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 The islands of the Indonesian archipelago are strung like beads across the equator. Clear blue seas lap pristine beaches, gentle breezes carry scents of spices and flowers, and divers are entranced by the ocean's riches.
Inland, dramatic volcanic ranges tower above a green mantle of terraced hillsides and lush rainforest.
When?
The best time to visit Indonesia is during the dry season between May and October. It is a great idea to plan your visit to coincide with some local festival; this is not advisable for those looking to holiday crowds and prices.
How to Reach
?
With the increasing number of direct flight to Bali from some other parts of the world, it makes it easier to go to Bali. From Bali, flight to Jakarta is about 1.5 hours, to Singapore and Perth (Australia) 2.5 and 3 hours, to Hong Kong about 4.5 hours, and to Sydney/Melbourne about 5.5 to 6 hours, with various airlines offering their services.
Visa
Nationals of India require a visa on arrival for a stated number of days. Visitors will be able to purchase a visa for a 7 days visit costing US$ 10 per person or US$ 25 per person for a 30 days visit.
Currency
The currency of Thailand is the baht which consists of 100 stang. Copper coins are valued 25 and 50 stang. Silver coins are in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 baht. Banknotes are valued at 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 baht.
Things To Do in
Bali (Indonesia)
Kuta Beach
Kuta Beach is the most popular beach and the main attraction on the island of Bali. It is mainly famed for its fine sands and buzzing nightlife and also has good surf in-season. Kuta also has a vibrant shopping scene as well as a huge amount of hotels and restaurants.
Lovina Beach
Lying on the northern coastline of Bali, Lovina Beach offers something quite different to the sands of Kuta. Lovina Beach is the place to come if you want to explore the island's best coral reefs and is the pefect spot for both snorkelling and scuba dining. This part of the island is also the most likely place where you will see wild dolpins jumping in the sea, and tends to be noticeably quieter than the more touristy resorts located some 100 km / 62 miles to the south.
Sanur Beach
Sanur Beach is a lot more laid back than busy Kuta and there is plenty of space to spread out on the sand. Sanur also has a large traditional village where tourists can get in among the locals at the many markets, small shops and cafés. Although fairly low-key, Sanur's best nightlife is enjoyed in its big hotels.
Ubud
Ubud is a strikingly beautiful region of Bali, situated in the mountains to the north of Kuta Beach and Denpasar. It is a traditional town surrounded by many ancient villages and attractions, such Penestanan and Peliatan, and is also home to the Balinese royal family. There is a thriving art scene in Ubud and an array of temples.
Surfing
Bali has some excellent surfing attractions, with conditions being suitable for beginners up to intermediate level surfers. The most popular breaks are in the south of the island in Kuta and around Nusa Dua. Kuta is good for beginners and also has the allure of the day and nightlife, while experienced surfers should head for Bukit Peninsula in the southwest. Bingin, Impossibles and Uluwatu are all big Bukit breaks.
Denpasar
The capital of Bali has most of the traffic and pollution and is thus best for a day trip as opposed to staying here. The more discerning traveller may prefer to stay in Denpasar however, owing to its many excellent museums - including the vaunted Bali Museum, and tree-lined avenues. There is also a traditional market here.
Bali Barat National Park
Encompassing parts of the north coast and the forested south, the Bali Barat National Park is loaded with animals and wildlife attractions, and is best visited at the end of the dry season, around August to December. It features the Bali starling, one of the world's rarest birds, as well as elusive leopards, Javan buffalo and barking deer. When trekking in the Bali Barat National Park, you will need to pay for a tour guide who can lead you to the best spots in the morning.
Kintamani
Kintamani is an out of the way historical city in Bali's mountainous region and was the main city here 1,000 years ago. It lies amid fantastic scenery and features the island's largest lake nearby, which sits inside a volcanic crater. In addition, there are quiet beaches as well as hot springs.
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