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Bali
Photo: Courtesy of Como Shambhala Estate
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Lapped the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, Bali is but one of 17,500 islands in the Indonesian archipelago, yet even among its colorful neighbors—and even after decades of tourism development—it stands alone in its lushness and incomparable beauty. Long, sugary beaches lead inland to hillsides terraced with jewel-green rice paddies; forests dotted with ancient temples abound. These centuries-old shrines—there are thousands scattered across the island—are evidence of Bali’s deep, enduring spirituality. For the island’s three million, mostly Hindu residents, daily routines are punctuated by prayer, blessings, and rituals—and it’s these traditions, even more than the spectacular landscapes, that make Bali such a compelling, authentic, and utterly singular destination.
Don't Miss
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Sunset visit to the 11th Century Uluwatu Temple perched high above the Indian Ocean.
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A sunrise trek to the summit of Mount Batur. If you’re intrepid, fit, and don’t mind getting up in the middle of the night to go, you’ll be rewarded with some of the island’s most spectacular views.
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An early morning ride along Seminyak Beach with horses from Umalas Stables.
Tips See All BALI Tips
Tourist resources for Bali
American ex-pat John M. Daniels has been running his Bali-info website, www.balidiscovery.com, for years; it’s super-informative, easily navigated, and allows you to book tours and excursions onlin... More
Visas in Bali
Arrival in Bali can be frustrating, what with the long lines for passport check-in and visa purchase at the airport. Bali Concierge service, however, will pick you up at your arrival gate, whisk yo... More
Taxis in Bali
The best taxi service on the island is Blue Bird Taxi (62/361-701-111) with a main phone line that dispatches around the island. Taxis are cheap and clearly metered and easily picked up on the stre... More
Driving in Bali
This isn’t recommended, unless you’re very brave and already have an international driver’s license (if you don’t, you’ll need to stand in line for approximately two days in downtown Denpasar to ap... More
Getting to Bali by air
Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar is served by many major carriers as well as low-fare airlines Air Asia, Eva Air and Jetstar. From the terminal, a taxi ride downtown to Seminyak costs a... More