Archive for » 2010 «

Beach Life in Bali is Pure Fun in the Sun

17 Dec 2010 - noxa

As the temperature gets chillier in many Northern Hemisphere countries, tropical destinations such as Baliseem all the more attractive. With their bona fide friendly nature and ingenious for hospitality, the Balinese make the island an even more popular destination to beachcombers in search of sun, sand and surf.

Bali also has a variety of beach options to suit every kind of traveler. There are the popular surf spots of Kuta and Legian, the luxurious and private shores of Nusa Dua, the chic and romantic Seminyak beach and the beautifully serene locale of Sanur.

Says seasoned traveler Ganesh Manickavasagar, Director of D’Casting Company, “Bali is one of those locations where you really feel an affinity with the environment. The picturesque beaches, charming people and traditional culture combine together to create a unique experience that really is unmatched by other tropical destinations.”

With its clean break waves and lengthy golden shore, Kuta has been a favourite among surfers since the 1970s. These days, the area is something of a tourist Mecca, offering a prime nightlife and entertainment scene in addition to its vast array of beach activities and hotels. The area is also brimming with shopping options, with everything from branded luxury clothes and accessories to bohemian beach wear.

The Kuta town and surrounding suburbs are suitable for all types of tourists including seasoned solo surfers, young groups of friends, couples and families. It is an epicenter for surf, sun and fun – but not necessarily peace and quiet. For this year’s summer high season, Agoda.com has hot deals around Kuta beach and the suburbs of Legian at Santika Beach Hotel, The Rani Hotel and Spa and Legian Beach Hotel.

“Bali is my favorite holiday spot. I’m from Sydney and love surfing back home but Bali has a different, more laid back feel. I love the food, the people and Balinese culture. Also, you cannot get a beach massage Balinese style at such a cheap price back home; they’re sublime!” says frequent Bali traveler and customer service manager, Natalie Brooks.

Not far from Kuta town is the trendy Seminyak beach. Quickly earning a reputation for being a sleek, boutique hotspot, Seminyak has a first-rate swimming beach and a number of designer accommodation and fine dining options. Agoda recommendations include the Resor Seminyak Resort & Spa and the opulent Oberoi Hotel.

The luxurious beach cove of Nusa Dua is a favorite among those traveling to Bali, because of its calm, tranquil atmosphere and inviting turquoise waters. It is a perfect place for romancing honeymooners but also for those with a passion for underwater life – there are good diving and snorkeling spots to be found in this area. Agoda has special discounts at Nikko Resort & Spa, Melia Benoa Hotel and Nusa Dua Resort & Spa, all known for their splendid outdoor landscaping, Balinese architecture and high levels of service.

Closer to Denpasar, the quiet beach of Sanur is a pleasant alternative to the highly developed and more popular beach spots of Bali. Everything at Sanur moves at a leisurely pace, and guests can experience a more traditional Bali, with local fishermen bringing in their catch of the day and the soothing sounds of the nearby temple, offering a unique atmosphere. Agoda has special hotel rates at Sanur Beach Hotel, Mercure Sanur Hotel and Sri Phala Resort and Villas.

Category: Travel Article  Tags: , , ,  Leave a Comment

Top 20 Things To Do In Bali

13 Dec 2010 - noxa

1. WATERSPORTS

Nusa Dua, Bali, is well known for its wide range of water sports and activities. The beach is always buzzing with tourists and Balinese locals and has a laid back party style feel about it. Enjoy a huge array of water sports including parasailing, flying fish, jet skiing, water skiing, banana boat and fishing.

2. HORSE RIDING

Experience the serene surroundings of Bali’s west coast while riding horse back on a 2 hour trail ride. Travel through sloping rice terraces, along a sparkling black sand beach and through a Balinese village. Take in the breathtaking  sights including a waterfall, sea salt harvesting area, a bat cave and a natural rock headland jutting out into the crystal clear ocean.

3.VW SAFARI

Get picked up in Bali’s coolest mode of transport – the VW Safari. Cruise through the rice paddies and sleepy villages of Bali with the roof down and the wind gushing through your hair. Stop at the Saba Stables for an hour horse ride along the volcanic sands. After this it’s off to the lush Ayung valley for an unforgettable white water rafting adventure. Stop for lunch overlooking the hills of Ubud and then head to the World Heritage Site of Jatiluwih – the world’s most beautiful rice paddies – where you will wind through the most stunning views on earth.

4. BALI SAFARI & MARINE PARK

For animal lovers a trip to Bali is not complete without visiting Bali Safari & Marine Park.  Designed for animals to live in a natural habitat, however also allow you to get  closer to them than you ever thought possible. Have the chance to cuddle a baby orang-utan, tiger, lion or leopard. Observe and get up close to over 60 different species as you enjoy a safari journey straight through animal enclosures.

5. ELEPHANT RIDING

Have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals. Elephant riding is something you don’t want to miss when travelling to Bali. Embark on a trek on elephant back through the stunning Balinese landscape.

6. WHITE WATER RAFTING

Get wet & go wild in an action packed day of adventure whitewater rafting on Bali’s Ayung River. Experience open valleys and spectacular rainforest surroundings as you spin, dip and dodge your way through 9km of class 2 & 3 rapids. Marvel at the downpour of the natural waterfalls and feel the sheer power of this river as you navigate your raft  through surging water & around massive rocks.

7. BALI BUGGY & QUAD

Bali Quad Discovery Tours combine the fun and adventurous experience of driving your own quad bike with the opportunity to learn about the way the Balinese locals live. You will follow an experienced guide through an authentic part of Bali, driving between beautiful rice fields, passing the rainforest and driving up a mountain. Stop along the way at a traditional house and taste real Balinese coffee. A truly unique and exciting way to see Bali.

9.TREKKING

If you are into trekking Bali is the place to be. Choose between exploring the rice paddies or the jungle flora & fauna. For the real adventurous spirits enjoy a night time trek up the volcano, arriving at the top to watch the spectacular sunrise.

10.UNDERWATER WALKING

Explore the stunning underwater world without even having to swim. Underwater walking is ideal for those who would love to explore life under the sea but are not confident swimmers or do not wish to dive. Just relax & sink into a world of freedom as you walk along the ocean floor.

11.JIMBARAN SEAFOOD

Tantalize you taste buds with a night out at Bali’s famous Jimbaran Beach. Seafood restaurants line the beach with tables & chairs placed on the sand at the oceans edge. The sea breeze is cool and the view of the sunset is amazing. Dine under the stars on an abundance of seafood and be entertained by Balinese dancers.

12.BALI SPA

Bali is known worldwide for it’s inexpensive yet superb spa treatments. Balinese women have small yet powerful hands that seem to emit a healing quality. This combined with the range of natural, gorgeous smelling products used to pamper your body will take you to a state a bliss.

13. CANYON TUBING

Canyon Tubing is a unique one of a kind adventure in Bali. Riding in an inflatable tube you will be carried down the small but active Siap Stream, taking in the amazing sights of untouched Flora and Fauna. In some places the stream gets to difficult to navigate so you will have the opportunity to fly through the air on a purpose built flying fox. For a sightseeing adventure with a difference Canyon Tubing provides fantastic entertainment for young and old.

14. WATERBOM PARK

For a full day of thrilling activities treat yourself to a day out at Bali’s Waterbom Park. Test your nerves with the nine crazy waterslides that will get your heart pumping. For relaxation, drift leisurely in a tube raft or go for a tranquil dip in the inviting pools. A soothing massage or spa treatment is the ultimate way to unwind. Kids have their own kiddies waterpark with specially designed slides. Set your own pace for a day of fun in the sun or relaxation in the shade, perfect for the whole family.

15. ODYSSEY SUBMARINE

The exotic underwater world can now be experienced by people of all ages and physical condition, in a safe and comfortable atmosphere. With the normal diving site up to 90ft deep the 45 minute ride in this unique vessel will take you to a breathtaking rarely visited place under the sea.

16. DAY TOURS

Explore the magnificently diverse landscape Bali has to offer by taking a private day tour. Explore Lovina Beach and Gitgit Waterfall with a North Bali Tour. If you are more into art and culture take a tour of Ubud and visit the famous Ubud Markets.

17. CRUISES

Explore Bali’s breathtaking waters and surrounding islands with a fantastic range of day & evening cruises. Start the day early for a dolphin spotting cruise along Bali’s coast or head off for a day of discovery to Lembongan or Nusa Penida Island.  Or why not enjoy a relaxing evening cruise to admire Bali’s magnificent sunset and feast on a delicious buffet dinner.

18. SURFING

Bali is well known for its surfing beaches and great waves. Advanced surfers can look at sharpening their skills and beginners (including children) can be taught up to the level they desire.

Group and private lessons are available.

19.BALI COOKING CLASS

Discover the spiced flavours of Bali’s virtually unknown cuisine. Classes offer a fascinating introduction to the exotic ingredients and unique culinary heritage of Bali. They provide a valuable insight into the various techniques of food preparation and the cooking style used in Bali’s island homes.

20. BUNGY JUMPING

If you have the courage to bungy jump why not do it in style in Bali. Offering varying styles of bungy jump including standard, full body harness, tandem and most thrilling of all riding off the tower on a BMX bike or a real motorbike.

Category: Travel Article  Tags: ,  Leave a Comment

Bali Travel Tips

12 Dec 2010 - noxa

Fear of the unknown is rife in people who have never travelled to Bali before. An equal number of good stories and bad stories continually circulate about this magnificent island. Below is a list of travel tips for anyone who has never travelled to Bali before. They will assist you in being prepared and making sure you have a fantastic holiday on this magnificent island.

Take US$25 per person for your Visa on Arrival. You pay for this on arrival at Denpasar airport and this allows you to stay in Bali for a maximum of 30 days.

Pack lightly. Even if you are tempted to throw those extra few things in your suitcase- don’t do it. Bali’s clothing is extremely cheap and whether you like shopping or not guaranteed your suitcase will be a lot heavier coming back. Toiletries etc. can be bought at the 24 hour Mini Marts and Circle K’s for a fraction of the price. The only toiletries i would recommend taking are women’s personal items and sunscreen as these are quite expensive in Bali.

Pack a decent pair of walking shoes. The footpaths in Bali are not exactly structurally sound. Although wearing trainers can be quite warm in the humid environment your feet will be thanking you.

Don’t change money before you go. Although I’m sure you’ve all heard stories of being ripped off by money changers on the street if you follow a few simple rules this will not happen. You will get a better rate changing money in Bali than you will in your home country. Just make sure you go to an Authorised Money Changer, don’t hand over your money until you have counted the money they have given you and make sure you get a receipt. If this still doesn’t sit well with you go to a bank as they normally have even better exchange rates than you’ll get on the street.

It’s better to take cash than use your credit cards. Depending on what bank you are with, you will generally be charge a fee every time you use your credit card in Bali. This is normally a percentage of what you have spent and can add up to an awful lot over the course of your holiday. The maximum withdrawal from any ATM is IDR 1.5 million (nearly AU$200) and most banks charge around $5 in fees per withdrawal. For both credit card charges and ATM withdrawals the exchange rate is usually much worse than if you were to change money on the streets. If you really aren’t comfortable taking cash make sure you check with your bank before you leave to know how much the fees are.

Be careful of drivers. If you find a driver who offers you a too cheap price for full day transport be careful. Drivers make little money on driving you around for the day once expenses are taken out. The main income earner for them is receiving commissions from what you eat and what you buy from the places they take you. Although this is the way they make their living you may find yourself being ripped off with the places the driver takes you to. The other problem is you may not end up where you wanted to go as the driver will have his own agenda and take you to the place he gets the highest commission from. Just be wary and try and go with a driver recommend by someone else not just the one who offers you the cheapest price.

Bargain at the markets – everyone knows this but I just thought I’d mention it. If they won’t come down to the price you are willing to pay just walk away and if they follow you know your price is reasonable.  Just remember this is how the Balinese make a living so a great thing to do is bargain them down to the lowest price and once you have agreed give them a bit extra. That extra bit is nothing to us but everything to them. This will make them realise you are not a pushover and they will be extremely thankful.

If you don’t want to get hassled by people trying to sell you things I recommend you keep away from the markets and Kuta beach. The Balinese are very rarely nasty or aggressive but as they are trying to make a living can sometimes be quiet overwhelming with their pushiness.  It is not like this everywhere and if you keep away from the markets and the main tourists hotspots you shouldn’t have a problem. If you are getting hassled rather than be rude just so ‘no thank you’ and keep on walking. I find politeness like this works the best. The Balinese are excellent at remembering faces so after a few time of ‘no thankyous’ they probably won’t hassle you anymore.

Be careful of the taxes – in the majority of restaurants the taxes are not added onto the price. You will see down the bottom of the menu ‘price is subject to an additional 21% service and government tax’. This is worth mentioning to anyone who hasn’t travelled to Bali before and likes to watch their spending as an additional 21% tax can add up to a reasonable amount.

Don’t eat all your meals at your hotel restaurant. Although this can be convenient at times generally you pay a lot more eating at your hotel than you would if venturing out to the millions of restaurants available on the street. Generally a free breakfast is included with the price of your room but I would recommend eating outside of your hotel for lunch and dinner.

Don’t be afraid of Bali Belly – everyone has a story to tell on how they got Bali Belly. My husband and I have been to Bali copious amounts of times and – touch wood – have never got Bali Belly. Just don’t drink the water. When showering make sure you don’t swallow and use bottled water even when rinsing your mouth out after brushing. Also just use common sense when choosing a place to eat – make sure the kitchen and surrounding areas are clean. If you do get struck with Bali Belly red cordial is said to help and the Balinese believe the local snake fruit is also a great cure.

Shop around – even though the prices in the designer shops are already a lot lower than what we are used to it is still a good idea to shop around. Many places will be having sales of up to 50% and you can get yourself an even better bargain with a bit of looking around.

Until you become familiar with the prices taxis charge make sure you get in one with a meter. Once you are comfortable with knowing the price you should get charged catching a taxi without a meter is fine – just make sure you negotiate the price before you jump in.

When departing Bali you are required to pay IDR150 000 per person in departure tax. Many new travellers to Bali are unaware of this. Also it is worthwhile to mention that once you check in for your departure it is very difficult to get back out of the airport. Guards stand at the doors and will only allow you to exit if you need to use the ATM.

In my opinion Bali is the ultimate holiday destination. No matter what kind of holiday you would like Bali has something to offer for everyone. I hope the above tips will make you feel more comfortable in choosing Bali as your next holiday destination.

Category: Travel Tips  Tags: , ,  Leave a Comment

Bali ? A City Of Temples

10 Dec 2010 - noxa

Spiritualism is not a heritage of any one person or religion. Every person has a little or more of spiritualism deeply in them. Whether you are the seeker of spiritualism or just an ordinary person, the City of Bali brings out the hidden instincts of spiritualism from you. Bali is a beautiful Indonesian island. It is an embodiment of Balinese Hinduism and is thought of as one of the sacred places for followers of Balinese Hinduism. If you want to feel spiritually strong and want your soul to rejuvenate then travelling to Bali is a great idea. You will easily find discount hotel deals in Bali if you just get through some of the famous travel blogs available online.

Bali is a place characterized by ancient art; painting, dancing and many more. There are many places in Bali that you wouldn’t want to miss when you are there for your holidays. “Ubud” is the center of Balinese painting and has a collection of traditional as well as modern art. Ubud has many small hotels near it offering many affordable discount hotel. Other attractions include Kuta, Nusa Dua, Tanah Lot, Batubulan, Gianyar, Pura Besakih and terraced Rice paddies.

Kuta is one of the most flourishing tourism resorts. It is the best place to view the beautiful, heart touching scenes of sunset. Many affordable hotel deals can also be available at nearby hotels in Kuta such as Kuta Sea view Boutique Resort &Spa.  The most popular hotel deals are provided by Puri Saron Seminyak Hotel & Villas, Legian Beach Hotel, The Kayana Hotel, Santika Beach Hotel and discovery Kartika Plaza hotel. They also favor their customers and tourist by giving hotel deal on many offers. You can find wide variety of hotels ranging from luxurious to affordable ones.

People all around the world interested in visiting sacred place would love to travel all the way to Bali to have the privilege of seeing Pura Besakih. For the followers visiting this temple and other nearby temples in Bali is like doing a special pilgrimage. If you view it from the mountain, the sight created is not only impressive but also striking. They stay there for not a day but for more than a week. If you are one of them then finding a good accommodation is really important but don’t worry by doing little browsing, you can easily book a hotel room or a suite within your range and with the best hotel deals and you can also earn the opportunity of getting discount on different deals.

You can also surf on net and find different travel blogs written by people who have great knowledge about these places. Such travel blog will make your trip easier and more convenient for you. There are some well known travel blog websites and national geographic. These travel blogs have all the information related to your desired city and will help you find the best hotel deals and best places to shop and enjoy your trip to your utmost.

Category: Travel Article  Tags: , ,  Leave a Comment

Bali: The Coolest Tourist Hot Spot For 2010

08 Dec 2010 - noxa

As the number one tourist destination in the world, Bali is a tourist and vacationers paradise like no other as it offers a celebration for all the human senses. There are miles and miles of dream worth beaches dominated by white sand in the south and black sand in the north and west shoring crystalline waters and coral reefs. On land you will find the exuberant green of the picturesque terraces of paddy fields, down the volcanic slopes in a equatorial island of just 5,632 km and the lakes and mountains.

It was not until 1930 that some of the foreign travel writer arrived in Bali and stayed on, thoroughly seduced and inspired by the island’s breathtaking physical beauty and cultural complexity. What impressed them even more was the warmth and the hospitality of the Balinese, and the amazing breadth of artistic expression that pervaded daily life.

By the 70’s Bali had transformed itself into a high quality tourist attraction, and attracted many bona fide tour operators and airlines companies to bring their clients to enjoy this enchanting island. The island boasts of an International Airport, 5 star Bali hotels, luxury Bali villas, luxury and typical secluded resorts and many hundreds of budget hotels.

Let nothing come in between your vacation plan to Bali because this the best island paradise on earth offering some of the best luxury villa stay options in the world. It is no wonder the Bali has been voted the as the best tourist place to visit in 2009. The easiest way to book your preferred luxury Bali villa is go online and visit a hotel reservation website or you can search a reliable Bali Tour Operator e-mail them for further information.

Travellers’ to Bali from all over the world are now discovering the privilege of staying in a luxury Bali villa when visiting the island of Bali. Visitors and vacationers no longer the need confine their accommodations to hotel rooms and the trappings of mass tourism as a luxury Bali villa offers abundant space, privacy, home comforts and personalized, gracious Balinese hospitality and service.

Luxury Bali villas have large swimming pools that remain open 24 hours a day, lavishly decorated sun decks, semi-open living spaces, fully equipped kitchens, exclusive bathroom facilities and fully air-conditioned bedrooms. A luxury Bali villa is a cost effective and endearing holiday option for families with children or would make the perfect romantic sanctuary for couples and honeymooners alike.

Luxury Bali villas nestled among terraced rice fields offers the ultimate experience in luxurious tropical living where the tourists are exposed to the elements of total relaxation in privacy and unrestricted freedom to use the spaces, if they choose to. The best luxury Bali villas are found in different near to the sculpted rice fields of Umalas which will overwhelm any visitor with its breath taking natural beauty.

There is a stunning luxury villa called the Mia Villa which rests on fifteen hundred square meters of tropical greenery with stunning views of the rice fields around making it the ideal retreat to treat your family and friends to hours of indoor and outdoor fun, entertainment, relaxation and rest. Whether you are a honeymooning couple or in a group of family and friends, this luxury Bali villa is the ideal stay to enjoy the luxury of seclusion, a romantic wedding ceremony, or even to entertain on a large scale.

The beauty of villa is highlighted by a beguiling mix of modern Balinese furnishings and western utilitarian urbanity which will wow even the most discerning and hip traveler. There is something for every visitor or tourist to Bali – from offering a vibrant nightlife to sandy beaches and untouched natural warmth and peace, Bali is the place to be this holiday season.

Category: Travel Article  Tags: , , , ,  Leave a Comment
« Previous Entries
Next Entries »