. Keep in mind however most times you will be charged a corkage fee for doing so. This fee can range from US$5.00 per bottle to US$25.00 per bottle depending on the property you are utilizing.

If you are in a private villa ofcourse you are free to bring as much of your own alcohol to your function as you choose and no corkage fees will apply.

There are now two companies in Bali providing Australian Wines of reasonable quality. On is known as 'Wine of The Gods'. This company brings the grapes from Western Australia but treats them and bottles them locally. They currently offer one two types of wine - both white. One is a very sweet wine and the other a more standard dinner wine. Prices currently start at Rp100.000 per bottle.

The other company, Bounty Wines offers reds and whites of various type. They import wines both from Australian and from Chile. These wines have proven to be of a reasonable quality and quite popular. Prices currently start at Rp100,00 per bottle.

Given sufficient time, both the above wine importers can create your own private labels showing the name of bride & groom, date and place of the ceremony which is rather nice to have on the table or, perhaps to give your guests for a gift.

» Caterers

Catering services cannot be used within a hotel but if you are in a private location or a villa you will no doubt need to find one to suit.

There are a variety of catering companies available in Bali these days and some of them are excellent. Most will organize the decorations for you as well which is helpful since it involves less hands in the preparation of your event. You will be able to obtain flexible sample menus and price lists from your wedding organizer if you have chosen to use one and, they will recommend the caterer most experienced at the particular style of event and type of food you require.

» Clothing & Dress

Indonesian Government remains concerned about people being dressed politely and appropriately when dealing with them. Since all legal weddings will have a representataive from the Government Registry office in attendance it is important to comply with their request for appropriate dress.

Men may not wear sleeveless shirts and ladies may not wear see- through or midriff (ie: exposed stomachs) outfits. This dress code applies not only to the Government Registry officials but to any Government office with which you might be dealing eg: immigration, police etc. and is something you should keep in mind when traveling to Indonesia if you wish to be treated with respect and good manner.

» Consulates & Embassies

The following countries have a consulate in Bali .

American

Australia

Austria

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Italy

Japan

Mexico

Netherlands

Norway

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

United Kingdom

The following countries have Embassies or Consuls in Jakarta.

Afghanistan

Aljazair / Algeria

Argentina

Bangladesh

Belgium

Brazil

Brunei Darusalam

Bulgaria

Cambodia

Canada

Czechoslovakia

Chili

China

Gambia

Greece ( Consulate )

Hungarian

Iceland

India

Iraq

Ireland

Jordan

Korea

Kuwait

Laos

Lebanon

Malaysia

Myanmar

New Zealand

Nigeria

Pakistan

Palestine

Panama ( Consulate )

Papua New Guinea

Peru

Philippines

Poland

Rumania

Russia

Singapore

South Africa

Sri Lanka Sudan

Syrian

Thailand

Tunisia

Turkey

United Arab Emirates

Vatican

Venezuela

Vietnam

Yaman

Yugoslavia

» Flowers

There are certain types of flowers readily available in Bali although some are seasonal and may not always be there when you want them. The more common tropical flowers such as frangipani, orchids, lillies and tuber roses are generally available year round but other types of locally grown flowers are not always available.

Because of the type of flower more commonly available colour selections are somewhat limited and if you choose something different you may need to pay the price for having them imported from Java or indeed from overseas. If this is the case do allow lots of time when ordering or you may be disappointed.

An experienced wedding organizer will be able to give you all the information you need about just what is and is not possible.

» Gifts fo Couples

Gift Registries such as those so easily available in the western world do not yet exist in Bali though there are some fabulous shops offering some excellent items suitable for wedding gifts and not too big to carry home.

Some of our favorites are :

Asia Living - Seminyak
A beautiful selection of antiques, ornamnets and decorative objects from Asia.

Serene Bali - Seminyak
Offers homewares such as vases, candle stickes and zen slippers.

Palanquin - Kuta
Offers homewares and lifestyle products that combine the exoticism of the east and functionality of the west.

Vinotti - Galleria Mall, Kuta
(a new second smaller shop in Jalan Tuban)
In the new mall at the Simpang Siur roundabout
Candles, tableware, frames, furniture .

A professional wedding organizer will usually have some excellent suggestions for gifts for your guests and likewise for gifts wedding guests may like to organize for you. You will be able to either see their gift ideas on the net or have them email them directly to you.

» Hairdresser & Makeup

There are a great many hairdressers and salons on the island of Bali. Many locals have been trained as hairdressers and they can generally get the job done however, there are some important issues to consider if deciding to book a local hairdresser and they apply whether the hairdresser is located within a 5 star hotel or in an independent salon :

1-Communications - you want to be certain the hairdresser can understand exactly what you are saying so the result will be what you have asked for and not just something they are used to doing for Indonesian functions which require an enormous amount of teasing followed by an enormous amount of smoothing out and applying hairspray. A photo will probably help but do make sure they have the equipment they need before beginning eg: if you wish to have your straight hair curled ensure they have curling tongs etc.

2-Time - if you do choose ultimately to have your hair done by a local hairdresser, after explaining the hair style and being sure they have understood, ask how long they believe it will take. Whatever their answer - triple it to be safe because our research has shown the local hairdressers to be very slow workers.

You simply must not allow yourself to become stressed on your wedding day and because you do not wish to arrive late for your ceremony you must be finished preparing a minimum of 30 minutes before your scheduled start time. Being stuck in a hairdressers chair unfinished close to start time, knowing you still have to get back to the hotel and shower etc. will create dreadful stress that you simply do not want or need on this very important day. Perhaps, if you are in Bali far enough in advance you could have a trial run at the local hairdressers' you've chosen to use.

When requesting a hairdresser and makeup artist through a wedding organizer do make sure you ask them whether the hairdresser service they provide is conducted by a local or westerner and remember to set an early time for hairdressing and makeup if your organizer uses a local hairdresser.

There are one or two western hairdressers living legally in Bali and operating as hairdressers and also at least one Indonesian lady with vast experience working overseas in Cananda. The prices for these excellent operators are all about the same and you may like to ask your wedding organizer if they work with any of them.

» Health Issues

Ofcourse we hope that you will not suffer any illness or accident during your travels but just incase you do, you should be aware that the following clinics are available and are very experienced at assisting foreign visitors to Bali:

Sos Clinic - Kuta, used by some major travel insurance companies.

Bali International Medical Centre (BIMC) - Kuta offers western style facilities

Prima Medika Hospital - Denpasar, brand new, spotlessly clean with all modern equipment.

» Insurance

Everyone traveling overseas should certainly have travel insurance to cover any cancellation fees or other types of loss which may be incurred under certain circumstances. We advise that you check with your travel insurance agent whether the cost of your wedding is covered in case you are forced to cancel for reason.

» Music & Entertainment

Rindik Musicians - Balinese bamboo xylophone instrument, generally two men seated crossed leg playing. Sometimes they play with a 3rd man accompanying them on bamboo flute. This music really creates that 'atmosphere' of Bali and is ideal for pre and immediate post wedding ceremony rather than for entertainment as such.

The prices you will be charged for Rindik Musicians depend very much on where you are having your ceremony ie: prices range from US$20.00 in a mid-range property to as as high as US$200.00 in some of the more expensive properties but the average seems to be around US$75.00.

Gamelan Orchestra - generally comes along with Balinese Dancing Group who will perform any number of dances. The dancing usually lasts 45mins to 1hour and consists of 2 or 3 dance types.

The Gamelan orchestra is very typical of Bali and made up of many amazing instruments including very large brass xylophone type instruments, gongs, cymbals, drums and more.

The prices you will be charged for Gamelan Orchestra with Dancers will range anywhere from US$ 70.00 to almost US$400.00 but we have noted the average for this type of musical entertainment tends to be in the range of US$250.00.

It is also possible to organize the following types of music :

Solo Keyboard Player

Solo Keyboard Player with Singer

Batak Trio

Batak Quartet

Saxophonist

Vilionists

DJ (not permitted in all wedding locations)

» Photographers & Videographers

You need to realize that photographers in Bali are not the same as in the western world. They don't use studio umbrellas, step ladders, fuzzy lense covers or other fancy equipment.

Our research has confirmed that local photographers use good quality cameras, lenses and flashes to capture a special event and, that the most experienced have an excellent eye for a good shot and can work well with couples to create a very special selection of photographs of their day.

The most experienced wedding photographers work with the most experienced wedding organizers and you should have no trouble in obtaining a number of samples of their work so, ask to see a selection of photographs - not just from one or two weddings but from a large range so that you can be sure of their experience.

Much the same conditions apply to the work of videographers however it is not easily possible to obtain samples of their work. Rest assured that a professional wedding organizer will be offering a professional videography service.

Do look at the comments from past wedding clients on a wedding organisers' website - here you will often find feedback from couples about the photography and/or videography services they received.

» Pre-Nuptial Agreements

The marriage law of Indonesia requires that for a Pre-Nuptial Agreement to be legal it is presented to the appropriate Registry Office before the day of the marriage.

If you have decided to make a Pre-Nuptial Agreement then we suggest you have it prepared by your lawyer or other appropriate legal body (such as Notary). You should keep one original each and put a 3rd original in a sealed brown envelope for delivery to the Indonesian Government Registry Officials prior to your wedding. Before delivery you will need to have the document legalized by an Indonesian Notary. A professional wedding organizer can advise on this and have the processed organized on your behalf.

» Prices

We know that without a doubt you are wanting a dream wedding in Bali! The form that dream takes for you is yours completely and you should be able to have it come true. There is little that cannot be arranged in Bali. The people of this island are naturally talented in music, performance and the arts. Decorations can range from spectular to simply elegant etc. and there's a multitude of different resources which can be called upon to give you just what you want.

You may be on a budget but even so remember professional wedding organisers will usually be understanding to a certain degree and if approached politely may agree to at least a little discount to help.

Don't be unreasonable and expect them to organize the wedding of your dreams for nothing or next to nothing. Professional wedding organizers - those with offices and licenses anyway do have real expenses in order to operate, rents, taxes, website and other promotional efforts, experienced wedding consulting staff, communications, transport etc.

Be grateful for any discount you might receive or any extras you may be able to negotiate.

Clearly you have many, many options but our serious advice is to go through a professional company with strong credibility and relax whilst knowing you are in good hands and will thoroughly enjoy your wedding on the Island of The Gods.

» Spa Services

It is a wonderful idea to get a massage a day or two before your wedding. Not only will a massage help reduce your stress level, but can release painful muscle tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility, and reduce fatigue. In simple terms, a massage will make you feel great.
May we recommend a visit to one of the Spa's below to toally relax you and your partner before the big day!

Puri Esthetics - Sanur
Mandara Spa - located in many 5 star hotels
Bodyworks - Seminyak
Many hotels also have inhouse spa services.

» Transportation

All sorts of transport can be organized in Bali; from horse & cart in certain areas for short trips, to the more often preferred chartered buses, minivans, sedans and limos. For those with the more adventurous spirit ask your organizer about Harley Davidson bikes and helicopters.

» Videographers & Photographers

You need to realize that photographers in Bali are not the same as in the western world. They don't use studio umbrellas, step ladders, fuzzy lense covers or other fancy equipment.

Do look at the comments from past wedding clients on a wedding organisers' website - here you will often find feedback from couples about the photography and/or videography services they received.

» Vows

If you have chosen to use a professional wedding organizer you will find they are able to give you much information and perhaps even samples of your wedding liturgy and vows in advance. You are in most cases able to write your own vows and your own ring statements and add readings etc. to your certain parts of your ceremony.

Flexibility often depends on the type of religious ceremony you will be having and there are some which will not offer any opportunity for change at all.

» Weather

March to September is the dry season in Indonesia and so rainfall is generally quite rare during these months. Average day time temperatures of 32c, low humidity and cool evening and morning breezes. The on shore winds are strongest on the east coast (Sanur) side of the island during dry season. It is fairly safe to organize an outside wedding venue during the dry season. October to February are wet season months. You can expect rain much more often during these months and certainly a higher level of humidity. Average day time temperatures of 36c prevail and the stronger onshore winds affect the west side (Kuta/Legian etc) of the island.

When organizing a wedding between October and February rain must be a consideration and a venue offering a suitable wet-weather alternative should be
selected.

» Wedding times

Wedding ceremonies tend to be booked for 4-5pm in Bali. Many couples would like to be married at sunset but it's not always possible and the earlier times prove more suitable because a) the sun sets very quickly in Bali and is gone before you know it - you certainly don't want to be marrying in a lovely garden area but in darkness and, b) if starting earlier you will not miss the sunset but can enjoy it in a more relaxed way for photographs after your ceremony has ended.

» Wet Weather Alternatives

Some hotels are able to offer covered but still open venues to be used in the case of rain. This is obviously a good thing because you can still enjoy garden views and the fact that you are marrying in Bali remains obvious.

Not all properties however, have a suitable wet-weather alternative and will instead allocate a closed-in ballroom or function room for your event. This obviously is not ideal since you don't get to enjoy those tropical gardens for which Bail is so well known and which may well be one of the reasons you have traveled there in the first place.

Ofcourse you might still be able to go outside and have photographs in the garden after the ceremony should the rain cease in time.

If you are planning to marry between October and February do remember to ask the questions about the alternatives they are able to offer in case of rain.

CHOOSING AN AREA

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\|	Southern Areas	\|	Western Areas	\|	East Coast	\|

\|	West Coast	\|	North Coast	\|	Central	\|

Nearby Islands

Southern Areas

KUTA

Well known for its fabulous shopping, restaurants, bars & nightspots as well as its surfing beach and magical sunsets. To the young at least Kuta has earned itself the reputation of being the very 'heart' of Bali, offering everything from the smallest of shopping stalls to the very latest in boutique fashions, famous surf gear shops and multi-storied departments stores. Just about anything can be bought in Kuta and the buying is fun.

The choice of accommodation in the Kuta area is enormous, ranging from the smallest of budget 'losmens' through moderate bungalows and hotels such as Legian Beach Hotel, Bali Mandira and the Bali Intan up to the rather luxurious beachfront properties like the well known Hard Rock Hotel, it's new next door neighbour the Mercure and the lovely Kul-Kul.

Many couples like to have a wedding on the beach, but it is recommended instead that they select a hotel which offers a garden area directly overlooking the beach or one which offers ocean views. Unfortunately in the Kuta area now almost every hotel has a road across the front between the property and the beach and therefore have lost that direct 'step onto the beach access' that once existed.

TUBAN

Once known as Southern Kuta, the Tuban area is not a very long walk (especially via the beach) from Kuta itself, however is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the more central Kuta. A more relaxed atmosphere prevails in Tuban and yet there is still a great selection of things to do such as the Waterbom Park, Go-Karting & Sling Shot and a good selection of restaurants offering various fares from around the world. There is even a new Bottle Shop selling fine brand wines and other alcoholic beverages right below the well known surfy restaurant ALL STARS in Tuban.

Many of the hotels in the Tuban area are located directly on the beach and are therefore popular with couples because a marriage can be performed in the hotel gardens and then the couple may step onto the beach for some more relaxed photographs and fun with the locals. The Discovery Kartika Plaza Beach Hotel and The Bintang Bali have proven most popular with wedding couples over the past few years and that's because they are so well located. Of the two however, Discovery Kartika Plaza offers the very best in terms of gardens and space.

A little further back towards Kuta is the Bali Garden Hotel which has just come back under its original management team and whilst this property offers simple accommodation it is very clean, very central and has one of the very best beach fronts available in the Tuban area. A little in the opposite direction is the well known and popular Holiday Inn Bali Hai which is popular with families so always has lots of children around. For weddings, it has a lovely private garden area directly overlooking the beach and hidden away behind their 'villa accommodations'. Very few even know this area of the hotel exists and yet it offers the chance for a fairly private ceremony and a cocktail party or dinner in this spot is a delight.

A booking in the Villa is necessary to ensure the garden area is available to you for your wedding ceremony and function.

NUSA DUA & TANJUNG BENOA

Located on the southern peninsular of the island, Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa seem to be a world away from the hustle & bustle of activity in other areas of the island but it's actually only a 20 minute drive from the airport, and the shops and nightlife of Kuta.

Known as Bali's premier resort area, Nusa Dua offers an enormous selection of 5 star resort hotels such as The Nusa Dua Beach Hotel, Sheraton's Laguna and Nusa Indah, The Grand Hyatt, Amanusa Resort, Club Med & Hilton to name but a few.

All of these properties are beach front, except Amanusa which has ocean views and a private beach club, and offer fabulous gardens so are excellent locations for weddings for couples with a 5 star budget. Lots of shopping opportunities are available too in Nusa Dua! The Galleria Shopping Centre offers a collection of fashionable boutiques, specialty shops and restaurants.

In the even quieter area of Tanjung Benoa just a couple of kilometres further on than Nusa Dua another selection of hotels such as the Club Mirage & The Grand Mirage, the excellent value Novotel, Melia Benoa and the small but lovely Suites Hotel Bali Royal are available beachside.

Although beach weddings are not generally recommended, there are a couple of quiet public beach spots you can use for a small and simple ceremony in the Nusa Dua area - an experienced professional wedding organizer will know these.

Western Areas

LEGIAN & SEMINYAK, KEROBOKAN & TANAH LOT

A far less frantic pace is to be had here in Legian and Seminyak! You can enjoy a more peaceful environment a good selection of boutique hotels and still be close to shops and nightlife. There is an enormous range of restaurants located in these areas, so if you don't feel like heading back south to Kuta for shopping and entertainment, there really is no need. Some of the most lovely beachfront hotels in this area are The Bali Oberoi, The Legian and now the new Santika Villas right next door in the 5 star category and the Resor Seminyak and Intan Bali in 3 star category. Not on the beach, but a delightful property in which to marry, is the Villa Lumbung.

There are a number of spectacular restaurants on the beach fronts of Legian and Seminyak and a few of these are just perfect for a wedding ceremony. The now famous Ku-De-Ta Restaurant and the newly refurbished and styled Gado-Gado Restaurant to name only two. Many people already know the La Luciola Restaurant where you can relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, but unfortunately this restaurant does not host weddings on the property and more often than not will not accept a group reservation. Both Ku-De-Ta and Gado-Gado Restaurants are most welcoming!

Tanah Lot is only about 30 minutes drive to the west of Seminyak and the Le Meridien Hotel offers spectacular gardens, an incredible golf course and views of the Tanah Lot Temple from their lobby, bar, main caf?/restaurant and western gardens.

Unfortunately these days the view of Tanah Lot is marred somewhat by a new bridge style construction running from the mainland to the Temple and beyond to the sea but a clever photographer will be able to pose you in such a position that you really do only get the Temple as a backdrop at least once after your ceremony.

East Coast

CANDI DASA & AMED

Relatively unknown a decade ago, Candi Dasa is now a popular and relaxing retreat that has managed to retain its village identity. Attractions include snorkeling, scuba diving and tours to the seaward temple of Candi Dasa and the ancient traditional village of Tenganan famous for its mastery of double ikat weaving.

You can expect to find plenty of accommodation, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops, and some nightlife. There are fantastic views from the headland and, on a clear day, Agung Mountain rises majestically behind the range of coastal hills. The panorama encompassing islets to the left, Nusa Penida directly ahead and the headland to the right is easy to admire, with most of the hotels and resorts facing directly out to the sea.

West Coast

TABANAN

There a couple of lovely properties in this area to hold a wedding eg: the deluxe/5Star Le Meridian Nirwana Resort which has views to the famous Tanah Lot Temple from the garden area where wedding ceremonies are held in the dry season and, a much smaller more rustic property known as the Waka Tangga is another lovely choice. This property has only a handful of bungalow rooms, one restaurant and pool, all overlooking the ocean. One of the really special things about this small property (apart from the fact it is intimate and friendly) is the fact that it is surrounded by rice paddies and also offers views of the mountains in the distance.

North Coast

SINGARAJA/LOVINA

The north coast of Bali offers a different environment and atmosphere again from the other areas. A wedding here is possible but you will need to plan a minimum of one night stay.

Lovina is for those who like still waters (no waves) and are not fussy about the color of the beach. You may even encounter some local dolphins during your stay here. Tourists looking for a quiet beach resort head for Lovina. A long stretch of safe beach and a perfect place for swimming and snorkeling. Lovina also offers early morning dolphin viewing and is the perfect base from which to explore northern Bali.

You'll find that to have a wedding here in the North of Bali usually requires additional fees because of the time and distance involved in attendance.

Central

UBUD

Couples wanting to have that 'real Bali' feeling tend to choose Ubud as a location for their wedding ceremony. The artist colony of Ubud offers a great atmosphere, lush tropical gardens and, in many of the possible venues, wonderful views of the surrounding hills, valleys and rivers.

Although it is somewhat centrally located on the island and does not have a sunset as such, the Ubud skies generally display wonderful colours at sunset time which you are certain to enjoy.

It takes only about 40-60 minutes to reach from the main areas of Sanur and Kuta/Legian and there are some excellent restaurants available where your ceremony and celebration may be enjoyed. A professional organizer will be able to mention at least 3 or 4 great choices.

Nearby Islands

NUSA LEMBONGAN & LOMBOK

It is possible to have wedding ceremonies on both of these islands however surcharges naturally apply to cover the extra time, transportation and meals required to be costed into such arrangements.

The other point about weddings on these islands is that it is often not possible for the legal part of your ceremony to take place at the same time and place as your religious ceremony. Your organizer will be able to give you the details and solutions on this issue, which may result in your having a different date on your religious certificate to your Government legalizing certificate.

At 3.30pm all the day trippers depart from Nusa Lembongan and the island becomes a perfect peaceful place for your wedding ceremony however, you will need to cover the costs of your Minister, Registrar and Wedding Organiser to either hire a charter boat for their return on the same day or, to stay overnight if you wish to have the wedding later than 4pm on this nearby island.

LOCATION

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| Hotel & Villa Venues | Restaurants |

It is absolutely not possible for any couple who are not genuinely of the Balinese Hindu Faith to be married either in the Balinese Hindu way or, to be married in a Balinese Temple.

The best you can do is select a location which has a Balinese Temple in it. This temple can then form the backdrop for your ceremony and is a fine alternative. All hotels in Bali have a temple on the grounds and, although some temples are very small and others very large, a number of properties have sufficient area near their temple to allow this to be a possibility for you.

Bali does not offer much in the way of public areas where couples may celebrate their marriage. Even the rice paddies are owned by local families and you are not therefore able to just pick a rice paddy and have your wedding on it. This would effectively be trespassing and most impolite. In any case rice paddies are not ideal wedding spots because you cannot be sure that they will be green at the time of your wedding or whether they will be undergoing their regular harvesting and/or burn off process. Snakes too, are often found in the paddies and therefore represent a real concern. Not only this but the land between paddies is extremely narrow and the possibility of slipping into a wet paddy is not an attractive one at any time - even less so for a beautiful bride.

Hotel & Villa Venues

Because of the lack of public space available, most couples choose to be married either in the gardens of their hotel or private villa accommodation.

Because the gardens in Bali are so lush and tropical, this tends to be the very best solution. Most hotels and villas will charge a fee to any couple choosing to be married on the grounds even if the couple are staying there.

In the case of a hotel, this fee will generally provide some decoration whereas with a private villa the fee is basically to cover wear and tear as well as extra work required by villa staff to assist with your event and won't actually include decorations. These need to be organized separately and can be done by your organizer if you choose to take our advice and use one.

Some, but not all hotels, permit non-staying guests to be married in their gardens but of course will impose certain rules and regulations in this case, for example, they will charge a fee for using the space and the fee for outside guests is most times higher than the fee imposed on inhouse guests.

Generally the fee will include some Balinese style decoration. Whatever your location, it is important that you are aware from the start just what fees will be imposed by the particular venue you select for the specific arrangements you require as well as any additional regulations they may impose. For example, some hotels and almost all villas insist on the couple staying a minimum number of nights, others insist you book a meal there for your wedding party and yet others will insist on both of these and maybe even more.

Should you decide to book a private villa for your accommodation in Bali and have your wedding ceremony there, additional fees will be imposed for any decorations, musicians and other items you may request as well as a 'function fee' and a 'security bond'. A wedding organizer is best to organize items related to the decoration and layout of your villa wedding and will quote you the price based specifically on your own requirements.

Not all villas will permit large group functions on the grounds so, if you wish to select a private villa for your accommodation, do make sure you ask the question of whether you are able to hold your function there and request a detailed explanation of any particular restrictions which may be imposed upon you. For example, if you plan to have a band or DJ for your group to dance to you will no doubt find there will be restrictions about the time the music must end. This is in consideration of nearby neighbours and is an important issue of 'good manners and respect'.

Of course, hotels also generally have a time restriction on various forms of entertainment in consideration of their other guests.

Other things to consider when choosing a private villa for your function are :

-Is there enough electrical power to support a band or DJ and extra external lighting you may be planning to utilize? If not, can the villa management arrange for additional power for your function and at what cost to you?

-If you are planning to utilize Balinese musicians and/or dancers, it is preferable to have the villa management arrange personnel from the nearby vicinity rather than bringing performers from other villages. Again this is a matter of courtesy and good manners. You will find that the local people are far more positive about your function if they are actually involved in it and you will, at the same time, be helping them earn additional income for their village. Of course if you are not planning to utilize musicians or performers of a type available in the village, it is not an issue.

There are a number of hotels on the island which actually provide 'villa style' accommodation and these are a great alternative if you are having a small, intimate wedding and want it held within the privacy of your own villa surrounded by all the facilities a hotel offers. You need to be aware, however, that a number of hotels with villa style accommodation will still insist upon your purchasing their decoration package and will not agree to your having a ceremony without it. Again, ensure you clarify the rules and regulations with which you will be faced in advance of making your decision to avoid any unexpected or unbudgeted costs arising afterwards.

When requesting information on a villa as the potential venue for your wedding function be aware that there are different categories of villa ie: styles (not just quality).

Stand Alone Villas - Complete privacy and complete facilities and appropriate number of house staff.

Villa Complexes - One property with a number of villas on it - some need to share a pool, whilst others have a pool for each villa. House staff may be full time but are often available on call instead.

Villa Hotels - Operating more like a hotel but with villa (bungalow style) accommodation often only providing hotel type room services such as daily cleaning.

Whereas Villa hotels often have the bare minimum in kitchen facilities such as small refrigerator, electric jug and gas burner.

Private Villas for rent with beach frontage are extremely limited in Bali and those that do exist charge a premium price for their accommodation and often have a high number of minimum nights before agreeing to permit a function onsite.

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Restaurants

Many couples planning to marry in Bali have dreams of being married barefoot on a quiet beach however, in reality, this is rarely possible not generally recommended.

The reality is, that Bali has no private beaches. All beaches are public, even those right in front of a hotel or private property, and they are therefore open to all who wish to walk or hawk them.

A wedding ceremony on a beach is not recommended because the local people who are by nature a funloving and happy race will come up close, chatter amongst themselves, giggle and enjoy the event without realizing that they are creating disruption and distracting you from the solemnity of your ceremony.

For this reason, you should consider having your ceremony within the confines of a hotel or villa garden overlooking a beach. This way you will generally have the peace and quiet you require whilst declaring your vows to each other, but can go down on to the beach for photographs and fun afterwards.

There are a limited number of hotels in Bali with small, secluded sections of beach which although they are not in fact private are, because of the difficulty reaching them just about private. However, these beaches are few and far between and are all in the 5 star, deluxe price range.

WEDDING ORGANIZERS

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| How They Can Help |

These days there are a multitude of wedding organizers on the island of Bali - all tout themselves as experts with lots and lots of experience but, in reality, the majority of them are newcomers to the world of organizing weddings and have limited experience. Many, in fact, have been opened only a few months!

There is currently no government body or association concerned specifically with wedding organizers in Bali and for this reason unlicensed people can get away with operating freely. The down side of this from your point of view, is that there is absolutely no recourse if any such organization or individual disappoints you in any way.

We recommend you exercise extreme caution in making your selection from those on the island claiming themselves as wedding organizers, since the vast majority see organizing your wedding as a way to make a quick dollar rather than as something special they should be totally dedicated to do. Few can offer suitable experience or the required expertise and knowledge to ensure your wedding ceremony goes off without a hitch.

Such organizers may be able to present a wonderful website and some may even be found these days on the larger search engines but remember a website itself does not make an organization professional!

Our research has shown that despite a fairly decent looking website the vast majority of wedding organisers in Bali don't have a license let alone an office, but operate privately from their residence.

The fact that they do not have an office is generally disguised by such organizations in statements such as "we will come to your hotel after your arrival to save you the trouble of having to travel to our office" or, "we are the only company who will come to you for your pre-wedding meeting" and other similar statements.

Since you probably have to travel to your Consular Representative anyway after arriving in Bali, we would suggest that it is not a problem for you to pop in to your organizers' offices on the same day. At least you will then know you are dealing with a professional organization.

The wonderful worldwide web makes it possible for anybody to create a .com name and a website these days but, we at A WEDDING IN BALI .COM urge you to look beyond the site. Look for an address, ask for a license number (a copy if you wish), do they have a company bank account etc., or are they just individuals trying to make a quick dollar?

We strongly recommend you give serious consideration to entrusting the most important day of your lives to an "unofficial" wedding organizer.

We suggest that you make a decision regarding the professionalism of the various
companies you approach based not on their websites, but on other matters such as;

*
Whether they have an office to which you may visit when in Bali.
*
Whether they offer more than just email for contact.
*
Whether they have a bank account in the name of their company. If it is in a personal name or in the name of some other totally unrelated business name then it is probably an account borrowed to receive your funds. Not having a bank account in the name of their company indicates that they do not have a license to operate because a business bank account cannot be opened in Indonesia without the proper company documentation being presented to the bank.

We certainly recommend that you do not send your hard earned money to a personal bank account or any account which appears to be unassociated with the name of the wedding organizer you have selected.

Remember that if something goes wrong when dealing with an "unofficial" operation you have absolutely no recourse in the case of your needing to request a refund for any reason and no way of ensuring your claim is settled.

The issue related to bank accounts and payments is particularly important when you are being asked to send your hard earned money in advance.

It is understandable that payments for wedding services are required in advance - this is an appropriate practice however, we are saying that you must take great care!

If the company is a registered company, their legal name will be preceeded by a PT (Proprietry Limited).

Again we would remind you that A WEDDING IN BALI .COM is not a company which organizes weddings and will never offer to do so.

Likewise we are not opposed to people getting ahead in life by offering this service to you without all they should have to ensure perfection but, we do however, want you to be aware of as many different points as possible before making your decision. This way you can make a totally informed decision based on all the pros and cons.

Having been involved in travel to and within Bali and other parts of Indonesia for some 3 decades however, we are very concerned that a wedding in Bali for every couple who may choose to have one will be a wonderful experience and result in nothing but happy memories for brides and grooms, as well as any family and friends who may join them to celebrate in Bali.

A wedding ceremony is far too important to be allowed to go wrong in any way!

Take our advice and entrust your wedding to a professional wedding organizer.

How They Can Help

So you have decided to marry in Bali!! Congratulations on a wonderful decision!!

Provided everything is handled the right way, we are confident that your decision to marry in Bali will be a decision you'll have no cause to regret.

Now it's time to start thinking :

Will your wedding be a formal, semi-formal or casual style of event? Where is the place most suited to your own special requirements for the type of ceremony and reception you seek? What reliable vendors are available in Bali for things such as still and/or video photography, hair & makeup, catering, music, flowers, etc.? Will you have a buffet or sitdown meal? Will you serve cocktails and canap?s? What is the best schedule to follow? What special gifts can you organize for your guests?

You could spend months researching and still not get to the most experienced and most professional vendors available in Bali - most don't have websites after all and that makes it even harder.

Don't put yourself through it! Engage a professional wedding organizer to do it all for you! You just give them specifics of what you want and they'll give you detailed information on every little item.

A professional wedding organizer will assist the bride & groom from start to finish - in the selection of locations, photographers, florists, caterers, musicians, meals, entertainers, etc. They will make suggestions for decorating, choosing ceremony texts, ensure you meet all the required procedures for having a wedding in Bali and much more. A professionial wedding organizer is someone who will minimize stress.

Unlike other countries, wedding organizers in Bali tend to charge a flat rate to make all arrangements for you and then charge for any additional items you may select over and above your ceremony.

Some may think a wedding organizer is an unnecessary expense - this is not true! It is also the reason some couples will make their choice based on the lowest price rather than on professionalism, experience and solid reputation. It is only when something goes wrong those couples regret their decision to try to save money on this very important service.

Wedding organizers can actually save you money because of the amount of repeat business they give to certain vendors and, they will most definitely provide you with services of quality in each area they organize. A professional wedding organiser will not utilize a vendor who is less than professional because their own reputation is at stake and a wedding organisers' best advertisement is a satisfied couple!

DOING IT YOUR SELF

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It is possible, of course, to organize your wedding in Bali yourself but, if you plan to do so, be prepared for a frustrating time in getting your message across, obtaining accurate information and having things work out exactly the way you want them to.

There are a number of reasons you should think very carefully about organizing your own wedding in Bali.

First of all the language barrier - this is a definite concern because you may either end up with something you do not want and expect or alternatively, you may end up without something you particularly wanted and expected.

Although Ministers and Registry Officials can speak English, most do so rather haltingly in matters apart from their own or regular text scripts and their written English is certainly not wonderful. This should be a real consideration because you will be orgnaising everything long distance.

Secondly, there is the simple issue of different cultures and therefore different concepts. It is just a matter of a Balinese or Indonesian finding it difficult to comprehend the needs, thoughts and requirements of a western bride and groom.

Indonesians, and particularly Balinese, are the most happy and helpful people in the world and will definitely do whatever they can to help you. However, where your wedding is concerned, a lot more than a friendly smile is required to make everything run smoothly and you will want much, much more than a smiling apology afterwards if things don't run to plan and you feel disappointed.

Sure, you will save yourself the cost of a wedding organizer by doing it all yourself but, we must ask you - is it really worth it?

The last thing you want is to travel all the way to Bali and experience a lot of stress and worry about your wedding. Isn't one of the reasons you chose to be married in Bali was to avoid the stress and worry generally associated with organizing a wedding ceremony back home?

A wedding in Bali can be even more stressful than at home if arrangements are not made precisely in keeping with your own personal requirements and if you have any reason to be uncertain whether you will or will not receive exactly what you want!

We strongly recommend you give this very careful thought if you are not prepared
for the strong possibility of regretting your decision afterwards. Just ask yourself "Is saving some money worth the risk of having the most important day of your life spoiled?" And, "are we willing to take a chance?"

CELEBRANTS

2010-06-18T00:06:00.000-07:00

Unlike other countries of the world, it is not possible in Indonesia to be married by a Civil Celebrant and, in fact, there is no such thing in Indonesia. The only way for non-Moslem couples to be legally married (as mentioned above) is to have a religious ceremony followed by the Government Registration of the marriage.

Overseas Celebrants are only licensed and legally permitted to perform a wedding ceremony and provide a Certificate of Marriage to a couple when the marriage they perform takes place in the country where they are licensed to practise as a Marriage Celebrant. They are not legally permitted to provide such a service in Bali or anywhere else in the world.

We understand that Australia is currently (and in fact has been for quite a long time now) giving consideration to allowing licensed Marriage Celebrants to perform ceremonies overseas but, if and when this is approved, it will apply only to marriages performed by the Australian Marriage Celebrant on Australian soil, ie: in the Australian Consul General office in Bali or the Australian Embassy in Jakarta.

A marriage performed by a foreign licensed Celebrant would not be a legal marriage if performed in Bali or anywhere except in the country in which the Celebrant is licensed to operate.

DO NOT BRING A FOREIGN CELEBRANT TO BALI TO PERFORM YOUR MARRIAGE AND EXPECT TO BE LEGALLY MARRIED !

Australian couples may reconfirm this information with the Australian Registrar Generals' Office in Canberra.

For couples from other countries, we advise you to check with your country's
Consulate/Embassy here in Indonesia, or with the particular Government officials
in your country of origin who deal with matters of legal marriage regarding this
issue.

We have used Australia as the example here, not to give Australians any particular special attention, but simply because the statistics to date show that the majority of weddings taking place in Bali currently originate from Australia.

TYPE OF CEREMONIES

2010-06-18T00:03:00.000-07:00

| Legal Wedding | Religious Only - Non Moslem |
| Balinese Blessing Ceremony | Commitment Ceremony |

Firstly, there are certain types of ceremonies available :

1. Legal Wedding Ceremony non-Moslem involving a
Religious Ceremony followed by Civil Registration to legalise
the marriage.

2. Religious Only Ceremony involving a Religious Official, but no
Government Registrar.

3. Balinese Blessing Ceremony involving a Balinese Officiant
only, and no Government Registrar.

4. Ceremony of Commitment involving an lay Officiant
only, and no Government Registrar or Religious Official.

5. Legal Wedding Ceremony - Moslem involving a Moslem
Official, but no Government Registrar.

Note: Unless otherwise specified, all information on this site refers to couples other than Moslem couples. Specific information related to Moslem Marriages can certainly be answered, however, by direct and specific request once proof of your Islamic religion is received.

Legal Wedding

It is not possible to be 'legally' married in Bali or indeed anywhere in Indonesia without first having a religious ceremony and, only after such a ceremony has taken place will the Government Registry Officials register and legalise your marriage.

Without Government Registration of the marriage a marriage will not be recognized as a legal marriage either here in Indonesia or anywhere else in the world.

Documents which will be received :
One (sometimes more: depending on your religion) Certificate of Marriage from your religious official and two (always) legalizing Certificates of Marriage from the Government Registry Office.
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Religious Only - Non Moslem

A Religious Only Ceremony is a 'spiritual ceremony' based on the couples' own faith ie: Protestant Christian, Catholic, Buddhist or Hindu and has no legal implication at all. This type of ceremony is most often selected by couples who are already legally married to each other and wish to renew their vows or couples who, for some reason, do not wish to be legally married.

Document which will be received :
One Certificate of Marriage (sometimes more for some religions) from your religious official.

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Balinese Blessing Ceremony

A Balinese Blessing Ceremony is just that - a simple Blessing in Balinese style. This ceremony has no legal implications and, because it is only a blessing rather than a formal ceremony it allows a Balinese Officiant to pray for good things for the future of the couple and to bless their new beginning.

Document which may be received :
One Certificate of Blessing with no religious or legal implications.
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Commitment Ceremony

A Commitment Ceremony is performed by a lay Officiant and, like the Religious Only and Balinese Blessing, is a ceremony for couples wishing to experience a ceremony with special meaning to them in Bali - perhaps to renew their vows. It is also suitable for couples who are unable to be married to each other because of enjoying an alternative lifestyle but who wish to make a commitment to each other for a life together.

Document which may be received :
One Certificate of Commitment with no religious or legal implicatoins.
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A Wedding in Bali

2010-06-18T00:02:00.001-07:00

A site designed to provide information and advice
to couples planning to marry in Bali!

A wedding is, without a doubt, one of the most important events in the lives of any couple and, the island of Bali in Indonesia is, without a doubt, one of the most beautifully spiritual places in the world to celebrate such an important occasion.

A WEDDING IN BALI .COM is not a wedding company and will not ever offer to organize your wedding for you. We are, however, a site designed specifically to offer helpful information to couples who may be considering celebrating their wedding on this beautiful island.

We would advise every couple who may be thinking of marrying in beautiful Bali to read through this site before making any decisions on how you will organize your wedding since we believe it will give some valuable guidance, and will answer some of the initial questions you may have in mind at this stage of your planning.

Of course, if you find this to be so, the final decision-making process should then prove a lot easier for you.

We at A WEDDING IN BALI .COM sincerely believe that Bali, the very spiritual Island of the Gods, is a wonderful place to celebrate a wedding.

Many, many couples have had the privilege of doing just that in past years and the demand is growing steadily. Fortunately, though, since there are so many wonderful choices of location, theme styles and items available to create something special from which you can choose, your wedding will remain a very personal and beautiful experience - if handled correctly.

There are a few important things to know about planning a wedding in Bali and, here at A WEDDING IN BALI .COM we wish to let you know, and help you understand some of those things.

Corporate Taxation in Indonesia

2009-11-30T00:36:00.000-08:00

This is a brief overview of the calculation and payment of corporate tax in Indonesia.

1. Indonesia operates a self-assessed taxation system that is similar to many other countries.
2. Rates are stepped and top out at 30% of taxable income.
3. Expenses are deducted from revenue to arrive at taxable income.
4. Indonesian GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) is very similar to those of other countries.
5. Revenues are revenues in any language and should be declared and can be subject to tax audit. Reimbursements are not considered as revenue, but any mark-up will be.
6. Expenses are normal operating expenses of a company but there are some expenses that cannot be included for tax purposes:
7. Fringe Benefits (What the company pays on behalf of the employee that the employee would normally pay for himself/herself).
8. Fines and interest for late reporting/payment of taxes.
9. Vacation airfares, housing and schooling for expatriate staff and families.
10. There are also some strange interpretations by the tax office on other expenses that need knowledge of the relevant rules to argue against.
11. Taxes are paid throughout the year to maintain even flow of funds into the State treasury and maintain a reasonably even cash flow for the company.
12. One twelfth of the tax due for the previous year is paid each month in the current year less corporate tax withheld by third parties.
13. When you import into Indonesia there is corporate tax withheld by Customs and paid to the Tax Office on your behalf.
14. When customers pay you for services there is corporate tax withheld and paid to the Tax Office on your behalf.
15. Likewise when you make payments to your suppliers there may well be corporate tax that you withhold and pay on behalf of your supplier.
16. These rates of withholding tax vary dependent upon internal Indonesia, external Indonesia and what type of service/supplies was concerned.
17. The aim of the company is to finish the year in a tax underpayment situation as to receive a tax refund or carry forward means a tax audit must be performed. Good planning ensures this.
18. On top of corporate tax there is a wide-ranging VAT/GST system mainly rated at 10% and some items will also attract a luxury sales tax. Exports are rated 0% but refunds must undergo a field audit by the tax office.
19. VAT/GST allows for monthly offsets of inputs over outputs and excess inputs can be carried forward to the subsequent months. Or a refund claimed.
20. All tax payments are made via the banking or the postal system to receive credit for them.
21. Proof must be given or received where withholding tax is involved to obtain the credit.
22. Of course there are variations in taxes within certain industries with tax facilities that are too detailed to be listed here.
23. Indonesia has Double Tax Treaties with a number of countries and with good planning your firm may well be able to utilize available benefits.
24. Tax withheld by Indonesian resident companies to overseas will be treated as prepaid tax in the recipient country.

How to find a tax consultant

Most of the large international accounting firms have staff that can help you to prepare your taxes, both Indonesian and foreign.

Expatriate Associatoins in Indonesia

2009-11-30T00:34:00.000-08:00

Just as in your home country, joining a business association is a great way to learn more about what is going on in the local business community and to meet colleagues. In Jakarta, there are several well-established country-specific business associations with memberships of hundreds of business people.

Staying informed, learning about how Indonesian government rulings are affecting business, meeting new people and widening your business contacts is perhaps even more important in a foreign posting where the conditions that affect business will be unknown to a newcomer. Becoming involved and setting up a good network will benefit you in many ways.

Below is a listing of contact information for expatriate business associations. We encourage newcomers to contact their national association and learn about what services they offer.

American Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (AmCham)
World Trade Center, 11th floor
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31
Jakarta Pusat, Indonesia 12920
Tel. (62-21) 526-2860
Fax (62-21) 526-2861
Email info@amcham.or.id
Website www.amcham.or.id
Joe Bartlett, President
Mark Smith, Executive Director
Membership - 400

Indonesia-Australia Business Council (IABC)
World Trade Center, 11th Floor
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31
Jakarta 12920 Indonesia
Tel (62-21) 521-1540
Fax (62-21) 521-1541
Email secretariat@iabc.or.id
Website Indonesia Australia Business Council (IABC)
Mr. S.D. Darmono, President
Mr. Vic Halim, Executive Director
Membership - 200

British Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (BritCham)
Wisma Metropolitan I F/15
Jln. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29 - 31
Jakarta 12920
Indonesia
Tel. (62-21) 5229453
Fax (62-21) 5279135
Email bisnis@britcham.or.id
Website www.britcham.or.id
Chairman : Mr. Malcolm Llewollyn
Executive Director: Chris Wren
Business Development Manager: Lukas Rahmidin
Membership - 800

Indonesia Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC)
Sampoerna Strategic Square
South Tower 17th floor
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav 45
Tel. (62-21) 2555-2243
Fax (62-21) 5795-1177
Email ediccc@cbn.net.id, iccc@cbn.net.id
Website www.iccc.or.id
Mr. David Beynon – President ICCC
Vita Antasari – Executive Director

Danish Business Council
Jl. Kencana Permai V no 15
Pondok Indah, Jakarta Selatan
Tel. (62-21) 750-3204
Email michael@wivvies.com
Website www.dba.co.id
Jakob Friis Sorensen and Michael Lundager
Membership -

Finnish Business Council
Embassy of Finland, Menara Rajawali, 9th floor
Jl Mega Kuningan, Lot 5.1, Kuningan, 12950 Jakarta
Tel. +62-21-576 1650
Email sanomat.jak@formin.fi
Website www.finland.or.id
President Risto Poskiparta
Members: 23

Indonesian French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI)
Jalan Wijaya II No. 36
Kebayoran Baru, Jakarta 12160
Tel. (62-21) 739-7161
Fax (62-21) 739-7168
Email contacts@ifcci.com
Website www.ifcci.com
President: Mr. Alain-Pierre Mignon
Director: Nora Guitet
Membership - 130

German Indonesian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (EKONID)
Jl. H. Agus Salim No. 115
Jakarta 10310 Indonesia
(P.O. Box 3151/JKT, Jakarta 10031)
Tel. (62-21) 315-4685
Fax (62-21) 315-5276
Email info@ekonid.or.id
Website www.ekonid.com or www.ekonid.org
Mr. Jan Rönnfeld, Director
Membership - 530

Economic Association of Indonesia and India (ECAII)
Intarti (Iin)
c/o PT Tripar Multivision Plus
Komplek Perkantoran Roxy Mas Blok C2 No. 27-34
Jln. K.H. Hasyim Ashari Kav. 125B
Jakarta Pusat – 10150
Tel. +62-21-6335050 Ext 219, +62-21-6324329
Fax +62-21-6324370
Website www.ecaii.org
Chairman Marzuki Usman
Membership - 80 Corporate Members

European Business Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia (Eurocham)
World Trade Center, 8th Floor
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 29-31
Jakarta 12920
Phone (62 21) 521-1650
Fax (62 21) 521-1651
Email info@eurocham.or.id
Website www.eurocham.or.id
President, Patrick Jonathan

Italian Business Association Indonesia (IBAI)
Wisma BRI II, 15th Floor, Suite 1501
Jl. Jend. Sudirman No. 44-46
Jakarta 10210 Indonesia
Tel. +62 (21) 571-3540
Fax +62 (21) 571-9013
Email luigicarlo.gastel@pirelli.com
Dr. Luigi Carlo Gastel, President

Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
Summitmas I, 6th Fl.
Jl Jen. Sudirman Kav. 61-62
Jakarta 12190 Indonesia
Tel. (62-21) 520-0264 / 5251-3650
Fax (62-21) 520-0261
Email
Website www.jetro.or.id
Mr. Kusaoke Sadonoobu
Membership -

Korea Trade Center (KOTRA)
Wisma GKBI, 21st Floor, Suite 2102
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 28
Jakarta 10210
Tel. 62-21-574-1522
Fax 62-21-572-2187, 572-2204
Email: kotrajkt@kotra.or.id
Website www.kotra.or.id
Mr. Kim Byung Kwon, Director General

Indonesian-Netherlands Association (INA)
Indonesian-Benelux Chamber of Commerce
Menara Jamsostek, Tower A - 20th floor, Room 2002
Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto No. 38
Jakarta 12710
Tel. (62-21) 5290-2177
Fax. (62-21) 5290-2178,
Email ina@ina.or.id
Website www.ina.or.id
Mr. Elmar Bouma, Director
Membership -

Indonesian Norwegain Business Council
c/o Tirta Samudera Caraka
Cordova Tower, Lt. 2
Jl. Pasir Putih Raya Blok E No. 3
Ancol - Jakarta Utara 14430
Tel. 62-21-645 7624
Fax 62-21-645 7628
Email inbc_sec@ inbc.or.id
Website www.inbc.or.id
Mr. Tor Fjæran, President
Membership -

Swedish Business Association in Indonesia
Swedish Business Association c/o Embassy of Sweden
Menara Rajawali, 9th floor 3, Mega Kuningan Lot #5,1
Kawasan Mega Kuningan Jakarta 12950
Fax (021) 4261033
Email michael_olsson@bmolsson.net
Website www.sba.or.id
Mr. Michael Olsson, Secretary
Membership - 36 Members

Taiwan Business Club
Jl Raya Kelapa Hibrida Block QH
Kelapa Gading
Jakarta 14240 Indonesia
Tel. (62-21) 451-3525
Fax (62-21) 451-3524
Email tbcjkt@indosat.net.id
Website
Mr. Frank Lee, Director
Membership -
Indonesian Business Associations Overseas

American-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce (AICC)
317 Madison Ave., Suite 1619
New York, NY 10017 USA
Tel. (212) 687-4505
Fax (212) 687-5844
Email aiccny@bigplanet.com
Website www.aiccusa.org
Mr. Wayne Forrest, Executive Director
Membership - 195

Australia Indonesia Business Council (AIBC)
Website www.aibc.com.au

Indonesia New Zealand Business Community
Website www.indonz.com

Bali Fruit's

2009-10-13T19:55:00.000-07:00

The exotic, interesting fruits of Bali, and indeed the rest of Asia, are one of the best reasons for visiting. Bananas, coconuts and pineapples are well known - although you may not be prepared for the numerous varieties of bananas that are available.

The mangoes and papayas or pawpaws, which are now available in the West, are better in Bali. They have their seasons. Others are not available outside the tropics because they do not travel well and may not even be known outside Bali.

Tasty, interesting fruits are:

Durian :

The durian legendary is in the tropics. People either love it or hate it. It has an obnoxious smell and frightening appearance, weighs about 3 or 4 kilograms and is covered in large spikes. It is yellowish-green and has a hard shell. A creamy white pulp covers the seeds, which is what people eat.

Very good durians are for sale on the Kedewatan road from Ubud to Ponggang at the beginning of the rainy season in November.

Mangosteen :

Everyone likes this delicious sweet fruit. Queen Victoria offered to knight the first person who could get it to England in an edible condition. Nobdy succeeded. The shell is deep purple. It is a bit hard and has to be twisted or cut off to reveal four or five segments of brilliant white fruit. The season starts in Decembe

Lychee :

These are a native of South China. Payangan is the only place in Bali where they are cultivated. They taste acidic-sweet, rather like a grape. The season is late November. The bright red clusters of fruit are very attractive to fruit-eating bats, which usually get there first and finish them in one night.

Papayas

These are known as pawpaws in the West. They are bigger in the tropics. The flesh is pink and rich in vitamin A. They are eaten at breakfast. There is no season

Mango :

Mangoes are particularly good in Bali. The season starts in September. They can be big. The best way to cut them is in four lengthwise cuts and then peel. Mango juice is good.

Rambutan :

This red, hairy fruit grows in bunches in tall trees. Its name means "hairy", which describes it well. Take off the skin and eat the white, refreshing acid-sweet flesh that covers the single seed. The season starts in December

Jackfruit :

These big, heavy, yellow fruits are very unusual and versatile. They be fried or eaten raw. They can also be cooked when they look like chunky pieces of meat. They are therefore ideal for vegetarians. They are the largest of all tropical fruits and weigh as much as 50 kilos.

The skin and protective white covering must be removed. Jackfruit juice tastes good. Jackfruit wood is yellow, easy to carve and is used for making wooden stands for musical instruments in the gamelan orchestra.

Pomelo :

The grapefruit is a descendant of the pomelo. Pomelos are bigger than grapefruits. The flesh is coarse and needs to be cut away to reveal the pomelo segments. They are bigger, sweeter and have a more subtle taste than a grapefruit.

Salak :

This fruit looks like a pear and has a reddish-brown, snake-like, scaly skin, which is easily peeled off to reveal crunchy, slightly astringent, white flesh. It grows in east Bali.

Star fruit: Blimbing

This yellowish-green five starred fruit is crisp and usually sweet.

Sirzak :

This large fruit is green on the outside, white on the inside, with an acidic-sweet taste.

bALi GoLf

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Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club Designed by Peter Thomson and Michael Wolveridge and Associates, Bali Handara is probably the island's most well known golf course. This is due to it being ranked in the top 50 courses in the world in 1979/80. Bali Handara is 3700 feet above sea level and is built in a volcano crater at Bedugul. It is about a one and a half hours scenic drive up to the course from the Kuta/Sanur areas. The course measures 7024 yards in length-par72 from the championship tees, and its greens will trick the best golfer. Bali Handara offers magnificent mountain scenery with beautiful gardens and is a must to see, even for non-golfers.

Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club has a variety of rooms for accommodation. There is a restaurant overlooking the golf course, bar, Karaoke, tennis courts, a fitness centre with massage service and Japanese bath. A fully stocked pro shop and golf carts are optional. Stay'n Play Packages are available from Bali Discount Golf.

The Grand Bali Beach

The Grand Bali Beach is now under new ownership and has changed it's name to The Bali Beach Golf Course. The layout is still a 9-hole course (par 36), however all greens and bunkers have been replaced. The Bali Beach Golf Course is in the grounds of The Grand Bali Beach Hotel in Sanur and is still a flat course, with tight tree lined fairways. The new enlarged greens are well protected, making accuracy essential. The course is an improvement on the old course, but not in the same class as Bali's 18 hole courses. It is still a test of golf. Caddies are available, however, there are no golf carts and trolleys are compulsory.

Nirwana Bali Golf Club Lying on Bali's southwest coastline at Tanah Lot, Nirwana Bali Golf Club was designed by Greg Norman and opened in July 1997. A 6805 yard - par 72 championship standard golf course, it is destined to become one of the worlds best. Asian Golf Monthly and Golf Digest have voted the course as the No 1 course in Indonesia. Nirwana is part of the Le Meridien Resort and the resort was voted by Asian Golf Monthly as Asia's Premier Golf Resort. The breathtaking beauty of this course is highlighted by rice fields forming some of the rough, strategically placed bunkers and spectacular ocean views, on the three cliff-top holes that overlook the Indian Ocean. With four sets of tees Greg Norman has ensured that the course will test all golfers.

OTHER FACILITIES
Nirwana Bali boasts a luxurious Balinese style clubhouse with a restaurant, a halfway house, a fully stocked pro shop and exquisitely furnished locker rooms. Golf carts with a caddy are compulsory and a drink service is provided. A recent addition to the Club is a driving range and lessons are available from the resident PGA professional. Being part of the Le Meridien Nirwana Golf and Spa Resort, Spa and massage facilities are available at the hotel. Nirwana Bali Golf Club also operate The Nirwana Apartments and Villas. They are one or two bedroom self contained apartments with the complex having it's own swimming pool. Stay'n Play packages are available from Bali Discount Golf.

Bali Golf & Country Club

Located in the deluxe resort area of Nusa Dua. A Robin Nelson and Rodney Wright designed course hosted the 1994 Asian Dunhill Masters and in 1997 it was voted by Fortune Magazine -USA as one of Asia's top 5 golf courses. Three distinct areas have been used to create Bali Golf & CC. You play up through hillside terrain with lush tropical vegetation where you have spectacular views of Indian Ocean and the Nusa Dua area. You also play through massive coconut trees, lakes and finish off with sand dune holes along Nusa Dua beach. The course measures 6871 yards from the championship tees -par 72,with multiple tees to ensure playability. Expert grooming and superb maintenance ensures championship-playing conditions.

OTHER FACILITIES Bali Golf & CC has and elegant clubhouse and restaurant with spectacular views of the course and the Indian Ocean. There is an excellent driving range with a resident PGA Professional to give lessons. Bali Golf and Country Club has two bars, two halfway houses, with food and drinks service. There is also a Spa with a full range of massage treatments, a swimming pool and a fully stocked pro shop. Golf carts are compulsory and one caddy is provided with each cart. Wantilan Golf Villas are also part of the course. "Wantilan" are three or four bedroom Luxury Villas with your own staff and swimming pool. Either one bedroom or the full villa can be rented. Stay'n Play packages are available from Bali Discount Golf.

Bali After Dark, The Nightlife

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Kuta, Legian & Seminyak

A Bar
Jalan Dhyana Pura Gado-gado Seminyak. Named after Absolute Vodka, mature crowd, real drinks, cozy atmosphere. 8pm till late.

A Club
Situated on Jl Basangkasa-Seminyak, This trendy club is open Tuesday-Saturday 10pm till late with DJ house music and special Friday night parties.

Aina
Jl oberoi. Bali's first "fully unconditioned" cocktail bar. Good music friendly atmosphere. Opens early till late.

Apache Reggae Bar
Reggae cover bands 7 nights a week, 11pm - 2am, Jl Legian.

Bali Globe Cafe

A selection of International DJ's open each night from 10:00pm till dawn. Jl. Dyana Pura, Seminyak.

Bali Peanuts Club
One of the most popular venues in the Kuta area, the scene is young and sprinkled with locals, who all take to the huge dance floor in the cave-like air-conditioned interior. Pool tables and plenty of entertainment, compliment the very reasonably priced drinks, live music every night Sunday-Friday. DJ music Saturday night from 9pm on Jalan Raya Legian.

Bali Rock Cafe
Live music by popular cover bands 7 nights a week. 9.30-12pm.

Bahiana
Open from 7pm until very late. Hear the latest Latin tunes from the resident DJs.

Benny's Bistro

Benny's has become the venue for Salsa dancing to live latin acoustic music Of the 7-piece Buena Terra Band. Jl Dyana Pura, Seminyak. Enjoy the food the ambience and that infectious salsa rhythm.

Bush Telegraph
Live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 9.30 -12pm. Situated in the heart of Seminyak's hot spot on Jl Dhyana Pura.

Cafe Del Mar
Jalan Dhyana Pura Gado-gado Seminyak. Cool cocktail bar, great drinks, relaxed atmosphere, funky music, open air, super smooth crowd. Open from 9 until late.

Café Exiles
in Pengosekan has a live band and is worth the visit. Local laws determine that live music at all bars in Ubud stop by 10:30pm.

Cafe Luna
Stylishly decorated with an Italian menu, indoor/outdoor seating and two bars make this a popular choice. Open until 2.30am, Jl. Raya Seminyak.

De Ja Vu
Same owner as Spy Bar. Newly opened with a fantastic interior design playing great tunes. Nice place to hang in the afternoon or the early cocktail hour.

Double Six
Open every night until 6am. The music is pure dance and there is always a good crowd. Opens at midnight it usually starts to fill up at around 1am. Three bars and late night pizzas. Open till sunrise. Entry cost Sunday - Friday Rp40.000, Saturday's Rp50.000. Featuring the only night bungee jumping in the world with AJ Hackett from 2.00am.

Espresso Pizzaria
Cover bands 7 nights a week from 10pm-2am on Jl Legian.

Euro Club
Situated on Jl 66, Seminyak. The latest DJ Music from 8pm till late.

Fidels
Fidel's cigar bar and lounge at the popular Ku De Ta restaurant. Jl Lasmana, Seminyak

Fuel
Award winning two storey club/restaurant in the heart of Kuta. One of the hottest house venues with resident and visiting DJ's.

Full Moon Parties
Usually held down Yang Yang Beach at Hotel Puri Bali and Padang Padang Beach sometimes held down in Nusa Dua. Check out our calendar for full moon dates.

Gado Gado
An excellence renovation of this ex-club now provides a stylish beachside setting. Well recommended. Jl Dhyana Pura.

Hard Rock Cafe
Located right on Kuta beach. The regular live bands draw big crowds. The bands are usually good. They start at 11pm and go until 2am.

Hard Rock Hotel - Center Stage
Bali's coolest unplugged bar with live bands nightly at center stage, from 7.30-11pm.

Hulu Cafe
Hulu Cafe is the only really gay bar in all of Bali. Okay, some of our non-gay friends stop in and join in the fun, but you won't have any hassles like in some other on-again, off-again venues in Bali. Live dance show Wednesday-Sunday 10pm till late. http://www.ozemail.com.au/~hulucafe/index.html

JP's
Stylish bar on Jl Dhyana Pura, offering live music Friday & Saturday nights from 8.30pm

Kama Sutra
Club restaurant and lounge. Happy hours each day from 9-11pm. Jl. Pantai, Kuta.

Kori Restaurant
Gg Poppies II - Relaxed & Cozy atmosphere, imported wines, chilled cocktails and ice cold beers. Cigar salon complete with a pool table, great place to spend an evening.

Ku De Ta
The newest talk of town with a great location, great food, cigar lounge and loads of style. Definitely somewhere to check out.

Lips
On Jl Seminyak. Live music Wednesday- Saturday from 10.30pm.

Liquid
Jl Dhyana Pura-The latest cool bar on this happening strip, with funky tunes and a killer cocktail list. The coolest illuminated bar.

Loco Bar
Situated on Jl 66, open 7 nights with special international DJ Wed-Sat, 10pm till late.

Lush
A comfortable lounge bar located on the corner of Jalan Kunti. Good place to chill out for a few aperitifs before proceeding on for the evening.

Maccaroni
Italian restaurant and club located on Jalan Legian. Starts from 11pm.

Millertime
Situated in the middle of town on Jl Legain with cover bands every Saturday night from 10pm-12pm.

My Way
Cover bands Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 9.30pm till 2am. On Jl Legian

Musro
Nightclub with spectacular cabaret shows. Located at Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel in Tuban from 10:30pm onwards.

Oxygen
Fantastic sounds kick from the bose sound system and freaky projections across the wall and ceiling upstairs sets the mood.

Paddy's Reloaded
A solid, no-frills pub set-up combined with reasonably priced cocktails and drinks. Located in front of Bounty.

Planet Hollywood
DFS Bali Galleria complex - Great burgers and grills to go with a long drinks list and excellent cinematic memorabilia.

Poco Loco
Jalan Padma Utama tequila shots and jugs of margaritas and make your own fajitas.

Q Bar
Abimanyu Arcade Jl Dhyana Pura, Seminyak. Bali's premier gay watering hole with alternative style DJ music nightly.

Santa Fe
Open 24 hours serving everything, need we say more.

Space Lounge
Jl. Dhyana Pura Seminyak. Bali's newest bar and lounge.

Spy Bar
This club has an indoor and outdoor vibe with top local DJ's - Jl Dhyana Pura

Stadium Café
Live cover bands each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9pm. Jalan Kartika Plaza, Kuta.

Sugar
Formerly Club Inc. A variety of funky music and drinks are served from 5pm until dawn.

Taj Mahal
Bar with a chill-out lounge and guest DJ's. Jl. Laksmana Seminyak.

The Oriental
The first and only exclusive cabaret theatre in Bali created by International Production Team. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and out standing performance. Be dazzled and entertained by the breathtaking and spectacular cabaret with our first class dancer, magnificent costumes, exiting music and the most beautiful and amazing female impersonators you have ever seen. Wednesday-Sunday 8.30pm. Jl. Srirama Legian Kuta-Bali Tel/Fax : 62-361-756-604

TJ's
Located in Poppies Lane famous for it's TJS Frozen Margaritas and great Mexican food. Has been in operation for 15 years.

The Bounty Ship 1 & 2
Both on Jalan Legian Kuta. Home to the famous "Jam Jar". A popular restaurant/bar/club. Bounty Ship 1 has a great DJ from 10pm until late everynight. Bounty Ship 2 is open 24 hours with 2 for 1 drinks from 5-7pm.

The Jaya Pub
Jalan Raya Legian Kaja Seminyak. Jaya Pub is an entertaining venue with an interesting blend of tourists and locals. Around for quite a few years it is still as popular as ever. The live bands are often joined by visiting musicians both professional and amateur. Open until 2am.

Venue at the moon
An elegant restaurant with lounge and bar. Serving cocktails and drinks with visiting DJ's and special theme nights.

Warung Music
Situated on Jl Raya Kerobokan with live music 7 nights a week, 9.30 till late.

Woodstock - "The Lounge"
Open 7am till late. Situated on Jl Oberoi, Seminyak. Good place to chill out.

Tuban

All Stars after Dark Back Stage Club
Live music catering to all types, cover bands 7 nights a week 9pm-2am.

Gracie Kelly's
Located at Bali Dynasty Resort on Jalan Kartika Plaza - With no cover charge, check out the 'Kintamani Shamrocks Band' A great pub in the heart of Tuban.

Musro
Live cabaret's daily and guest DJ's (Friday & Saturday) Karaoke, Laser Shows plus an all night café.

Nusa Dua

Every hotel in Nusa Dua has its own bars and generally a nightclub. How full and how much fun they are depends on the current guests, but if you're staying there it's worth a look.

Club Tabuh
Nusa Dua Beach Hotel features ladies nights, fashion parades, regular guest bands and theme nights.

Cool Bar
at Grand Mirage - karaoke and dancing.

East
Located on the third level at Conrad Bali Resort and Spa. Open from 8am-11pm

Lila Cita
Grand Hyatt Bali A live band every night with regular special events, when this venue gets going it can be a lot of fun - depends on the crowd. For sunset cocktails check out the Persona lounge and piano bar in the lobby, a great spot to meet for a drink before dinner of hitting the town.

Octopus Club
at Bali Hilton International.

Oolooloos Fun Pub
at Nikko Bali Hotel, featuring live entertainment and DJ as well as karaoke rooms.

Poco Loco
Great marguerites, imported beers and good music keep the crowds rolling in.

Quinn's
At the Sheraton Lagoon Hotel is currently featuring a line-up of live bands. A lively venue.

Salsa
At the Grand Hyatt Hotel. Offering oceanviews and outstanding cocktails.

Sanur

Lava Lounge
Enjoy a cocktail in this cool setting. Located on Jl Danau Toba. Your hosts are from Australia and will make you feel most welcome.

Grantang
Located with Bali Hyatt, a sophisticated cocktail bar, serves up live jazz every night except Wednesday from 8pm-1am.

Pergola
Head down to Pergola on a Thursday evening for their Salsa night from 8pm onwards. Enjoy a drink or two at the bar!

Jangger Disco
Formerly Subec if you're after a friend for the night this just might be the place to go.

Jazz Bar & Grill
Sanur Raya Complex serving great food and Monday night Jazz session is excellent. Jazz and cover bands 7 nights from 9.30pm

Kafe Wayang
Greatest jam session on the Island every Friday night. Good food and bunch of people hang out there. Located opposite the Radisson Bali hotel in the Sanur Raya shopping complex.

Koki Pub
Missing the pub dinners while on holiday this is the place to go. Pool table and cable TV. Located on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai Sanur. Open till late.

Trophy Bar
Good place to have pre-dinner drinks located next to Sanur Beach Hotel.

The Wine and Cigar Bar at Pala
Bringing air-conditioned elegance to Sanur. A large range of moderately priced wines from allover the world can be drunk in comfort here or taken home.

Ubud

Nightlife in Ubud has its own flavor and is mostly centered around the town's excellent restaurants. However these places cater to the Ubud night owls.

Angsoka
A tiny little bar next to the Terazo Restaurant, where anything could happen. No crowds and a very intermate atmosphere on Jl Suweta, Ubud.

Ary's Warung
Old time favourite with a hint of Jazz located in the main drag, open till late.

Barandi
Want to try a lychee martini? Thursday nights bring live music which draws a bubbly crowd of expats, locals and tourists.

Exiles
Jl Pengosekan Kaja. Live music 9pm - 12pm.

Funky Monkey
Monkey Forest Road open daily from 11.00 - 1.00am. Great music from Latin funk with a hint of blues.

Jazz Cafe
A real hit in Ubud. The live music is always good with quality drinks. Live music is nightly except Sundays & Monday 7.30-10.30pm. Jl Sukma No.2 Tebesaya-Ubud.

Naughty Nuri's
Balinese Warung with a touch of New York. a restaurant with bar...they make a mean martini!

Putra Bar
Casual bar, with live reggae music. Good place to hang out if you cant be bothered dressing up. Open until 12pm. Jl Monkey Forest Ubud.

Sai Sai Bar
Monkey Forest Road, the Queen of Decadence has been let loose here. This is a happening place great food and entertainment.

Terazo
For a bite to eat or just to sample a few cocktails at the bar. A very stylish eatery with cool music and great food situated on Jl Suweta-Ubud.

Wunderbar
With a unique and brightly coloured design, delicious food and well stocked bar. Check it out for yourself.

Balinese Language

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Balinese language is another language entirely, with a completely different vocabulary and grammar and much more complex rules for its use. Balinese is greatly complicated by its caste influences. There's high Balinese, low Balinese and even middle Balinese, plus a number of variations of the three. Middle Balinese has an even more restricted vocabulary. It's mainly used when one wishes to be very polite but doesn't want to emphasize caste differences. Initially a conversation between two strangers would commence in the high language. At some point the question of caste would be asked and then the level adjusted accordingly.

Whenever there are trends of emphases of a greater democratization in public society, any vestiges of apparent feodalism give way to modern movements for democracy equality and non-discrimination; this also in areas where status or social-level in society has hitherto been much determined by the rather sensitive issue of the system of castes. Traditional norms as a kind of "language-obeisance" with relation to inter-class relationships, are on the decline.

Traditionally, however language rules in Bali had to be observed irrespective of age, position or sex. Traditional "rules of Caste" that had so long been considered an unflinching exigency are becoming less pronounced and less rigorous. Albeit, in the face of modern trends the determination of language-usage of certain categories of words, is still much espoused and very much in vogue in Bali. However, significant adjustments have been proposed at more recent Language-Seminars on the Island, and this, no doubt, will have its effects and repercussions in Balinese Society today.

Many seem enthusiastic in the promotion of a standard or common language for all (Basa Madia or Basa Mider); with an option in the selection of words from "a vocabulary of courtesy" which in times past had been limited perhaps to less than a thousand specific words.

ENJOY AN UNFORGETTABLE HONEYMOON IN BALI

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Our Free Ceremony for Your Wedding, Anniversary or
Renewal of Vows and Our Extras for Honeymoons & Wedding
Anniversaries will make your visit even more memorable.

From the moment you arrive in Bali, you'll know this is the honeymoon paradise you've been looking for after your wedding. You'll enjoy the friendly welcome of your private driver, the Balinese house staff, and the comfort and informality of staying in your own villa in Bali. You can relax and totally unwind in spacious, comfortably furnished living and dining areas. And you'll enjoy the tropical garden and the privacy around your swimming pool.

Enjoy Being Totally Spoilt During Your Honeymoon!

You'll be looked after by friendly Balinese maids, house boys and an excellent private cook to prepare delicious Balinese and international dishes or any special diet, and you pay just market prices for the ingredients required for your meals and wholesale prices for any imported wine or spirits.

If you feel like having a massage, a body scrub, a Balinese flower bath, or a manicure – just tell your staff, and all spa & beauty treatments will be arranged in your villa free or at nominal cost. A private Balinese dance performance at your villa, tennis lessons, cooking classes, attending "Bali Wine Club" lunches and/or "Chaine des Rotisseurs" events, and arranging any kind of excursions in Bali — a phone call is enough to organize it.
BALI — the "ULTIMATE HONEYMOON ISLAND"

Annual Reader Surveys by major travel magazines continually confirm the island of Bali in Indonesia as the most enchanting travel destination in the world. And what could be more perfect for a wedding or honeymoon?

The year-round pleasant climate, the very friendly people, and the absence of any security problems guarantee a completely relaxing stay. Because of the physical beauty of the island and its wide variety of attractions, Bali has become for many honeymooners and experienced travelers the "Ultimate Island". For continuously up-dated information on Bali please visit BALI TODAY — an Insider's Guide.
Weddings, Wedding Anniversaries, Renewal of Vows

If you did not get legally married before your visit and plan to take the big step in Bali, please visit our page How to Get Married in Bali. Celebrating your wedding in Bali in the presence of a few close friends is certainly much more economical than inviting 80 or 100 guests at home.

Balivillas.com will assist with villa decorations, catering & party service and transportation. If you book a private villa for 7 days or more, Balivillas.com will arrange a FREE Wedding Ceremony. You can also take advantage of this offer to Renew your Vows if your wedding anniversary is during your stay at your villa in Bali. For details please visit FREE Extras for Special Occasions.

For additional arrangements such as more elaborate religious ceremonies, legal formalities, rental of bridal dresses, hair styling and make-up, flowers, Balinese dancers & musicians, photo & video shooting etc. please visit Romantic-Weddings.com.

ADVANTAGES OF RENTING A PRIVATE VILLA

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For less than the cost of staying at a good hotel in Bali (US$180 to more than US$800 per room per day) you can now enjoy the luxury of a beautiful private villa with air-conditioned bedrooms and tropical garden bathrooms, spacious living and dining areas with large terraces, a lush tropical garden with your own private swimming pool and full-time staff such as a personal butler, well-trained cook, maids, spa therapists, gardeners, etc. to pamper you around the clock.

* In addition to modern amenities, every villa you rent from Balivillas.com will reflect Balinese lifestyle throughout: floors and walls are made from local wood, bamboo, and natural stone, high roofs cover airy living and dining areas, and large garden bathrooms are full of flowers and plants. And you'll appreciate the comfort and informality you can only experience in a private home.

* Your villa staff will normally number three to five, although there can be 20 or more full-time employees in the larger villas. The cooks, maids, house boys, spa therapists, laundresses, gardeners, night guards and drivers have often been working for Balivillas.com for a long time. They are, therefore, familiar with foreign visitors' requirements and preferences and will look after all your needs. In some of our top villas we offer nowadays also Personal Butler service.

* Instead of staying in hotel rooms (bed, two chairs, dressing table, TV set and telephone, wardrobe, small bathroom), your family will enjoy this truly Balinese experience. And you have much more space, more informality, more privacy, and more personal service than even the best hotel can provide.

* You can have delicious local meals or any special diet prepared by your own cook. Or you can ask your driver to bring in delicacies from nearby restaurants – and have them served whenever and wherever you like – in your dining room, living area, at the poolside, in your bedroom, or even in the the bathroom.
Order your favorite snacks and drinks to be bought for you at the local supermarket or wine wholesaler. You'll be surprised at the low cost when you pay the same prices as locals do!

* When you rent a villa you can expect to save between US$50 and US$80 per person per day compared to staying at a hotel where all "extras" (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and drinks, laundry, telephone, fax, plus Bali's 21% tax & service charge on everything) can easily double or triple your bill. Therefore, taking all the extra expense of staying at a hotel into account, the "luxury" of renting a private villa through Balivillas.com will not only turn out to be more comfortable and relaxing but also much cheaper!

Most important of all, you will really experience Bali while staying at a private villa. You're not insulated from the island and its people by a hotel environment. You're participating – and living in a Balinese atmosphere, surrounded by a relaxed, elegant and informal setting, with well trained and very friendly staff caring for your every need.

There's nothing better than this! It will be a vacation you won't forget. To read the comments from recent guests please click here.

Nusa Dua Beach Area Guide

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Everything you need to know about Nusa Dua Beach

Nusa Dua (meaning Two Islands) is the name of the peninsula that extends off the southern tip of the island of Bali, hosting a pristine complex of luxury hotels. A heavy concentration of big name international hotels lines the beautiful white sand shore that offers excellent swimming conditions in a protected lagoon. Located ten kilometres from the international airport, Nusa Dua is designed as an enclave of the most sumptuous and luxurious hotels in the world dedicated to big-spender tourists.

It is an idyllic place for honeymooner and those who are bringing the entire family, the white sand and shallow water are ideal for children to play in the sea while lifeguards keep a watchful eye.The roads in the area are well maintained and 24/7 security staff guard two entrance gates with full security procedures for every incoming and outgoing guest. It is no wonder then that year round Nusa Dua is an official venue for international conferences, congresses, meetings and other executive corporate events and annual festivals, attended by important worldwide participants.

Where to Stay in Nusa Dua Beach
Spectacular luxury resorts are the norm in Nusa Dua, with many incorporating contemporary Balinese style buildings and beautifully landscaped gardens, ponds and pool areas. Deluxe ocean view suites and stunning architecture like the Javanese Imperial Palace style at the Aston Bali are quite breathtaking.

Nusa Dua Beach Attractions

Apart from the high-class facilities presented by the resorts, Nusa Dua doesn’t have many things to offer as an attraction. However, there one place where you can escape from the resort’s fancy highlife without the hassle of going out of the complex. It’s Museum Pasifika – a wonderful place that houses some pieces of art collected from Asia and the Pacific island where you are welcome to visit every single day in a week from 10.00 to 18.00.
Nusa Dua Beach Activities

The Nusa Dua Resorts and Hotels area offers a wide range complementary fun activities and facilities designed for all family members. Unfortunately, only few facilities are opened for public. Try golf at Bali Golf and Country Club presents 18 holes whereas a spectacular view of Indian Ocean serves as a background or driving a 700cc motorized ski while exploring the beautiful blue sea lapping against the sand stretching three kilometres from Nusa Dua to the coastal side of Tanjung Benoa.

Experience an unforgettable ride from atop a camel’s back at Geger Sawangan Beach could be a fun thing to do with entire family or just play tennis at the court where the International athletes swing their racquet every once in a year at Tennis International Commonwealth Tournament at Grand Hyatt Hotel.
Nusa Dua Beach Restaurants

Nusa Dua is the home of most of the prestigious restaurants with luxurious price tags to fit. Therefore, if you are hoping to find first-class service, breathtaking ocean views, amazing interior settings, an exquisite taste of international cuisine prepared by renowned executive chefs and nightly live music performances, you’ll never go wrong by entering the Nusa Dua Resorts Complex. Your finest culinary journey could start from L’ermitazh & Gypsy Jazz Club and Pica Tapas, both located in Bali Collection complex. L’ermitazh serves a cuisine rich in Russian flavours at mid-range prices while Pica Tapas offers great selection of Brazilian dishes together with salsa dance performance every night.

Next destination could be Kayuputi offers modern Asian cuisine and Seafood fare, Boneka and Gourmand Deli are also worth visiting for incredible breakfast and brunch, all of them are well situated in St. Regis Resort. Meanwhile Raja’s an award winning royal Balinese food at Nusa Dua Beach Hotel can be your perfect final end!
Nusa Dua Beach Nightlife

There is not much in the way of nightlife in Nusa Dua especially if you are expecting to see a crowd and a wild night out as if you were in Kuta or Legian. All you can find is some prestigious bar and lounge situated in the luxurious resorts and hotels where a dress code is sometimes applied like King Cole Bar at St.

Regis Bali Resort, O Loo Loos Fun Pub and Salsa Bar at Nikko Bali Hotel, Pesona Lounge at Grand Hyatt or Cascade and Sand Bar at The Laguna Resort. All features nightly live performance with amazing different ambience, great choice of champagnes, fine imported wines, martinis, exotic cocktails and other concoctions. But it mostly closed after 2.00 in the morning.
Nusa Dua Beach Shopping

Nusa Dua offers you the most comprehensive international shopping complex - The Bali Collection. It’s an outdoor mall that attempts to be the most up-market all-in-one shopper’s haven right in the midst of the luxurious resort compound where you don’t have to bother with risky bargaining.

Bali Collection presents a hotchpotch of the world’s trendy brand names displayed in SOGO as well famous local brands, art and craft shops and jewellery stores. Alternatively, facing the main entrance gate on Jalan By Pass Ngurah Rai and the back entrance gate on Jalan Pantai Mengiat, you can venture out to some art shops managed by local people where your best haggling skills are necessary.

Nusa Dua Map

Our interactive map (and satellite views) displays all available hotels with photos, facilities and guest comments as well as attractions, landmarks and other items of interest with links to relevant information pages. The perfect way to find your way around and see where everything actually is. (Read More)

Shopping in Legian

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Where to Shop in Legian Beach - Bali

Don’t want to go home with empty baggage? No need to be worried, Legian is full with local boutiques and art shops need a bigger luggage? Start your journey from Melasti Street crossroad to Double Six Street, if your baggage hasn’t full yet, try a little adventure by taking small alleys, you might find good painting with leaner price.

Legian Main Street is only 3 km long and best to explore by bike or motorcycle for only Rp. 25,000 per day rent but there always a reason for one who wants to get cardio exercise. Since most of art shop doesn’t offer fixed price, bargain is a must.

By the Sea

Dominated by tropical tone selection, Brazilian owned resort wear has been in Bali since 2001 with collection from children to adult. By the Sea uses soft natural cotton and other light materials which guaranteed its comfort. Just a perfect option to one who wants to look casual on traditional cut yet still remains classy.
Location: on Jalan Legian

Uluwatu

Named after cliff-edge temple in southern Bali, Uluwatu is an original Indonesian style of fashion with meticulous embroidery as its trademark. Originally for ceremonial purpose only within Indonesian women, lace became important as it was considered rare and almost gone. Their product line includes women’s clothing, nightwear, bed linen, table linen and more. Isn’t just the right way to enjoy the Island of Paradise with its original style?
Location: on Jalan Legian

Hippichic

Expanding to retails and ready to wear, Bali based brand Hippichic opens its boutique on Legian Street. Their design inspired by sixties and seventies fashion, and made exclusively for women with the sense of flower generation. If you’re a joyful, fun and optimistic, Hippichic gives you a fashion with personality.
Location: on Jalan Legian

The Curl

One of the biggest surf shops in the area, Rip Curl-managed surf dock offers you a great variety of top rank surf gear from wrist watch to board wax. Don’t forget to check 2nd storey for discounted items. If you’re a diehard surfer or a serious wannabe, make sure you stop by before you dip in to the sea.
Location: on Jalan Legian

Birkenstock Shoes

The German-made shoes and sandals now in Bali, with more than 230 years experience Birkenstock remains to keep its quality as one well-built leather-based shoemaker yet comfortable. Birkenstock also embrace Heidi Klum as its brand representatives and designer for her “Specials by Heidi Klum.” You might want to get one of those “Specials.”
Location: on Jalan Legian

Suarti Silver

One of Balinese famous artist, Suarti has performed for presidents to statesmen as a dancer, musician, and painter. Her Suarti Silver Company designs and manufactures sterling silver jewelry for casual to ceremonial purpose. The designs itself is a combination between modern and traditional design and yet still maintaining its originality to Balinese tradition and culture.
Location: on Jalan Legian

Mertanadi Art Market (Melasti Street)

This is one of many traditional art markets in Bali where you can find almost everything from fake glasses to famous Bintang shirt. If you want to experience the real deal this is one thing you must try but always remember to be calm when you get hassled by stall owners, take a careful look at things you want to buy and bargain is a must.
Location: on Jalan Legian

Asia Line Handycraft

One of many qualified art shop in Legian Street, with such range products from chandeliers to rattan bags, from batik mask to wooden puppets, Asia Line expanded from small retail shop to wholesale export-oriented company with regular clients from Australia, France, Japan, Netherland, UK, and USA. Asia Line workshops are located in Bantul Yogyakarta, Bogor West Java and Tegal Alang Ubud.
Location: on Jalan Legian

Shopping in Kuta Beach

2009-08-02T22:03:00.000-07:00

Where to Shop in Kuta Beach - Bali

Kuta is a shopping Mecca for visitors, shopaholics and locals who wish to sport the fashionable look of well-known locally made Bali designs and established international brands. Don’t miss out on a spot of bikini, swimwear and surf wear shopping while in Bali. There are numerous shops in Kuta, lined up on Kuta Beach, Kuta Sidewalk, Legian Street; even small alleys called Poppies that are famous for small hotels, guesthouses and villas. Shops selling clothing, leather goods, pirated DVDs and handicrafts line the streets.

Prices differ from store to store but with the variety of choices, you will be sure to find something that matches your budget. To find some souvenirs to bring home to your family and friends, there plenty of art shops selling Balinese crafts in Kuta. Although they offer similar items, prices can vary, depending on the quality of the merchandise and how good you are at bargaining. During the high season from July to September and at Christmas, some stores hold clearance sales where you can save up to 70%.

Kuta Art Market

Kuta Art Market is a traditional market where you can get souvenirs and goods crafted by local people. The prices vary, depending on your haggling skills. The most important thing to remember is to be polite and friendly (certainly not confrontational) and to treat it all as a kind of game. Haggling is expected and indeed encouraged as part of the fun of shopping, and as such theatrical expressions and claims of bankruptcy will soon have you laughing together with the shop owner. It is often helpful to decide upon the most you want to pay for an item before you start bargaining.

Then you should try offering one third of the price first offered, and wait for them to come down in price before slowly raising your own offer in small increments. Don’t be afraid to take your time: your patience will be rewarded with much lower prices. If the price offered is still much higher than your maximum budget, walk away slowly from the shop. Often the vendor will call you back and offer you a lower price. Make sure you check the quality of your item before you pay and move along to the next store. Once you have won the negotiation battle, you can bet you will be addicted and will have fun shopping at this kind of market.
Location: next to Kuta Square

Kuta Square

Just nearby the Kuta Art Market, Kuta Square is a shopping centre approximately 50 metres from Kuta Beach. Designed in boulevard style, Kuta Square is packed with a lot of international and local brands from surf wear outlets, dining areas, a hypermarket and fashion stores; such as Billabong, Quiksilver, Hurley, Giardano, Reebok, Nike, Levi’s, and two famous local brands – Milo’s and Animale.
Location: Jalan Bakung Sari

Discovery Shopping Mall

Discovery Shopping Mall, the only mall with a beachfront view, is located in Kuta’s prime area. This mall has facilities such as banks, restaurants, cafés, bookstores, opticians, pharmacies, amusement arcades, home accessories, jewelry and international brand outlets such as Sogo, Guess, Esprit, Giardano and many more. Live bands perform every Saturday and Sunday nights to liven up your weekend shopping.
Location: Jalan Bakung Sari

DFS (Duty Free Shopping)

DFS Galleria brings an exciting and luxurious retail environment to a downtown location for fashion, beauty, fine jewelry and alcoholic drinks. It features an impressive portfolio of the world’s most sought-after brands, including established labels such as Cartier, Chanel, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Tiffany and emerging brands like Bottega Veneta, Pucci and Valentino. If you need assistance, the multilingual staff will be delighted to help you. Located in Mall Bali Galleria, you can also find a hypermarket and mid-range department store for fashion and accessories next door.
Location: on Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai Kuta

69 Slam

69 Slam offers lingerie and underwear for men and women, designed in funky and colourful styles. The products are created for a dynamic young stylish upscale market. For ladies, the prices range from IDR 99,000 to 199,000 and IDR 155,000 to IDR 225,000 for men. There are four other branches spread throughout Kuta and Seminyak.
Location: opposite the Memorial Statue

Surfer Girl

Surfer Girl sells T-shirts, tank tops, dresses, skirts, trousers, surfing rash vests, flip flops, swimwear, bikinis and accessories to match your style during your visit to Bali. Surfer Girl own brand products come in happy colours and often feature a funky cartoon design of the Surfer Girl characters (Summer, Niki, Grinder and friends). Adjoining the Surfer Girl store, Quiksilver offers beach-themed fashion wear for him.
Location: on Jalan Legian Kuta

Camper Shoes

Having opened its first store in 1981 in Barcelona, Camper expanded their reach to Bali last year. Now, Camper’s fans can shop for their latest edition of flats, wedges, pumps, boots, mules, athletic shoes or sandals here in Kuta, all made from high quality leather, rubber and suede in a wide selection of sizes.
Location: Southside Hard Rock store

Body & Soul

Body & Soul provides the most competitive prices compared to other local fashion brands in Bali. In addition to their clothing collection for women, they offer an extensive range of accessories from jewelry to belts, scarves and handbags – not to mention their hot range of Body & Soul swimwear. For kids, they have Body & Soul Bambini – funky gear for your young boys and girls, aged between three and eight years old. Apart from their outlet, check out Body & Soul Factory Outlet in Kuta and Seminyak, where you can get items from their collection at half price.
Location: at Discovery Shopping Mall, Kuta Square, on Jalan Legian Kuta

Rip Curl

Rip Curl has been a market leader in wetsuits for over 30 years. They produce surfwear, swimwear, bikinis, flip flops, surfboards (especially handcrafted custom boards) and mountain wear. All the designs are stylish and comfortable to wear. Although the prices can be expensive, they give you the best quality garments for beach activities and sportswear.
Location: on Jalan Sunset Road

Batik Keris

Batik Keris sells most Javanese patterns of batik in the form of clothing for women and men, scarves, table linen made from cotton and small souvenirs. Unlike Balinese batik patterns, Javanese batik only uses natural colours such as indigo, black and brown.
Location: on Jalan Legian Kuta and Discovery Shopping Mall 1st floor

Wira’s Batik

If you are wondering where to purchase Batik in high quality fabric, Wira’s is the place to go. The women’s clothing blends the traditional and modern in dresses, tops and skirts, with shirts and trousers for men, all printed on beautiful high-quality silk and cotton. Prices are high but the quality is totally worth it for high-end fashion couture in traditional patterns.
Location: on Jalan Kendedes and SOGO Department Store at Discovery Shopping Mall

Star Surf

If you happen to be just passing by Legian Street, Kuta, have a look inside a big hangar-like store with a real single seat combat plane in it. This unusual accessory has helped make Star Surf one of the biggest surf stores in Bali. Star Surf is loaded with almost every major surfing brand with a wide range of products from surfboards to fashion accessories.
Location: on Jalan Legian Kuta

Motion Skate Shop

The only skateboard dedicated shop in Kuta, Motion aims to promote skateboarding in Bali and Indonesia and hopes the government can be made aware that the sport and its athletes deserve equal opportunity to participate in international competitions. Despite its small number of devotees, Motion Skate Shop stocks almost every leading skate brand like Birdhouse, Nike SB, Plan B and many others.
Location: on Jalan Legian Kuta

MSD (Motor Sport Division)

Formerly a motorsport dealer, MSD has turned into an extreme sports division for adrenalin-fuelled activities from mud terrain biking to paragliding. MSD distributes various international extreme sports brands such as Fox Racing, Troy Lee Design, DC Shoes, Thor, and many others. If you feel that your current sport is not macho enough, you should try riding on a hi-speed motor trail over limestone hills or paragliding off the Bukit Peninsula’s cliffs.
Location: on Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai Kuta

Bali Shopping by Area

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Virtually everybody comes to Bali to shop, and even if shopping wasn't the ultimate aim, you'll still end up with fascinating and irresistible buys. Bali is a treasure trove of fine art and handicrafts, antique and semi-antique furniture, paintings, delicately carved jewellery, wood and stone carvings, masks, woven and dyed fabrics. (What to buy in Bali)

Bargaining in markets, shops and art shops, is normal practice and getting a good price depends largely on one's bargaining prowess. As bargaining forms a large part of the fun of shopping in Bali, remember to carry cash, as not all places accept credit cards - and be good humoured. Shops are usually open from 10am to 11pm.

International labels, local designer clothes plus skillful tailors and dressmakers offer reliable 24-hours services. Shops selling similar items are normally grouped together to make comparing prices easy, and if the shop you're in doesn't have a particular colour or size, why, just pop over next door!

BALINESE MUSIC

2009-08-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

Balinese music represents, to a large extent, a survival of the pre-Islamic music of Java. It was taken to Bali by Hindu Javanese in the 15th cent. and uses the tonal systems of Javanese music , of which pelog is by far the more important in Bali. Balinese music sounds impetuous and noisy, in contrast to the soft, tranquil music heard currently in Java. Few gamelans, the orchestras of tuned percussion instruments, play in Java today but they flourish, their archaic forms preserved, in modern Bali. The gamelans of the princes are no longer important in Bali, but have left their influence on the village societies for music making. There are also the ceremonial gamelans of the temples.

The most important gamelan instruments are xylophones, which may be made of bronze or bamboo. Bronze xylophones are of two basic types— gangsa, whose keys are supported over a wooden resonance box, and g'ndér, whose keys have individual bamboo resonators. These instruments sometimes play the melody and sometimes they provide a brilliant figuration. Gongs, suspended singly, are used for metrical accentuation; there are also gong chimes, which are of two types. The trompong, a set of 10, is a solo instrument, and the réyong, a set of 12, is played by four men, supplying figuration. Flutes, in two sizes, are made of bamboo and are used in theatrical music. Although the name of the rebab, a two-string spike fiddle, is Persian-Arabic, the instrument probably originated in S China and is used in the music of the gambuh play. Cymbals, bell rattles, and drums supply the all-important elaborate rhythmic background. The anklung is an archaic, tuned bamboo rattle. It is not known in all parts of Bali, but gives its name to the anklung gamelan, a ceremonial gamelan which may at one time have always included anklungs.

The instrumentation and the repertory of a particular gamelan depend on its function. Each of the various forms of dance and drama has a gamelan which specializes in its music. The most recent musical development is kebyar, a restless, explosive music which discards the highly developed, balanced forms of the older music. Kebyar clubs compose their own music, often taking themes from older music. The wealthier clubs include a dancer—a young man who performs seated on the ground, dancing from the waist up. Balinese notation was invented by the Javanese who brought the music to Bali. It gives no indication of the rhythm and is little used. Music is learned by rote; it is not improvisation, however, but a sophisticated, composed art form. Balinese music has had some popularity in the West, mainly sponsored by the composer Lou Harrison , founder of the modern American gamelan movement.

Bibliography: See D. A. Lentz, The Gamelan Music of Java and Bali (1965); C. McPhee, Music in Bali (1965).

Bali Festivals & Events Guide

2009-06-14T23:26:00.000-07:00

Calendar of Bali Events

Festivals and events are important features in the social landscape of Bali, and also permanent fixtures in the lives of the Balinese. These festivals and events are determined by the calendars of the Balinese from long ago.

The major events in the life of a Balinese is believed to occur on fixed dates, which go according to the Balinese Calendar. Unlike temple festivals, these major events take place nearly every six months or every 210 days!

The Balinese believe in annual cycles and every six months of a Balinese's life is a celebration of holidays and life-cycle ceremonies. Since his conception in his mother's womb, every Balinese passes through certain stages, and this carries on up until marriage. These are the events celebrated to mark the passage of a Balinese as he progresses in his life. But the ritual of utmost importance to the Balineses is the ritual of the funeral rites and cremation.

It is, therefore, extremely obvious that festivals and events are an integral part of Balinese life and a huge part of the mysticism and allure that sets Bali apart from any other land. To help preserve and maintain every aspect of this rich culture, the Provincial Government of Bali holds numerous Annual Festivals.
Calendars

The Balinese use altogether three types of calendars for one year; one is the typical Western calendar, and the other two are local Balinese calendars, the saka and the wuku calendars.

The wuku calendar is used to find out dates for festivals and has 10 different weeks, each from one to 10 days and all running simultaneously.

The saka calendar is a lunar calendar of Hindu origin, which closely follows the Western calendar in terms of the length of the year. With illustrations for each day indicating what activities that day is auspicious for, Balinese calendars make popular souvenirs.

Some of Bali's major temples celebrate their festivals according to the dictates of the saka calendar. Hence, the actual date of a festival is difficult to determine from the Western calendar since the lunar saka does not have a predetermined number of days.

The wuku calendar, however, does have a set number of days. According to the saka, full moons days from the end of September till the start of October, or from early to mid-April are normally important festive dates, and temples will celebrate important temple festivals then.
Galungan

Bali's most important festival is the Galungan festival. It is a feast and festival which is held throughout the whole island and an annual event in the wuku year. It is believed that during this ten day period all Balinese gods, including Sanghyang Widi, the supreme deity, will descend to earth for the festivities. Barongs prance from temple to temple and village to village in celebration of the Galungan with the gods.

Galungan to the Balinese, is the most important holiday period as it symbolizes the victory of Dharma, or Virtue, upon Adharma, or all that is Evil. The festivities are made extra special by the fitting of 'penjor' on the right side of the entrance to every house.

A penjor is a tall bamboo pole terrifically decorated with woven young coconut leaves, cakes, fruits and flowers; and also a must for every Balinese household. The Galungan also sees the Balinese decked in their finest clothes and jewels for the day.

The last day of the 10-day festival is the most important day. Known as Kuningan, it is the climax of the ten-day Galungan, and also serves to bringing the holiday period to a close. Kuningan is a day for prayer, and a special ritual ceremony is held for the spirits of the Balinese's ancestors.

Just as the Galugan ends with a day of symbolic prayer, its beginning is marked by Pagerwesi. Pagerwesi literally means 'iron fence', and on Pagerwesi day every year, ceremonies and prayers are held in supplication for iron-strong mental and spiritual defense in welcoming the Galungan holiday.
Nyepi

The saka calendar has a major festival called Nyepi, or the final day of the saka year. It falls on the day after the new moon on the ninth month. Nyepi is a celebrated holiday and the Balinese New Year called icaka New Year. It is a day of total silence throughout the island. Nyepi really is a celebration observed with total silence!

On Nyepi day, there is totally no activity - no traffic at all on the roads, no amusement is held the whole day long. No fires also may be lit in observance of the Nyepi and great purification and sacrificial rites are held on the day prior to Nyepi in order to exorcise evil spirits from every corner of Bali.
Saraswati

Bali and the Balinese also celebrate Saraswati, a day devoted to God's manifestation as the wise and beautiful Goddess of Knowledge, Art and Literature - the Dewi Saraswati. To mark this joyous day, books of knowledge, manuscripts and the Wedas are blessed and special offerings are made together with aspirations for knowledge and wisdom.
Arts Festival

Highly notable is the Annual Arts Festival, which interestingly takes place from every second Saturday of June to the second Saturday of July. This Annual Arts Festival is a celebration of exhibitions and performances of various kinds of artworks and cultural achievements, including the absorbing Kite Festival.

The Bali Aga (The Original Balinese)

2009-06-14T23:22:00.000-07:00

The original Balinese or Bali Aga, are a unique ethnic group that still live and practise a way of life that pre-dates modern civilisation. The Bali Aga are thought to be the original inhabitants of Bali who fled imperialistic invaders, eventually finding refuge in the solitude of Bali's remote mountains. Only two villages remain - which until recently, were firmly shut away from the rest of the world, hidden in the hills of East Bali.

Located just west of Candi Dasa lie the villages of Tenganan and Trunyan, isolated across the vast Lake Kintamani. The villages, home to the Bali Aga, are shut off by a solid wall surrounding the entire village. The wall is only broken by means of four gates, each facing north, south, east and west. Within these walls lies a massive Banyan tree surrounded by a low wall of uncut stones, making up a small enclosure for a very sacred temple. Tenganan has only recently opened up to outsiders although strict rules still apply, especially concerning marriage to outsiders. Tenganan has wonderful fabrics, including the renowned double weave ikat cloth.

The villagers of Tenganan are tall and slender with very pale complexions and refined manners. The men folk still wear their hair long and have a communistic system which does not recognize individual ownership of property. Every house in Tenganan looks exactly alike, with a flight of steps leading to a small gate opening into a courtyard with sleeping quarters, kitchen, and a long house for storage. A small empty shrine, signifies a place where spirits may rest when they visit their descendants.

Tenganan owns huge tracts of fertile and well cultivated lands capable of satisfying the needs of the village; and also making Tenganan one of the richest in Bali.

A people known for their filed and blackened teeth, the Bali Aga are said to bring the spirits of their ancestors down to Earth for protection through sacrifices. The Bali Aga leave the bodies of their dead in the jungle to be carried away by the spirits, and they are believed to have possibly eaten parts of their headmen's bodies to absorb magic powers. Family clans are ruled by a council of elders who are also religious priests. The Bali Aga revere the forces of nature and the spirits of their ancestors, with whom they continue to live as a great family of both the living and the dead.
Bali Aga Rites

The Tenganans practice an ancient rite known as mekare kare, the ritual blood sacrifice. This is not as gory as it sounds, but an event where all villagers get involved in an annual ritual combat, using thorny pandan leaves to draw blood.

Each combatant hits his opponent with the aim of drawing blood. The ritual fight will be held every time there is a temple ceremony is Tenganan, which tends to fall in the fifth month of the Balinese calendar.

The fighting and the blood are real, and all participants come well prepared, carrying weapons of a rotan-woven shield and a bundle of thorny pandan leaves, used to scratch the opponent's skin until it bleeds.

Before the fight begins, participants drink rice wine or tuak, fermented local palm, to symbolise brotherhood and sportsmanship. But when the selonding music fills the air, a volley of fierce jeers, insults, cheers and shouts are thrown to instill fear. And the fighting begins.

The fighting is judged by a mediator, most probably a prominent figure of the village, and usually lasts for a fierce 5 to 10 minutes. The first person to draw blood with the thorny weapon is victor, and the person he draws blood from is the vanquished. Both victor and vanquished are broken up by the mediator as soon as blood is drawn.

As the injured are treated with traditional liquid medicines, and all fighters recover their strength, the whole village prepares food and drink for an elaborate feast which must follow the Balinese sacrifice of human blood.

Balinese culture has also got a population control mechanism in their child naming practices, and this is not only confined to the Bali Aga, but encompasses every Balinese. Every first born is named Wayan, second born Made, third Nyoman, and the fourth Ketut. Anymore children will see a repeat of the names following the order. But this practice definitely is a big hint and subtle reminder to stop at a maximum of four!
Balinese Religion

Nearly everything in Bali carries a religious significance from creating stone and wood carvings, cremation ceremonies, trance dances and gamelan music, are intended to please and appease the gods.

As most pleasing and appeasing rituals take place in a temple, temples are, undisputedly, the most important structure in Balinese culture, providing a pleasant resting place for the gods during their stay on the island.

Every house on the island has its own shrine, a resting place for ancestral spirits. Even the paddy fields have a shrine for Dewi Sri, the Rice Goddess. Each village has three temples, the Pura Puseh, dedicated to the villagers' ancestors, the Pura Desa, used for official celebrations, and the Pura Dalem or the temple of death, specially dedicated to the deities of death and of cremation.
Cremation Ceremonies

The Ngaben or Cremation Ceremony is a very important part of Balinese culture. The ceremony is performed to send the dead from death to the next life. When death descends on a Balinese, the village kul kul will sound, hanging in the village temple tower to announce the departure of the deceased.

The body will then be placed at the Bale Delod, and the deceased treated as if sleeping. No tears are shed as the Balinese believe that the deceased will return shortly to be reincarnated into the family.

The Priest will then consult the Dewasa for the day of the ngaben ceremony. On the appointed day, the body of the deceased is placed inside a coffin, which is then placed inside a wadah, or sarcophagus shaped in the form of a buffalo. It is actually a temple structure made of paper and light wood.

The funeral procession then leaves for the cremation site, carrying the wadah. The most important part of the ngaben is the burning of the wadah, with fire taken from a holy source, thus sending the deceased to the afterlife,to prepare for a future reincarnation.

Bali Museums Guide

2009-06-14T23:19:00.000-07:00

Everything you need to know about Bali's Museums

Most of Bali's museums and galleries are centred in Ubud, but culture and history rich Bali is peppered with museums and galleries - all individually interesting! These museums and galleries offer paintings, wood carvings, textiles and all kinds of souvenirs for viewing and also purchase.

The Museum Puri Lukisan in centre of Ubud, the Neka Museum in Campuhan, Seniwati Gallery and Agung Rai Museum in Pengosekan are a must, to see the difference between creative art and more commercial products.
Central Bali
Museum Puri Lukisan, Ubud

Founded by Rudolf Bonnet and Cokorda Gde Agung Sukawati, Ubud's Museum Puri Lukisan houses a permanent collection of Balinese painting from the turn of the century; displaying fine examples off all schools of Balinese art. This museum has a collection of 150 painting and 62 pieces of sculptures. The first fine arts museum in Bali, it has a valuable aim of culturing Bali's very aesthetic art and culture for its next generation.
Museum Neka, Ubud

The superb Neka Museum, in Campuan, is another excellent museum, with marvelous collections of traditional Balinese paintings by local artists and foreign artists who lived in Bali; and items of modern Balinese art. The museum stores art from the Kamasan style of the 16th century to modern 20th century paintings. The whole collection is displayed chronologically, to provide an overview of Bali's history of fine arts.

The Neka Gallery on Jalan Raya , and the Agung Rai Gallery in Peliatan are some of Bali's largest and most important.
Museum Nyoman, Ubud

This three storey museum in Mas village follows the conception of Tri Angga, that is, the three parts of human body; head, body, and legs. The museum's art collection is a mix of works of painters from the olden days of the ancient Klungkung Kingdom to this very day.
Museum Agung Rai, Ubud

Sprawling all over six hectares, the Museum Agung Rai was built based on the concept of a "living museum". It displays paintings and holds stage presentations for various art forms; and is a place for karawitan. It comes complete with an arts library and book gallery, hotel, restaurant, cafe, and coffee shop. One of the museums main specialty is its terrific views of Ubud, with rice fields and trenches integrated into part of the museum.
Seniwati Gallery of Art by Women

This gallery was established in 1991 by Mary Northmore, the very personable wife of famous painter Abdul Azis; with the aim of helping Balinese women to be accepted as artists; and also to expose the long hidden and unrecognised brilliance of women artists in Bali. The gallery also serves to motivate, train and encourage young talented Balinese girls achieve their full potential in the world of arts.
Southern Bali
Museum Negeri Propinsi Bali, Denpasar

This museum in Denpasar was founded by the Yayasan Bali Museum in December 8, 1932. It has interesting exhibits of traditional tools, crafts, masks and costumes from all over Bali; and displays archaeological items and a collection of ethnographical exhibits.
Museum Le Mayeur, Sanur

This memorial museum immortalizes the memory and enduring love of a pair of lovers - Le Mayeur and Ni Polok. All displays and exhibits are from the collection of Le Mayeur's paintings.
Museum Manusa Yadnya, Taman Ayun

Just as its name implies, the Museum Manusa Yadnya details items regarding the process of a human's life from the womb to the tomb.
Northern Bali
Museum Gedong Kirtya, Singaraja

This wonderful museum in Singaraja is a display of thousands of ancient Balinese letters in chronological order; the kakawin, or old Balinese poetry; and the geguritan which written on the palm leaf. All these and more are stored in the original building that was built in 1928 and still standing tall today.
Western Bali
Museum Subak, Tabanan

Tabanan is a region popularly known as Bali's 'rice warehouse'. Hence, it is no surprise to learn that Tabanan is home to the Subak Museum, which houses a vast collection of, what else, but agricultural items. An interesting display to take note of is Bali's typical watering system, called Subak, the museum's namesake.
Museum Gedong Area, Gianyar

Located in the Bedulu Village, this museum's collection is dedicated to archaeological items reflecting the history of Bali's cultural development.
Eastern Bali
Museum Seni Lukis Klasik, Klungkung

This museum is owned by the talented Nyoman Gunarsa, and is used as an outlet by the man himself to exhibit his masterpieces, completing the museum's collection, which documents the classical paintings of Bali. The Museum Seni Lukis Klasik is located in the village of Banda village.
Museum Manusia Purba, Gilimanuk

The Museum Manusia Purba, at the western end of Bali, was established in 1990s. It all began with an archaeological expedition of Dukuh Cekik in 1962, by R.P. Soejoeno from the Bali Archaeological Service. The expedition estimated that approximately 2,000 years ago, the stone age man dwelled on the site of the museum.

Bali Dance & Shadow Puppet Guide

2009-06-14T23:12:00.000-07:00

Art is everywhere in Bali. From the intricate flower decorations in a Barong dancer's headdress, to elaborately carved temple facades and beautiful oil paintings. Bali's performing arts are also an integral part of Balinese culture.

Music and dance play a huge part in significant rituals and religious ceremonies. Known as " the Island of the Gods" hardly a day goes by without a ceremony or festival taking place. Traditional dances with full gamelan orchestras are performed for tourists daily in addition to the day to day religious ceremonies. Definitely worth seeing.
Barong Dance

The Barong is triumphant display of graceful movement and vibrant colour. The dance is basically a contest between the opposing forces of Rangda - chaos and destruction, and Barong - order. (Basically good and evil.)

Performances
Suwung and Kesiman, in the suburbs of Denpasar.
Batubulan: Daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.
Banjar Abasan, Singapadu: Daily from 9:30 a.m.
Puri Saren in Ubud: Fridays from 6:30 p.m.
Legong Dance

The Legong is a very difficult dance requiring great dexterity and is generally performed by young girls. The dance is choreographed to the finest detail, to a set pattern with no improvisation allowed.

Performances
Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Dalem & Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m.
Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m.
Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Kuta, Saturday and Tuesday from 8:00 p.m.
Kecak Dance

The kecak is a ritual dance which was created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies. The dance combines the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a dance story from the epic "Ramayana."

It is extremely impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare-chested male singers.

Performances
Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Banjar Buni, Kuta, Sunday from 8 p.m.
Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.
Fire Dance

This dance is an exorcism dance form against spirit possession, where barefooted girls in trance dance among glowing coals.

Performances
Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30
Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m.
Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.
Ramayana Dance

This highly entertaining dance form plays out the epic legends of the Ramayana. There are occasional performances in Banjar Buni, Kuta.
Shadow Puppets - Wayang Kulits

Wayang Kulit, is an Indonesian shadow puppet play, which uses intricately made and beautifully painted, gilded leather puppets. Although only the puppets' shadows are seen by the audience, the performances are fascinating. The stories told by shadows are often from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and mysticism.

A single, highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets; plays out the roles of different characters with a different voice for each character; and leads the traditional musicians.

Wayang kulit plays can play for several hours or be several days long.

Performances
Popular performances are at Banjar Buni, Kuta, every Monday and Thursday 8:00 p.m.
Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.

Introducing Tulamben

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he big attraction here is the wreck of the US cargo ship Liberty – among the best and most popular dive sites in Bali. Other great dive sites are nearby, and even snorkellers can easily swim out and enjoy the wreck and the coral. Tulamben’s beachfront is quite different from other beach resorts – heavy, black, round boulders and pebbles make it unappealing for sunbathers or casual swimmers. Services beyond the hotels are few.

Introducing Ubud

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Perched on the gentle slopes leading up towards the central mountains, Ubud is the other half of Bali’s tourism duopoly. Unlike South Bali, however, Ubud’s focus remains on the remarkable Balinese culture in its myriad forms.

It’s not surprising that many people come to Ubud for a day or two and end up staying longer, drawn in by the rich culture and many activities. Besides the very popular dance-and-music shows, there are numerous courses on offer that allow you to become fully immersed in Balinese culture.

Sensory pursuits are amply catered to with some of the best food on the island. From fabled world-class resorts to surprisingly comfortable little family-run inns, there is a fine choice of hotels. Many places come complete with their own spas, for hours or days of pampering packages.

Around Ubud are temples, ancient sites and whole villages producing handicrafts (albeit mostly for visitors). Although the growth of Ubud has engulfed several neighbouring villages, leading to an urban sprawl, parts of the surrounding countryside remain unspoiled, with lush rice paddies and towering coconut trees. You’d be remiss if you didn’t walk one or more of the dozens of paths during your stay.

Introducing Padangbai

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Located on a perfect little bay, tiny Padangbai is the port for ferries between Bali and Lombok, and passenger boats to Nusa Penida. It is also a popular place to break a journey and relax while you plan your assault on Bali or Lombok (depending on which way you’re heading), and it’s a smaller, quieter, more beachy option than Candidasa. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from one end of town to the other. Take time to choose one of the many places to stay and eat; they’re all very close together.

Introducing Danau Bratan Area

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Driving inland from the humidity of southern Bali, you gradually leave the rice terraces behind and ascend into the cool, damp mountain country around Danau Bratan. This lovely area is an excellent place to relax and use as a base for hiking around the lakes and surrounding hills.

The neighbouring towns of Candikuning and Bedugul have a picturesque temple, botanical gardens and a colourful market where you can buy the local fruit that grows in profusion. Thankfully, the area lacks the tourists and touts found around Gunung Batur, though Sunday and public holidays are usually very busy with local visitors.

In the west, the area around Munduk is great for trekking and you can enjoy views all the way down to the north coast.

Introducing Candidasa

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Tourist development ran amok in Candidasa and now there’s shoulder-to-shoulder development, an unattractive proposition for many. The main drawback is the lack of a beach, which, except for the far eastern stretch, has eroded away as fast as hotels were built. Most of the coastline has breakwaters, so you can’t even walk along it. The main drag is noisy and doesn’t get sea breezes.

Despite all this, Candidasa is much less hectic than South Bali and is often as sleepy as the lotus blossom–filled lagoon. Many find it a fine base to explore eastern Bali and there are some good restaurants. It’s popular with divers and snorkellers, although beach-lovers will prefer Padangbai.

Introducing Amed & the Far East Coast

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This once-remote stretch of coast, from Amed to Bali’s far eastern tip, has reached that nefarious critical mass where it becomes a destination just because of its size. Yet unlike some other places on the Bali coast, it is holding onto the charms that drove the development in the first place.

The mostly arid coastline has superb views across to Lombok and behind to Gunung Agung. Hotels, restaurants, dive operators and other facilities serve visitors who come to enjoy the fine scenery, the relaxed atmosphere and the excellent diving and snorkelling.

Amed itself has no standard tourist centre but is instead a series of small villages in scalloped inlets. It’s the perfect hideaway if you want to simply stay put and never leave your village.

Introducing Nusa Lembongan

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The most developed island for tourism is the delightfully laid-back Nusa Lembongan, which is free of cars, motorcycle noise and hassles. It has a local population of about 7000 people, mostly living in two small villages, Jungutbatu and Lembongan. Tourism money means that the power now stays on around the clock.

Introducing Kuta

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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.

TRADITIONAL VILLAGES

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Traditional Villages

District of Badung

1. MENGWI VILLAGE
The Mengwi Kingdom administration born in 1634 grew to be among the island’s most powerful political power until 1891, where a disastrous war dissolved the palace, but the temple survives. Today visitors can observe the wonderful temple complex, Taman Ayun, built during the Mengwi heydays, with its massive garden and pool. A museum called Manusa Yadnya, human rites of passage, nearby has a collection of works depicting a complete set of Hindu ceremonies since a baby is carried in the mother womb until he dies.
Location: This village is located in North Badung, 15 km north of Denpasar.
Facility: traditional food stalls, souvenir shops, and public transports.

District of Gianyar

1. BATUBULAN VILLAGE
The term Batubulan, moon rock, was taken from a stone shaping like a moon, discovered by Dewa Agung Kalasan, an adopted son of a local king, when he cleared a jungle to build his palace. He decided to name this area Batubulan. Now the stone is well kept at the royal temple nearby the palace. Batubulan is worth noted for their dances and sculptures. The famous Kecak and Barong dances are performed daily.
Located: Batubulan belongs to the sub-district Sukawati, Gianyar, 10 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: Traditional food stall, painting and handicraft galleries.

2. MAS VILLAGE
In the thirteenth century Mas was governed by an evil king Sri Aji Astasura Ratna Bumi Banten, and so did his followers. The evil practice lasted in the following centuries until Java’s powerful army arrived. A new king, Manik Mas, was installed. To make the area free from the bad past habit, a purification ceremony was administered, Punyan Tangi tangi tree was planted. The tree still survives today in the inner court yard of Pulemas Temple Mas villagers are mostly sculptors, producing ones from stone, wood, and porcelain.
Location: Mas Village is located in Gianyar, 20 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: visitors can buy kinds of statue or the other handicraft in the art galleries around the village.

3. BELEGA AND BONA VILLAGES
Both Belega and Bona Villages are well known for their bamboo craftsmanship, including table, chair, wardrobe, musical instruments. Bona has a nightly Kecak dance performance for tourists.
Location: Belega and Bona Villages belong to sub-district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar, 30 km from Denpasar.
Facility: art galleries displaying bamboo handicrafts

4. SEBATU AND PUJUNG VILLAGES
The name of Sebatu, according Usada Bali manuscript, is taken from a legend called Mayadenawa. The self-proclaimed god, Mayadenawa made all the people to worship him until he was defeated by god Indra and ran away into a jungle, transforming himself into various kinds of creatures until he slipped on a stone and died. The location was then called Sauhbatu, or Sebatu as it is known today (sauh for slip and stone for batu).
Most Sebatu villagers are sculptors and farmers. Most sculptors work in their front yard and sell the statues directly to customers. Beautifully arranged rice fields dominate right and left side of the main road leading to a village temple with a bathing spring nearby.
Location: Sebatu and Pujung Villages are north of Ubud, 38 km from Denpasar.

5. PELIATAN VILLAGE
Another art village, the densely populated Peliatan is home to famous artists such as Wayan Gandra, Made Lebah and Rudolf Bonnet along with several painting museums and many art galleries. Traditional dance or gamelan orchestra classes are available. An afternoon walk along the pristine village is a good past time.
Location: Peliatan Village belongs to the sub-district of Ubud, Gianyar, 22 km from Denpasar.

6. CELUK VILLAGE
Celuk is the right destination for gold and silver lovers, where its main road is adorned with many gold or silver galleries in traditional or modern buildings. Good quality gold or silver accessories in unusual designs and fair pricing, some even made to your order, if you have your own design.
Location: Celuk village is located in main road five km East of Denpasar

District of Bangli

1. BATU KAANG VILAGE
The name of Batu Kaang, meaning hill of rock, refers to the location it was built. The village is perched 1,150 meters above the sea level on the rocky hill. Batukaang villagers keep their pre-Hindu megalithic rituals along with the modern Hindu’s culture, a cultural mix. A beautiful view from atop with mild temperature.
Location: Batukaang Village belongs to the sub-district of Kintamani, 35 km from Bangli.

2. TRUNYAN VILLAGE
The name of Trunyan, from Taru means tree and Menyan means substance of good smell, was taken from the sweet smelling Banyan tree occupying its cemetery. Trunyan village is squeezed tightly by the Batur Lake and the outer ridge of Mt. Batur. Trunyanese were indigenous Balinese who were “driven out” to this present location as modern Balinese arrived from Java’s Majapahit empire, themselves were driven out by the arrival of Islam.
Unlike modern Balinese who cremate a dead body, Trunyanese simply arrange them under the Banyan trees, the smell of which prevents the bad odor from the decomposing remains. After awhile, a certain ceremony follows and the skull of the dead is joined with others on the altar nearby.
Location: Trunyan village is located across of Lake Batur, sub-district of Kintamani, Bangli, 65 north of Denpasar. Visitors usually rent a boat or traditional yacht which can be found around Batur Lake

District of Klungkung

1. TIHINGAN VILLAGE
Tihingan Village is known as the producer of Gamelan, traditional music instruments made from bronze or copper, used for escorting Balinese dances and some ritual ceremonies. The villagers are descendant of Pande family, those experts in metal related business. Tihingan’s gamelan is a well-known brand nationwide, for its special tone and appearance. Visitors can learn to play it at Gamelan studio around nearby the village temple.
Location: Tihingan Village belongs to the sub-district of Banjarangkan, Klungkung, 3 km west of the capital Semarapura.

2. KAMASAN VILLAGE
Kamasan Village is known from its puppet paintings and silver and chopper handicrafts. The Balinese puppet, Wayang, is a media for religious education as well as mode of entertainment, through its epic stories. The Dutch colonials discover this painting technique as unique for its natural color and distinct style, never been found in any other art village on Bali. Egg paintings were first developed here. Kamasan also produce silver or chopper households engraved with puppet painting characters.
Location: Kamasan Village is located 1, 5 km south of Semarapura. Traditional horse-drawn chart Dokar is a popular transport in this village.

District of Karangasem

1. TENGANAN VILLAGE
Tenganan is one of two indigenous locally known as Bali Aga, the beginning of Bali, driven into the mountainous interiors when modern Balinese arrived from Java by the end of the fourteenth century. Tengananese developed their distinct culture, combining pre-Hindu megalithic tradition with the Hinduism. Most houses are made from concrete bricks roofed with dry grasses called Somi. Girls must marry a local boy. A married man carries Keris traditional dagger whenever he goes outside of their housing compound as a symbol a family guardian.
Tenganan is also known for the distinct double ikat weaving, kain grinsing, and the annual celebrated friendly yet bloody battle Perang Pandan, usually held in June.
Armed with a handful of pandanus thorny leaves, two fighters enter the ring with a singe aim, wounding his opponent body as much as it causes “blood to drops on the dance floor”. This dance prepares young lads to be strong guardians for their village, which they believe a sacred land compared to the rest of Bali. An elder man acting as a referee will only stop the fight when a fighter is wounded and blood runs down falling to the ground.
Located: Tenganan Village accessible from Candidasa, a popular destination in Karangasem, about 70 km east of Denpasar.

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BALI MEDITATION

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Keeping healthy can be done in several ways. Exercising or consuming supplements is the common. Since it has been known that emotions bring the big influence to our health, a new alternative way emerged as a good solution in keeping healthy or even healing diseases, called yoga. Especially in Bali, yoga has been practiced since a long time ago in varying ways. Yoga was also noted as one of healing methods in some old manuscripts in Bali.

At this time yoga is not only a traditional healing method, but it has become an interesting tourism highlight in Bali. It is supported by arguments from people who come from around the world to do yoga in Bali. They said that Bali has a very good atmosphere for practicing yoga. Awareness of the Balinese people to keep the holy atmosphere of Bali by ceremonies affects much why many people want to do yoga in Bali. Here some yoga centers which you can choose from in Bali.

ANAND KRISHNA CENTER BALI
Anan Krishna Center Bali is one among the meditation centers in Bali. They use traditional techniques from the Himalayas called Neo Zen Reiki. Neo Zen Reiki is traditional healing technique by using natural power. This technique was introduced by Japanese yoga teacher named Usui. This technique is later developed by Anand Khrisna (founder of the Anand Khrisna Center) in healing Leukemia.

In addition to teach traditional techniques in healing some diseases, Anand Khrisna Center Bali also teaches how to handle stress. Besides, you can learn how to improve yourself through meditation. Anand Khrisna Center Bali is located in two places in Bali, seen below.

Denpasar
Address: Jl. Pura Mertasari 27, Area Sunset Road Simpang Dewa Ruci, Kuta-Bali
Phone: (0361) 8477490
Website: www.akcbali.org
Contact person: Nyoman Sri Aryana (081 7974 1165)
e-mail: sriaryana@akcbali.org

Singaraja
Address: Jl. A.Yani 57 Singaraja-Bali
Website: www.akcbali.org
Contact person: Made Harbayu (081 2387 4849)
e-mail: harbayu@akcbali.org

BALI USADA MEDITATION
Bali Usada Meditation is another notable meditation center in Bali. Bali Usada Meditation design meditation programs which can be done by the learner at home so they not necessarily go to the meditation center many times. In addition to doing meditation, here the visitor can also get or learn unique methods for healing their diseases, such as sound therapy or crystal therapy.

Address: Jl.Ngurah Rai 328, By Pass Sanur 328, Bali 80001
Phone: +62.361-289209, SMS: +6281 657 1253,
Facsimile: +62 (0)361 - 287726
e-mail: usada@balimeditation.com, Website: www.balimeditation.com

SEGER OGER
Bringing a motto “Health is Wealth”, Seger Oger has become a famous yoga community around Sanur and Denpasar at this time. The activities of Seger Oger usually take place on the seashore, especially on Sanur beach in front of the Inna Grand Bali Beach Hotel. This yoga community believes that the seashore is the best place for doing yoga because it has natural magnet powers more than the other places. Natural magnet powers improve the blood or air circulation in our body. You can become the member of Seger Oger for free. Seger Oger usually holds large yoga gatherings at the Sanur Village Festival, around August, in Bali.

Pesemetonan Yoga Asana “SEGER OGER”
Secretariat: Banjar Taman, Sanur-Bali
Phone: (0361) 287767
e-mail: seger_oger@telkom.net
widarma@gmail.com

Contact Person: IB CANDI, 081 338 044 922
IB PUTU GEDE’S, 081 139 9941
WIJAYA DARMA, 081 236 13000
ANNA, (0361) 78 56 320 – 081 797 58909

BODY WORKS CENTER
The Body Works Center is a good option, if you want to enjoy spiritual tourism in Bali especially at Ubud. Located in a small traditional house at Jalan Hanoman Ubud, this yoga center is always crowded not only by local people but also by international tourists. Body Works Center is owned by a healer, spiritual consultant, and also yoga teacher named Ketut Arsana. This unpretentious man has learned yoga since 1977 in Bali and India. At his house, he tries to deliver his knowledge about yoga to other people through activities. His house developed into a center of yoga, holistic therapy, and health consultation.

BALI SPIRIT YOGA STUDIO
Bali Spirit Yoga Studio is another choice for spiritual tourism on Jalan Hanoman, Ubud. Similar to the Body Works center, in this place the visitor can do yoga in several methods such as Astangga Yoga, Kundalini, and Meditation. Visitors can also enjoy homemade healthy food.

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TEMPLES

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DISTRICT OF BADUNG

ULUWATU TEMPLE
Uluwatu Temple is perched on a cliff of a rocky hill on the southernmost part of Bali. Balinese believe the shrine was the result of the metamorphosis of the God’s holy water. This temple was built and chosen by one of Hindu’s most respected priest, Danghyang Nirartha to unite with God Almighty, moksa. Uluwatu Temple is surrounded by trees and bushes occupied by tamed army of monkeys.
Location: Uluwatu is about 30 km south of Denpasar, about one hour driving from Kuta or Ngurah Rai International Airport
Facility: Souvenir shops, traditional food stalls and an amphitheater staging daily Kecak dance around sunset.

TAMAN AYUN TEMPLE
Taman Ayun Temple is a royal shrine built in 1634 at the height of the Mengwi Kingdom, one of the island’s most powerful political hubs disappearing by the end of the nineteenth century. It is about 300 meter east of the former palace of Mengwi . This temple is surrounded by many water lilies. The temple yard is always green and fresh with well cared flowers and grass. Across the temple is ‘Museum Manusa Yadnya’, the museum of human ceremony, housing collections describing human life cycles, especially the rituals that follows since one is carried in mother’s womb until he dies off.
Location: Taman Ayun Temple is located in Mengwi, Badung, about 19 km north of Denpasar.
Facility: On the west side of this temple is a descent restaurant inside a building called Wisata Mandala. Public transportation is available nearby the building.

PUCAK MANGU TEMPLE
Pucak Mangu Temple was built in 1633 by the first king of Mengwi at the very top Mt Mangu. Surrounded by massive green foliage, virgin rainforest, the temple is an ideal finish point for someone fond of hiking while enjoying spectacular vista above the Bratan Lake and the historical temple at the center of the peak.
Location: Puncak Mangu Temple is located in the sub-district of Petang, Badung, about 48 km north of Denpasar.

DENPASAR MUNICIPALITY

JAGATNATHA TEMPLE
The uniquely designed Jagatnatha Temple located at the very heart of Denapsar was built in 1968. The temple is especially observed for religious ceremony during full moon. Next to the temple is the mayor office of Denpasar and Puputan Badung Park, the site of a suicidal battle costing over 3,000 souls in September 20, 1906.
Location: Jagatnatha Temple is located at Jalan Mayor Wisnu, Denpasar

MAOSPAHIT TEMPLE
Maospahit is better known as an archaeological remain, often visited by the academic society for its terracotta statue which reminds one to the time of Java ‘s Majapahit Kingdom around the fourteenth century.
Location: Maospahit Temple is located at Dr. Sutomo Street, Denpasar, about 750 meters west of Jagatnatha Temple, next to traditional market Pasar Badung.

PETILAN PENGEREBONGAN TEMPLE
Petilan Pengerebongan is famous for its very unique ceremony ‘Ngerebong’, where the angel reflecting Barong fights against the evil Rangda and an army of male trance dancers, stab themselves with their dagger ‘Keris’. This ceremony is held every 210 days according to Balinese Calendar.
Location: Petilan Pengerebongan is located in Kesiman Petilan, East Denpasar, about five km east of the capital. Public transport is available from the main bus station. The temple is easily reached about three km north Sanur.

SAKENAN TEMPLE
Sakenan Temple was built in the sixteenth century by the last arriving Hindu prophet Dang Hyang Nirartha, when the last groups of Hindu-Buddhists arrived in Bali. Sakenan Temple is located in a small island south of Denpasar. Dubbed the Turtle Island, Serangan is heavily surrounded by mangrove forests. It has a very unique architecture, combining Hindu and Buddhist architectural design with coral stone as the foundation.
Location: Sakenan Temple is located in Serangan Island, south of Denpasar, 30 minute drive from Kuta.
Facility: souvenir shops and food stalls around the temple.

DISTRICT OF GIANYAR

PENATARAN SASIH TEMPLE
Penataran Sasih is one of the oldest temples in Bali, housing a collection of pre-Hindu objects. The famous one is Nekara, locally known as the Pejeng Moon, the Asia’s biggest bronze drum, measuring two meter long by 160cm of diameter. Special temple festivals are held in the 9th month of the Balinese calendar.
Location: Penataran Sasih Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, eight km west of Gianyar, or 27 km west of Denpasar.
Facility: There are handicraft and painting galleries and traditional food stalls across the temple.

KEBO EDAN TEMPLE
Kebo Edan, literally means crazy buffalo, temple is believed as the shrine to worship the god of death, Siwa. There is a statue of the god dancing above dead bodies known as Ciwa Bhairawa. Kebo Edan statue, measuring 3.6 meter high, is believed as the representative of a giant who has six penises and is a hard-follower of God Ciwa. Beside him stand many horrified male effigies.
Location: Kebo Edan Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, near Penataran Sasih Temple, about eight km west of Gianyar.

PUSERING JAGAT TEMPLE
Pusering Jagat Temple is located in north of Kebo Edan Temple, showing how god creates human being, depicting ‘Purusha and Pradana’, male and female sex organs. Another statue depicting a big basin called ‘Sangku Sudamala’ is believed as the water container to keep holly water falling from the house of gods.
Location: Pusering Jagat Temple is located in Pejeng, Gianyar, eight km west of Gianyar

MANGENING TEMPLE
Mangening Temple shows us the course of human creation, with sculptures portraying male and female sex organs yet in different shapes called Lingga-Yoni. The temple surroundings are full of green trees and various kinds of flowers.
Location: Mangening Temple is located in Tampaksiring, about 15 km from the capital Gianyar, 37 km west of Denpasar.

PENGULINGAN TEMPLE
This Hindu-Buddhist temple was discovered in 1983, with several Buddhist stupas. The biggest one is located in the center. Pengulingan Temple is observed by local Buddhist followers.
Location: Pengulingan temple is located in Manukaya Village, Tampaksiring sub-district, 16 km from Gianyar, 38 km from Denpasar.

GOA GAJAH (ELEPHANT CAVE) TEMPLE
The name Goa Gajah Elephan Cave is not definitely known derived from certain source of origin. It was said when the cave was first unearthed, its entrance’s upper part was mistakenly believed as an elephant trunk, so did the name stick. Goa Gajah is a temple inside a cave. This temple is believed as the center for yoga and meditation during Hindu-Buddhism era. A ganesha statue reflects a Buddhism side, while its Ciwa statue portrays the Hinduisms counterpart. On the west corner of this cave lays Buddha and Harito statues. Goa Gajah temple is surrounded by green rice fields along the River Petanu.
Location: Goa gajah Temple is located in Bedulu Village, sub-district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar, 26 km east of Denpasar.
Facility: An arrays of food stalls and souvenir shops.

DISTRICT OF BANGLI

KEHEN TEMPLE
Kehen Temple records the virtual history of Bangli from its ancient age. The word Kehen is
i derived from Keren flame. Formerly, it was known as Hyang Api fire god temple. Three small Nekara bronze drums suggest fire god Hyang Api was observed here in the past. The grand ceremony is held every three years on Buda Kliwon Shinta, the fifth full moon according Balinese calendar, or around November.
Location: Kehen Temple is located on the southern slope of Bangli hill, two km from the capital.

PUNCAK PENULISAN TEMPLE
Puncak Penulisan Temple is located on the top of Mt Penulisan, the peak which divides Bangli into two main parts, east and west. The temple houses various items from megalithic era. Its millennium-aged design is seen from the composition of the 11 terraces. These terraces reveal the continuation of the pyramidal styles from the Megalithic age, a unique look.
Location: Puncak Penulisan Temple is situated at 1,745 meter above the sea level, about three km from the sub-district of Kintamani, 30 km from Bangli.

BATUR / ULUN DANU TEMPLE
Batur temple is located 900 meter above sea level, known as one of the six main temples, Sad Kahyangan. Legend says Mt. Batur was brought by the God from the top of Mt. Mahameru in India. Sang Hyang Dewi Danu, the god of prosperity, is believed to reside here. Near the temple is the breath-taking Lake Batur, formed by the massive caldera of Mt. Batur.
Location: Batur Temple is located in Kintamani, about 23 km north of Bangli, 65 km north of Denpasar.

DISTRICT OF KLUNGKUNG

TAMAN SARI TEMPLE
Taman Sari is one among the beautifully-set temples with vast garden and surrounding pool. Various species of indigenous flowers and trees of Bali surround the beautifully arranged meru storey-roofed shrines, eleven and nine stories respectively. Each of the meru was built above two big turtle statues twisted by a dragon statue called Ananthaboga. It depicts a story of the gods fighting the devils while searching for holy water.
Location: Taman Sari Temple is located in Sengguan Village, Klungkung, 500 meter northeast of the capital Semarapura.

WATU KLOTOK TEMPLE
One of the six main temples in Bali, Watu Klotok Temple is located on a black sandy beach south of the capital Semarapura. Watu Klotok is believed as the shrine to purify human soul, the small world, and the entire universe, the big world. A special ceremony was administered here right after the blast in Kuta, aimed at cleansing the world from the evil spirit. Piodalan ceremony or Pujawali is held every Anggara Kliwon Julungwangi, once in seven month, and Ngusabha, once a year.
Location: Watu Klotok Temple is located on the shore of Klotok beach, five km south of the capital.Semarapura.

PANTI TIMBRAH TEMPLE
Panti Timbrah Temple has a very unique ritual called Perang Jempana the battle of deities, held every 210 days on Kuningan day. The sacred rite begins with a bathing ritual in the Unda River in the morning. The main event is held in late in the afternoon, involving dozens of young men carrying the deities’ effigies on jempana palanquins. Each palanquin is beautifully decorated with yellow and gold colored cloths, flower and leaves.
An army of young men in a trance carry each Jempana, running around the temple ground, chasing and crashing each other. The high spirited gamelan orchestra helps create a frenzied atmosphere. Often a group from a huge crowd of onlookers which gather on the temple ground fall into a collective trance, adding a timid shade to this rare ceremony. After several hours of fighting Perang Jempana is stopped by sprinkling holy water to the entranced bearers and the deities’ effigies are taken out from the palanquins and returned to the temple.
Location: Panti Timbrah Temple is located in Pasekbali Billage, sub-district of Dawan, three km north-east of the capital Semarapura.

GOA LAWAH TEMPLE
Goa Lawah Temple is located inside a cave occupied by bats, so as it gets its name, lawah, the nocturnal. This is the shrine to worship the god of sea Bhatara Tengahing Segara or Bhatara Baruna. This temple is a must observed temple especially by those fulfilling Ngaben cremation ceremony, as the ash of the cremated about to be drifted to the sea. Across the temple is Kusamba, a used-to-be port village now turning a into traditional salt making facility.
Location: Goa Lawah temple is located in the sub-district of Dawan, Klungkung, 49 km from Denpasar or 10 km east of the capital Semarapura.
Facility: Traditional food stalls, souvenir shops, public transports.

DISTRICT OF KARANGASEM

BESAKIH TEMPLE
Perched on the slope of the island’s highest peak of Mt. Agung, the mother temple of Bali, Besakih, is by size the biggest temple. Historical accounts say the temple was built by Maharesi Markandya in the eleventh century in a quest for god blessing upon a devastating disease striking the majority of Bali, including his faithful students. The word Besakih comes from Basukihan means safety and prosperity. Thousands of Balinese Hindus pay a pilgrimage to this temple thus thanking for their prosperous lives.
Location: Besakih Temple is located in Rendang sub-district, Karangasem, about two hours drive from Denpasar.
Facility: Accommodations, food stalls, public transportations, souvenir shops.

DISTRICT OF TABANAN

ALAS KEDATON TEMPLE
As it name suggests, Alas Kedaton, forest palace, the temple is located inside of a jungle. From the historical and archeological point of views, this temple can be classified into two main parts. The first shows the pre-Hindu or Megalithic age and the other one the initial era of Hindu influence. Tamed monkey and giant bats are the kings of the forest kingdom.
Location: Alas Kedaton Temple is located in the sub-istrict of Marga, Tabanan, 25km north-west of Denpasar.
Facility: Traditional food stalls, an array of souvenir shops

RAMBUT SIWI TEMPLE
The name Rambut Siwi is closely related to the holy journey of Hindu prophet Danghyang Nirartha in the sixteenth century. On his spiritual voyage from West to south Bali the spiritual leader gave his flock of hair to be worshiped by the people of the neighborhood, so the temple was called Rambut Siwi (rambut means hair). Rambut Siwi temple is located on the shore of black sand sea west of Tabanan. Visitors can see traditional salt making facilities not far from the shrine.
Location: Rambut Siwi Temple is located on the southwestern beach of Bali, sub-district of Mendoyo, Tabanan, 78 km west of Denpasar.

ULUN DANU / ULUN DANU BERATAN TEMPLE
Ulun Danu is a beautifully positioned temple built above small projecting land on Lake Beratan, thus it is known as Ulun Danu, a power or head of the lake. The power refers to goddess of prosperity, Sang Hyang Dewi Danu. Visitors can explore the temple from a distance by renting traditional yacht. Regular temple ceremony is executed every six months called Piodalan, on a day called Anggara Kliwon Julungwan, and the bigger one called Piodalan Agung every 12 months.
Location: Ulun Danu Temple is located in Lake Beratan, sub-district of Baturiti, Tabanan, a close distance from Bedugul Botanical Garden.
Facility: restaurants, souvenir shops. Accommodations can be found around the main road, about 500 meters from the temple.

DISTRICT OF BULELENG

BRAHMA VIHARA-ARAMA
Brahma Vihara-Arama is also known as Banjar Buddhist, the island’s biggest Buddhist monastery. The temple was built in 1969, occupying an area of 1,000 square meters of ocean facing hilly land. The building design and the ornaments reflect typical Balinese architecture, with big stupa on the center and a Buddha statue one side. People call this temple as the miniature of Java’s largest Buddhist temple of Borobudur.
Location: Brahma Vihara-Arama is located in Tegeha Village, sub-district of Banjar, Buleleng , about 22 km west of the capital Singaraja.

MEDUWE KARANG TEMPLE
Meduwe Karang Temple is one of the very unique temples in Bali—as its name suggests the material made for—sea coral. Additionally, there are a total of 34 coral statues depicting the characters from the Indian epic Ramayan. Uniquely, the temple is observed mostly by the surrounding farming community, for their green, prosperous rice fields.
Location: Meduwe Karang Temple is located in Kubutambahan Village, Buleleng, 12 km east of Singaraja.

BEJI TEMPLE
As the shrine of the god of rice, Dewi Sri, Beji Temple is observed most by the farming communities. Uniquely enough, each part of this temple is adorned with plants and flower. Beji temple is built within Majapahit Kingdom era, around the XV century. Beji Temple is the inspiration for the traditional agricultural system called Subak.
Location: Beji Temple is located in Sangsit Village, sub-district of Sawan, Buleleng, eight km east of Singaraja.

DALEM JAGARAGA TEMPLE
Dalem Jagaraga Temple belongs to Pura Kahyangan Tiga, three of the main temples in a village. This is the shrine to worship the god of death Ciwa or Durga so that when someone dies, his/her soul will depart for the heaven, not meandering on the earth. No definite source as reference about when the temple was built, most people believe that it was built during the Dutch colonial era, as displayed here on the relief carve, showing the war between the local fighters against the Dutch in an epic called Perang Jagaraga, battle of Jagaraga.
Location: Dalem Jagaraga Temple is located in Jagaraga Village, sub-district of Sawan, Buleleng, 11 km east of Singaraja.

PULAKI TEMPLE
Pulaki Temple is one of the temples in Bali which was built on the cliff of coral hill. This temple is dedicated to worshiping one Hindu’s holy virgin girl Cri Patni Keniten. Pulaki is set on the beautiful view of Bali northwestern beach, with tamed army of monkeys guarding around.
Location: Pulaki Temple is located in Banyupoh village, sub-district of Grokgak, Buleleng, 53 km west of Singaraja.
Facility: Accommodation are available in Pemuteran village, few kilometers to the west.

PONJOK BATU TEMPLE
Ponjok Batu temple was built by King Cri Waturenggong (1460-1515). Ponjok Batu means Stoney Cape. This temple was in respect to the wandering priest Dang Hyang Nirartha, during his spiritual journey to teach Hinduism by the turn of the sixteenth century. From the temple vicinity, visitors can enjoy the beautiful view of Jawa Sea. A holy spring near the temple provide bathing facility and source of holy water for ceremonies.
Location: Ponjok Batu Temple is located in Pacung village, sub-district of Tejakula, Buleleng, 24 km east of Singaraja.
Facility: traditional food stalls on the parking area

DALEM SANGSIT TEMPLE
Something worth seeing from this temple is a stone relief describing the famous legend called Bima Swarga, the spiritual journey of Bima and to heaven after he departed his life, observing those who enjoyed their life for their good deeds and those punished for their wrongdoings, a “slide show” of heaven and torture.
Location: Dalem Sangsit Temple is located in Sangsit Village, eight km east of Singaraja.

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PLACES

2009-04-12T20:24:00.001-07:00

Denpasar Municipality

1. PEMECUTAN PALACE
Pemecutan palace was built in the 17th century in the era of Pemecutan Kingdom in Denpasar. It is one of the palaces which are opened for visitors. Managed by the modern, last king of Denpasar, Ida Cokorda Pemecutan, the royal house is completed with accommodation facilities, allowing the best way a visitor could get to get in touch with palatial atmosphere or and learn the long history of Denpasar.
Location: Pemecutan Palace is located at Jalan Thamrin No.2 Denpasar, nearby Kumbasari traditional market.
Facility: Simple tourist accommodation with an array of food stalls available just outside of the palace.

2. SATRIA PALACE
Satria Palace is located 2 km west of the Pemecutan Palace. Rebuilt in 1930, the palace boasts a big stage where Balinese dances are performed regularly and a collection of kris traditional daggers used in the 1906’s Puputan Badung War against the Dutch colonial army. A royal temple in palace area holds a regular ceremony every 210 days according Balinese calendar, featuring special dance only performed on the stage in this auspicious day.
Location: Satria Palace is located at Jalan Veteran Denpasar. Near the palace is a popular pet market Pasar Satria.

3. JRO KUTA PALACE
Jro Kuta Palace has the most complete buildings compared to Pemecutan or Satria, since it managed to escape from the Dutch invasion. It consists of nine buildings each has different function accordingly. The are Ancak Saji, Semanggen, Rangki, Pewaregan, Saren Raja, Saren Kangin, Paseban, Pemerajan Agung, and Pekandelan. Uniquely enough, there are several colonial statues portraying the Balinese warriors fighting against the Dutch occupants.
Location: Jro Kuta Palace is located in Jalan Kumbakarna, Denpasar. There is famous Maospahit Templenearby.

District of Klungkung

1. TAMAN GILI KERTA GOSA
Taman Gili Kerta Gosa is a wide garden consisting of several buildings. Until 1686 under King Dewa Agung administration, Klungkung Palace was the biggest in Bali. Unfortunately the massive building was almost totally destroyed by Dutch invasion in 1908, except the gate and Taman Gili Kerta Gosa. There are four buildings and a museum within this fortunate complex. On the southern side visitors still can observe the remnant of the palace gate called Pemedal Agung, over 10 meter high. To the north of this garden is a tall building called Bale Kul-kul, housing a big traditional Balinese alarm wooden bell called Kul-Kul. To the east is a building surrounded by a pool and water lilies, called Bale Kambang, designed as a summer house for the royal family members. The jurisdiction building is located on the north east side. Semarapura Museum is right west of this complex.
Location: Taman Gili Kerta Gosa is located on the heart of Semarapura, the capital of Klungkung, 40 km east of Denpasar.
Additional facility: Traditional art market selling souvenir, food, or drink is located just across the palace.

District of Karangasem

1. KARANGASEM GRAND PALACE
The uniquely designed Karangasem Grand Palace was built by the end of the 19th century by the first king of Karangasem, combining Balinese, Chinese and European architectural styles. Most of the buildings are set as if each floats above the pool water, with small bridges connecting one another, like a Chinese palace in general. The European influence can be seen from the design of main building, the guarding post at the front of the palace, and vast veranda called Maskerdam. The Balinese style can be seen from the entrance gate, built from red bricks with puppet, describing religious stories, as the ornaments. This combination has never been found in other palaces in Bali.
Location: Karangasem Grand Palace is located at the heart of Amlapura, the capital of District of Karangasem, 78 km from Denpasar. Accessible by public transport from Denpasar.

District of Buleleng

1. SINGARAJA PALACE
The historical Singaraja Palace is known among local as Puri Agung or Puri Gede. The old palatial library, Gedong Kirtya, is the most referred building, now designed as a literacy museum. It has the most complete collection of manuscripts about Buleleng and Bali history. This museum is located at the very front of the Palace.
Location: Singaraja Palace is located in Jalan Patih Jelantik, Singaraja, accessible by various kinds of public transports.

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ADVENTURE IN BALI

2009-04-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

BALI BIRD PARK & REPTILE PARK
Address: Jl. Serma Cok Ngrh. Gambir, Singapadu.
District: Gianyar

BALI ZOO PARK
Address: Jl. Raya Singapadu, Sukawati

District: Gianyar

BUTTERFLY PARK
Address: Jl. Batukaru Sandan Wanasari

District: Tabanan

WEST NATIONAL PARK
Address: Jl. Raya Cekik, Gilimanuk

District: Jembrana

BALI SAFARI & MARINE PARK
Address: Jl. Bypass Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra

District: Gianyar

BOTANICAL GARDEN BEDUGUL
Address: Ds. Candikuning, Baturiti

District: Tabanan

INDONESIA JAYA REPTILE PARK
Address: Ds. Mengwi

District: Badung

AYUNG RIVER RAFTING
Address: Jl. Diponegoro 150-B

District: Denpasar

SOBEK BINA UTAMA
Address: Jl. Tirta Ening No.9

District: Sanur

BALI RAFTING
Address: Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 297

District: Sanur

BALI ADVENTURE RAFTING
Address: Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai Pesanggaran

District: Sanur

MEGA RAFTING
Address: Jl. Hayam Wuruk No.144

District: Denpasar

BALI INTERNATIONAL RAFTING
Address: Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai Padanggalak

District: Sanur

ELEPHANT TRACKING
Address:
District:

WATERBOM BALI

Address: Jl. Kartika Plaza Po Box 1055

Tuban-Bali

THE UMALAS (HORSE RIDDING)
Address: Jl. Lestari No.9X Br. Uma Alas Kauh

District: Kerobokan

MISSCELANEOUS

BUNGEE JUMPINGA J HACKET
Address: Jl. Double Six

District: Kuta

FLYING BALOON
Address: Kawasan BTDC Blok C4 Nusa Dua

District: Nusa Dua

BALI SLING SHOT
Address: Jl. Kartika Plaza 80361

Kuta-Bali

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BEACHES

2009-04-12T20:06:00.000-07:00

BADUNG DISTRICT

KUTA BEACH

Description: Kuta is the center of entertainments and has become the favorite destination of multinational visitors. It has everything a tourist looks for i.e. white-sandy beach, rows of excellent bars and restaurants, discotheques, and entertainment spots for an enjoyable nightlife. Rows of kiosks selling souvenirs and everything a tourist need such as garments or latest CDs and cassettes are available along the main road with reasonable prices.

Location: 11 km south of Denpasar. Kuta can be easily reached by public transport from Tegal bemo station in 30 minutes.

SULUBAN BEACH

Description: Suluban Beach is one of the places of interest belonging to Badung regency. It is known for its beautiful beach along with amazing wave; best for surfing. The natural beauty of the southern tip of Bali’s highland with its hollowing waves and peaceful surroundings has attracted more and more visitors to enjoy its serenity and peacefulness.

Location: Suluban beach is one of several frivolous beaches located at Pecatu village on the southern tip of Badung District, about three km from Uluwatu temple. The beach is about 32km south of Denpasar, and can be reached through Kuta, Ngurah Rai International Airport, and Jimbaran. The sloping and bending road around the hill offers a panoramic view.

NUSA DUA BEACH

Description: Nusa Dua enclave has the most complete tourist facilities in Bali, including luxurious hotels, sporting facilities, shopping center and international convention hall, to mention a few. The empty, arid land of Nusa Dua started to develop in 1974 and the government trusted the management to Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC).

Location: The distance between Nusa Dua and Denpasar is 30 km, through Kuta to the south, 12 km from the Ngurah Rai International Airport.

DENPASAR MUNICIPALITY

SANUR BEACH

Description: Sanur has been known worldwide literally a century ago, when the deadly, horrendous battle of Puputan Badung took place on September 20, 1906 as the Dutch troops anchored here. This beach was first introduced into international community by a Belgian painter, A.T. Le Mayeur, who married a Balinese dancer Ni Polok, and stayed here since 1937 and often held painting exhibitions of his own.
The main attraction of Sanur is its calm beach. In the south east, one can observe Nusa Penida Island across the sea and in the eastern side, the panoramic view of South Bali along with its range of mountains is a spectacular sight that should not be missed. In a bright afternoon the scenery is simply beautiful.

Location: Sanur is six km from Denpasar, one can get to this beach by car, motorcycle or regular public transportation.

BENOA HARBOUR

Description: Benoa is the marine activity hub of the island, for both domestic and international. Boating races are regularly held here with overseas participants hosted by Royal Bali Yacht Club, RBYC. From this harbor visitors can extend their vacation to other destinations, including Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida and Lombok, on their own boats or on cruises available here such as Bali Hai Cruise, The Bounty, Nusa Lembongan, to mention a few.

Location: This harbor is six km to the south from Denpasar.

KARANGASEM DISTRICT

PADANG BAI BEACH

Description: Padang Bai is an harbor area naturally sheltered by cluster of hills and has for centuries been serving as the island’s important sea port. Over the eastern hill of Padang Bai beach lay The Silayukti temple, built by Mpu Kuturan, one of Hindu’s most respected prophets from Java, around the eleventh century. On the western side is another temple called Penataran Agung temple, built by another Hindu holy man from Java named Danghyang Nirartha around the sixteenth century.

Location: Padang Bai is located in the sub-district of Manggis, Karangasem, 53 km from Denpasar or 30 km to west from the Eastern Bali capital of Amlapura.

JEMELUK BEACH

Decription: Jemeluk is a famous among underwater lovers. Crystal clear and steady water, beautiful coral layer on which various kinds of decorative tropical fish live. Other attraction include traditional salting ground along beach towards Amed, besides the breath-taking view with the towering Mt. Agung in the background, hills with valleys, the vast blue ocean adorned with rows of the fishermen’s traditional rowing boats.

Location: Jemeluk is located on the coastal area of Purwakerti Village, sub-district of Abang, Karangasem. About 101 km from Denpasar or 21 km from Amlapura.

TABANAN DISTRICT

SOKA BEACH

Description: Soka is one of the most beautiful beaches in western part of Bali. Panorama view with chains of hills forms natural walls on the west side through to Batukaru Mountain Range on the north. On the eastside, Agung Mountain is seen in the distance and Indonesian ocean is on the south with the eastern tip of east Java in the backdrop.
Soka beach hides thousand of natural miracles and legends. One can find a massive coral stone with size of about 30 cubic meters surrounded by sand and sea water believed to be cooking pot of Balinese mighty man named Kebo Iwa. On the west side of the cooking pot, there is a another coral stone depicting a traditional stove about 10x20 meters in size believed as the stove on which the mighty Kebo Iwa cooked his meal.

Location: Soka beach is in Antap Village, sub-district of Selamadeg, Tabanan, 45 km from Denpasar or 84 km from Gilimanuk

JEMBRANA DISTRICT

MEDEWI BEACH

Description: Medewi is a rocky beach with fairly good waves for surfing. Its sloping part on the west with a bit receding to the south where a number of traditional rowing boats jukung tied up makes an amazing scene mainly at sunset.

Location: Medewi Beach is located about 100 meters from the Denpasar-Gilimanuk main road. It can be easily reached within one and half hours drive from Denpasar, or about 72 km.

DELOD BRAWAH BEACH

Description: Delod Brawah beach is a sloping, black-sandy beach, an ideal location for recreation and swimming. The black color comes from a natural process, especially the swampy (called Berawah in Balinese) area nearby. So then, the people who live on the north side called the newly-formed village Delod Berawah, south of the swampy area. On the north side of Delod Brawah beach is a former rice field where traditional water buffalo race called Makepung is regularly held. This is such an attraction only to be found in Jembrana.

Location: The beach can easily be reached from the sub-district of Mendoyo, Jembrana, about 88 km from Denpasar. It is about 1,5 km to the south from Tegalcangkring through extensive rice field often visited by flock of herons and storks.

PERANCAK BEACH

Description: Perancak or Purancak is located on the southwestern coastal area of Bali, at Purancak Village. At the west tip is the legendary Purancak Temple facing west towards a river with its calm water whereas wild coastal vegetations grow on both side of the river. The ocean is just about 250 meter to the south with its clear blue water while the eastern tip of East Java is seen in the distance. On the right side of estuary are rows of traditional houses under the coconut trees with leaves waving in the breeze

Location: Purancak beach is located about 10 km south east of Tegal Cangkring village, Negara, 96 km from Denpasar following the main road to Gilimanuk.

BULELENG DISTRICT

LOVINA BEACH

Description: Lovina, from Love Ina (Indonesia), is known for its fantastic beach, calm water, black sand, colorful coral and various kinds of tropical fish. Its calm water is an ideal location for various marine activities, such as fishing, swimming, diving, snorkeling, or just immersing in the water. Added to all these attractions is an army of dolphins in their original habitat. Visitors usually depart at dawn to watch hundreds of this friendly fish one km offshore. Lovina also has some other interesting places nearby, such as Banjar hot spring, Buddhist Vihara, Gitgit and Singsing waterfalls.

Location: Lovina beach is also known as Kalibukbuk. It covers a total of five kilometer distance of two sub-districts of Buleleng and Banjar, consisting of six villages including Pemaron, Tukad Mungga, Anturan, and Kalibukbuk, Kaliasem and Temukus. The famous tourist resort is located 10 km to the west of the northern capital of Singaraja.

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Global Crisis Started to Affect Bali

2009-03-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

Impact of global financial crisis has started to affect Bali export business players. A number of Bali export items enjoying significant export volume in the past has been significantly increased.
Statistic exposed by Foreign Trading Department of Bali Industry and Trade Office shown significant decrease on a number of Bali export items. Head of Foreign Trading Department of Bali Industry and Trade Office, Ni Wayan Kusumastuti through her staff Putu Bagiada said on Friday (February 5th) that the most significant decrease recorded by textile and textile products.
Textile product to US has decreased as much as 8 percent. The highest decrease during the last few years was caused by impact of global financial crisis to US citizens. US coidered the largest export destination for textile and textile products along with other Asia-Pacific countries such as Japan, Australia, Canada, and Brazil.
If figures Bali earned US$ 129,028,160.04 on export of textile and textile products in 2008, a slight decrease from US$ 130,642,376.77 in 2007. Worsening crisis was predicted to make the situation even more difficult.
Similar opinion was expressed by a number of Bali export business player. Secretary of Bali Exporters Associationm G.W. Ardjawa, S.E. said that decrease on Bali export is predicted to be significant, especially as export of one of Bali’s favorite export product, knock-down wooden gazebo, has been suspended following the newly introduced regulation by the forestry office. “We are encountering significant lost by the new regulation,” Ardjawa said.
I fact, knock-down wooden gazebo has been a well known product by international market and deliver significant stream of foreign revenue. “Export of wooden gazebo delivers multi-million dollar in revenue every year,” he added. He hoped that the government will stop the suspension to allow wooden gazebo export to continue.
Source : balinewsonline.com

2,500 Year Old Stone Sarcophagus Discovered in Gianyar

2009-03-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

2,500 Year Old Stone Sarcophagus Discovered in Gianyar
The discovery of a stone sarcophagus in the village of Keramas in the sub-district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar on January 12, 2009, provides further evidence of existence of advanced cultural settlements of Bali dating back at least 2,500 to 3,000 years.

Shaped out of two piece of stone to resemble a turtle (not shown), the important archeological discovery has a length of 1.5 meters, a width of 1 meter and a depth of 2.5 meters. When discovered the stone vessel contained a large quantity of human bone fragments.

The sarcophagus was uncovered by two local men who were quarrying for building stones at a depth of around 3 meters. Once the workmen knew that their discovery was not a large stone, but an artifact with historical significance, they contacted the local village chief and the nearest police stations who quickly cordoned off the site while waiting for representatives of the government archaeology department to arrive on the scene.

Later, the Chief of the Archeology Department of Denpasar, I Wayan Suantika, confirmed an estimated age of between 2,500-3,000 years for the sarcophagus. A preliminary examination of the human bone fragments suggest an age dating from 300 and 500 B.C.E..

Suantika told NusaBali that such elaborate burial vessels were traditionally reserved for religious or traditional leaders. The sarcophagus in the shape of a turtle and, according to Suantika, includes stone handles to permit transport of the coffin to the burial site. The shape of a turtle reflects a belief that the animal depicted would deliver the deceased to a final resting place.

According to Suantika, this is one of 12 sarcophagi discovered in the Keramas area of Bali.

Information Tourism

2009-03-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

Air Sanih Water Palace, Buleleng Bali
This is a recreational garden with natural pool by the Beach of Bali Sea. The view is marvelous, the clear-watered natural-spring pool with trees surrounding it.

Andakasa Temple, Karangasem Bali
Pura Andakasa (Andakasa Temple) is just a short drive inland from Pura Goa Lawah. From the car park we walk along a path through the forest and arrive after a few minutes at a small altar next to a sacred spring where we gather holy water for the ceremony.

Art, About Bali
Art for the Balinese is one aspect of living dominating every activity of the people or can be said that art is the living focus of the Balinese. Bali is very rich in artistic treasure and it lives and develops within the every throb of the Balinese life covering works of art like fine art more >>
Bali Museum, Denpasar Bali
The Ethnographical Museum is the only museum one can find in Denpasar, located on Mayor Wisnu Street next to Jagatnatha Temple. It was built in December 8th, 1932 in which displayed various old objects in four main buldings called: Gedung Timur, Gedung Buleleng, Gedung Karangasem and Gedung Tabanan. more >>
Banjar Hot Spring, Buleleng Bali
Banjar Hot Spring is known as a natural hot spring have healing power to cure skin disease. The hot spring has been allocated and designed to be a simple pool, surrounded by beautiful countryside while next to it is the biggest Budhist Temple in Bali

Banyu Wedang Hot Spring, Buleleng Bali
The hot spring has its source off shore and it will be under water when the sea water rises. At the biggest hot spring, a round concrete protector has been built so when the sea-water rises, the hot spring will not be mixed with the saline sea water.

Batubulan Village, Gianyar Bali
Batubulan is a village belongs to Sukawati district, Gianyar regency. It has a strategic location for being the western gate of Gianyar regency and as a terminal that links Denpasar city and the Eastern part of Bali Island. more >>
Batukaang Village, Bangli Bali
This village is located at the height of 1.150 meters above sea-level. So that the temperature is quite mild the same as that at Batur Resort. Along the road, one can see the wonderful, with its spectacular panorama. more >>
Batur & Surroundings, Bangli Bali
Some sources describing about Batur are "Kusuma Dewa", "Usana Bali" and "Raja Purana Batur" manuscripts. It is told that Batur Temple had been established since Empu Kuturan (prominent Hindu spiritualist) time in X century up to the beginning of XI century.

Beji Temple, Buleleng Bali
This temple is known as a holy place to worship "Dewi Sri" (the Goddess of Rice), as the Goddess connected with agriculture and as the Goddess has created rice as staple-food. This temple is also known as "Subak" Temple for Sangsit traditional village

BEDUGUL

2009-02-19T00:11:00.001-08:00

The famous Tanah Lot sea temple which was built by Dang Hyang Nirartha is the first point to be visited in this bali tour package and then followed by visiting Alas Kedaton where the monkeys living here are considered sacred.
Afterwards drive to Bedugul to see the superb view of lake Beratan which is also very famous for its Ulun Danu Temple built on the shores of the lake and the spice / fruit market at Candikuning. Final stop will be made at Mengwi, was one of the main island kingdom, to see one of the grandest water garden temple on the island called Taman Ayun which was built around 1740 and symbolizing the cosmic union of sea and mountain

KINTAMANI

2009-02-19T00:10:00.001-08:00

Batur Lake is the old crater of Mount Batur, a still active volcano next to it. It is located on the northern part of Bali. The largest lake overshadowed by the active volcano is located in Bangli Regency, at the northeast of Bali. Batur Lake is the widest lake in this island. It lies down in the feet of Mount Batur and Mount Abang. The lake is classified as a "neutral-dilute" lake because there is no known underlying hydrothermal activity, and the abundant rainfall more than quenches any such activity. There is a hot spring right by the lake. We can enjoy the spectacular scenery of Batur Lake from Kintamani. Across the lake, only reachable by boat, lies Trunyan village, where the Bali Aga people live. The surrounding of the lake is a favorite place for picks self up. At Batur Lake we can see the scenic view and feel cool atmosphere. Bangli's mountainous region center is around the spectacular volcanic crater (or caldera) of Batur. Mount Batur adjacent to the volcano is the large crescent-shaped Batur Lake, all surrounded by the high walls of the crater rim. The place is a great day trips, trekking or just to get away from the daily activity.

Posted by TRAVEL BALI

ULUWATU TEMPLE

2009-02-19T00:08:00.001-08:00

Pura Luhur Uluwatu is one of Bali's kayangan jagat (directional temples) and guards Bali from evil spirits from the SW, in which dwell major deities, in Uluwatu's case; Bhatara Rudra, God of the elements and of cosmic force majeures. Bali's most spectacular temples located high on a cliff top at the edge of a plateau 250 feet above the waves of the Indian Ocean. Uluwatu lies at the southern tip of Bali in Badung Regency. Dedicated to the spirits of the sea, the famous Pura Luhur Uluwatu temple is an architectural wonder in black coral rock, beautifully designed with spectacular views. This is a popular place to enjoy the sunset. Famous not only for its unique position, Uluwatu also boasts one of the oldest temples in Bali, Pura Uluwatu. Most of Bali's regencies have Pura Luhur (literally high temples or ascension temples) which become the focus for massive pilgrimages during three or five day odalan anniversaries. The photogenic Tanah Lot and the Bat Cave temple, Goa Lawah, is also Pura Luhur. Not all Pura Luhur are on the coast, however but all have inspiring locations, overlooking large bodies of water.

Posted by TRAVEL BALI

DREAMLAND BEACH

2009-02-19T00:07:00.001-08:00

Forget in moment Kuta, Sanur, and or Nusa Dua. Enjoying Bali only by sand sunning in the coasts not be prestigious anymore. Nowadays, time for you enjoying more challenging eksotis and exclusive vacation. Because the coasts only known by a few/little turis. The information even also by mouth to mouth. You will not find in reference or travel. Even so maybe its not too much and can be calculated by finger.
All of beach/Coast like Pecatu and of Uluwatu enter to south kuta District Region. There’s no formal guide to go there. Easiest direction is roadway to Uluwatu temple, one of the biggest temple in Pecatu Village, south of Bali. All of the coast have same caracters, short coast land , limited by two bank, white sand, billow, and... hidden! cause, this coast near in Garuda Wisnu Kencana in Bukit Ungasan.
First Coast/beach is Balangan Beach. Behind Pecatu hill, in this moment still working Bali Pecatu Graha ( BPG) project. To go to the coast we through zigzag way, up down hill. This journey be my own experienced because through hill and we saw Kuta beach and Ngurah Rai air port so far away in front of there. It’s about two kilometers, there are branches ways and illegal guide with simply write board to Balangan Beach and other to Dreamland. Forget it the last beach, because we come to Balangan Beach. This moment to go there we must down steep way. After that white sand and wave sound welcome us ( our tired)
When I’m Visiting with my team from Jakarta months ago, there is one couple only is sand sunning. The other tourist still waiting wave white take hold on their board surfing, and others relax on the beach chair while reading novel. There is no one disturb them. It’s so really beach to hide, Tiar said local tourist from Indonesia.
Balangan view beach faced on north, so Ngurah Rai airport can be saw from here. East part limited by mountainside with the call abouts 3 meters and the west part limited by mountainside more high and full of plant. There are two corals smaller beside high white stone mountainside between them. There are white sand that have big granule than Kuta. The coach a little stones near of the beach part you must be carefull. There are about 5 cafes in here. In that evening there are some touris, sitting in that café with their beer in the table. Café’s function too as a placa to stay with the price about Rp. 50000/night. Local tourist or foreign tourist could walk to dreamland from Balangan Beach. They will trough some corals stone, swim to the beach and walk in the white sand to the west. Dream Land beach more crowded then Balangan. Mede Said “this Place known about 1996 ( she is from there ). Dreamland beach like dream beach. In the first time come to that place my friend feel so proud they shock when they trough as small gate about one meters between two corals and then becomed, white sand, blue beach, roll of waves and west point Bali island in Uluwatu. Some tourist enjoying solving swimming, surfing and sanding. Although more crowded than Balangan, amount of tourist in Dreamland smaller than Kuta and Sanur. It’s about 50 tourist. The Beach length about 1 kilometers to south. In the north limited by sharp stone Beach and high coral 15 meters. In this hill we ca see the beach ( Dreamland ) under there 20 meters. This beach side to west so we can see sunset. It’s really beautiful place. Silent and good place to take a rest from crowded place and bussy day. Coming and enjoy your life to Bali. You will feel satisfied.

Posted by TRAVEL BALI

Tanah Lot

2009-02-18T23:55:00.000-08:00

Bali is true heaven of tourism. At least that existing fact and which I feel as part of Bali society which live and grow in Bali island. There are a lot of beautiful exotic place in this island. One of them is Tanah Lot. As tourism object, Tanah Lot is true famous. It’s called as icon of Bali Tourism beside GWK statue kuta, Sanur, Nusadua and Ubud Beach. As Icon, Tanah Lot is so enthused by all tourist, foreign or Domestic tourist.
Tanah Lot is True with fascination. This tourist object integrate consist of sunset moment that very beautifull with spiritual tourism marked by tanah lot temple. Even a number of tourist at the moment. Tourist can directly show activity of hindhu people ritual.
Tanah lot located in tabanan Regency. If you want to go there from Denpasar or Ngurah Rai Air Port just need 30-40 minutes but for local tourist from java island tanah Lot could reach from Kediri region located about 8 kilometers north of Tanah Lot and be important way (rush) Denpasar-Gilimanuk. The big……………..of Tanah Lot tourism object can not be let loose from Tanah Lot temple in the Midle of Beach for Praying, Hinduism come to Pura tanah Lot on foot across the beach. Just for five minutes, not too long. The beach water that must be accrosed undeep, just limit of knee.
Tanah lot temple established by Dang Hyang Dwijendra some one who has iron skill that live in majapahit kingdom in era 15. He comes to Bali for starting lofty Duty. Teach spiritual problems and social harmonization. By the Bali King that has power, Dalem Waturenggong Dang Hyang Dwijendra accepted and gived achance to spread Hindhu religion. In Bali, Dang Hyang Dwijendra establish some temples, one of them is Pura Tanah lot.
Beside Tanah Lot Temple and sunset view, there is another thing that proper enjoyed by tourist. That are sixs Pura the location in a row to the west from pura Tasnah lotwith walking for about 1 km, the tourist can find pura Pakendungan, Pura Penataran, Enjung Galuh, jro kandangBatu Bolong, Batu Mejan. All of that temple has unique, in Fact in the last Pura that’s Pura Batu Mejan be located in beach lips. There are 9 water sources out from under the beach and the water tasteless!. In order to enjoy all of interest places souronding Tanah lot tourism object, you must come early or before evening. After satisfied visit seven temples, in the evening you can enjoy sunset in the west part. Now, it’s time to leave from the beach (Tanah lot) But wait, have your hand bring the souvenir! Don’t worry because of that. In there, available art market that available some of crafts and Bali special food. The price, it’s cheap if you smart to bargain.

Posted by TRAVEL BALI

BALI EVEN IN 2009

2009-01-25T18:48:00.000-08:00

EVENTS IN BALI

1 "New Year 2009 "
3 "Saraswati Day ", in honor of Dewi Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge.
Odalan, temple anniversary celebrations, held every 210 days at :
ist Pura Pasek Gelgel, Sayan, Bongkasa village, district of Abian semal, Badung regency Pura Dadya Agung Tangkas, Kori Agung, Gerih village, district of Abian Semal, Badung regency
4 "Banyu Pinaruh ", a day after Saraswati Day, people goes to the beach for purification and wisdom.
7 "Pagerwesi ", the word literally means, "Iron fence "when people pray for strong mental defense to"Shanghyang Pramesti Guru " the Lord of universe.
10 "Full Moon "
Odalan and Purnama, temple anniversary celebrations and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Luhur Pucak Padang Dawa, Bangli Village, district of Baturiti, Tabanan regency
Pura Silayukti, Padang bai village, Karangasem regency
Pura Air Jeruk, Sukawati village, Gianyar regency
Pura Penatasan Agung, Sukawati village, Gianyar regency
Pura Bonua, Besakih village, Karangasem regency
Pura Batur Sari, Ubud village, Gianyar regency

Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Laban Sindu Jiwa, Kedewatan village, Ubud district, Gianyar regency.
Pura Kehen, North of the town of Bangli, Bangli regency
Pura Padang Sakti, Tangt u village, East of Denpasar
17 "Tumpek Landep ", the day devoted to Shanghyang Pasupati when blessing ceremony is held for heirlooms, weapons and all tools and implements made of metal, for magic power and proper function.
Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Penatasan Pande, Kusamba village, Klungkung regency.
Pura Ida Ratu Pande Besakih ( The Mother Temple), Karangasem Regency
Pura Taman, Bubunan village, Seririt district Buleleng regency
21 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh and Desa, Bebalang village, South of the town of Bangli, Bangli regency
Pura Dalem Perancak, Canggu village, kuta district, Badung regency
Pura Gede Gunung Agung, Munggu village, district of mengwi, Badung regency
Pura Kareban langit, Sading village, district of Mengwi, Badung regency
24 "Siwaratri, Ciwaratri", the night dedicated for the god Shiva. A time for holy contemplation and purification, the Balinese do not sleep for one night.
26 "Chinese Lunar New Year 2560 "
27 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Dalem Lagan, Bebalang village, South of the town of Bangli
Pura Dalem Ganda Mayu, downtown of Klungkung
Pura Puseh, Lembeng village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
Pura Penataran Sasih, Pejeng village, district of Tampaksiring, Gianyar regency
29 "Bali Magic Festival—Performance and magic Competition featuring Max Maven until January 31 "
[TOP]
FEBRUARY
2 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh / Bale agung, ubung, Kupang village, district of Penebel, Tabanan regency
Pura Batumadeg, Besakih ( The Mother Temple) complex, Karangasem regency
9 "Full Moon "
Odalan and Purnama, Temple anniversary, celebrations and fullmoon ceremony at :
list Pura Dalem, Batur village, Bangli regency
Pura Ratu Pasek, Besakih, (The Mother Temple ) complex, Karangasem regency
11 "Temple celebration at :
list Pura Puseh /Desa, Guang village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency.
list Pura Penataran Agung Puri Agung Bangli, down town of Bangli.
14 " Valentine Day—many hotels and restaurants offers dinner packages "
21 "Tumpek Uduh/Tumpek Wayang", the day devoted to God as "Sanghyang Sangkara", lord of all food-plants and vegetables when blessing ceremony is held for good crop and product. Every farm and plantation throughout Bali.
Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Manik Mas Besakih ( The Mother Temple) complex, Karangasem regency
Pura Puseh/ Desa Batuan village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
25 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puncak Sari, Peninjoan village, district of Tembuku, Bangli regency
list Pura Pasek, Gelgel, Gerih, village, district of Abian Semal, Badung regency
[TOP]
MARCH
3 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, Candikuning village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Batu Klotok, South beach of Semarapura, the capital town of Klungkung regency
list Pura Dalem waturenggong, Taro Kaja village, Gianyar regency
4 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Penataran Gana, Bebalang village, Bangli regency
list Pura Dalem Gede, Banjar Pande, down town of Bangli
list Pura Pucak Sari ( Monkey forest), Sangeh village, Badung regency
5 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Penataran Sasih, Pejeng village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Bukit Mentik, Gunung Lebah village, Bangli regency
9 "Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad "
12 "Odalan Temple anniversary celebrations at :
list Pura Kawitan Tangkas Kori Agung, Tangkas village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Siang Kangin Tampuagan , Peninjoan village, Bangli regency.
list Pelinggih Ida Ratu Mas, Penataran agung, Besakih ( The Mother Temple) complex, Karangasem regency
18 "Galungan” Holiday", The day believed as the victory day of "Dharma", (Virtue) upon "Adharma" (evil) , when the entire island is brightened with festivities while "Penjor" the artistically, decorated, bamboo pole stuck at every house entrance adorning the both symbolizing prosperity. Throughout Bali.
Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Luhur Watukaru, wongaya Gede, Tabanan village
list Pura Lempuyang Luhur, (on top of Mt. Lempuyang) Purwayu village, Karangasem village
list Pura Kentel Gumi, Banjarangkan village, Klungkung regency
23 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebrations at :
list
Pura Dasar Buana, Gelgel Village, Klungkung regency.
list Pura Pemerajan Agung, benawah kangin village, Gianyar regency
24 "Mekiyis" or "Melasti" , ceremony the procession of Hindu followers carrying temple effigies to the beach for purification ceremony in welcoming "Nyepi" the Is Caka New Year.
Sanur and Kuta Beach
25 "Tawur Agung Kesanga " , ceremony, great sacrificial ceremony offered to the underworld spirits for not disturbing human being’s settlement (at 12.00 noon) followed by process of "Ogoh-ogoh" (monster-like creatures made from bamboo, papers, and Styrofoam symbolizing evil spirits) in the evening.
- Puputan square, down town of Denpasar city
- Square or cross road of town and village throughout Bali
26 "Nyepi Day" , Caka New Year 1931, a day of absolute silence for Hindu followers, when no activity is done, no fire is lit, no traveling anywhere and no amusement is held for the day and night, Throughout Bali.
27 "Med-Medan", traditional event, this event is held in connection with “Nyepi” the Caka new year, involving maidens and bachelors of the village as to strengthen brotherhood and understanding among the youth. Initiated with prayer at the local temple, the group members then hug one another, getting roughly wet under water sprouted by someone. It’s a cheerful moment for all, held about 15.00 hours. At Banjar Kaja, Sesetan village, south of Denpasar.
28 "Kuningan holiday", the last day of Galungan celebration, believed to be the ascendant day of the ancestral holy spirits and Deities to heaven after sojourning for several day son this material world. On this day, special offering consisted of yellow rice and special dishes are offered while every compound and temple is decorated with ornaments made of young coconut leaves and flowers. Throughout Bali.
Temple anniversary celebration at :
list
Pura Taman Pule, Mas village Ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Sadha, Kapal village, Badung regency
list Pura Ularan, takmung village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Dalem Tegal Jaya, Batubulan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Sakenan, Serangan Island ( Turtle Island)
list Pura Dalem Tenggaling, Guliang village, Bangli regency
list “Makotekan” ceremony, (village purification ceremony), at : Munggu village, district of Mengwi, Badung regency
"Perang Jempana",as part of the temple anniversary celebrations when two group of the temple adherents carrying "Jempana" ( Temple effigy) collides one another as to indicate that the ceremony has been processed properly, at : Pura Panti Timbrah, Pakse Bali Village, Klungkung regency.
"Megarang pipis",special events (snatching away the money), when certain sun of money is collected from every family compound after holding a ritual, which money is then spread out on the village road, snatched away by the crowd of people. It is believed that by supplying the ancestor holy spirits with the money, the descendants will be rewarded with prosperity in return it is usually held before noon, at : Bongan cina village, south of Tabanan, Tabanan regency.
29 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebrations at :
list
Pura Dalem Panhuman Bujangga, Penatih village, east of Denpasar.
[TOP]
APRIL
1 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Tanah Lot ( temple at the rock), Kediri village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Bukcabe Mas Village, Ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Masceti, Sanding village, Tampaksiring regency
5 "Ngarebong",special event / ritual, when a group of the temple adherents being in trance, stab themselves with kris, the crared daggers, just to indicate thet the series of ritual have been in process accordingly, at : Pura Petilan Pengerebongan, Kesiman village, east of Denpasar.
7 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Luhur Uluwatu, Pecatu village, Badung regency
list Pura Penataran Agung Jukut paku, Singakerta village, Ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Andakasa, Manggis village, Karangasem village
list Pura Gualawah ( the bat cave), Klungkung regency
list Pura Taman Ayun ( the royal temple), Mengwi village, Badung regency
list Pura Puseh, Pura Desa cemenggaon village, Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Senapati, Bebalang village, south of Bangli
8 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura dalem Dauma, Batuan village, Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Nataran, Kacangdawa village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Taman, Kendran village, Tegalalang, Gianyar regency
9 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Batur , Kalanganyar village, Bangli regency
list Pura Dalem, tangsub village, Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Penambangan Badung, Pemedilan village, downtown of Denpasar
list Pura Desa, Singakertha village, Ubud, Gianyar regency
list “Bethara Turun Kabeh” (the descendent of all Deities) special ceremony, held once in a year time at : Pura Penataran Agung Besakih ( The mother temple) Karangasem regency
list “Ngusaba” special regency, special ritual held every certain period of time, after harvesting, at : Pura Bukit Jati, Bangli regency, Pura Lempuyang Madya, Purwayu village,Karangasem regency
10 "Good Friday"
22 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Luhur Puncak Padangdawa, Bangli village district of Baturiti, Tabanan regency
list Pura Silayukti, padangbai village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Air Jeruk, Sukawati village, Gianyar regency.
list Pura Dangin Pasar, batuan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Puseh, bebandem village, Karangasem regency
24 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Kahyangan tiga, Batur village, Bangli regency
list Pura Batur, Cemenggaon village, Sukawati district, Gianyar regency
[TOP]
MAY
2 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Dalem Pemuteran Jelantik village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Dalem Tarukan, Bebalang village, South of the town of Bangli
list Pura Taman Sari , Gunung Sari village, Penebel district, Tabanan regency
6 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh / Desa, Silakarang village, Ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Petitenget, Kerobokan village, Badung regency
list Pura Dalem Pularsari, Samprangan village, Gianyar regency
9 "Waisak".
Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puncak Tinggah, Angsri village, district of Baturiti, Tabanan village
list Pura Samuan Tiga, Bedulu village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Penataran Agung, Sidemen village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Maospahit, Banjar gerenceng, downtown of Denpasar
12 "Odalan Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Dalem Puri, batuan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Kediri, Silakarang, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem, Singakertha village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Desa, Gajah Mada street down town of Denpasar
list Pura Puncak Payogan, Kedewatan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Tampuagan, Peninjoan village, district of Tembuku, Bangli, regency
list Pura Dalem Waturenggong taro village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Puri, Peliatan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Puseh, Ubud village, Gianyar regency
21 "The Ascension of Jesus Christ"
27 Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh/ Desa, Sukawati village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Merajan Agung, Batuyang village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Maspahit, Sesetan village, south of Denpasar
[TOP]
JUNE
6 "Tumpek Kandang/Tumpek Uye", "Sanghyang Rare Angon" the Lord of cattel and livestock, requesting good ibreed and product at : Every animal husbandry and family compound in Bali.
Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh/ Desa, downtown of Gianyar
list Pura Dalem Segening, Kediri, village, Tabanan regency
10 "Pura Dalem Tarukan, Cemenggaon village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency at :
list Pura Penataran Dalem Ketut, Pejeng kaja village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Pemerajan Agung, Puri Ubud ( the Palace of ubud) downtown of Ubud, Gianyar regency
13 "Opening Ceremony of the 31st Bali Art Festival
Commenced with cultural procession offered typically by every regencies in Bali. After the main ceremony officially opened by president of the republic Indonesia/ minister, the procession will be proceeding to the Art Centre in Denpasar, where exhibitions and display of handicraft, painting, jewelries, garment and other product are held, while various kinds of performing art are on stage, every day and night, up to mid July.
" Bali Art Festival will be closed at Sunday 12 2009 "
16 Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Bukit Buluh, Gunaksa village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Tirta village, south of the town of Bangli
list Pura Dalem, Bitra village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Taman Sari, Ubud village, Gianyar regency
17 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Agung Dalem Tarukan, Pejeng village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Rambut Siwi, Yeh Embang village, Jembrana regency
list Pura Batu Bolong, canggu village, Badung regency
list Pura Tirta Anom Padang sigi village, district of Tampaksiring, Gianyar regency
[TOP]
JULY
1 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Petali, Jati Luwih village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Dalem Tarukan, Pulasari village, Bangli regency
list Pura Dalem Puri, Besakih village, Karangasem regency
7 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Ulun Suwi, Jimbaran village, district of Kuta, Badung regency
list Pura Batu Madeg, besakih ( the mother temple complex), Karangasem regency
list Pura Puseh/ pura desa, Batur village, Kintamani regency
list Pura Dalem Kedewatan, Celuk village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
11 "Tumpek Wayang",it is special day for puppeteers, when blessing ceremony is given to shadow puppet play set for "taksu"(magical charm and power). Throught Bali. Odalan. Temple anniversary celebration at : Pura Bhatara ratu alit and Ratu lingsir, Singakerta village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency & Pura Pedarman, Besakih ( the mother temple), Karangasem regency.
12 "Closing ceremony of 31st Bali Art Festival
20 "Isra’ Mi’raj (Ascension of Prophet Muhammad)"
21 "Odalan, Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Dalem, Batuyang Village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Desa, Bedulu village, Gianyar regency
22 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Dalem, Samplangan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Agung Pasek Gelgel Sibang Kaja village, Badung regency
[TOP]
AUGUST
1"Saraswati", the day devoted to God as Sanghyang Aji Saraswati symbolized a Beautiful Goddess of Knowledge, sciences and arts, when blessing ceremony is given to holy scriptures, books of sciences and arts for every family compound throughout Bali.
2 "Banyupinaruh day", when the Balinese go to every beach, river, lake and spring, to purity themselves and pray for wisdom and wits, at dawn. Throughout Bali.
3 "Comaribek day", when blessing ceremony is held for every source of living (rice, barn, spring, etc). throughout Bali.
5 "Pagerwesi holiday and full moon ceremony , The word "Pagerwesi", "literally means" "iron fence" (Pager= fence, wesi= iron) This day is doevoted to “Sanghyang Pramesti Guru” (God as lord of the universe), when Hindu followers pray for strong mental defence to face life obstacles.
Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Kehen, downtown of Bangli
list Pura Laban sindu Jiwa, Kedewatan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Ularan, Banjartatasan downtown of Denpasar
list Pura Dang Kahyangan Pengukur-Ukur, Pejeng village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Gelap, Besakih (the mother temple complex) Karangasem regency
15 "Tumpek Landep day", the day devoted to Sanghyang Pasupati (as the Lord of all metal implements) when blessing ceremony is given to heirlooms weapons and the other metal tools ( including cars) for magical power and proper function. Throughout Bali.
Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Penatasan Pande, Kusamba village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Ida Ratu Pande, karangasem ( Mother Temple), Karangasem regency
list Pura Dalem Pingit, taro kaja village, district of Tegalalang, Gianyar regency
17 " Indonesia Independence Day "
19 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh and Desa Bebalang village, south of the town of Bangli, Bangli regency
list Pura Dalem Perancak, Canggu village, Kuta district , Badung regency
list Pura Gede Gunung Agung, Munggu village, district of Mengwi, Badung regency
list Pura Kereban Langit, Sading village, district of Mengwi, Badung regency
25 Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Puseh, Lembeng village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Ganda Mayu, downtown of Klungkung
list Pura Dalem Lagan, Bebalang village, south of the town of Bangli, Bangli regency
26 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Kahyangan Tiga, Batur village, Bangli regency.
list Pura Batur, Cemagaon villa district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
[TOP]
SEPTEMBER
4 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Gunung Kawi, Tampaksiring village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Ulun Kul-kul, Besakih ( the mother temple complex), Karangasem regency
9 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura penataran agung puri agung, downtown of Bangli
list Pura puseh/ pura desa, guang village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Pasek Gel-gel, kukuh village, district of Marga, Tabanan
19 "Tumpek uduh (tumpek wariga) ", the day devoted to God as "Sanghyang Sangkara" lord of all food-plants and vegetation, when blessing ceremony is held for good crop and product, every farm and plantation throughout Bali.
Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Manik Mas Besakih ( the mother temple complex), Karangasem regency
list Pura Puseh / Desa batuan village district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
21 "Eid Fitri Festival 1430 H"
22 "Eid Fitri Festival 1430 H"
29 Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Ulun Danu Beratan, Candi Kuning village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Batu Klotok, South beach of Semara Pura, the capital town of Klungkung regency
list Pura Dalem Waturenggong, Taro Kaja village, Gianyar regency
30 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Penataran Gana, Bebalang village, Bangli regency
list Pura Dalem Gede, Banjar Pande, Downtown of Bangli
list Pura Puncak Sari ( Monkey forest), Sangeh village, Badung regency
[TOP]
OCTOBER
3 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Batu Bolong, Canggu village, district of Kuta, Badung regency
list Pura Penataran agung, Besakih ( the mother complex), Karangasem regency
list Pura Agung Pulaki, Banyupoh village district of Grokgak, Buleleng regency
list Pura Tirta Empul, Tampaksiring village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Ulun Danu Batur, Songan village, district of Kintamani, Bangli regency
list Pura Puseh, Tebola village, district of Sidemen, Karangasem regency
list Pura Dalem Tarukan, Pejeng village, Gianyar regency
14 "Galungan celebration ", as to commemorate the victory of “Dharma” (virtue) upon “Adharma” ( evil) based on the mythology of “ Mayadenawa” the demon king who was involved ia a war against God Indra’s troops. On this day , a tall bamboo –pole decorated with young coconut leaves, flower, fruit and cakes is stuck on every house entrance and make a marvelous sight along the village roads symbolizing prosperity, throughout Bali.
15 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Luhur Watukaru, wongaya gede village, tabanan regency
list Pura Lempuyang luhur, (on top of Mt. lempuyang) purwayu village, karangasem village
list Pura Kentel Gumi, Banjarangkan village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Desa and Puseh, Mengwi village, Badung regency
16 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Danghyang Tulus Dewa, Apuan village, district of Susut, bangle regency
list Pura Merajan Agung, Benawah Kangin, district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar regency
19 "Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list "Pura Dasar Buana, Gelgel village, Klungkung regency
24 "Kuningan celebration ", the last day of Galungan celebration, believed to be the ascendant day of the ancentral holy spirits and Deities to heaven after sojourning for several day son this material world. On this day, special offering consisted of yellow rice and special dishens are offered while every compound and temple is decorated with ornaments made of young coconut leaves and flowers. Throughout Bali.
Perang Jempana as part of the temple anniversary celebrations when two group of the temple adherents carrying “Jempana” ( Temple effigy) collides one another as to indicate that The ceremony has been processed properly, at : Pura Panti Timbrah, Pakse Bali Village, Klungkung regency.
Odalan, temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Ulun Kulkul Besakih ( Mother temple), Karangasem regency
list Pura Taman Pule, Mas village,ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Sadha, kapal village, Badung regency
list Pura Ularan, Takmung village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Dalem Tegeha, Batubulan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem, Guang village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Sakenan, Serangan island ( Turtle Island), Denpasar municipality
25 "Pemendakan means “ welcoming” procession fot the deities to Sakenan temple, held in the afternoon. From some main temple in Denpasar and Sanur.
“ Megarang pipis”, special events (snatching away the money), when certain sun of money is collected from every family compound after holding a ritual, which money is then spread out on the village road, snatched away by the crowd of people. It is believed that by supplying the ancestor holy spirits with the money, the descendants will be rewarded with prosperity in return it is usually held before noon, at : Bongan Cina village, south of Tabanan, Tabanan regency.
28 "Temple anniversary celebration at :
list Pura Tanah Lot, Kediri village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Bukcabe Mas village, Ubud, Gianyar regency
[TOP]
NOVEMBER
2 "Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Dalem Puri, Batur village, Bangli regency.
list Pura Batumadeg Besakih ( the mother temple), Karangasem regency
list Pura Kehen, downtown of Bangli
list Pura Puseh, Buda Keeling village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Mrajan Agung Puri Pemecutan, downtown of Denpasar
list Pura Dalem Agung, Nongan village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Puncak Bukit, Tampaksiring village, Gianyar regency
3 "Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Luhur Andakasa, Antiga village, district of Manggis, karangasem regency
list Pura Luhur Uluwatu, the cliff of Southern of bukit Peninsula, Pecatu village, Badung regency
list Pura Gua Lawah (the bat cave temple) Klungkung regency
list Pura Taman Ayun ( the royal temple), Mengwi village, Badung regency
list Pura Dalem Senapati, Bebalang village, south of Bangli
list Pura Suralaya, Banda village, district of Banjarangkan, Klungkung regency
list Pura Pusering Jagat, Pejeng village, Gianyar regency
4 "Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Puseh Bramana Kamasan village, Klungkung regency
list Pura Penataran Kacang Dawa, Klungkung regency
list Pura Luhur Puncak Sari, Penatahan village, Tabanan regency
list Pura Dalem Sena, Babakan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Desa, Sanding village, district of Tampaksiring, Gianyar regency
list Pura Taman, Dukuh village, district of Tegalalang, Gianyar regency
18 "Temple anniversary celebrations and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Silayukti, Padangbai village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Air Jeruk, Sukawati village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Desa, Bebandem village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Dangin Pasar, Batuan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Luhur Puncak Padang Dawa, Bangli village, district of Baturiti, Tabanan regency
27 "Eid Adha 1430 H"
28 "Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Dalem Pemuteran, Jelantik village, Klungkung regency
[TOP]
DECEMBER
1"Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Bhatara Kawitan Pura Agung Bangli, downtown of Bangli
list Pura Pasek Gelgel, Pedungan village, south of Denpasar
list Pura Kertha, Banyuning village, downtown of Singaraja ( north Bali)
list Pura Taman, Bubunan village, district of Seririt, Buleleng regency ( north Bali)
2 "Temple anniversary celebration and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Puseh and Desa Silakarang village district of Sukawati village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Pulasari Samprangan village, district of Blahbatuh, Gianyar regency
list Pura Natih, Banjar kaloh batuan village
list Pura Dalem Petitenget, Kerobokan village, district of Kuta, Badung regency
3 "Temple anniversary celebrations and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Dalem Puri, Besakih village, Karangasem regency
list Pura Dalem Puri, Batuan village, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem, Singakertha village, district of Ubud, Gianyar regency
list Pura Dalem Agung, downtown of Bangli
list Pura Dalem, Ketewel village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Desa, Downtown of Denpasar
list Pura Puncak Payogan, Kedewatan village, district of Ubud, Gianyar regency
8 "Temple anniversary celebrations and full moon ceremony at :
list Pura Merajan Agung, Batuyang village, district of Sukawati, Gianyar regency
list Pura Tanjungsari, Padangbai village, Karangasem regency
18 "Islamic New Year 1 Muharram 1431 H "
25 "Christmas "

Visa to Visit Indonesia

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The Department of Justice and Human Rights has officially determined that as of August 2005:

Indonesia Government had granted visa on arrival favor to 52 countries to be able to purchase the visa on arrival facility upon their arrival in Indonesia's designed “International Gateway” at 15 airports and 21 seaports.

They are:
1. Argentina
2. Australia
3. Austria
4. Bahrain
5. Belgium
6. Brazil
7. Bulgaria
8. Cambodia
10. Cyprus
11. Denmark
12. Egypt
13. Estonia
14. Finland
15. France
16. Germany
17. Greece
18. Hungary
19. Iceland
20. India
21. Iran
22. Ireland
23. Italy
24. Japan
25. Kuwait
26. Laos
27. Liechtenstein
28. Luxembourg
29. Maldives
30. Malta
31. Mexico
32. Monaco
33. New Zealand
34. Norway
35. Oman
36. RRC
37. Poland
38. Portugal
39. Qatar
40. Saudi Arabia
41. Russia
42. South Africa
43. South Korea
44. Spain
45. Switzerland
46. Sweden
47. Surinam
48. Taiwan
49. The Netherland
50. United Arab Emirate
51. United Kingdom
52. United States of America

And started per 28 May 2007, Indonesia will be added its Visa on Arrival (VOA) favors to more 11 countries joined with previous 52 other favored countries according to the Directorate General of Immigration recent released paper.

The 11 countries are Algeria, the Czech Republic, Fiji, Latvia, Libya, Lithuania, Panama, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Tunisia.

Tourists from those selected countries will not oblige to apply abroad for a visa but can purchase a visa on arrival at 15 gates of Indonesia's international airports and seaports. The fee for this visa, payable upon landing, is US$10 for a 7 day visa and US$25 for a 30-day visa.

The official entry requirements for the issuance of a 30 or 7 days day visa-on arrival:

1. Passport must be from one of the countries listed above.
2. Passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 (six) months from the date of entry into Indonesia.
3. Payment of US$10 or US$25 must be paid at the gateway, depending on the length of visa required.
4. Onward or return tickets are compulsory.
5. Visitors must enter and exit through one of the 15 airports or 21 seaports officially approved as an “international gateway” by the Indonesian Immigration department.

11 countries and territories are eligible for a "Visa Free" facility. Those holding valid passports from the following countries will be granted a non-extendable 30-day Visa-Free Short Visit Permit upon arrival at an Indonesian international gateway without charge:

1. Brunei Darussalam
2. Chile
3. Hong Kong SAR
4. Macau SAR
5. Malaysia
6. Morocco
7. Peru
8. Philippines
9. Thailand
10. Vietnam
11. Singapore

Others nationals that not granted with either visa on arrival favor nor visa free favor from Indonesia government may apply for tourist visa at Indonesia embassy abroad.

Minimalist Guide to Bali

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Bali area reference:
- South Bali: Nusadua, Jimbaran, Tuban, Kuta, Seminyak, Kerobokan, Canggu, Sanur
- Central Bali: Ubud, Bedugul, Kintamani, Tabanan
- North Bali: Singaraja, Lovina
- East Bali: Candi Dasa, Karangasem
- West Bali: Menjangan
This page is intended for the minimalist among you. It lists the places of interest with a one line executive summary of what it has to offer. Print this page, take it with you, and once you are there, glance it quickly to determine where you should go next. Let us know if this is useful.
• Batubulan: Daily barong dance performance, fine stone
carvings, furniture, terracotta pots.
• Mount Batukau: off the beaten path, virgin rainforests,
mossy shade of Pura Luhur temple, serenity.
• Bedugul: highland retreat by the lake, crater,
watersports, quality fruits and vegetables.
• Besakih Temple: Mother Temple on Mount Agung, huge
complex of shrines, majestic.
• Candi Dasa: quiet newest resort area, snorkeling, diving,
beach.
• Celuk: silver and gold jewelry.
• Denpasar: rebuilt ancient city, art center, museum,
government offices.
• Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave): 8th century archaelogical
mystery, Buddhist inscriptions and carvings, elephant head
at entrance.
• Goa Lawah (Bat Cave): One-thousand year old Shiva
temple, millions of fruit bats cover the ceiling.
• Jimbaran: Southwest Bali, fisherman village, beach,
sunset,offshore reefs.
• Kintamani: Mountainous, spectacular view by Lake Batur,
sunrise at peak of Mount Batur.
• Klungkung: Old Palaces, Kertha Gosa Hall of Justice
(painted ceiling a la Sistine Chapel).
• Kuta: surfing, beaches, sunsets, night life, shops of
Legian.
• Lovina: North near Singaraja, still waters, dolphin watch.
• Negara: West Bali, water buffalo races (Jul - Oct).
• Nusa Dua : luxurious resorts, diving and surfing, beaches,
golf course, shops
• Nusa Lembongan: Bali's sister island, coral and sand
beaches, crystal clear water, surfing.
• Sangeh: Monkey Forest, tall nutmeg trees, aggressive
monkeys.
• Sanur: First resort of Bali, beaches, black and white
magic.
• Singaraja: North Bali, main port during colonial time,
quiet, culturally distinctive.
• Tabanan: mountains, rice field terraces, black sand
beaches, rain forests.
• Tampaksiring: wood carving, Tirta Empul temple and
sacred spring water, Sukarno's Palace.
• Tanah Lot: Dramatic ocean front temple,
spectacular sunset, snake filled cave.
• Tenganan: East Bali, village of Bali Aga, wonderful fabrics
(Gringsing double-ikat).
• Tirta Gangga: East Bali, water palace bathing place.
• Trunyan: Lake Batur village, accessible only by boat,
Bali Aga, the dead by a sacred tree.
• Ubud: Haven for the arts, paintings, lush rice fields,
museums, galleries, dances.
• Uluwatu: Spectacular temple on a cliff, real challenging
surf below.

Dewata Island

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Geographically
Bali is volcanically active and extravagantly fertile. Bali has an area of 5620 sq km, measures approximately 140 km by 80 km and is just 8 degrees south of the equator. Mount Agung known as the 'mother mountain' is over 3000 meters. South and north of the central mountains are Bali's fertile agricultural lands. The southern region is a wide, gently sloping area where most of Bali's abundant rice crop is grown. The south-central area is the true rice basket of the Island. The northern coastal strip is narrower, rising more rapidly into the foothills of the central range, but the main export crops, coffee, copra and rice, are grown here. Cattle are also raised in this area.

Climate
Bali has a climate that is tropical all year. The average temperature hovers around 30 degrees Celsius year-round. There are dry and wet seasons -dry from April to September and wet from October to March- but it can rain at any time of year and even during the wet season rain is likely to pass quickly. In general May to August are the best months in Bali. At that time of year the climate is likely to be cooler and the rains lightest. Around the coast, sea breezes temper the heat and as we move inland we also move up so the altitude works to keep things cool. It can get very cool up in the highlands and a warm sweater can be a good idea in mountain villages like Kintamani or Bedugul.

Population
With 2.5 million people, Bali is a very densely populated island. The population is almost all Indonesian, with the usual small Chinese contingent in the big towns, a sprinkling of Indian merchants, plus a number of more or less permanent visitors amongst the Westerners in Bali.

Culture
Each stage of Balinese life is marked by a series of ceremonies and rituals known as Manusa Yadnya. They contribute to the rich, varied and active life the average Balinese leads. There are ceremonies for every stage of Balinese life but often the last cremation ceremony is the biggest. A Balinese cremation can be an amazing, spectacular, colorful, noisy and exciting event. In fact it often takes so long to organize a cremation that years have passed since the death. During that time the body is temporarily buried. Of course an auspicious day must be chosen for the cremation and since a big cremation can be very expensive business many less wealthy people may take the opportunity of joining in at a larger cremation and sending their own dead on their way at the same time. Brahmans, however, must be cremated immediately. Apart from being yet another occasion for Balinese noise and confusion it's a fine opportunity to observe the incredible energy the Balinese put into creating real works of art which are totally ephemeral. There are a lot more than a body gets burnt at the cremation. The body is carried from the burial ground (or from the deceased's home if it's an 'immediate' cremation) to the cremation ground in a high, multi-tiered tower made of bamboo, paper, string, tinsel, silk, cloth, mirrors, flowers and anything else bright and colorful we can think of. The tower is carried on the shoulders of a group of men, the size of the group depending on the importance of the deceased and hence the size of the tower. The funeral of a former rajah high priest may require hundreds of men to tote the tower.

2009-01-05T01:32:00.001-08:00

Bali beaches

Bali is a famous tourist destination in Indonesia and is widely known for its exquisite beaches and Spa Centres.

The beach experience in Bali can be relished at different locations spread across the Bali coast. First is the Balina Beach which is about 4 km from Candi Dasa on the road to Klungkung. It's a newly developed tourist Beach Resort which has come up rapidly in the last few years. The sand here is lighter in colour and it is a perfect place to enjoy water sport.

Moving further is Lovina Beach at 10 km from the west-south-west of Singaraja, on the shores of the Bali Sea. Although the quality of the beach is not particularly high, as it is narrow, with dark-collared sand, is a pleasant place for perfect bathing holiday, much quieter than the crowded beaches of southern Bali.

The spa menu is the most comprehensive in Bali and it is possible to see resident experts, such as the Naturopath, Nutritionist, Ayurvedic Doctor, Counselling Psychologist and have classes with the Pilates Instructor and Yoga Teacher.

Talking about Spa centres one can plan for spa health retreat named COMO Shambhala Estate situated at Begawan Giri along with other places such as Le Spa has which has 5 treatment villas. Each has its own characteristic based on the treatments that you will take.

Dewata Island

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BALI
Bali Island, the perfect holiday destination for all ages offers something for everyone. Bali offers not just various customs but also various "adrenalin pump" parks. Many exciting amusements are available in Bali, with something new opening all the time. The number of offshore and inland attraction are on the rise because many tourists want them. This tropical paradise has a unique blend of modern tourist facilities combined with wonderful shopping and a rich past and heritage. After white water rafting that has gained popularity in Bali, comes offshore rafting or ocean rafting. The more adventurous sort of amusement has now become an alternative sport for tourists. Meanwhile white water rafting is still a popular activity with trips on Ayung, Telaga Waja, Unda Rivers, etc. The tourists can refresh their mind by watching beautiful scenery along the route. Those are not enough, some of the best surfing beaches in the world can be found on the western side of the island whilst conversely the eastern side is a wonderful haven for families, with beautiful white sand beaches and gentle seas.

Bali is small island, 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.

The culture of Bali is unique. People say that the Balinese people have reached self-content. The Balinese people are proud of having preserved their unique Hindu culture against the advance of Islam, the dominant religion throughout Indonesia. This is still reflected in days to day life and can be seen in the numerous ceremonies, Balinese festivals and magnificent temples and palaces. 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. Stone and woodcarvings, traditional and modern paintings and intricately designed jewelry in gold and silver are readily available in shops and galleries throughout the island.

As for recreation, there is no shortage of options. Nature walks, horseback riding, diving, surfing - even bungy jumping and white water rafting - await the adventurous here.

2008-11-05T02:38:00.000-08:00

LCD Text Generator at TextSpace.net

BALI - NUSA DUA , INCLUDES BALI - TANJUNG BENOA

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Nusa Dua's hotels are geared to tourist groups, beach fanatics and international conferences. Each hotel has its own combination of first-class business and resort facilities. Located in a large, landscaped park, the complex also comprises an international convention center, a championship 18-hole golf course, a luxury shopping center, a medical clinic, and an amphitheater for music and dance. More facilities are located in the village of Bualu, just outside the resort. A strip of hotels, restaurants and watersports operators is located along the narrow cape north of Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa. And a new area is being developed at Pecatu or South Nusa Dua, south of Nusa Dua proper, anchored by the Nikko Hotel.
Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.

Bali Tourist Information

Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) at the center of Nusa Dua complex, Phone 771010.

How to get to Nusa Dua

The airport taxi co-op counter is outside customs ' near "left luggage". The average fare is Rp35,000 to Nusa Dua, Rp40,000 to Tanjung Benoa and Rp45,000 to Pecatu/South Nusa Dua.Most hotels have a taxi counter run by a private company or co-operative. Prices are significantly higher (30%) than other resorts, with the drive to the airport costing $10 or more. Open-topped buses with tropical motifs travel throughout the complex and to Benoa village. The fare is Rp1,000. There are car rental companies at each of the three gates of the Nusa Dua complex, near the Tragia Supermarket and at several hotels. There's also a bemo terminal. The fare is between Rp 1000 and Rp2,000 to Denpasar, and Rp2,000 to Tanjung Benoa.

Eating in Nusa Dua

The Nusa Dua complex has many international restaurants (with international prices) in the five star hotels. A 7-course French meal at the chic Semeru Rotisserie in the Putri Bali costs $55/person. All hotels hold theme buffet dinners featuring Balinese dance for $30-$40/person. The Galeria area offers Spanish, Indonesian, Balinese, Italian, Korean, Thai, Swiss-German, Chinese, Japanese, and Western cuisines. Try Warung Bali to taste some local flavor, Sendok Restaurant for a variety of international dishes and Escargot for French cuisine. For fresh spicy seafood, try the Jala-Jala restaurant in the new Nikko Bali hotel. For excellent Japanese food including sushi and teppanyaki, the Matsuri Japanese Restaurant, next to the Galleria Shopping Complex, is a must.

For cheaper food and more natural surroundings, head for the village of Bualu just outside the resort. Outside the main gate to the right is the big Lotus Garden (free transportation in Nusa Dua area) restaurant which serves fesh, homemade pasta, grilled seafood and steaks. If you like spicy West Sumatran food, try Mega Meriah Padang on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai. The best price-quality deal, though, is the Ulam Restaurant, just outside the gate facing the Hilton. The specialty is the seafood basket for $8 per person. It's a favorite haunt of ministers and celebrities. Kuta's popular Poco Loco Mexican food has opened a branch at JI. Pantai Mengiat. Also on JI. Pantai Mengiat is the Nyoman Beer Garden with its extensive international menu, featuring great pasta and fresh seafood.

Finally, if you decide to go native and eat for a dollar, there's a sate stall near the main entrance, or try the bakso Solo (meatball soup) at the night market in front of the local movie theater.

Bali - Tanjung Benoa

Tanjung Benoa is the natural northern continuation of Nusa Dua, with the white sand beach stretching the length of the coast. It is a booming resort, popular with water sports enthusiasts.

The Tanjung Benoa area has an increasing number of good restaurants. Near the peninsula tip, the sumptuous Beluga Watersport Complex is a hull shaped restaurant renowned for its rijsttafel, only $10/person. The beach side Rai restaurant features lobster and fresh fish grilled to perfection. For good European fare and pizza, dine at Novotel Benoa. At the southern end, across from Club Mad (and a favorite of its staff), is the Casanova Italian restaurant. For Indonesian food, Bambu Indah has a good reputation among locals. More upscale but excellent quality is Pasar Senggol, nightly at Grand Hyatt Bali. For $37, all you can eat of a variety of Indonesian fare from vendor carts and stalls, plus an excellent dance performance. Tanjung Benoa Café Jl. Padma #216. Enjoy Indonesian, Chinese and European cuisine and the romantic atmosphere.

Tanjung Benoa Activities

Facilities are available at reasonable rates in over 10 locations. The following is a rough price guide. Canoes: $6/hour. Deep-sea fishing: $50-$75. Scuba Diving: $34-$85 for certified divers, $55 (boat dive). Snorkeling around Nusa Dua: $10. Day trips to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan: cost $60/boat. Banana boats, water scooters, water skiing, jet skis, wave runners, windsurfers, and parasailing are also available.

Tanjung Benoa Shopping
Although the Nusa Dua / Tanjung Benoa area does not compare to Kuta or Denpasar for choice, you can find a wide range of products in a much smaller area. Prices are fair.

Set inside the Nusa Dua resort, the Galeria Shopping Complex has textiles and handicrafts, including leather, batik, woodcarving, and paintings. Galeria has expanded and improved with greenery and lively kiosks selling crafts and fast foods. A new games center entertains youngsters and the island's largest music outlet is here. Keris Gallery is an up-market department store. There's also a Duty Free Shop, a Tragia supermarket, a huge branded jeans warehouse and numerous international restaurants.

Another shopping area is near the main Tragia supermarket on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai. There are a number of leather shops where you can bargain for custom-made leather jackets for as little as $120. Most of the other stuff on sale is the same as that found in all the main tourist areas, minus the chic of some of the Legian and Sanur shops. The Tragia supermarket itself is a good place to buy souvenirs for a fixed, higher price, but minus the hassles. For an excellent and wide selection of local wood furniture, visit Tuahta Furniture, JI. Pratama 100X, Tanjung Benoa. They will also help with shipping if something large catches your eye.

Tanjung Benoa Night Life

Nusa Dua is a resort for short stays, conventioneers and families who generally don't go out. If they do, it's either to Jimbaran or Kuta. There are a few nightspots in the resort, however: Bali Hilton's Octopus Fun Pub with live music from 7 pm-10 pm and karaoke until 2 am; live bands and big screen video at Grand Hyatt's Lila Cita, 6 pm-2 am; or Quinn's Pub at the Sheraton Laguna with music from 9 pm; for an elegant night out, Club Tabuh at Nusa Dua Beach Hotel has a nightly band alternately featuring jazz, Caribbean and Top 40 music from 9 pm-1 am. In Tanjung Benoa, try Grand Mirage Resort's Cool Bar with karaoke and dancing 9 pm-midnight, or Hemingway's Piano Bar for after-dinner drinks and piano with vocals, 6 pm-midnight.Nusa Dua's Amphitheater frequently sponsors cultural performances from across the archipelago and often has international performing artists appearing.

Banks and Money Changers. Both available at Galleria or outside the main gate to Nusa Dua. Medical Service. The BTDC Clinic, across from Nusa Dua Galleria, and the Nusa Dua Clinic, across from Bali Royal in Tanjung Benoa are both open 24-hours.

Telecommunications. Wartels are located at the BPLP/STP Hotel & Tourism Institute in Nusa Dua, Phone 7771165 and behind the Police in Tanjung Benoa, Phone 773648. Both open 8 am-11 pm.

Postal Service. Most hotels will post letters for guests. The Nusa Dua post office is outside the resort's main gate. Hours: Mon-Sat 8 am-8 pm, Sun 8 am-noon, holidays 8 am-2 pm.

BALI - KUTA & LEGIAN & SEMINYAK, INCLUDES SEMINYAK & PETITENGET

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The white sands of Kuta are still arguably the best beachfront on Bali. The beach is much cleaner than just a few years ago, although the vendors remain annoying. Kuta is not the fishing village it once was: it is now a booming Pacific resort and its streets are clogged with tourists and traffic during peak seasons. Legian is a bit quieter, less crowded, and more suitable for longer stays, although in many ways it has become an extension of Kuta. Further north, Seminyak, Petitenget and Canggu offer more tranquility.
Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.

ORIENTATION
BALI TOURIST INFORMATION

Bali - Kuta and Tuban

Kuta proper is the area delineated by JI. Legian, JI. Pantai Kuta, JI. Melasti, the beach front drive and the lanes in between, especially Gang Poppies I and 11. JI. Legian is the commercial hub of Kuta and the stage of many of its restaurants and nightlife. Most of Kuta's big beachfront hotels are in southern Kuta, or Tuban, including the LTI Patra Jasa Bali, Ramada Bintang Bali, Holiday Inn Balihai, Kartika Plaza, Sol Elite Paradiso, and Bali Dynasty.

Bali - Legian and Seminyak

Legian and Seminyak are northern extensions of Kuta proper along JI. Legian to JI. Basangkasa. Somewhat quieter with cottage-style accommodations, this is where many of the ex-pat designers and long-stay tourists live. The biggest hotels are the Bali Imperial, Jayakarta, and the Bali Padma. There are three ways to reach Legian and Seminyak: through Kuta and JI ' Melasti, then north; from JI. Imam Bonjol, turn west on to A Patih Jelantik at the Pertamina gas station; or from the north via JI. Kerobokan.

Bali - Petitenget and North

Petitenget, Berawa, Canggu, and Seseh are new and quieter continuations of Kuta's beach, easier to reach through Abian Timbul or Denpasar and Kerobokan than through Kuta, as there are no bemos north from Legian. Several large hotels are located in this area: the Oberoi Bali, the Intan Bali Village and The Legian in Petitenget and the Dewata Beach and Bali Sani Suites in Berawa.

Kuta Beach also extends to the south, beyond the airport to Jimbaran.

For assistance with tours and tickets, and information on events, contact the tourist information offices at JI. Bakungsari, Kuta Phone 751660 ext. 145, Century Plaza Building, JI. Benesari No. 7, Ground Floor, Legian, Phone 754090, and the Lifeguard Station (Bala Penyelamat Wisata Tirta), JI. Pantai Kuta, Phone755660. A new Tourism Office is on JI. Raya Kuta.

Kuta

The airport taxi counter is outside customs, near "left luggage". The set fare is Rp20,000 to Kuta, Rp22,500 to Legian, Rp25,000 to Seminyak, and Rp25,000 to Petitenget. Buy a ticket from the counter for the sedan taxis. Metered taxis operate outside the airport. Make sure they start the argometer before you take off.

If you want to take a bemo, you have to walk out to the main road as far as the impressive white charioteer statue on the corner (about 1.5 km). From there you can flag down a blue bemo van-it will take you down to "bemo corner" in Kuta for Rp. l,000.

In Kuta itself, the usual bemo fare-to JI. Kartika Plaza and Tuban to the south or to A Melasti to the north-is only Rp1000-Rp1,500, although the driver may ask for more. There are no bemos beyond Legian, so to get further north you'll have to charter: bargain hard.

There are rent-a-car and bike agencies on almost every corner in Kuta and "transport?" is an extremely common touts' call. Bargain the price down and check the condition of the vehicle. Suzuki Jimnys are fun for around $10/day. Kijang jeeps go for $15/day. Try Bali Bahagia Rent Car, JI. Raya Kuta 72X,

Toyota Rent Car, JI. Raya Airport 99X, Tuban. Motorbikes rent for around $4/day.
The shuttle bus to the Kuta Central Parking area on JI. Kuta Raya is Rp2000. It makes a circuit through Kuta, where curb-side parking is no longer allowed, so you must park at the central lot and shuttle in.
To avoid the hassle of looking for bemos or renting a vehicle, use the shuttle buses which go to Ubud at 8.30, 10, and 11.30 am, 1, 2.30 and 4 pm and to Candidasa / Padangbai, Kintamani and Lovina at 9.30 am. Contact CV Ganda Sari Transport, JI. Legian, or Perama, JI. Legian.
For renting mountain bikes, motor bikes, or push bikes, go to Chi Chat Rent Car on JI. Pura Bagus Taruna (JI. Rum Jungle) or to Warung Bamboo, on JI. Arjuna (JI. Double Six). The price is $1/day or less for longer periods. Always check the bike before riding away.

BALI - SANUR PRACTICALITIES

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Sanur is where Bali's first luxury beach hotel was built over 30 years ago, and has since been the spot for luxurious seaside accommodation. Conveniently located near Denpasar on the main road leading to the east, Sanur is not nearly as frenetic as Kuta, nor as well-mannered as Nusa Dua. Many foreigners have built lavish villas and bungalows here and this is the preferred place for up-market, long-term stays on the island, especially in the BatuJimbar and Belanjong areas.
The main attraction here is the white sand beach bordering a reef-sheltered lagoon. The beach stretches south from the The Grand Bali Beach Hotel and ends up in the mangrove marshes opposite Serangan Island. Due to the protection of the lagoon, this beach is one of the safest on the island, and thus perfect for families. There is no surf apart from out on the reef, and one cannot swim at low tide, but at other times this is the best place in Bali for windsurfing and sailing.
Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.

Sanur

Sanur can be divided into several sub-areas:

The Grand Bali Beach Hotel area. West and south of the hotel, at the point where the black and the white sand beaches meet. This northern section of Sanur is popular with local crowds.

Sindhu is east of JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai, and south of JI. Segara Ayu, extending south to the first stretch of JI. Danau Tamblingan. This area is classier, with good hotels on the beach, night and art markets, and good restaurants.

Batujimbar, further south, has few hotels, but is the location of expatriate and Indonesian jet set society mansions. Exclusive beaches are reached via small lanes.
Semawang stretches south from the Bali Hyatt Hotel to the Sanur Beach Hotel and beyond. It houses both the priciest hotels and restaurants, as well as the red light district.

Get to Sanur from the airport by taxi. Tickets available at the airport taxi co-op counter outside customs, near "left luggage". The set fare is Rp. 35,000 to Sanur.

Within Sanur either rent a car or catch one of the many public bemos that ply JI. Danau Tamblingan for Rp1,000. These can be chartered for short hops around Sanur ($l-$2), and for trips to Denpasar or Kuta ($2-$4). Bargain hard. The terminal of the Praja Taxi company is in Sanur, Phone 289191, 289090. Bali Taxi is in Jimbaran, Phone 701111, 701621, 701633. Pan Wirthi Taxi is in Kuta, Phone 723355, 723388, 723952.

Biking around Sanur is also fun. At the Tri Dewi Art shop, JI. Danau Tamblingan 48, in Semawang, you can rent a bike for Rp15,000/ day; try bargaining. The bicycles aren't the greatest. It may be wise to pay more by renting through your hotel.

Sanur is an ideal base for trips to Bali's rice growing heartland and the mountain areas. Rent a self-drive car or a minibus with driver on a daily basis. There are car rental companies on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai and on JI. Danau Tamblingan. Cars and minibuses for hire are found outside all major hotels, or go through one of many car rental companies.

The most reputable self-drive rental agencies are Avis, which has desks at Jimbaran, in the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and the Sheraton Lagoon Nusa Dua; Bali Car Rental on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai; and Toyota Rent a Car at the airport, Jimbaran, on JI. Raya Airport 99X, in the Bali Padma Hotel in Legian, and Kartika Plaza Hotel in Tuban.

A day-trip in a minibus with a multilingual guide costs around $25, including gas, depending on the itinerary. Group tours cost as little as $10-$15 for the main tourist destinations. Contact Pacto, Tunas Indonesia, Mekar Wisata, or your hotel travel agent.

Private Houses. An alternative to standard accommodations is to rent luxury bungalows owned by affluent foreigners. These can work out relatively reasonably, if food and drink are bought at supermarket prices. Prices range from $250/day for a villa for two, to $1,500/day for a two-hectare beachfront estate with 14 staff, an archery range and use of a game fishing boat.

DENPASAR, Municipal city

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Denpasar is the bustling commercial heart of Bali. JI. Gajah Mada is the main street, running east-west. It changes names to JI. Dr. Wahidin to the west and JI. Surapati to the east. The center of commercial activity is on JI. Diponegoro and JI. Teuku Umar. Prices in US dollars. AC = Air conditioning. Telephone code is 0361.

The airport taxi co-op counter is outside customs, near "left luggage". The set fare is Rp35,000 to Denpasar. Buy a ticket at the counter for the sedan taxis. To take a bemo, walk out to the main road as far as the impressive white charioteer statue on the corner (about 1.5 km). From there, flag down a blue bemo van-it will take you down to "bemo corner" in Kuta for Rp1.500, where you can get another bemo to Denpasar. Metered taxis operate outside the airport-make sure they start the argometer before you take off.

DENPASAR

Traffic is heavy and streets are often jammed during peak season. The four-wheeled bemos serve the inner city, while the four-wheeled versions serve the suburban terminals. Fare for a terminal to terminal journey is Rp 1,000. Bemos can also be chartered for jaunts around town, but it's easier and more economical to take the Praja (orange, phone 289090), Pan Wirthi (green, Phone 723366) or Bali Taxi (blue Phone 701111), Kowinu Taxi (Brown 773030) metered taxis. Fare at flag fall is Rp3,000; minimum fare for ordering by phone is Rp6,000. Taxi-motorcycles (ojek) are available. You can hire a dokar (horse cart) for about Rp.10,000 per km. However, the best way to get around Denpasar is on foot. The city is relatively small and you'll want to look in the shops anyway. For tourist services see Travel Advisory.

Eating out in Denpasar

Denpasar is a great place for all styles of Indonesian and Chinese food. Prices are very reasonable. Many good restaurants are found on JI. Teuku Umar, JI. Sumatra and on JI. Veteran, near the Satria bird market. Also check out the night markets and food centers.

Ayam Baker Taliwang JI. Teuku Umar. Spicy hot Sasak (Lombok) style cuisine. Specialties: plecingkangkung(swamp spinach) and grilled chicken.
Bundo Kanduang JI. Diponegoro 112 A, near Kerta Wjaya Shopping Center. Best Padang food in town: open 24 hrs.
Rumah Makan Sumatra is another Padang option, JI. Teuku Umar 88X.
Hong-Kong Restaurant JI. Gajah Mada 99. The local favorite for Chinese food. Or, try Rasa Sayang on JI. Teuku Umar, a popular place for great Chinese fare, including seafood.
Kak Man JI. Teuku Umar. Authentic Balinese food in a Bali kitch setting.
Gula Lunak, JI. Teuku Umar 120, for Balinese food in a nice atmosphere and outdoor seating option.
Balinese chicken is a specialty at Warung Satria, Jl. Kedondong 11A, Phone 235993, and JI. Tunjung Sari 65. They open at 9am and 10am respectively.
Or, try the suckling pig at Warung Nasi Gemah Ripah, JI. Supratman 118.
Ikan Bakar Rica on JI. Teuku Umar is known for its seafood and Manadonese menu.
Mie Ayam Jakarta JI. Veteran. Famous for its Chinese mie (noodles) and bakwan (meatball) soups.
Prambanan Restaurant JI. Hayam Wuruk 30XX, next to the RRI radio station. Great Javanese food in a beautiful wooden building.
Soto Ayam Suroboyo JI. Veteran, near Satria bird market. Specializes in soto (chicken soup) and other East Javanese dishes, such as ayam kampung goreng and ayam kampung bakar (free range fried and grilled chicken). And go to Warung Sate Muslim on JI. Thamrin for the best sate in town.
There are three good restaurants on Jalan Sumatra (near the Corsica newsstand). Betty, at no. 56, serves Indonesian favorites such as mie goreng and frogs legs for a couple of dollars.
Mie 88, at no. 88, has delicious Chinese meat balls and the Depot Kikel at no. 40-42, has good Javanese soto soup.

Night Markets and Food Centers

For an authentic local experience check out one of Denpasar's night markets (pasar malam), where you sit out under the stars and eat at small food stalls. Open from sunset to 10 pm. The biggest is at Kereneng terminal, another is outside the Kumbasari shopping center. The food is mostly Javanese and Balinese.
For the whole range of local food in a cleaner, if less exotic, environment try the food centers, located in the city's supermarkets (see below).

Shopping in Denpasar : Denpasar is where Balinese villagers come for all their day-to-day necessities. Most shops close at 1 pm, re-open 6 pm-10 pm.

Markets and Supermarket
Pasar Badung is Bali's biggest traditional market. Located on the eastern bank of the Badung river, it is in the heart of the city. The first floor has fresh produce, flower offerings and spice vendors. The third floor has textiles, dance costumes and traditional accessories. At Denpasar's supermarkets and department stores prices are fixed and cheap, and quality is high. The main ones are: Tiara Dewata, Ramayana at Bali Mall, Matahari, Libi, Siwa, Kerta Wijaya, Atfa, Dharma, and New Dewata Ayu.
For a good one-stop-shop, visit the Indonesian Export Gallery on the 3rd floor of Bali Mall Ramayana on JI. Diponegoro for paintings, handicrafts, home furnishings, batik and souvenirs.

Textiles -
Check out our Bali products page
Modem textiles. Kampung Arab, JI. Sulawesi; or Toko Yadnya, JI. Gajah Mada. Tailored clothes at Alus, JI. Gajah Mada; or Adhie, JI. Sumatra.
Traditional textiles. Lestari on the ground floor of the Lokitasari shopping center, JI. Thamrin, sells traditional songket fabric directly from the loom. Danar Hadi, at the same shopping center, sells fashionable batiks from Java. Take a look at Surya Jaya, JI. Gajah Mada 128, for ikat. Kumbasari market, on the west bank of the river, also has a wide variety of songket and batik materials.

Handicrafts end Antiques
Check out our Bali products page
Pasar Kumbasari and Pasar Badung have all sorts of Balinese crafts for reasonable prices. Satria Art Market specializes in handicrafts. Also try the craft shops on JI. Sulawesi and JI. Gajah Mada. For genuine antiques, visit Arts of Asia, behind Lokitasari shopping center, JI. Thamrin 27-37 .

Gold and Silver
Check out our Bali products page
JI. Hasanuddin and JI. Sulawesi are full of gold shops. Prices are comparable to Singapore or Hong Kong; the gold is 22-24 carat. Check out the Balinese jewelry made of beaten gold on the second floor of the Kumbasari market. Mega Art shop, JI. Gajah Mada 36-38, has silver jewelry.

Coffee
Balinese coffee makes a great souvenir. Toko Bhinneka Jaya, JI. Gajah Mada 80, is the biggest producer and distributor of coffee in Bali. $3 per kilo for robusta; $4 per kilo for arabica.

Banks. These banks process advances against your credit card for 5% commission. Take your passport. Bank Central Asia (MasterCard), JI. Hasanuddin 58, Phone 431012; Bank International Indonesia is the Western Union agent, Jl. Dewi Sartika (Phone 234306).
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). These machines are abundant and found in front of nearly every bank. Shopping centers typically have several different banks' machines. Most accept banking cards linked to international networks.

The Balinese swarm to Denpasar for cultural attractions, so be prepared to be caught in a big crowd of locals. On the eve of the Nyepi day (Balinese new year), usually in March, hundreds of ogoh-ogoh papier mach monsters are carried along the streets of the city. This extraordinary torchlit cavalcade is reminiscent of a small scale South American carnival.
Bali's annual arts festival is held from mid June to mid-July at the Art Center off J1. Hayam Wuruk. A month of dance, discussions and exhibitions. The Art Center also holds daily kecak dances at 6:30 pm. Barong performances at Kesiman at 9:30 pm.

Museum : Beautiful collections of terracotta, carvings, painting and ceremonial costumes are found at the Bali Museum (Phone 222680), on the eastern side of Puputan Square. Open Mon-Thurs 7:30 am-2 pm, Fri till 11 am, Sat until 12:30 pm. Closed Sunday.

Hospitals - Medical. Sanglah General Hospital, JI. Kesehatan Selatan 1, Sanglah, Denpasar. Switchboard / Emergency, Phone 227911/5. Kasih Ibu, JI. Teuku Umar 120 Phone 223036. Surya Husada, JI. Pulau Serangan 13 Phone 233787. These smaller hospitals are a little less daunting than the enormous general hospital and tend to provide a quicker, more personal service.

Pharmacy. Apotik Kimia Farma, JI. Diponegoro 123-125, Phone 227811.

Opticians. International Optical, J1. Gajah Mada 133, Phone 426294; Lily Kasoem, JI. Teuku Umar 74XX, Phone 238405; Optik Seis, JI. Thamrin 52, Phone 437467; Tiara Optical, JI. Mayjen Sutoyo 55 at Tiara Dewata shopping center, Phone 235733.

Postal services. The central post office is on A. Raya Puputan, Renon. Open 8 am-8 pm. Other post offices: JI. Diponegoro, near Teuku Umar crossroads; Jl. Kamboja, near Kereneng terminal; JI. Supratman.

Telecommunications (Wartel). The main telecommunications (telkom) office is at JI. Teuku Umar 6. Open 8 am-8 pm. Other telkom offices: JI. Raya Puputan in Renon and JI. Kaliasem, near Puputan square. Smaller wartels are scattered throughout the city.

Massage. Masseurs in Denpasar are more professional than those at Kuta. Sari Ayu, JI. Nusa kambangan 35XX is a traditional salon.

Movies and Nightlife. Wisata Cineplex, JI. Thamrin (Phone 423024) has 5 screens. Galeria cinema 21 , phone 0361 767021 for the most up to date movies playing. Check out their web site with movie schedules, you will love the midnight movies -playing saturday nights.. I just love to watch Midnight in this cinema - click here
There's also the Kumbasari, J1. Gajah Mada. Check the Bali Post for details. The Citra discotheque is on the top floor of the Kumbasari building. Filled with local youth.

Photo Processing. Tati Photo at JI. Sumatra and Fuji Image Plaza at J1. Thamrin are quite professional. Have your portrait taken wearing a Balinese outfit at Tati or Fuji Professional Photo, JI. Diponegoro 89 (Phone 226965), which is also the best slide processor on the island, with one-day service.

Newspapers. The Jakarta Post and Indonesian Observer are widely available English language dailies.

Language Courses. balinese language training. visit www.kecak.com for more info about course and online booking.

THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE

2008-10-24T02:45:00.000-07:00

Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Bali

Introduction (previous page)

* Prices, Opening Hours
* International Cuisines
* Indonesian Cooking
* Padang Food, Traditional Balinese Food
* Beer, Wine and Local Alcoholic Beverages

Restaurant Suggestions (this page)

* Where to Eat in Sanur, Bali
* Restaurants in Bali's Kuta Area
* Seafood at Jimbaran Beach in Bali
* The Bukit, Nusa Dua & Tanjung Benoa in Bali
* Ubud & other Parts of Bali

ABOUT THIS GUIDE

We try to cover all places serving traditional Balinese food and the best of international cuisine in Bali. If you don't find the name of a restaurant which has been recommended to you by someone, this doesn't mean we don't know about it. We try to visit ALL new restaurants and entertainment spots but only include those which we feel are good and reliable enough to be listed here.

Our PERSONAL FAVOURITES are underlined and listed in RED. They range from cheap eateries to outstanding restaurants which would succeed anywhere in the world.
THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE TO SANUR

CAFE BATU JIMBAR, Jalan Danau Tamblingan No. 152, is a casual sidewalk cafe and popular with regular visitors to Sanur and expatriates who meet here for breakfast, lunch or dinner under large trees. You can choose from a number of fresh fruit juices, healthy salads and light dishes; the vegetables and herbs are grown at the owner's farm near Bedugul. In the back of the outdoor restaurant is a good book shop which carries also international newspapers.

The air-conditioned KAFE WAYANG, Komplek Sanur Raya No. 12 - 14 at the By-Pass opposite the Radisson Hotel, has become quite popular during lunch time. Local business people enjoy the relaxing (indoor) tropical garden setting, the creative Asian and Mediterranean cuisine, and the excellent desserts. From 4 p.m. until late you can also choose from a variety of tasty "Tapas". Friday night is Jam Session from 9:00 p.m. – see Bali after Dark.

TELAGA NAGA (operated by the Bali Hyatt hotel in Sanur and located right opposite the hotel on the main road) has a beautiful garden setting with ponds and ducks, bridges, pavilions, and usually well prepared Chinese food. Try the "Smoked Duck". The birds served here are imported from the United States and have – unlike their Asian relatives – a lot of tender meat. I can also recommend the Chicken in Sesame Sauce (in many places known as 'Bon Bon Chicken'), the Hot & Sour Soup, and their Scallops in Black Bean Sauce. Expect to pay hotel prices, i.e. dinner for two around US$50 to US$60 with some beer but without wine.

The beautiful SLAVYANKA Russian Restaurant & Bar, Jalan By-Pass No. 121xx (the southern part of Sanur near Jalan Danau Poso) was opened in June 2007. The comfortable interior of the dining room features paintings of numerous Russian Tsars and is setting new standards for Sanur. The air-conditioning helps to relax even on hot and humid days, the service is attentive, and we enjoyed most of the dishes prepared under the supervision of the Chef from the Ukraine. Various fish specialties, chicken liver with apples and onions, Russian Borsht and various potatoe dishes and venisson with cranberries are quite unique. The small wine list is reasonably priced (starting around 200,000 Rupiah per bottle) and a very enjoyable dinner at SLAVYANKA for two should be around 250,000 to 400,000 Rupiah plus drinks. Finally, fine dining has come to Sanur, and at reasonable prices.

Also relatively new for Sanur (although established in Seminyak and Kuta for some time already, see reviews below) is the open-air GATEWAY OF INDIA, Jalan Danau Tamblingan a bit South of the Bali Hyatt hotel and on the same side of the road. The Indian food here is delicious and irresistable, and it cannot be compared with any other restaurant in Sanur claiming to serve food from the sub-continent. The setting here is more pleasant than their other two branches, and prices are reasonable. For details please turn to the review of the Seminyak branch further down.

A great place for reasonably priced Thai Food is the MEZZANINE at Puri Santrian in Sanur. The Thai Chef Supachai definitely knows what he is doing, and we really enjoy his Beef Salad, Thom Yam Goong and other dishes. But talk to him personally to place your order and specify how spicy you like it. Expect to pay around 150,000 Rupiah per person without drinks.

The SANUR BEACH MARKET restaurant at the end of Jalan Segara serves from noon to 9:00 or 10.00 p.m. a choice of Indonesian, Chinese and Balinese dishes with an emphasis on seafood. Great location, good food in an unpretentious setting, and reasonable prices. For real local flavor, visit BABI GULING GIANYAR on the By-Pass near the SPLASH BAKERY between 5:00 and 7:00 p.m. This very simple restaurant serves the most delicious "Babi Guling" (roasted suckling pig, a famous specialty of the town of Gianyar) for 4,500 Rupiah per portion. Around 7:00 p.m. they are usually sold out!

THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE TO KUTA
(incl. Tuban, Legian, Seminyak, Kerobokan, etc)

The largest number and variety of restaurants is located in this area stretching over about 4 to 6 miles from the airport to Basangkasa further North, and the following list covers just a few of my personal favorites:-

KETUPAT, Jalan Legian Raya 109 (hidden behind Jonathan Gallery) in Kuta, serves a great variety of Indonesian specialties in very pleasant surroundings. You can sit either in the open-air restaurant or in several cozy alcoves scattered around the swimming pool. The extensive menu includes traditional Balinese food and dishes from all parts of the archipelago – with photographs to make your choice easier. You find different soups, chicken, beef, duck, lamb, seafood and vegetarian delicacies from Bali, Sumatra, Jawa, Sulawesi, Maluku, and other parts of Indonesia. In addition to the usual pork, beef, and chicken 'Sate' you find here barbecued skewers with goat meat, prawns, tuna, squid, and even 'Sate Lilit' with minced crab or duck meat. Seafood lovers can choose from different preparations of lobster, crabs, prawns, calamari and all kinds of fresh fish. Vegetarians will enjoy salads and tasty main courses with beans, potatoes, spinach, bean sprouts, young fern leaves, etc. The menu features photographs and explanations of each dish. Expect to pay about 140,000 to 200,000 Rupiah per person which is not cheap for Bali. But don't forget, this is real Indonesian 'haute cuisine' (which you normally only can find in some private homes but never in restaurants), well presented and served in surroundings which will please most visitors.

MADE'S WARUNG on Jalan Pantai in central Kuta near the Bemo Corner has been an institution in Kuta since the early 70's. This has been THE place to see and be seen for nearly 30 years. In the early days, MADE'S was the only 'after-hours' place in Kuta: they kept selling toilet paper, mosquito curls, snack food and drinks until 8:00 p.m. when everybody else closed around 7:00 p.m. Today you con choose from many local dishes including Sate and Nasi Campur as well as many international specialties such as Sashimi, steaks, noodle dishes etc. The owners Peter and Made opened in August 1996 a new, quite similar but larger and more comfortable MADE'S WARUNG in Seminyak/Basangkasa on the way to the Oberoi Hotel (see below).

Really close by and near the Bemo Corner on Jalan Pantai Kuta No. 11B (across Jalan Legian to the North) is a branch of GATEWAY OF INDIA which serves delicious Indian food in very simple surroundings at acceptable prices (for details read the review of the Seminyak branch further down).

POPPIES restaurant on Poppies Gang (lane) nearby has also been well-established for over 25 years. In a beautiful garden setting you can choose from a number of Asian and Western dishes including, soups, curries, lobster and steaks. It's very pleasant for a leisurely lunch in the shade of large trees, but in the evenings the place tends to become crowded with tourist groups. The food was never outstanding, and recently the prices have been increased considerably.

TJ'S Mexican Restaurant, also on Poppies Gang, has become an institution over the years and is well-known for tasty Mexican food, good music, excellent margaritas and strawberry daiquiris, and to meet regulars around the far corner of the long bar. Pleasant garden setting, good service, great salads and affordable prices. KORI Restaurant, hidden away in nearby Poppies II Lane, offers comfortable open-air seating in pleasant surroundings. Service is attentive and the menu lists specialties from many countries such as Indonesian Satays, Thai beef salad, Thom Yam, and Green Chicken Curry, Singapore Chilli Crab, Australian beef steaks, tuna steaks, beef burgers, pork chops, Caesar salad, and Italian pasta. Good food, nice presentation, large portions and a good, reasonably priced wine list.

The well-known air-conditioned sushi bar RYOSHI, Jalan Raya Seminyak 17 (with branches in Jalan Melasti in Kuta as well as in Sanur and Ubud) serves Sashimi, Sushi, Tempura, Miso soup and other Japanese dishes at reasonable prices. It's interior is simple but comfortable, and the restaurant is often crowded during meal times. After having moved to the premises next door, it features also some garden seating in front and an open-air area upstairs. TAKE, Jalan Patih Jelantik (the small road between Kuta and Jalan Imam Bonjol) with a second branch in Jalan Padma, offers a wider choice of well-prepared specialties from various areas of Japan. For good Sashimi or Teppanyaki, Shabu-Shabu and Sukiyaki prepared at your table visit either the KURUMAYA at the Bali Padma Hotel in Legian (Tuesday nights "All You Can Eat"), or the smaller but more elegant TEPPANYAKI restaurant at the Sofitel Hotel in Seminyak.

KUNI's Japanese Restaurant is located at Jalan Laksmana No. 80. When you enter this modern open-air restaurant through the lounge you pass the bar and a small sushi counter. Dining tables are well-spaced with most of them on the open terrace and some tables in the narrow garden with Frangipani trees and Hibiscus. Choose from small but beautifully presented servings of Sashimi, delicious Spicy Tuna Rolls (a new experience even for Japanese), Beef Shabu Shabu Salad, Tempura, fried Kushiyaki skewers with chicken, chicken liver, sliced ox tongue etc, grilled sardines or swordfish, or Sukiyaki from Australian beef. There is also a choice of noodle and rice dishes including Unadon (with grilled eel). The set dinner for 90,000 Rupiah ++ per person (minimum three guests) with 10 courses is especially good value. All dishes are well-prepared and presented, and the service from the Japanese manager and the local staff is attentive, very friendly and professional. Green tea, Japanese beer and sake are offered as expected, but there is also a small choice of wines from Australia and Chile. Monday closed.

The Japanese BLUEFIN Restaurant in Jalan Kartika Plaza opposite the KUTA PARADISO hotel serves excellent fusion cuisine in modern surroundings. The large menu lists many creative and delicious sushi rolls, foie gras and all traditional Japanese dishes. Specialties include Chilli Ayo, a combination of baked scallops, shrimps and squid topped with a chilli mayonaise and fish roe, Dobin Mushi, a clear mushroom-seafood soup, and there are Sushi Rolls filled with crab salad, eel, shrimps, squid, salmon, tuna, lobster, avocado, cucumber and even liver pate and cream cheese! Main courses include steak, seafood combination plates, lobster etc. In addition to Western deserts there are Red Bean and Green Tea Ice Creams. BLUEFIN has immediately become one of our regular places.

Only opened in late 2007 is the modern, fully air-conditioned SUSHI TEI located at Sunset Road No. 99 in Kuta. When you sit at the bar you can watch the skills of the chefs in the open kitchen and help yourself to creative Japanese delicacies from the conveyor belt in front of you. This is Bali's first and currently only "Sushi Train". There are many different Sushi Rolls filled with combinations of eel, crab meat, tuna, salmon, prawns, mango etc., various kinds of Sashimi and Sushi including sword fish, scallops, smoked bonito, octopus, life lobster and sea urchin. The beautifully designed menu shows photographs of many specialties including grilled meats, various Tempura preparations, Japanese soups, noodles and rice dishes, many salads and a choice of desserts such as Green Tea ice cream, Black Sesame ice cream, peach sherbet, chocolate wafers, etc. The photographs are very tempting, the actual dishes, however, are often rather disappointing and not as fresh as expected. A meal for two should be between 400,000 and 650,000 Rupiah.

The "new" (opened in 1996) MADE'S WARUNG in Basangkasa on the way to the Oberoi Hotel offers a wide choice of dishes (on the menu and on notes on the walls) from many parts of the world: local "Nasi Campur" (a mini rijsttafel) and Gado Gado, Japanese Sashimi, their own version of a Thai "Tom Yam" soup, good prawn and squid dishes, pasta, acceptable steaks, etc), plus a variety of cakes, delicious home-made coconut ice-cream, fresh fruit juices and good Capuchino (served either hot or iced). Try the "Arak Madu" or "Arak Lemon di Blender" (the local rice liquor with either just honey, or with honey and lemon, prepared in a blender). They offer also a choice of imported wines at reasonable prices. From morning to late night you'll see many regulars who've been coming to Bali since Peter (the Dutch owner) and his Balinese wife Made started their first "Warung" in the center of Kuta in the early 70's. Have a look at the various shops adjacent to the restaurant, too.

The GOLDEN LOTUS inside the Bali Dynasty Resort in Tuban is well-known for a wide range of excellent Chinese dishes and 'Dim Sum' (during lunch on Sundays) which are served in comfortable hotel surroundings. Other recommended Chinese restaurants in the Kuta/Tuban area are FURAMA, Jalan Raya Tuban 52B, PLAZA BALI located between the By-Pass and Jalan Raya Kuta and EMA Restaurant, upper floor at the DFS (Duty Free Shoppers) complex at the circle on Jalan By-Pass. Both serve tasty food including 'Dim Sum' (also called 'Yum Cha') — a variety of small dumplings, steamed buns and other mini delights served in rattan baskets. Inside the baskets you find steamed dumplings filled with prawns, pork ('Siu Mai' and 'Har Gau') or shark fin ('Yu Chi Gau'), crisp-fried rolls with prawns, and 'Char Siu Bau', rather filling barbecued pork buns. EMA is a favourite of many expat residents and hotel people for Sunday brunch.

The very popular LA LUCCIOLA (with a truly outstanding beach front setting next to the Petitenget temple and great views of Kuta's famous sunsets) serves a range of modern Italian specialties. We think it's always been over-rated because food and service have never been reliable. Recommended only for a "sundowner".

The long-time famous GADO GADO (at the end of Jalan Dhyana Pura) features a similar beach front location and has changed from a Disco to a restaurant again (that's how this legendary place started over 30 years ago). The setting is pleasant and the service attentive. The menu features freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters and fusion cuisine as well as some vegetarian dishes which are all well prepared and presented. The wine list is impressive for Bali standards and starts at around 350,000 Rupiah.

Another popular eatery with an outstanding beach front location is ZANZIBAR, Jalan Pantai Arjuna – turn left at the end of Jalan Double Six. The menu lists a good choice of Western and local dishes, seafood specialties and many kinds of tasty pizza. All dishes are well prepared, prices are very reasonable (many dishes are around 30,000 or 40,000 Rupiah, wines start around 280,000 Rupiah) and it's often difficult to find a table on the open terrace – especially on Sundays when there are performances of firedancers and djimbe drum players from 6 p.m. on the beach right in front of the restaurant.

In the center of Seminyak not far from Jalan Double Six is PANTEREI, a beautiful modern restaurant serving Greek specialties in comfortable surroundings. Panos Bournias, the original Greek founder, has subsequently moved on to the NERO Bali Restaurant & Bar at Jalan Legian 384 right opposite AROMAS in Kuta. NERO's design is very stylish and simplistic with modern furniture, huge mirrors, hanging plants and water features, candles and well-placed spot lights. You find on the menu appetizers such as tuna carpaccio, Thai beef salad, and a Mezze platter, and for main courses Lemon Chicken, lamb chops, cooked (not char-grilled) steaks, Middle Eastern Kebabs, and a number of seafood preparations. Imported wines start at 280,000 Rupiah, and you'll pay for a dinner for two about 220,000 to 280,000 Rupiah without drinks. They serve food until 1:30 in the morning, and the street-side bar attracts walk-in guests during the whole evening.

Opened in May 2008 is SIP Wine Bar, Jalan Raya Seminyak No. 16A nearly opposite the BINTANG Supermarket. Owner Christian Vannequé (his brother owns the LIVING ROOM) become in the early 70's France's youngest Head Sommelier at LA TOUR D'ARGENT in Paris being responsible for the largest wine cellar in the world. This experience shows: SIP's wine list is divided into three categories to help wine novices and wine aficionados alike. The 'Easy-Going-Wines' category introduces straightforward, interesting, sometimes recognizable-brand, excellent value wines starting at 75,000 Rupiah per glass and 350,000 Rupiah per bottle. 'The Sommelier's Corner' presents mostly proprietary wines, more obscure appellations, hard-to-find Chateaux 'second wines' and intriguing New World wines. The 'Wine Climax' features a few major outstanding and rare bottles from the Old and the New World including magnums. Although a constant 'work in process', SIP's wine list is currently comprised of 115 different wines costing from about 550,000 up to 32 million Rupiah++ (about US$3,500, and Christian claimes he sold two bottles recently to visitors from Macau) for a bottle of Chateau Pétrus 1993 and is offering up to 20 wines by the glass. The kitchen is run by French Executive Chef Patrick Chauchereau who worked in several restaurants with two Michelin stars in Paris before coming to Bali. He offers very enjoyable French home cooking at reasonable prices: there are escagots in garlic butter, home-made patés, Puy Lentil Salad, beef or tuna Carpaccio and an outstanding Terrine of Foie Gras Maison. Main courses include sautéed frog legs, Tete de Veau Ravigotte (boiled calf's head and calf's tongue in Ravigotte sauce), sautéed calf's kidney and calf's liver, Hachis Parmentier (minced oxtail Bourguignon with red wine and mashed potatoes au gratin), Steak Tartar, a delicious duck breast, grilled Australian rib eye steak and a traditional Black Pepper Steak. Nearly all main courses are below 100,000 Rupiah; there is a 2-course set lunch for 65,000 Rupiah++ and various Tartines (2 slices of grilled French country bread topped with duck foie gras, smoked salmon, Serrano ham or duck mousse) for 40,000 to 80,000 Rupiah++. You can finish your meal with a variety of French cheeses or a number of tempting sweets including a delicious, freshly baked apple tart with ice cream. SIP is open from noon till late but closed on Sundays. Come early, from 9 p.m. the place is usually packed.

KAFE WARISAN, Jalan Raya Kerobokan, about one or two kilometers further north from Seminyak/Basangkasa, has become an institution in Bali and is run by the enthusiastic French chefs Said Alem and Nicolas Tourneville ("Doudou") who used to work as Chef for French Ambassadors in Indonesia and Algeria. This pleasant and trendy open-air restaurant shows attention to all details and an interesting and frequently changing menu (including a good number of vegetarian dishes). Entrees include Salmon & Tuna Tartar, Escargots served in Roasted Mushrooms, and there is a home-made Duck Liver Paté. However, the Pan-seared Hot Foie Gras with a Raspberry Vinaigrette is not to be missed and a bargain at 195,000 Rupiah! You can continue with a Mediterranean Seafood Soup, followed by one of the pasta dishes or Duck Confit with Puy Lentils, Roasted Rack of Lamb with Baby Beans and Artichokes, Half Grilled Baby Chicken, or Pan-fried Veal Medallions. For seafood lovers there are Grilled Tasmanian Salmon with Mushroom Fricassee, Prawn and Butterfish Meli Melo, or a Scallops and Mushroom Fricassee with Creamy Spinach and Saffron Veloute. To finish your meal you can choose either Créme Bruleé, Chocolate Mousse with Poached Pear, or Frozen Almond Souffleé. On the drink list you find a number of French wines from 380,000 Rupiah to over 6,000,000 Rupiah, a good choice of cocktails, five different kinds of tea, Espresso, Capuchino and Bali Coffee. Service is attentive and prices are reasonable (don't forget, this is definitely "fine dining", and a three-course dinner for two will cost you about 750,000 to 1,000,000 Rupiah ++ without drinks. The "new" KAFE WARISAN has definitely been a very welcome addition to Bali's restaurant scene, and it seems to become better and more popular every month! Don't go without a reservation (tel. 731-175).

THE LIVING ROOM is located at Jalan Petitenget between the Petitenget temple and the Intan Beach Village hotel. This elegant open-air restaurant features also a bar and lounge, many tables in the candle-lit garden and has a distinctive colonial atmosphere with terracotta floors, high ceilings, paintings, antique marble tables and carved chairs. The menu lists well prepared and presented "fusion cuisine" creations influenced by Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam etc. Appetizers and main courses are priced between 70,000 and 180,000 Rupiah plus 15%, and there is a 5-course Tasting Menu for 320,000 Rupiah ++ which can include a Chilled Tomato Soup with a Crispy Bok Choy-Ginger Pallet and Red Mullet Fillet, Pan-Fried Foie Gras with Spiced Glazed Ahi Tuna Carpaccio, Gingered Sushi Rice and Cucumber Seaweed Grissini followed by Squid Linguini with Low Temperature Egg Yolk, Pancetta Cubes, Steamed Green Asparagus and Mirin Bisque Sauce. For your main course you can choose either Duck Breast with Caramelized Nuts, Crispy Pastillas, Braised Turnips and Baby Spinach in a Orange-Ginger Sauce or Grilled Tasmanian Salmon Fillet with Asian Greens, Kecap Manis and Wasabi Flavoured Mashed Potatoes, and then finish your meal with a Fluffy Vanilla Créme Bruleé with Strawberry Salad with Coriander. There is a good selection of wines from Australia, France and Italy starting around 320,000 Rupiah per bottle. Owner Daniel Vannequé runs also the "SuKHa Gallery" offering folk art, antiques, and furniture.

Very popular right from its soft opening in May 2008 is SARONG, Jalan Petitenget 19X near THE LIVING ROOM. English Chef Will Meyrick (ex SENTOSA and SOFITEL in Bali and LONGRAIN in Sydney) added some Indian, Malay, Vietnamese and Chinese dishes to his modern-Thai creations: there are "Asian Tapas" such as Betel leafs with raw tuna, lemon grass, shallots and lemon basil, Betel leafs with salmon, shrimps and coriander and grilled scallops topped with crispy duck, Thai basil and peanut Nam Jihm served on a tasting spoon, Chicken Martabak with pickled cucumber and sweet sambal etc. which all can be served in the "Tapas Bar & Lounge" in front of the elegant open-air Dining Room with luxurious curtains and furnished with comfortable sofas and dining chairs. We love the salad from grilled prawns, pomelo, garlic, lemon grass, mint and Nam Jihm dressing and the Sichuan cured tuna with grated carrot, sweet basil, peanuts and Chinese plum sauce. From India there are the Tandoori butter chicken, a lamb Boti Kebab and a fish Tikka cooked in saffron, cardamon, turmeric and dill, a Northern Indian prawn curry, a lamb Rogan Josh, a Vindaloo curry of pork belly as well as a Dahl Tadka. Indonesian grilled snapper, grilled baby pork ribs, twice cooked chicken and crispy duck with two sambals are as tempting as Thai-style crispy pork hog with tamarind tamarillo sauce and nam pla prik or stir fried Asian vegetables with Thai basil. Finish your meal with a duck egg & ginger custard with palm sugar caramel, taro cake with crispy shallot, mandarin and fig compote or durian pancakes with coconut lime caramel and durian ice cream. If the choice is too difficult, just order a sample plate of Indian and South East Asian desserts. The drink list offers a wide choice of imported wines from all parts of the world starting around 380,000 Rupiah ++. The service is attentive and a memorable dinner for two will be around 400,000 to 600,000 Rupiah ++ without drinks. For reservations call 737-809.

KU DE TA is currently Bali's most trendy restaurant in a top beach front location next to the Oberoi Hotel. The modern architecture and interior design of the bar and dining areas go well with the "fusion cuisine" of the Australian chef. On the menu you find a selection of freshly shucked oysters imported two times per week from Australia and France and served with a champagne vinaigrette. There are many salads, grilled Australian yabbies (small freshwater crayfish), seared scallops, a seafood stew, lamb rib eye, venison rib and beef tenderloin. The interesting wine list features many wines from Australia, California, Chile, France, Italy, New Zealand and South Africa and starts around 450,000 Rupiah per bottle. Sparkling wines by the glass are 90,000 Rupiah to 180,000 Rupiah, and bottles range from 490,000 Rupiah for VALDIVIESCO Brut from Chile to 1,990,000 Rupiah for a bottle of KRUG Brut Grande Cuvee. The service staff is well-trained and attentive, and prices are generally reasonable. There are comfortable deck chairs right on the beach to watch Bali's famous sunsets, and you can choose from nearly 30 Cuban cigars such as BOLIVAR Coronas Junior, COHIBA Coronas Especiales, H. UPMANN Connoisseur No. 1, HOYO DE MONTERREY Sort Hoyo Coronas, MONTECRISTO Especial No. 2, PUNCH Punch Punch, or ROMEO YULIETA Exhibition No. 4 from about 90,000 Rupiah to 400,000 Rupiah. This is a place to see and be seen, and from late afternoon on Fridays and Saturdays there is a rather noisy DJ entertaining Bali's beautiful people.

More quiet is THE BREEZE, the restaurant of the THE SAMAYA resort near KU DE TA and next to LA LUCCIOLA. The spectacular but relaxed beach front setting, great sunset views, the sound of the waves and imaculate service make this probably Bali's most romantic place for fine dining. The menu includes a delicious pan-seared Périgord Foie Gras with ginger compote, Crispy Soft Shell Crab with green mango-papaya salad, a Lobster & River Prawn Bisque and a very tasty Cream of Forest Mushrooms with essence of truffle. The "Pork Duo" consists of Asian braised pork belly with tamarind glaze, seared tenderloin, sweet & sour cabbage and a soy-star anise reduction; the "Duck Two Ways" of leg confit and seared French duck breast, roasted cauliflower and a port wine reduction, or choose the Roasted Lamb Loin or Black Angus Tenerloin with roasted mushrooms, blue cheese and potato hash. For seafood lovers there are Pan Seared Sea Scallops, Wild Baramundi on preserved lemon, Miso Glazed Alaskan Black Cod, Nori Wrapped Tasmanian Salmon or Local Wild Snapper with truffle scented mushroom risotto. There is a Unique Dish of Four Pastas: Oxtail Tortellini, Blue Swimmer Crab Bocaleoni, Calves Sweetbread Cannelloni and Goat Cheese Ravioli, and a range of Vegetarian Main Courses can be prepared by Californian Chef Michael Shaheen on request. There is also a choice of typical Balinese specialties, and from the Dessert Menu it's impossible to resit the Macerated Strawberry Tartar with White Pepper Ice Cream! The extensive, well chosen wine list is very reasonably priced and starts at less than 160,000 Rupiah for a bottle of local wine and from below 400,000 Rupiah for imported wines from Australia, New Zealand, California, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, France, Italy, Spain, Germany etc. An excellent dinner for two will costs about 700,000 to 1,000,000 Rupiah ++ (without wine).

The Oberoi Hotel's open-air KURA KURA restaurant offers another of Bali's Fine Dining options. The German-born Executive Chef Enrico Wahl, who started his career in Dresden and worked subsequently in a number of Michelin star restaurants including Munich's TANTRIS, has introduced a very creative Tasting Menu. Guests can choose either 7 courses for 760,000 Rupiah per person, 5 out of 7 courses for 550,000 Rupiah or 3 out of 7 courses for 420,000 Rupiah. And then there is the "Chef's 12 Course Surprise Tasting Menu" for 1,250,000 Rupiah ++ per person. Dishes offered are changing depending on fresh ingredients available but can include a delicious Mushroom Nage with Espresso or a Pea Soup with Unagi, Alaskan Scallop Sashimi, Tandoori Baked Yabbies with Smoked Yoghurt & Black Salt, Warm Unagi (Japanese eel) or Flash Seared Abalone with Gome Wakame Seaweed Salad, Giant Atlantic Scallop with Apple 2 Ways and Foie Gras Foam, Pan Fried Sablefish with Black Pudding, Kangaroo Tartar with Quail Egg and Caper Vinaigrette, Duck Confit Pastilla with Pickled Mushrooms, Sweetbread Tempura with Savory Apricot. Highlights are the Seared Goose Foie Gras, the Foie Gras Créme Bruleé and the truly outstanding "Marble of Foie Gras" with thin films of Valrhona chocolate between layers of the foie gras terrine – just delicious and another reason to visit Bali! The "48 Hours Sous Vide Slow Poached Wagyu Beef Cheek" on Purple Potato Risotto and the Australian Prime Wagyu Beef Tenderloin are extraordinary tender but in our opinion over-rated. The Tasting Menu ends with a Cave Aged Cheese Selection, Mixed Berry Gratin with Rum Sabayon and its own Sorbet or a Baked Whole Plum with Plum & Green Asparagus Sorbet. OBEROI being an Indian hotel chain, the restaurant offers also a small and much lower priced choice of delicacies from the sub-continent such as a Duck Biryani, Goa Pork Vindaloo, a tasty Lamb Rogan Josh, Tandoori Jingha Prawns, a Lobster Curry with Naan and a number of Indonesian dishes as well as vegetarian choices. The wine list starts with 200,000 Rupiah for local wines; imported wines range from 550,000 Rupiah up to 9,000,000 Rupiah! If you bring your own, corkage charge is 150,000 Rupiah per bottle. Quite unusual for Bali, prices on the menu include the 21% tax & service charge, and the bill has a bold reminder "NO TIPPING PLEASE". This does not make KURA KURA cheap, and a very enjoyable meal for two will turn out to be between 700,000 and 2.6 million Rupiah without drinks. However, the food here is REALLY special; the surroundings are elegant and very relaxed at the same time, and the service staff is attentive and friendly. If you would prefer your three to seven or 12 courses to be served faster instead of filling the whole evening, just tell your captain. Enjoy!

TRATTORIA Cucina Italiano is another simple open-air restaurant located in Jalan Oberoi and serving Italian home-cooking at reasonable prices. Choose from the regularly changing antipasti, salads, home-made pasta, tasty main courses and sweets, all priced between 44,000 Rupiah and 150,000 Rupiah. A limited wine list with still acceptable prices, friendly service and the relaxed atmosphere have made the TRATTORIA popular with the international and Italian crowd who often bring the whole family. Around 9 p.m. all tables are usually occupied (not open for lunch).

ULTIMO is an Italian eatery with modern interior next door to TRATTORIA. The front part is air-condioned and features a large square bar and a number of tables as well as the open kitchen, in the back is a pleasant garden section. On the standard menu you find Salmon Carpaccio, Tuna Tartar, Parma Ham with melon, Mozzarella, a seafood salad and a seafood soup as well as many Pasta courses including Spaghetti with hot chilli and garlic, Penne with mushrooms and smoked cheese, Cannelloni with ricota and spinach, Linguini with crab meat, Tagliatelle with lobster, Fettuccini with tuna and anchovis, Ravioli with fish or chicken and a traditional Lasagne al Forno. For your main course choose either a steak al Funghi, al Rosmarino, al Marsala, al Pepe Verde, al Gorgonzola etc. or Ossobuco, Saltimbocca alla Romana, tuna steaks, panfried red snapper, fried sole or grilled salmon, Frito Misto with prawns and squid. There are also many kinds of Pizza and over a dozen daily specials. The big surprise are the low prices: most dishes are between 22,000 and 55,000 Rupiah +10%. The small wine list starts at 230,000 Rupiah per bottle and 28,000 Rupiah for a glass of House White. Don't come too late in the evening, after 8 p.m. the place is packed!

KHAIMA is a Moroccan restaurant in Jalan Oberoi with very friendly and efficient staff, delicious food and belly dancing performances on Fridays and Saturdays in a tent-like setting. Appetizers include tasty parcels of filo pastry filled with vegetables, minced lamb, tuna, chicken or goat cheese. There are salads of tomatoes and bell peppers, cinamon and carrots or eggplants, all with spices added to give them more flavour. As mains there a various stews such as lamb and eggplant slowly cooked in an earthenware pot – just delicious! Choose from different kinds of Couscous: with lamb, onions and raisins, chicken with many different vegetables, vegetables and sausage or a combination of all the above. And then there are the grilled kebabs with chicken, lamb, beef and minced meat. Finish your meal with an Arabic almond and walnut cake, Baclava or an orange salad, Moroccan coffee or green mint tea. There is a very limited wine list, and a large and very satisfying meal for two will cost you about 300,000 Rupiah without drinks.

The Spanish restaurant LA SAL is located in Jalan Drupadi II, a small back lane which connects Jalan Oberoi and Jalan Gado Gado. You can sit either in the nice garden or in the open white building, and on the menu you find a good choice of Tapas such as delicious (and very expensive) Iberico gourmet cured ham from acorn-fed black pigs, Calamari with Aliolis, Squid Cooked in its own Ink, Grilled Chorizo Sausages, Garlic Prawns, Crunchy Mushrooms and a delicious Veal Carpaccio with Foie Gras and Manchego Cheese. There are also a Clam Casserole, Grilled King Prawns with Rock Salt, Crispy Pork Belly with Lentils and Mango, Twice Cooked Lamb Shoulder and a Mixed Paella with Chicken, Vegetables and Seafood. The Argentinian BBQ dinner for two at just 350,000 Rupiah++ is also very popular and includes beef and chicken steaks, various sausages, pork ribs etc. as much as you can eat. There is a small but good choice of wines, but why not try the Sangria instead? The service is friendly and attentive, and a very nice meal for two will be around 350,000 to 500,000 Rupiah without drinks.

Good news for lovers of Indian food: finally there are some restaurants in Bali where you can enjoy the real thing. GATEWAY OF INDIA in Seminyak, Jalan Dyana Pura (Gado Gado) No. 10, is located nearly opposite of SANTA FEE. They offer a good choice of Indian specialties which will NOT disappoint you. Regrettably there is no air-conditioning, and sometimes you have to listen to very loud music from nearby bars and pubs. A feast for four or six is about 350,000 to 600,000 Rupiah (most dishes are 40,000 to 60,000 Rupiah). Bring your own wine, as the wines offered are not exciting at all and never properly chilled. Newer branches are near the Bemo corner in Kuta and on Jalan Danau Tamblingan in Sanur.

The QUEEN'S TANDOOR, Jalan Seminyak 73 opposite MADE'S WARUNG, serves now the same delicious Indian specialties in Bali for which it has been famous in Jakarta since 1986. Enjoy the mouth-watering delicacies from the tandoor oven or the slowly cooked chicken, lamb, seafood and vegetable Curries, Masallas and Kormas with rich sauces full of fresh herbs, spices, fruits and nuts. Our favourites are Masala Papadum, Seekh Kebab, Gosht Shahi Korma, Mutton Pasanda, Murgh Makhani (Butter Chicken) and Butter Chicken Tikka, yellow and black Dhal, Aloo Gobi, Navratan Korma, Raita, Garlic Naan, Cheese Naan and the delicious Peshawari Naan. There are freshly baked other breads such as various Papadums and Chappati to accompany your meal, and Kulfi, the Indian ice cream, is the best way to finish it.

For German specialties and sausages you can try the open-air MAMA'S restaurant in Kuta which is open around the clock and serves substantial German homecooking at low prices. The wide choice includes hot dogs and many other sausages, Frikadellen (German meat balls) and burgers, spit-roasted chicken, pork roast, Rouladen (German beef rolls), and huge pork knuckles. In addition to local draft beer, imported beers and German schnaps there is also a limited but well-priced wine list. There are tables and a bar downstairs as well as on the upper floor where you also find a large billiards table and life music in the evening. Owner is the German Honorary Consul Reinhold Jantzen. (You like dining with Consuls? Then you should also visit the Swiss Consular Representative Jon Zurcher who entertains guests in his SWISS RESTAURANT at the new Istana Galleria in Kuta.)

Quite good Swiss-German meals at low prices are also served in plain surroundings in the PEPITO KAFE, Jalan Kediri 36A, next to the Pepito Supermarket in Tuban. Roger Jahn, a retired Swiss Guard of the Pope, offers a "Bavarian Breakfast" with Weisswurst, Brezn and a beer at any time of the day for 32,500 Rupiah, a choice of smoked and dried hams with melon, asparagus and toast (32,000 Rupiah), sliced pork leg "Castellan Style" (44,000 Rupiah), various steaks (39,000 to 64,000 Rupiah), and a number of Swiss and German sausages with onion sauce or gravy, French fries and salad for about 30,000 to 38,000 Rupiah. His nice Vol-au-vent (which he calls "Bouchees Royale"), two pastry shells filled with tender beef cubes in a creamy white sauce, is just 29,500 Rupiah, and a bottle of imported "Erdinger Weissbier" is 42,000 Rupiah. There is only a limited selection of wines, but give it a try — you might become a regular!

If you like elegant surroundings in a top beach front setting and attentive service, there is no better choice than the new air-conditioned SAILFIN Seafood Restaurant, part of the THE WAVE entertainment complex at Jalan Pantai No. 1 in Kuta (opposite the Hard Rock Resort). After a drink in the spacious and comfortable lounge area with bar you can choose either a table inside or on the open terrace. Right now, prices are reasonable for both food and beverages but will probably increase after the intoductory period. On our first visit we loved the Coquilles Saint Jaques (delicious scallops), king prawns, baramundi fillet and Lobster Mornay, all well-prepared by the Australian chef. On the second visit we were disappointed by the "Sailfin Paradise Seafood Platter for Two" which consisted of a few prawns, squid, one small bug (or rock lobster), one not so fresh crab, and lots of local fruit. Most of the wines on the limited wine list were out of stock. Expect to pay around 300,000 to 450,000 Rupiah for two, not including drinks.

There are also several restaurants (INDAH SARI, MINI, SC, etc) along Jalan Legian in Kuta which display on the roadside fresh fish, lobster, crabs and prawns on ice. You select your favorites from the display and tell the staff how to prepare your dish (grilled, steamed, boiled etc). The BALI SEAFOOD MARKET and KUTA SEAFOOD on Jalan Kartika Plaza between Kuta and the airport offer a wide choice of fresh seafood and live entertainment including Balinese dances.

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THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE TO JIMBARAN BEACH

The best place for fresh seafood is still Jimbaran Beach with its rows of open restaurants right on the sandy beach near the Bali Inter-Continental Resort and between the Keraton Hotel and the airport. The number of eateries is fast increasing, but the original six restaurants on the airport side of the Keraton Hotel (LIA is our favorite) are still the most reasonably priced, and they serve the same delicious food. All kinds of fresh fish, squid, crabs, prawns, and lobsters are prepared on the open grill (burning coconut husks instead of charcoal) with exotic herbs and spices.

A large grilled snapper with a seafood soup, vegetables, salad, rice, potatoes, several sauces, and different sambals costs for instance at LIA's around 50,000 Rupiah per kilo; one kilo of grilled prawns is about 90,000 Rupiah and Jumbo size prawns 160,000 Rupiah, lobster (actually crayfish) 250,000 Rupiah per kilo, and a large bottle of beer is 12,500 Rupiah. Not extremely cheap any more but still good value for money, and a great place to watch Bali's famous sunsets!

However, be warned: the 25 or so restaurants between Inter-Continental and the Four Seasons resort charge much higher prices (they pay 30% and even 40% commission to drivers and guides), and their prices for wine are rediculous! Visitors to the restaurants closer to the fishing harbor (near the airport) AND the restaurants between the Inter-Continental and the Four Seasons often complain on the "BALI travel FORUM" about being overcharged and/or cheated on the weight of the fish or lobster they ordered.

Forum contributor Dell wrote on July 19th, 1999, after a visit to the often recommended Cafe Intan: "I suspect they all have rigged scales. To walk to the surf after dusk, then turn around and let your gaze scan the hundreds of flickering table candles which stretch far into the distance and contemplate the scale of the fraud that is being perpetuated every night is a humbling experience." (Just an idea: if you take a full bottle of water it's easy to test the scales.)

For fine (but rather pricey) dining the Bali Inter-Continental Resort is hard to beat – the KO Japanese Restaurant with its elegant teppanyaki room, sushi & sashimi bar and music lounge is one of the best in Bali, and the SINGARAJA restaurant is well-known for good food and excellent service. The Ritz-Carlton's PADI garden restaurant (just a few steps down from the lobby) advertises to serve the island's best and most authentic Thai cuisine. But even if you let your waiter or the Chef know you like your food as spicy as in Bangkok, you will be served in most cases a rather "touristy" version of Thai food. Truly memorable meals are served in the modern DAVA restaurant of the Ritz-Carlton.

For a very pleasant lunch you should try the delicious pizzas, salads and outstanding desserts at the Four Seasons Resort's PJ's (Pantai Jimbaran) set right on the beach. You can also reserve a table here for a very private and romantic dinner lighted by dozens of candles and just a few feet away from the water. Food, service and prices are what you'd expect at a Four Seasons.

Opened only in February 2008 is the TRATTORIA Cucina Italiana Jimbaran, a more up-market branch of the restaurant with the same name in Seminyak. It's located on the road from Jalan Uluwatu to the Four Seasons, just 100 meters from the Jalan Uluwatu traffic light. Set on three levels it offers a beautiful view over Jimbaran beach, pleasant surroundings and basically the same menu and reasonable prices as the Seminyak branch. Prices are between 32,000 Rupiah and 120,00 Rupiah + 10% per dish (service charge not included). And then there are 24 different pizzas fror 23,000 to 43,000 Rupiah. The wine list is rather limited, and most bottles are between 210,000 and 400,000 Rupiah. Open every day from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

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THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE TO THE BUKIT, NUSA DUA & TANJUNG BENOA

The "Bukit", the hill south of Jimbaran Bay, is becoming more popular every day. An increasing number of residential buildings take advantage of the spectacular views of Kuta, Sanur and the mountains from the slope facing north, and there are also quite a number projects being developed on the steep cliffs facing the South.

Located not far from the Uluwatu Temple, the modern di Mare at the KARMA KANDARA resort offers a spectacular view from the cliff over the blue sea, white surf breaks and the small beach below. Chef Raymond Saja's small menu offers a choice of Mediterranean seafood dishes including fresh oysters and prawns, local and imported fishes, Alascan scallops etc. as well as braised pork belly with lentils, Muscovy duck breast and high-grade Wagyu steaks. The "Cuisine in Miniatura" is a tasting menu consisting of 9 tapas-size delicacies! The wine list is extensive and well-chosen. An excellent meal for two should be about 800,000 to 1 million Rupiah ++ without drinks. You can reach the private beach club below using a small cable car from the restaurant.

The restaurants of the truly luxurious ST. REGIS BALI resort in Nusa Dua offer more choices for demanding gourmets: the stylish KAYUPUTI is the resort's beachfront fine dining venue open only for dinner; BONEKA is famous for sensational breakfasts (in addition to a buffet you can order freshly prepared fried eggs with seared foie gras, Eggs Benedict with salmon roe, Serrano ham and asparagus, a delicious Egg Nouvelle filled with lobster ragout, Sashimi, various oysters, a hot veal liver spread with sauted mushrooms, and ... and ... and ...). During the "Sunday Jazz Prime Time" from 12 noon to 3 p.m. the main feature is traditional prime rib from the trolley with baked potatoes and home-made Yorkshire Pudding. The price for the breakfast is about 400,000 Rupiah net and for the Prime Rip Jazz Lunch 1,250,000 Rupiah net per person including appetisers, desserts and a selection of wines from the free-flow Wine Buffet. The best way to start the Sunday lunch is to have a delicious Bloody Mary or a "Bali Mary" (or two) in the resort's "King Cole Bar". Actually, the King Cole Room of the New York ST. REGIS HOTEL claims to be the birthplace of today's world-famous drink in 1934 when Fernand Petiot (who worked around 1920 at HARRY'S BAR in Paris) added Tabasco, lemon and spices to the plain vodka & tomato juice drink. At that time, the ST. REGIS served a hundred to hundred and fifty Bloody Marys every day!

Tasty Thai cuisine is served at THE TERRACE at the Amanusa Resort. The menu is small listing only six appetizers, three soups and seven main courses. We enjoyed the popular Gai Hor Bai Toey, tender chicken pieces deep fried in pandan leaves, a spicy Tom Yam Goong and the milder Tom Khar Gai, a chicken broth with coconut milk. This was followed by a sensational Red Duck Curry and King Prawns with Chilli and Basil. All dishes are prepared as spicy as you would get them in Thailand, and the service, surroundings and the view over the Nusa Dua golf course and the sea are outstanding. This unique combination is easily worth the rather high prices: around 100,000 Rupiah ++ for appetizers and soups, and around 200,000 Rupiah ++ for the main courses. Not really much for a dinner you'll not forget for a long time.

The nearby BUMBU BALI Restaurant (& Cooking School) in Tanjung Benoa adjacent to NUsa Dua, is operated by Heinz von Holzen, the author of the book "The Food of Bali" and former food guru of the Grand Hyatt and Ritz Carlton hotels in Bali. A visit here IS A MUST if you are interested in authentic local cuisine. In beautiful surroundings you can enjoy appetizers such as "Ayam Pelalah" (chicken with chillies and lime), beef, chicken and prawn Satay, or "Jokut Kakul", a tasty snail soup with lemon grass and black pepper. Main dishes include "Ayam Betutu" (roasted chicken in banana leaf), delicious "Siap Mapanggang" (ox tongue in sweet nutmeg sauce), "Satay Lilit" made from minced seafood, and "Ikan Pepes", and grilled fish in banana leaf. You can choose from a range of exotic desserts such as Black Rice Pudding, Coconut Pancakes, etc. Or indulge yourself by ordering the "Balinese Rijsttafel" which consists of 14 different dishes served together with white, yellow, and red rice (even a vegetarian version of this feast is available). You can end your meal with various gourmet coffee preparations or special flavoured Indonesian teas (apple, apricot, black currant, cinnamon, orange, peach, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, etc). Service is very attentive, and prices (about 180,000 to 280,000 Rupiah per person for a huge meal) are very reasonable for the unique experience. On Fridays there are Balinese dance performances from about 8 p.m. (If you book certain villas through Balivillas.com, you enjoy FREE participation in the popular Balinese cooking classes conducted by Heinz.)

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THE BALI RESTAURANT GUIDE TO UBUD

CAFE LOTUS has been an institution for many years. Located in the center of Ubud between the main street and a large, beautiful lotus pond in front of a temple (designed by the famous artist I Gusti Nyoman Lempad) this pleasant open-air restaurant serves a variety of Italian pasta dishes, some Asian and local specialties such as the Balinese duck 'Bebek Betutu', and a good choice of cakes and fruit juices. Although the prices here are quite steep for Ubud standards, CAFE LOTUS is busy the whole day.

Nearly across the road is CASA LUNA offering a number of Balinese and Mediterranean dishes which look very interesting on the menu but can be a bit disappointing, and a branch of the well-known RYOSHI serving good Sushi, Sashimi and Tempura until midnight at rather low prices.

MURNI'S WARUNG, located next to the Campuan bridge, is another of Ubud's institutions. Built on several levels between the road and the river, this is an excellent place to try the 'Bebek Betutu' (order one day in advance to be sure) and other local specialties. The more elegant BRIDGE CAFE cascades also down over several levels – right opposite on the other side of the river – and offers creative 'Pacific Rim' cuisine i.e. tasty culinary creations with influences from Thailand, India, China and Japan as well as local specialties, salads and vegetarian dishes. Try the Szechuan Pancakes filled with deep fried duck, the Thai Chicken Pizza, or the Chilly Prawns. Very pleasant atmosphere and good service.

For many years rather popular is DIRTY DUCK or BEBEK BENGIL in Padang Tegal about one kilometer south of Ubud's main street. Forget their special "Crispy Duck" which is very dry and sometimes rather tough. Their range of other Indonesian and Western dishes, however, is quite tasty, the garden setting very pleasant, and the live background music in the evenings creates a nearly magic atmosphere.

Another of Ubud favorites is ARY'S WARUNG, a stylish side-walk bistro in the center of town with creative oriental/international cuisine and a choice of interesting vegetarian dishes. The Tasting Menu for lunch includes four dishes for 150,000 or 190,000 Rupiah with one glass of wine, the Dinner Tasting Menu six dishes for 240,000 or 280,000 Rupiah with two glasses of wine, always plus tax & service. Expect delicacies such as Lobster Wonton, Tuna Parfait with caviar and Wasabi cream, Seared Sea Scallops, Sauted Green Pepercorn Pate with green papaya salad, Carpaccio of Venison, Steamed Snapper with red chilli butter, Jumbo River Prawns sauted with chilli, garlic and ginger, deboned Roasted Quail, Rack of Lamb with chilli mint sauce, and Roasted Veal Cutlets with Wasabi butter. The desserts are equally creative; try the Durian Créme Brulleé! The wine list offers a good choice of Australian and French wines starting around 300,000 Rupiah, and the service is friendly AND professional.

On the way to Sayan between the Campuan Hotel and the Pita Maha Resort is the INDUS Restaurant operated by the same owner as Casa Luna. Well-spaced tables on two levels offer a beautiful view over the Campuan river valley, the service is very friendly, and they serve a wide range of health food. You can choose Italian pizza, ravioli and fettucini, Middle Eastern Mezze, Chinese spring rolls, Thai Thom Kha Kai soup, and Indonesian Nasi Campur, Gado Gado, and even a Balinese "Smoked Duck Feast" for only 120,000 Rupiah for two. There are many seafood and vegetarian dishes, various interesting fresh fruit juices such as apple with mint juice or carrot, spinach, parsley & celery juice (to clean your blood and for detoxification), lassi, herbal teas and special coffees. If all this sounds too healthy, there are also delicious sweets, a (disappointingly) small selection of wines, but an acceptable choice of cocktails.

Evenings you used to meet many foreign residents in NAUGHTY NURI'S Warung on the same road to Sayan. Boston-born Brian, Nuri's husband, buys every Thursday fresh tuna in Benoa, and they serve on Thursday nights delicious tuna Sashimi, tuna steaks, and tuna satay. Daily fare includes various Indonesian dishes, steaks, lamb chops, and large slabs of ribs which are barbecued on a long charcoal grill in front of the place. But better go easy on their excellent Martinis – after a few of these you won't mind the price of 65,000 Rupiah per drink or the somewhat uncomfortable, often very smokey and extremely "local" surroundings, and the next day you might even not remember how you got home or where you've been the night before! However, recently they have started to accept reservations for busloads of Asian tourist, and many local expats are looking for other places to spend their time.

MOZAIC opened in 2001 on Jalan Raya Sanggingan, the road from Campuhan to Sayan, and is run by Franco-American Chef Chris Salans (ex Thomas Keller's French Laundry in Napa valley). It offers very pleasant out-door and in-door seating, excellent service and attractive presentation of Chris' creative cuisine. The menu changes daily and depends on the availability of fresh ingredients. You can choose one of the Chef's Tasting Menus: Each consists of six courses and there are three choices: either the "Classic" Menu Degustation, a "Vegetarian" or an "Experimental" version offering delicious surprises with every single course. The Tasting Menus are equally priced and at 550,000 Rupiah++ per person (895,000 Rupiah++ including matching wines) a real bargain. If you prefer to bring your own wine, they charge 75,000 Rupiah++ corkage per bottle. On the well-chosen wine list you find 16 open wines, and bottles start around 350,000 Rupiah++. We always enjoy the truly outstanding food – probably the best you can find in Indonesia. (MOZAIC is one of only two restaurants in South East Asia to be recognized by "Grande Tables du Monde" – the second is LE NORMANDIE on top of the old wing of Bangkok's legendary Mandarin Oriental Hotel – and has also received the "Award of Excellence" by Wine Spectator for its wine cellar.) A meal at MOZAIC is a fine dining experience you won't forget; don't miss it! The restaurant is closed on Mondays, all other days reservations are required. Please call 975-768.

For total culinary indulgence together with your family, a group of gourmets or special friends, book the Private Chef's Table @ MOZAIC: Chris Salans prepares and serves a Tasting Menu of his Signature Dishes in the privacy of "The Workshop", a separate venue at the back of the restaurant garden with an open state-of-the-art demo kitchen, a comfortable lounge and the elegant dining area accommodating up to 14 guests. Prices range from US$120++ to US$200++ per person (depending on dishes selected and the accompanying wines) and include canapés with Champagne and/or Signature Cocktails before dinner, an individually created Special Chef's Table Tasting Menu prepared by Chris Salans, matching wines with each course and coffee or tea. The possiblility of direct interaction between Chef Salans and the guests during the meal as well as during the preparation of each course can make this not only an unforgettable experience but also a very personalized cooking class for some or all of the participants! Eight guests (or a minimum spending of US$1,000) are required for the exclusive booking of "The Workshop". During the day there are also various recreational and professional cooking classes offered teaching traditional as well as modern cutting-edge technologies for individuals and groups. Call 975-768 for inquiries and bookings.

LAMAK Restaurant & Bar is another of Ubud's top eateries. It was opened in February 2002 and is located on Monkey Forest Road a bit South of the soccer field next to SAI SAI bar. The quite unique design is by Made Wijaya (Australian Michael White), and the restaurant is operated by the German Chef Roland Lickert. The tempting menus (different for lunch and dinner) include Asian, international and vegetarian dishes such as Seaweed Salad with Balinese Satay Lilit, various fried noodles with Spiced Szechuan Chicken, with Asian Greens and Glazed Tofu or with Black Bean Fish, Stir-fried Scallops on Green Tea Noodles and Bruschetta with Salmon Tartar. There is an great Shitake Mushroom Cappuccino soup and a unique Balinese Bouillabaisse, Escargots with delicious Cafe de Paris Butter or seared Foie Gras, and for your main course you can choose Crispy Salmon, Balsamic Glazed Beef Steak, Quail Saltimbocca, Pancetta-wrapped Pork Fillet, Lamb Cutlets, Duck Breast with Red Pepper Pesto and Seafood Pasta. Delicious sweets include Orange & Ginger Créme Bruleé, Fried Forest Berry Ice Cream on Baileys Cream and a Chilled Pina Colada Soufflé. Too difficult to decide what to chose from their Asian Fusion cuisine? Just order the 5-course Tasting Menu for only 275,000 Rupiah++! Gourmets may be impressed, wine lovers will certainly be delighted: you can choose from 8 wines by the glass from 60,000 to 85,000 Rupiah and from nearly 50 bottled wines from France, Italy, Australia and California starting at 380,000 Rupiah. There is also a choice of Cuban cigars. The reasonable prices for food and wine help to relax in the open-air lounge and cocktail bar downstairs, in the upstairs dining area or in the air-conditioned section on the upper floor. LAMAK is open every day from 11:00 in the morning to 11:00 p.m. Roland runs also WARUNG ENAK in Pengosekan (south of Ubud) where he serves tasty specialties from Sumatra, Java, Sulawesi, Kalimantan, Lombok, Bali and other islands of Indonesia in pleasant surroundings and at reasonable prices.

Other restaurants recommended by foreign residents and recent visitors are PESTO CAFE, Jalan Raya Campuhan, for tasty Indonesian dishes and international snacks at low prices, TERAZO, Jalan Suweta just North of the Royal Palace, and the CINTA GRILL on Monkey Forest Road for trendy fusion cuisine, BATAN WARU (Western and Indonesian Brasserie type food), CAFE DES ARTISTES, Jalan Bisma 9X, for Belgium cuisine and some Indonesian and Thai dishes at low prices, GAJAH BIRU for authentic Indian cuisine, GAYA for simple Italian dishes, located above the gallery with the same name in Sayan, the KOKOKAN CLUB in Pengosekan for tasty Thai dishes, COFFEE & SILVER on Jalan Monkeu Forest for breakfast, brunch and all-day dining with tasty snacks, tapas and international mains and an interesting children's menu, INDIAN DELITES, THREE MONKEYS, KAMPUNG KAFE, and TEPI SAWAH.

Selamat Makan !

BALI CALENDAR OF EVENTS 2008 Schedule of Bali Art Festival XXX

2008-10-19T01:50:00.000-07:00

January 2008

1 New Year's Day
10 1 Muharram 1429 H - Moslem New Year
23 Galungan - Praying for the victory of virtue (Dharma) upon evil (Adharma)

February 2008

2 Kuningan - Believed to be the ascendant day of ancestral holy spirits and deities, back to the eternity

March 2008

3 Mekiyis or Melis - a purification ceremony held in welcoming "Nyepi". It is a long procession of Hindu adherents carrying temple effigies and other sacred symbols, heading to beaches or springs where the purification rituals are held, Throughout Bali.
6 Tawur Agung Kesanga - Held to welcome Nyepi holiday at every family compound; followed by procession of Ogoh-Ogoh (huge monster / evil dolls)
7 Nyepi - Balinese New Year; The I Saka New Year 1929, the day of absolute silence for Hindu followers
16 Palm Sunday - Christian Holiday
20 Mohammed's Birthday - Moslem Holiday
21 Good Friday - Christian holiday on which the Church keeps the anniversary of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ
23 Easter - Christian holiday to commemorate the resurrections of Jesus Christ

April 2008

12 Tumpek Kandang - Special day of thanks for the gift of livestock

May 2008

1 Ascension Day - Christian holiday on the 40th day after Resurrection of Jesus Christ
17 Tumpek Wayang or Tumpek Ringgit - Special day of thanks for the gift of Art
20 Vaishakha - Buddhist holiday to celebrate the birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism

June 2008

7 Saraswati - Special day of thanks for the gift of Knowledge
11 Pagerwesi - Special day for meditation to enhance balance in the world
Mid Bali Art Festival XXX - Exhibitions and Art Performances at Bali Art Center, Denpasar, until Mid July
21 Tumpek Landep - Special day of thanks for the gift of metal

July 2008

26 Tumpek Uduh or Tumpek Pengatag - Special day of thanks for the gift of fruit-bearing plants
30 Isra Mi'Raj Prophet Mohammed - Muslim holiday to commemorate the 'enlightenment Day' of Prophet Muhammed

August 2008

17 Indonesia Independence Day - A public holiday throughout Indonesia
20 Galungan - Praying for the victory of virtue (Dharma) upon evil (Adharma)
30 Kuningan - Believed to be the ascendant day of ancestral holy spirits and deities, back to the eternity

September 2008

2 Ramadhan - Moslem holiday

October 2008

1-2 Idul Fitri - Muslim festival to end fasting month
14-19 Ubud Writers and Readers Festival
18-26 ABG - Asean Beach Games 2008

November 2008

8 Tumpek Kandang - Special day of thanks for the gift of livestock

December 2008

8 Idul Adha - Moslem holiday known as cattle sacrifice and hajj pilgrim
13 Tumpek Wayang - Special day of thanks for the gift of Art
25 Christmas - Christian holiday to celebrate Jesus Christ' birthday
29 1 Muharram 1430 H - Moslem New Year

First Asian Beach Games opening ceremony held in Bali

2008-10-19T01:19:00.000-07:00

BALI ISLAND, Indonesia, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- The first Asian Beach Games opening ceremony was held on October 18 in Bali Island of Indonesia, which attracts almost 3000 athletes from 45 countries and regions in Asia.

Thousands of dancers performed traditional program, which featured local arts and cultures at the opening ceremony held at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park in Bali Island.

Jacques Rogge, the president of the International Olympic Committee, Indonesia president Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and athletes from 45 countries and regions present the opening ceremony.

The multi-event will be another history for Indonesia in organizing an event under the sanctions of Olympic Council of Asia after the fourth Asian Games in Jakarta, 1962.

Asian Beach Games in Bali is Asia's first multiple sports event situated on beaches. A total of 17 sports and two demonstration sports will be held in the games, which will last nine days at four world renowned beaches, namely Kuta Beach, Nusa Dua, Sanur Beach and Serangan Island.

The biennial Asian Beach Games, together with the Asian Games, the Asian Winter Games and the Asian Indoor Games, organized by the Olympic Council of Asia, are four major sporting events in Asia.

The third Asian Beach Games will be hosted in Haiyang, east China's Shandong province in 2012, after the second in Oman in 2010.

Asian Beach Games 2008

2008-10-19T00:55:00.000-07:00

Beach Volleyball

Beach Sepaktakraw, Marathon Swimming...

Surfing

Surfing is a surface water sport in which the participant is carried...

ABG is entrusted by the Olympic Council of Asia, the highest governing body of sports in Asia.

Bali To Host First Asian Beach Games 2008

Indonesia is ready to make history from the 18th - 26th of October 2008 when it plays host to the first Asian Beach Games in the world.

Bali is the host of this international event which will see 45 countries participating with over 10,000 athletes, officials, media and volunteers all flocking to the Island of the Gods for this world class event.

Director General of BABGOC Overall Review

BABGOC, Jakarta, 30th November.

The Director General of Bali Asian Beach Games Organizing Committee (BABGOC,) Madame Rita Subowo spends two full days to review all the preparation of the different Directorates of the committee.

The meeting was attended by the Deputy Director Generals, Mr. Djoko Pramono and Mr. Ahmed Solihin, the Executive Director, Mr. Indra Kartasasmita, the Director of Operations, Mr. Ramon Suzara, the Director of IT and Telecommunications, Mr. Arie Ariotedjo, the Director of Broadcasting and Press Services, Mr. Sumohadi Marsis, the Director of Marketing and Public Relations, Mr. Sony Subrata, the Director of Events and Ceremonies, Mr. Ervan Ibrahim, the Director of Games Services, Mr. Chahya Azis, the Director of Human Resource, Mrs. Jetty Pattiasina, the Manager of Operations, Mr. Ida Bagus Antara, Manager of Promotion, Ms. Nina Langitan, and several other officials.

New ABG Website Look In January 200

The official website of the 1st Asian Beach Games 2008 will be improved and updated with more information by the end of January 2008. The website is currently visited by people around the world, including the USA, Australia and Europe. Information about the Games from countdown, weather, list of hotels, restaurants to tourist information are available in the www.bali2008.com

The design and content of the website is under the supervision of> the Marketing and Public Relations Directorate of the Bali Asian Beach Games Organizing Committee (BABGOC). "The website has been a very important information tool for BABGOC to communicate to the world. We use it to update our progress to all the NOC's as well as the general public," says Mr. Sony Subrata, Director of Marketing and Public Relations.

MAIGOC and OCA will Visit Bali on January 2008

BABGOC Bali. After the successful competition of the 2nd Asian Indoor Games in Macau, October 2007, The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has decided to program a Transfer of Knowledge session in Bali between the Macau Indoor Games Organizing Committee (MAIGOC) and the Bali Asian Beach Games Organizing Committee (BABGOC). The meeting will be held on January 14 and 15, 2008, also attended by representatives from the OCA.

BABGOC (Bali Asian Beach Games Organizing Comitee)

www.bali2008.com