Bali
Bountiful Bali is known as the island of the gods, a gem located in the archipelago of Indonesia, South East Asia. Bali is becoming once again, a favorite travel and wedding destination as adventure is to be met around every corner, bargains are to be made at every counter and culture to experience at every moment.
People and Customs
31.5 million people reside on the island of Bali, from the locals to the expats from all over the globe you can tell it’s going to be busy! The unique Balinese people and their hospitality have dubbed Bali as the land of smiles. Such great politeness and courtesy follow their warm faces and most strive to achieve legendary status when it comes to servicing you. Bali see's influences from China, India and Arabs from way west. Bali’s simmering melting pot of tanatalising influences have made up an entirely new culture from centuries ago. No other culture exists like the Balinese. Hindu, Islam, Muslim and Buddhism all live harmoniously together as if one. So enthralling it is to see such diversity, from the temples to the Mosques and other sacred sculptures. Balinese people cannot exist in solitude.
Calculating currency
Bali is such a great destination because it is so inexpensive. Shopping is among one of Bali’s great attractions as everything is to be found here. Western demand for Balinese furniture is fast growing, as it is cheap to buy and import. You must make sure its treated if necessary beforehand, otherwise you’ll be up for a whopping fine, which will cost you more than the entire holiday all together…
One Aussie Dollar will get you around 7,150 Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). You wont be disappointed when its your shout for the next round of beers!
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40,000 IDR = AUD$5.60 |
Colorful climate
Tropical Bali hardly ever drops below 30 degrees. August to November is the hottest season and the driest. November to March being the wettest and coolest. Mountains and volcanoes are dotted all over this beautiful island, where waterfalls trickle and wildlife thrives. Bali’s soil is extremely fertile, hence the lush rainforests. Rice fields trickle down slopes, where ancient ways of life still exist among the influences of western tourism.
The areas of Bali
Kuta
The most famous Balinese town, where all the action is happening. Nightlife, bars, restaurants, beaches, markets, shopping and general activities a plenty. Most resorts are located in Kuta. They are dotted along the busy beach scene and further into town, ready to accommodate the tourists that flock there. Everybody can find something in Kuta. From the surfers and beach bums, families and party goers, to shoppers and bargain hunters.
Legian
Much like Kuta but some what quieter and less busy is Legian. Legian is more family orientated but still incorporates the needs for dining, shopping and nightlife without the hustle and bustle of Kuta. Great resorts from beachfront bungalows and classy resorts can be found in Legian.
Seminyak
Seminyak and its prime resorts are less busy than Kuta or Legian. Fantastic dining options and easy going nightlife can be found here. Less roads and traffic in Seminyak mean more natural scenery. Lush tropical shrubbery and clean beaches, along with some interesting wildlife as well. Seminyak is a tad more expensive than Kuta or Legian ,as the resorts have quite a high standard and host some of the most luxurious accommodation in Bali.
Nusa Dua
Bali’s up market beach resort area, Nusa Dua comprises a collection of luxurious 4 & 5 star accommodation. Hawkers are non existent and you wont find a market in site.
Ubud
Situated inland, this little town is unspoilt by the hordes of tourists who come to Bali. Perched on the gentle slopes in the central mountains, Ubud is for the culture buffs and art enthusiasts. Craft markets and silverware are just some of the great buys in Ubud and are generally authentic. Secluded romantic hotels can be found here, great for privacy and a breath of fresh air from the other cities.
Take me to Bali
Nearly every major Australian city operates direct flights to Denpasar, Bali. Garuda Indonesia is the national airline and flights from the east coast of Australia take about 6 hours give or take.
Documentation
Australian passports are required, with at least 6 months of validity remaining from your return date into Australia. A visa isn’t required unless your passport is of another origin. If so then you must contact Wedding Destinations to check the required procedures.
I got the power!
Buy an adaptor with a power point converter as the electrical prong sockets are the 2 round hole parallel type. You won’t need a voltage converter as they run on the same voltage as us. These can be found at little shops around your airport, or just purchase one in Bali upon arrival.
Spirits and tobacco – Duty free
You can take 1 Litre of alcohol or 100 cigarettes or 100 grams of tobacco from Australia into Bali. Although you needn’t bother as it would be cheaper just buying it over there! You are allowed to bring back 2.25 Litres of alcohol and 250 grams of tobacco with you, providing you’re over 18 of course!
Why we love Bali!
Bali is not only historically rich, hospitable and culturally diverse. It is essentially a must do in ones lifetime. So accessible and cheap, there isn’t any reason why you shouldn’t go! From the hustle and bustle of Kuta, to the untouched and unexplored inland regions. Awaiting for you here is pure enjoyment. Eat yourself silly with the beautiful cuisine on offer and watch the Balinese dancers express themselves through graceful body movements. Relax on Bali’s beautiful beaches, whilst immersing yourself in thought about how much you will never want to leave!
Honeymoons in Bali
As Indonesia is an archipelago, there are many islands around Bali that you can take a honeymoon on.
Lombok and Nusa Lembongan are great little islands just a short flight away from the mainland. They host idyllic beaches and fine resorts on both islands. Great for secluding yourself from the main action and really venturing further out. It’s not until you travel further inland in Bali that you will truly see the beauty of this amazing place. The green forest, trickling streams and attractive wildlife of Ubud will have you wondering why you stayed on the coast for so long.