It's only a small island, but beautiful Bali packs a punch in the tourism ring, with history and culture jostling for attention with beaches, clubs, wildlife, sunshine, diving and some of the most ruggedly handsome scenery that Indonesia has to offer.
Holidays in Bali continue to grow in popularity as all types of holidaymakers - from backpackers to honeymooners - spread the word about this island of contrasts.
Bali holidays offer a bit of Asian flavour, with all of the home comforts available at a range of accommodation - from inexpensive hotels to five-star resorts. Tourism is such a big industry here, especially for visiting Australians, that livelier resorts such as Kuta earn Bali the nickname of the Aussie Mediterranean. While it's true that buzzing nightlife can be found, there are also plenty of hideaway resorts, where peace and quiet reign.
Visitors flying into Bali arrive at Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport, also known simply as Denpasar (DPS). From there, most holidaymakers head on to one of the palm-fringed beach resorts such as lively Kuta, in the south.
Other notable places to stay in Bali's south include Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa, Legian, and quiet Sanur.
Ubud is considered to be the cultural centre of the island and visitors can witness traditional arts, dance and music within the fascinating temples of this inland town. The Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary can also be found in Ubud. Keep an eye on your valuables, these monkeys are known to grab!
Scattered around the island are other attractive resorts, such as Lovina in the north, with its black sands; off the beaten path Pemuteran, in the north west; and Amed in the east, which diving fanatics simply love. Nusa Lembongan is an island off the south-east coast of Bali and is another popular choice for visitors, as is Lombok to the east.
Between all these resorts is the amazing scenery that makes Bali so uniquely stunning: volcanoes, lakes, rainforests, terraced farming lots lining the hills, plantations, and enthralling places of worship such as the rock formation that is home to Hindu temple Tanah Lot.
Active types will want to get to grips with river rafting on the Ayung, surfing on the coast, and diving under the water to explore the world beneath the shimmering surface. Shoppers will love digging around at markets for handicrafts and intricate fabrics, and those after a relaxing day trip should head to the Air Panas Banjar hot springs west of Lovina.
Whatever you are into, whatever kind of holiday you want, it might be time to give Bali a try. Check Bali holiday prices on TravelSupermarket today.
Weather
Temperatures remain at a fairly constant average high of around 27C throughout the year. Rain can fall at any time, though November to March is the wettest time of year, and the most humid.
Events
Bali Kite Festival; July: Be at Sanur Beach to see the sky fill with giant colourful kites. There are kites shaped like fish, birds and leaves. It's a spectacular sight.
Bali Arts Festival; June/July: Performers from across the island do their thing in Denpasar at this annual festival. Among the attractions are dance, music and food offerings. The bright traditional costumes are something to behold.
Negara bull races; between July and October: Be in Negara to see bulls race with chariots - only after they have been bathed and decorated with garlands. Holidaymakers are welcome to watch this traditional spectacle and enjoy Balinese traditions - including some tasty local food.
