All About Bali

For more than a hundred years, golf has been played in Indonesia. As a result, international standard courses have sprung up in several parts of the country, and Bali , too, has its share of courses that are spectacular or are just for pure enjoyment of the game. Indeed, golf is a very popular sport with both tourists and locals. The avid golfer, depending on his or her handicap, can head to any of the courses mentioned in this article.

Bali Golf and Country Club

Voted “one of Asia ‘s 5 best golf courses” by an expert panel in Fortune Magazine USA, Bali Golf and Country Club, ensconced in the deluxe resort of Nusa Dua, offers enthusiasts a unique golfing experience with world class breathtaking sights.

Designed by renowned golf course architects Rodney Wright and Robin Nelson of Hawaii , the 18-hole par 72 course hosted the 1994 Alfred Dunhill Master tournament which featured several of the world’s top golfers including Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomery, and Vijay Singh.

The course has multiple tees, allowing for play by novice and professionals. Each hole is unique and the course has three definite settings for play. From hole 1-9, play extends up a hill through thick vegetation, giving players the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic scenes of the Indian Ocean.and Nusa Dua. They can also see the majestic Mount Agung on a clear day. The first half of the course has several water spots, creeks, and waterfalls; and small, hand-built stone wall line the sides of the tees and fairways, resembling the rice field terraces of Bali .

Hole 10-16 are played through a coconut grove with some of the palms as high as 100 feet. Holes 17-18 are played along the beachside and back toward a 16-acres lake.

At the end of the round, golfers can indulge in a relaxing and exhilarating massage or spa treatment at The Spa at Bali Golf & Country Club. Trained caddies, golf carts, ad all necessary equipment are available for hire at the pro-shop. The well appointed club house has a swimming pool, two bars, and an open air restaurant.

A recent addition to Bali Golf & Country Club has been the Wantilan Golf Villas. Set within the golf course, these three and four bedrooms self contained villas can be rented on a short-term basis. Guests will receive personalized service, attractive golf fees, and priority tee times.

Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club

Located at 1142 meters above the sea level in Bedugul, Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club boasts of an 18-holes par 72 championship golf course that is listed among the world’s fifty greatest.

Designed by international golfer and course architect Peter Thompson, Michael Wolferidge, and associates, the course is surrounded by mountains with panoramic view of Lake Buyan and is popular for its difficulty. The scenery and the low average of temperature of 16-20C present a refreshing change from the heat of southern Bali .

Accommodation at the club consists of Balinese bungalows or hotel and suite rooms which are heated. Facilities at the club include tennis courts, fitness centre and massage, Japanese bath, and sauna. Golf carts, equipment, and services of caddies are available at the pro-shop. F&B outlets include three restaurants and a karaoke bar, and there is also a fully-equipped convention and banquet hall for up to 100 people.

Grand Bali Beach Golf Courses

Open to both hotel guests and visitors, Grand Bali Beach Hotel has a challenging 9-holes golf course with many tees. The club house has a restaurant and a bar. Equipment and the service of caddies are available. Grand Bali Beach hotel guests receive a 50% discount on green fees. Those not ready for the course can practice at a driving range in nearby Renon.

LE MERIDIEN – Nirwana Bali Golf Club

Nirwana Bali Golf Club, situated near the Tanah Lot Temple , has breath-taking views over the Indian Ocean .

The resort consists of a golf course, a five-star hotel managed by Le Meridien, a racquet sport center, 672 luxury villas, timeshare suites, resort homes, and townhouses. The par 17, 18-hole course was designed by Greg Norman who incorporated rice terraces and creeks into it, resulting in one of the most visually spectacular courses in Asia . Three holes are played on cliffs overlooking the Indian Ocean and the twelfth hole, which overlooks Tanah Lot temple, is one of the most photographed in the world.

Golf cars are compulsory and playing assistants must accompany all golfers. A Balinese open-style clubhouse serves refreshments and food, and a pro-shop has equipment for rent. Guests at Le Meridien receive discounted rate for golf.

Bali golf villas.

In Indonesia, divers can observe a greater concentration of different tropical marine species than anywhere else in the world. That’s not all; new species are also being discovered frequently. Such diversity is due to the Indonesian archipelago being strategically sited in the exact centre of the oceanic area encompassing the Indian and Pacific oceans. Called Indo-Pacific rim, this area is home to the same species of fish as those found in Hawaii and the Red Sea . While it would be rare to find species from the Red Sea in Hawaiian waters and vice versa, in Indonesia all types of species are flourishing together. This abundance of fish is one factor attracting divers from all over the world.

With pleasant temperatures averaging 27C all year round and good visibility in most of its waters, Bali has some impressive dive sites. The best tome of year for diving is in the dry season from April to October; the wet season from November to March can be quite torrential.

A lot of the diving and snorkeling areas are very close to the shore with lots of colorful hard and soft corals and an amazing range of tropical fish. For the moment the reefs are mostly unspoiled and a wide variety of marine life such as dolphin, rays, turtles, sperm, and blue whales, sea snakes, and moray eels can be found here.

The main diving and snorkeling areas in the east coast of Bali are at Padang Bai and Candidasa, and further north of Candidasa, at Tulamben and Amed. From Singaraja in the north, the coastal road leads west to Lovina and its beautiful beach. Further on is Pemuteran and in the western tip of Bali is Labuan Lalang, the kick-off point to Menjangan Island , an uninhabited island with excellent dive sites. Nearly 7000 hectares of coral reef and coastal waters are protected as part of the Bali Barat National Park including Menjangan Island .

In southern Bali , there’s a reef in Sanur and the islands of Nusa Lembongan, Nusa Penida, Gili Air, Gili Trawangan, and Gili Meno (the latter three are off Lombok ) are all popular diving destinations.

Bali has abundant dive operators – many based in the south – who will transport you to the main dive areas or you can also stay at the locations to save on traveling time. You can get certification if required. The certifications available are PADI, SSI, CMAS, and the local POSSI certification. Dive operators will generally have multilingual instructors.

Barakuda Diving Service, Tauch Terminal, Kesuma Sari Beach Club, Bali Pesona Bahari, Laguna Wisata Bahari, and Pro Dive are a few of many dive operators around.

Most diving company offer service conducts courses and excursions in open water dive, wall dive, drift dive, shipwreck dive, and safari dive. All programs include hotel pick-up.

Sanur & Nusa Dua

Often used as a location to tech diving because of its close proximity to the tourist areas, Sanur has some interesting coral formations, sponges, and abundant colorful fish on the reef.

Candidasa

Batu Tiga – meaning three rocks, this spot is accessed by boat from Candidasa or Padang Bai. With and average depth of 20m, the site is excellent for diving or snorkeling. The reef is steep and sloping with many corals. Some of the fish seen here include red snapper, clown tiger fish, blue spotted stingrays, trevally, morays, and white-tip reef sharks.

Pulau Tepekong – on the east and north sides of the island this is a wall dive with many caves. There are large bommies and many fish such as different tiger fish, angelfish, snappers, butterfly fish, parrot fish, Moorish idols, and emperor.

Amed

Amed has excellent snorkeling just off the black sand beach and further out in the bay is a coral wall with abundant sponges and hard and soft corals. Fish varieties include black snapper, tiger fish, surgeon fish, unicorn fish, parrot fish, damsel fish, cardinal fish, white-tip red sharks, and many larger varieties such as dog tooth tuna and blue finned trevally.

Tulamben

One of Bali ‘s most popular diving site is the wreck of the USS Liberty warship. It was torpedoed by the Japanese during World War II in Lombok Strait . She was beached on Tulamben when rescue attempts failed. After eruption of Mt. Agung in 1963, she broke in half and was left in her present position close to the shore of Tulamben . The hull is encrusted with coral and the fish have become quite tame because of the large number of divers here.

Lovina

A popular beach resort area, Lovina refers to a collection of small villages on the coast. In the past, coral in the bay was used to make lime.

Fortunately the coral is now protected and some diving and snorkeling is possible; the water is very clear. Lovina also is a good place to stay if you want to go to Menjangan.

Pemuteran

This area has plenty of coral such as elkhorn and staghorn, a host of tropical reef fish and a profusion of Moorish idol. There is also a turtle sanctuary located at Pemuteran which regularly releases turtle into the sea. Good snorkeling available right off the beach. Matahari Beach Resort has its own PADI dive school and offers direct access to Menjangan Island and the reefs just off the mainland.

Menjangan (deer) Island

There are a few dive sites to choose from at Menjangan with good conditions and excellent visibility. The snorkeling is excellent too.

Menjangan also has a wreck, known as the “angker” because of its heavily encrusted anchor at the top of the reef. Fixed moorings have been built to prevent damage, and the island is reached by a 30 minutes boat ride from Labuan Lalang.

Nusa Penida

About one and a half hours from Bali by motor boat, Nusa Penida offers some truly spectacular and unspoiled diving and snorkeling. As there is not much development here the reefs are very pristine. An abundance of hard and soft corals provide a home for huge numbers of tropical fishes such as angel fish and clown fish. Moray eels live in the crevices and white-tip reef sharks search for food at night and sleep by day under table corals.

Nusa Lembongan

The smaller island of Nusa Lembongan is a popular destination for day trippers. At the northern end of the island, Mangrove Point, Crystal Bay, and the Blue Corner Trip are all good diving sites. Some of the areas are for experienced divers only and look for Manta Point to the east where schools of mantas come to the cleaning stations and to mate.

Bali has given a magical gift to the global diving community. That gift is surf! Like a magnet, Bali ‘s surf has attracted the world’s best surfers to ride and discover Indonesia ‘s best-kept secret.

Robert Koke, an American who ran a small hotel somewhere near the present Hard Rock Hotel at Kuta in the 1930′s was the first person to surf in Bali . In the late 1960′s Australian surfers started arriving to surf the Kuta are before discovering the world class waves of the Bukit Peninsula .

Surf movie producer Albie Falzon documented the discovery of Uluwatu in his 1972 movie, “Morning of te Earth”. Other movies and other surfers followed and, by the mid of 1970′s a surf trip to Bali was an annual event for many Australian surfers.

Today Bali is the front door for hardcore surfers setting to explore the many excellent quality waves throughout the rest of Indonesia . Before they head off to discover the surf of Java, Sumbawa , Lombok , or Mentawai Islands , they should never overlook the quality and perfection of Bali ‘s surf.

In Bali , the experienced surfer should start on the Bukut Peninsula . During the dry season, May to October, the western side of the peninsula creates some of the worlsd’s best waves. Starting at the southern end is Uluwatu, a peeling lefthander which can hold a heavy swell. Ulu’s as it is affectionately known, has a number of sections: Temples , The Peak, Race Track, and Outside Corner. The next wave north, Padang Padang, is one of the best and heaviest lefthanders in the world and needs a solid swell to start working. Padang Padang is for experienced surfers only!

Just across the channel from Padang Padang is a series of long winding lefthanders appropriately called Impossibles, which can either be your best friend or your worst enemy. The next break is Bingin, another lefthander, which provides some of the most intense small wave tubes you may ever experience – watch out for the end section as it gets very shallow.

Next is a rare wave on this side if the Bukit, Dreamland, a right and left peak. Around the corner from Dreamland is Balangan, a fun lefthander, which is used to peek along a beautiful lagoon in a beautiful tropical setting – sadly the area is no longer as beautiful as it is now a large hotel development.

The southern shore of the Bukit has two waves. Nyang Nyang, a bowly righthander and Green Ball a longer right are both located at the bottom of large cliffs and require a lot of effort to be reached. During the wet season, November to April, the eastern coast of the Bukit turns it on with some outstanding (righthanders). Nusa Dua is a big wave break known to hold well over 5 meters waves. There are three main sections: Top, Middle, and End all producing long bowling rights. North of Nusa Dua is Sri Lanka , a bowly right, which breaks into a deep water channel. Across the Benoa Boat Harbour is the resort area of Sanur, this area has four main reef breaks. Hyatt Reef, Tanjung Rights, Tanjung Lefts, and Sanur Reef. Of these four waves the best and most popular is SAnur Reef, a world class righthander.

Back on the west side of the island, around the airport and Kuta areas are a series of reef and beach breaks. Waves break off either side of the airport runway: Airport Rights break on the southern side into Jimbaran Bay , Airport Lefts breaks on the Kuta side. Both are excellent waves and worth as surf. North of the runway is Kuta Reef a long lefthander and the first reef surfed in Bali .

The Kuta beach breaks tend to have their own character and can get very good; the best sports are Halfway, Padma, and Double Six. This is the area of beach and surf where tourists, inexperienced with surfing and the ocean, have their first contact with the surf. Be warned, as this area can be dangerous when the swells get big. Swim between the red and yellow flags and follow the instructions from the lifeguards. Experienced surfers should also exercise care and show respect to the local Balinese surfers.

Good surf is not restricted to Bukit and Kuta areas. Following the coastline around the west and eastern sides of the island can be worthwhile, there are still secret sports to be found. Along the west coast heck out Canggu, about half an hour drive north of Kuta, a good left and right rock reef setup. Further north Balian River Mouth is a fun left and right break, and Medewi, a long winding left-hand point wave.

Access to all the breaks via car is easy, even Uluwatu now has its own car park right above the break. When surfing Nusa Dua and Kuta reef areas, you can still hire one of the local boats to take you out to the reef and return you at an appointed time.

There are two areas accessible from Bali worth surfing during the dry season. The first is Nusa Lembongan Island just east of Bali , here you can surf Laceration and Shipwrecks, two fast bowling (righthanders) as well as the less demanding Playgrounds a left and right.

The second area may well be the best wave in the world; G-Land or Grajagan, located on the southern tip of East Java . This spiraling, dazzling lefthander has three main sections: Kongs, Money Trees, and the crown jewel of the trilogy, Speedies. Since 1995 G-Land has hosted the annual Quicksilver Pro, the richest and most highly respected surf contest in the world. The 1997 Quicksilver Pro will long be remembered as one of the greatest contests ever when Speedies turned on it all its glory for the entire contest.

You can get to Nusa Lembongan by taking a boat from either Sanur or Benoa Harbour and find accommodation when you arrive. G-Land is a bit more difficult and you must book, as the two camps are located inside a national park. There are two camps to choose from, the Tiger Camp and Jungle Camp. Ask at most surf shops in Kuta and they will tell you how to contact the camps.

Now that you know where to surf, how do you know what it will be like? Firstly you need to know the tides; Tubes Bar and most surf shops can provide you with a tide chart for free, knowing the tides is important when surfing the coral reefs. Accurate five days swell forecasts can be picked up from outside the Quicksilver Boardriders Club at Bemo Corner, Kuta and other surf shops. Working out the right mixture of conditions is up to you.

Good luck!

The Kuta area has the highest concentration of surf shops anywhere in the world. The newer, larger shops compare more than favorably with the best surf shops in the USA , Europe , Japan , or Australia . All the major surf brands are represented; Quicksilver, Billabong, Rip Curl, Spyderbilt, Volcom, Strussy, Rusty, and many more. If purchased from surf shops they are all genuine products but be careful in warungs where they are usually copies, which put nothing back into the Balinese surfing. The genuine product is still a bargain compared to the Japanese, USA , or Australian prices so enjoy your shopping for a new pair of board shorts or a tee shirt.

To get the best surfing equipment and other needs at reasonable prices, go to Dreamland Surf Shop in Kuta Square .

Surfer Girl, as its name implies, caters to the needs of women and girls. It is sited at Jl. Legian, and offers excellent buys at very competitive prices.

If you want to party while in Kuta there are several great bar-cum-restaurants that cater to surfers. Check out Tubes Bar in Poppies II and All Stars Surf Café at Kuta Centre in Jalan Kartika Plaza ,

The Bali Surfing Association runs local contests as well as the Bali International Grommet Contest and the Billabong Asia Challenge. The local highlight is the annual Bali Open, which crowns the Island Champion each December. Balinese surfing legends such as Made Kasim, Wayan Suwenda, Ketut Menda, Wayan Ganti, and Made Switra still surf regularly. The new generation of surfers spreadheaded by Bali ‘s unofficial International Ambassador, Rizal Tandjung and ably supported by Ismael Dooley and Made Adi Putra all have international potential. Tandjung cemented his surfing reputation a the 1996 and 1997 Quicksilver Pro when he scored perfect 10 point waves in each event against the best surfers in the world.

Sadly, for the novice of wishing to learn to surf, there is still no official surf school in Kuta area. The best advice is to be careful if you are renting a board on the beach or taking surf lessons from guys you just met at the beach. Surfboards are not toys and they can hurt you and other people when not used correctly.

The final word on information regarding Bali and Indonesian surfing belongs to two excellent publications that can be purchased from most local surf shops. Check out “Indo Surf and Ling” by Peter Neely and “Surfing Indonesia” by Leonard and Lorca Lueras. Happy surfing and enjoy your holiday in Bali.

Nusa Dua’s hotels are geared to tourist groups, beach fanatics and international conferences. Each hotel has its own combination of first-class business and resort facilities. Located in a large, landscaped park, the complex also comprises an international convention center, a championship 18-hole golf course, a luxury shopping center, a medical clinic, and an amphitheater for music and dance. More facilities are located in the village of Bualu , just outside the resort. A strip of hotels, restaurants and watersports operators is located along the narrow cape north of Nusa Dua, Tanjung Benoa. And a new area is being developed at Pecatu or South Nusa Dua, south of Nusa Dua proper, anchored by the Nikko Hotel.

Bali Tourist Information

Bali Tourism Development Corporation (BTDC) at the center of Nusa Dua complex, Phone 771010.

How to get to Nusa Dua

The airport taxi co-op counter is outside customs ‘ near “left luggage”. The average fare is Rp 35,000 to Nusa Dua, Rp 40,000 to Tanjung Benoa and Rp 45,000 to Pecatu/South Nusa Dua.Most hotels have a taxi counter run by a private company or co-operative. Prices are significantly higher (30%) than other resorts, with the drive to the airport costing $10 or more. Open-topped buses with tropical motifs travel throughout the complex and to Benoa village. The fare is Rp 1,000. There are car rental companies at each of the three gates of the Nusa Dua complex, near the Tragia Supermarket and at several hotels. There’s also a bemo terminal. The fare is between Rp 1000 and Rp 2,000 to Denpasar, and Rp 2,000 to Tanjung Benoa.

Eating in Nusa Dua

The Nusa Dua complex has many international restaurants (with international prices) in the five star hotels. A 7-course French meal at the chic Semeru Rotisserie in the Putri Bali costs $55/person. All hotels hold theme buffet dinners featuring Balinese dance for $30-$40/person. The Galeria area offers Spanish, Indonesian, Balinese, Italian, Korean, Thai, Swiss-German, Chinese, Japanese, and Western cuisines. Try Warung Bali to taste some local flavor, Sendok Restaurant for a variety of international dishes and Escargot for French cuisine. For fresh spicy seafood, try the Jala-Jala restaurant in the new Nikko Bali hotel. For excellent Japanese food including sushi and teppanyaki, the Matsuri Japanese Restaurant, next to the Galleria Shopping Complex, is a must.

For cheaper food and more natural surroundings, head for the village of Bualu just outside the resort. Outside the main gate to the right is the big Lotus Garden (free transportation in Nusa Dua area) restaurant which serves fesh, homemade pasta, grilled seafood and steaks. If you like spicy West Sumatran food, try Mega Meriah Padang on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai. The best price-quality deal, though, is the Ulam Restaurant, just outside the gate facing the Hilton. The specialty is the seafood basket for $8 per person. It’s a favorite haunt of ministers and celebrities. Kuta’s popular Poco Loco Mexican food has opened a branch at JI. Pantai Mengiat. Also on JI. Pantai Mengiat is Nyoman Beer Garden with its extensive international menu, featuring great pasta and fresh seafood.

Finally, if you decide to go native and eat for a dollar, there’s a sate stall near the main entrance, or try the bakso Solo (meatball soup) at the night market in front of the local movie theater.

Bali – Tanjung Benoa

Tanjung Benoa is the natural northern continuation of Nusa Dua, with the white sand beach stretching the length of the coast. It is a booming resort, popular with water sports enthusiasts.

The Tanjung Benoa area has an increasing number of good restaurants. Near the peninsula tip, the sumptuous Beluga Watersport Complex is a hull shaped restaurant renowned for its rijsttafel, only $10/person. The beach side Rai restaurant features lobster and fresh fish grilled to perfection. For good European fare and pizza, dine at Novotel Benoa. At the southern end, across from Club Mad (and a favorite of its staff), is the Casanova Italian restaurant. For Indonesian food, Bambu Indah has a good reputation among locals. More upscale but excellent quality is Pasar Senggol, nightly at Grand Hyatt Bali. For $37, all you can eat of a variety of Indonesian fare from vendor carts and stalls, plus an excellent dance performance. Tanjung Benoa Café Jl. Padma #216. Enjoy Indonesian, Chinese and European cuisine and the romantic atmosphere.

Tanjung Benoa Activities

Facilities are available at reasonable rates in over 10 locations. The following is a rough price guide. Canoes: $6/hour. Deep-sea fishing: $50-$75. Scuba Diving: $34-$85 for certified divers, $55 (boat dive). Snorkeling around Nusa Dua: $10. Day trips to Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan: cost $60/boat. Banana boats, water scooters, water skiing, jet skis, wave runners, windsurfers, and parasailing are also available.

Tanjung Benoa Shopping

Although the Nusa Dua / Tanjung Benoa area does not compare to Kuta or Denpasar for choice, you can find a wide range of products in a much smaller area. Prices are fair.

Set inside the Nusa Dua resort, the Galeria Shopping Complex has textiles and handicrafts, including leather, batik, woodcarving, and paintings. Galeria has expanded and improved with greenery and lively kiosks selling crafts and fast foods. A new games center entertains youngsters and the island’s largest music outlet is here. Keris Gallery is an up-market department store. There’s also a Duty Free Shop, a Tragia supermarket, a huge branded jeans warehouse and numerous international restaurants.

Another shopping area is near the main Tragia supermarket on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai. There are a number of leather shops where you can bargain for custom-made leather jackets for as little as $120. Most of the other stuff on sale is the same as that found in all the main tourist areas, minus the chic of some of the Legian and Sanur shops. The Tragia supermarket itself is a good place to buy souvenirs for a fixed, higher price, but minus the hassles. For an excellent and wide selection of local wood furniture, visit Tuahta Furniture, JI. Pratama 100X, Tanjung Benoa. They will also help with shipping if something large catches your eye.

Tanjung Benoa Night Life

Nusa Dua is a resort for short stays, conventioneers and families who generally don’t go out. If they do, it’s either to Jimbaran or Kuta. There are a few nightspots in the resort, however: Bali Hilton’s Octopus Fun Pub with live music from 7 pm-10 pm and karaoke until 2 am; live bands and big screen video at Grand Hyatt’s Lila Cita, 6 pm-2 am; or Quinn’s Pub at the Sheraton Laguna with music from 9 pm; for an elegant night out, Club Tabuh at Nusa Dua Beach Hotel has a nightly band alternately featuring jazz, Caribbean and Top 40 music from 9 pm-1 am. In Tanjung Benoa, try Grand Mirage Resort’s Cool Bar with karaoke and dancing 9 pm – midnight , or Hemingway’s Piano Bar for after-dinner drinks and piano with vocals, 6 pm -midnight.Nusa Dua’s Amphitheater frequently sponsors cultural performances from across the archipelago and often has international performing artists appearing.

Banks and money changers: Both are available at Galleria or outside the main gate to Nusa Dua.

Medical Service: The BTDC Clinic, across from Nusa Dua Galleria, and the Nusa Dua Clinic, across from Bali Royal in Tanjung Benoa are both open 24-hours.

Telecommunications: Wartels are located at the BPLP/STP Hotel & Tourism Institute in Nusa Dua, Phone 7771165 and behind the Police in Tanjung Benoa, Phone 773648. Both open 8 am-11 pm .

Postal Service: Most hotels will post letters for guests. The Nusa Dua post office is outside the resort’s main gate. Hours: Mon-Sat 8 am-8 pm, Sun 8 am-noon, holidays 8 am-2 pm.

Located on the isthmus south of Ngurah Rai airport and a continuation of the white sands of Kuta Beach , Jimbaran bay is one of Bali ‘s most recently developed resort area. Tranquil compared to Kuta, it retains much of its fishing village charm. With its shallow water and lack of sharp corals, Jimbaran is ideal for families. The area also remains free from aggressive vendors.

Newly discovered quiet beaches are cascading down to the South up to Uluwatu at the South tip where the sacred cliff-top temple is located. Balangan, Dreamland, and Pecatu to name some which mostly the paradise for seasoned surfers.

A newly developed cultural centre named Garuda Whisnu Kencana is also located in the area. Some construction is underway, some parts have even opened for public. The centre-point will be a giant statue which will be overlooking the ocean, just like the American Liberty statue.

Taxis can be booked at the airport taxi counter, Rp 25,000 to Jimbaran and Rp 45,000 to the Bali Cliff Resort. The blue bemo from Denpasar’s Tegal station costs Rp 2,000. Bemos to and from Kuta are Rp 1,500 and require a walk from the end of the airport road. To Sanur, via Tegal and Kereneng stations, Rp 2,000 to the Central terminal in Nusa Dua, Rp 2,000.

An ojek motorcycle taxi can be taken from Jimbaran market. Bargain first based on the distance you want to cover. You must wear a helmet.

Eating in Jimbaran

Cafe Latino on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai, is well known to Kuta regulars. Open from 7 pm. Italian seafood restaurant.

PJ’s at Four Seasons Resort has the best pizza on Bali . Open 11 am-10 pm .

La Indonesia , JI. Uluwatu 108, offers garden dining and dishes from around the archipelago.

Next door is Depot Windy, serving Chinese food.

Down the street, Puri Lombok Bar and Restaurant, JI. Uluwatu 8A, offers Chinese, seafood, Indonesian, European and pasta.

M’Mam, JI. Uluwatu 39B, has Indonesian, Chinese, barbecue, grilled fish and steak.

If you wish to “go native,” try the stalls near Jimbaran Market, Sari Bundo, or Gong Minang, JI. Uluwatu, good Padang restaurants with spicy Sumatran food for around $3 a dish.

On JI. Bukit Permai, the road to Four Seasons, you will find Kakul Kafe serving Indonesian and Western fare beachside.

Nearby and stretching right along Jimbaran beach is a succession of simple beachside seafood restaurants. Coming alive after sunset, the restaurants grill the choicest prawns, squid, snapper, and lobster over coconut husk fires. The setting is unbeatable with the tables right on the water’s edge. Choose your fish from the ice boxes, pick a table and enjoy. This is definitely a must-do while in Bali.

Shopping in Jimbaran

There is a range of small shops and the village market has plenty of color. Apotik Darma, near the market, has pharmacy essentials, as does Swastika Drugstore on JI. Uluwatu.

Jatis Art Shop has paintings and the Art Shop next to Avis has a variety of souvenirs. Both are on JI. Uluwatu.

YG Collection tailors export quality leather clothing in 24 hours, JI. Uluwatu 39A.

Anniso Tailor is south of the intersection of JI. Uluwatu and JI. Tukad Badung. Also on JI. Tukad Badung is Dewi Kini House of Beauty and Traditional Treatments. Also try Sol reflexology on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai.

Medical and When youre Sick

Jimbaran Clinic 24-hour service, JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai 95XX, Jimbaran (Phone 701467).

Activities in Jimbaran

If you are a hiker, there’s a path running along most of the cliff, passable during the dry season: don’t miss the caves of the Balangan area.
For water sports, contact your hotel or a company such as Baruna, JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai 300B. Hire fishing boats in the harbor for $12 an hour.
The Bukit area south of Jimbaran is sacred to the world’s surfers. For tips on the best spots, contact the surf shops in Kuta orjust inquire on the beach.

Other info : Bank. Bank Rakyat Indonesia , JI. Uluwatu.

Central Telecommunications Office: JI. Uluwatu, north of the market.

Laundry Service: Toko Umum, north of the market.

Post Office: Bukit Jimbaran Post Office, JI. Uluwatu 35. Open Mon-Thurs at 8 am-2 pm , until noon on Fri, till 1 pm on Sat, closed on Sun.

Money Changer & communication: Dewata. JI. Uluwatu 9A.

It has been the stamping ground of Bali ‘s earliest dynasties in recorded history. It is here that the first great lines of Hindu Zed Kings established themselves. Pejeng was the center of power until the early 14th century, when the last line of Warmadewa was defeated by Majapahit Empire, Under Gajah Mada , in 1343. The two rivers, Petanu and Pakerisan, have been storing series of ancient historical remains along the banks, such as temples, meditation cells, baths and other monuments.

PURI LUKISAN / GALLERY
The Museum Lukisan Ratna Warta, usually called the Puri Lukisan (the palace of paintings), was opened in 1953. Set amongst a restful sculpture garden, this museum contains a magnificent collection of modern Balinese paintings and sculptures, chosen under the discerning eye of the Dutch artist, Rudolf Bonnet (1895 – 1978), over the years since he first arrived in Bali .

CELUK
Balinese jewellery is unique, and Celuk is the home of much of it. Nearly every family in Celuk is involved in some aspects of the delicate gold and silver work, which has become very famous over the years.

MAS VILLAGE
Mas is a village specializing in woodcarvings of any kind. Most of the prominent wood carvers of Bali dwell in the village, producing elaborate and fine woodcarving and this is where they teach the young generation to carve by imitating the master carvers.

BATUBULAN
Just outside of Denpasar on the road to Ubud, is a small village where stone statues line the roadside in an impressive array. Terrible fanged demons, noble warriors, and animals of all shapes and size and at all stages of completion rest under the shady trees.

UBUD
Famous for its painter’s community, Ubud is special in more ways than one. It has its own magic, and its particularly beautiful surroundings and gracious way of life have drawn celebrities and artists from all over the world in recent decades; some have even adopted Ubud as their own home. The magic is easy to find – just take a walk south of the village through its terraced paddy fields to the monkey forest. Fresh water spouts out of the sheer rock at the base of the ravine, and a bath in a secluded shady spot is purifying.

GOA GAJAH
Literally means Elephant cave, and it is a “T” shapped cave. This was an ancient monastery of Hindu and Buddhist monks who used to meditate in the cave. It is believed that the cave was built in the early 11th century. Its face is elaborately carved, depicting a demon head splitting open the rock with its bare hand at the mouth of the cave.

BALI BIRD PARK
The Taman Burung Bird Park Situated in Batubulan, is home to more than thousand birds (250 exotic bird species) from Indonesia and all over the world. It is set in Two hectares magnificent gardens filled with tropical plants, water features and spectacular rain forest in aviary. Also see the famous komodo dragon. Has restaurant for visitors to interact with nature by having breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea with birds.

TAMPAK SIRING
A holy spring which bubbles up in the inner courtyard of the Tirta Empul Temple in Tampaksiring is believed to have magic curative powers, and throngs of people visit the special bathing pools where clear cool water spouts from mossy walls. Legend has it that the God Indra created the spring, piercing the ground in search of holy water.

GUNUNG KAWI
These 11th century tombs , carved out of the rock face of the gorge of the Pakrisan river, are approached by a steep descent through breath- taking rice terrain scenery . Historically, the tombs probably have some connection with King Anak Wungsu. Across the gorge are some more impressive tombs that were the resident meditation caves of the only men who were the keepers of the tomb.

While it’s possible to visit Ubud in just a day, such a short trip would barely touch the surface of this extraordinary village. An interesting mélange of rural Balinese life and modern services co-exist here. Only 60 minutes from Ngurah Rai airport, Ubud is close to many of central Bali ‘s major sights. Despite the fact that visitors may outnumber residents during peak periods, Ubud retains the atmosphere of a small country community and, in contrast to the hassle of Kuta, the pace of life is very relaxed. It’s a great place to tour on foot or by bicycle and there’s a wide range of facilities for tourists of all budgets, as well as beaches 10 km away. For those who enjoy being close to natural beauty, yet within easy reach of creature comforts, Ubud is ideal.

UBUD

The main crossroads in front of the Puri Saren palace is the “navel” of Ubud-its cultural and historical focal point. The main street is lined with restaurants, hotels, shops and galleries, stretching all the way from the T-junction at the eastern end of Ubud to the Campuhan Bridge in the west. Small lanes lined with home stays, warungs and Balinese compounds extend north and south from the main road.

Jl. Monkey Forest , branching south from the middle of Ubud is lined with hotels, restaurants, artists’ studios, and boutiques for a distance of some 2 km. A parallel road just to the east through Padang tegal is similar, though less congested. Away from these main streets, Ubud is still relatively quiet.

Roads radiate west out of the main town to Campuhan and Payangan, south to Pengosekan and east to Goa Gajah. Local bernos can be flagged down in the daytime on the main road. Ubud to Campuhan, for example, costs Rp1000.

Ubud Tourist Information

For information on performances, transport schedules, temple festivals, and special activities, inquire at the Ubud Tourist Information Center , across from the Pura Desa (village temple).

How to get to Ubud

Ubud is 60 minutes by car from the airport and southern beach resort areas and 40 minutes from Sanur. Taxis from the airport cost Rp. 90,000 (AC). Look for the booth at the airport: turn right after you leave customs. Alternatively, charter (and bargain for) a bemo outside the airport for about Rp 75,000.

From Denpasar, take a bemo from Kereneng Terminal to Batubulan Terminal. Then transfer to Ubud (Rp. 1,000). Chartering a bemo from Denpasar costs about $9. Alternatively, hop on one of the many shuttle buses which depart Kuta for Ubud at 8.30, 10 and 11.30 am, 1, 2.30 and 4pm ($4). Contact Perama Tour, JI. Legian, Kuta.

Although it’s easy to get around Ubud on foot, you may choose to rent a mountain bike to save time and effort. Mountain bikes can be rented everywhere for $2/day. Motorbikes (100cc) cost $5.50/day. A Suzuki jeep costs $20 to $30 daily; cheaper by the week or month. Look for signs along all main roads.

Buy shuttle bus tickets to Kuta (Rp. 10,000) and Candidasa (Rp. 15,000) from the many travel agencies in town. For a full schedule, contact Peramaswara Tour & Travel, Jl. Hanoman. Shuttles to Sanur, Kuta and the airport depart at 8.30, 10 and 11.30 am, 12:30 , 3.30, 5.30, 6.30, and 7.30 pm. Direct Kuta shuttles depart Ubud the same hours. The shuttle to Lombok via Kuta leaves at 6 am .

KINTAMANI

Kintamani is great for day trips, trekking or simply for getting away from it all for a few days. At Penelokan you can view the panorama of Mount Batur set in a huge volcanic crater basin. Stop here on the way to Singaraja to climb to peaceful Pura Tegeh Kuripan. Try to arrive at Kintamani in the morning, as it’s often overcast in the afternoon, especially during the rainy season.

There are two possible options for staying near Lake Batur : up on the ridge or down inside the crater. The villages within the crater tend to have a rather unpleasant atmosphere with a lot of people hassling you. The views, however, are stunning. The main reason to spend the night in the crater is to climb Mt. Batur at dawn.

There are several attractions from Penelokan, starting with the view from the crater rim toward Lake Batur . Rim temples include Pura Ulun Danu Batur and Pura Tegeh Kuripan, both on the main road. A visit to the crater might include a boat trip to the traditional village of Trunyan , the lava fields, the hot spring at Toya Bungkah, or climbing Mt. Batur .

The best way to visit the crater is with your own transportation or chartered minibus. Walking is possible, but distances are long and the descent into the crater is very steep. You might want to finish your visit with a dip in the lake.

Penelokan and the crater villages are rather “un-Balinese” with vendors hassling you and people approaching you in the street to book accommodations.

There’s a local authority charge of Rp550 per person for any car with tourists crossing into the region, plus Rp250 for the car. A similar fee is charged in Toya Bungkah.

Kintamani is the end-point of several tour itineraries heading up from the lower rice plain in the south. Most buses come up the good, scenic road via Tampaksiring, with stops on the way at Goa Gajah, Gunung Kawi and Tirta Empul, then going back down through Bangli and Pura Kehen. But there are other interesting routes. One leads from Peliatan in the Ubud area through the wood-carvers’ villages of Tegallalang, Pujung and Sebatu. The views along the way are superb. Other roads from Ubud to

Kintamani run through Payangan or from Denpasar through the Sangeh monkey forest, Plaga and Lampu, arriving to the north of Kintamani.

Bemos to Kintamani are available from Ubud via Sakah (notable for its huge “Baby” statue). They also run via Tampaksiring and Bangli.

From Denpasar bemos leave for Kintamani from the Batubulan terminal until late afternoon. The normal fare from Batubulan is Rp2,000 and from Singaraja Rp4,000. Rent a motorbike or car if you want to explore the great back roads in the Kintamani area.

Shuttle buses which run between Ubud and Singaraja stop in Penelokan. From Ubud $4.50-$7, from Singaraja $9-$11.

Alternatively, you can also join a day tour and ride up in air conditioned comfort, lunch included. On such tours, however, you will only see the view of Penelokan and then return, missing the caldera and the lake down the Kedisan road.

Charter bemos from Penelokan to Kedisan cost Rp5,000; Kedisan to Toya Bungkah Rp. 1,000 by bemo or Rp.20,000-Rp.25,000 for charter bemo, depending on your bargaining skills.

To Trunyan from Kedisan

Down inside the caldera you can cross to the lake village of Trunyan either from Kedisan or from Toya Bungkah. Be warned that the people here can be quite aggressive and the government has long advised tour operators not to send tourists to Trunyan.

In Toya Bungkah, the normal “tourist” price is $16 (including insurance) for the round trip for a ful I boat of seven. Don’t expect to pay the local price. In Kedisan, the round trip costs about $20 per boat, with a price per person decreasing to $3 per person is the boat is full. If you are tired of bargaining hassles, simply hike around the crater to Trunyan.

Sanur is where Bali ‘s first luxury beach hotel was built over 30 years ago, and has since been the spot for luxurious seaside accommodation. Conveniently located near Denpasar on the main road leading to the east, Sanur is not nearly as frenetic as Kuta, nor as well-mannered as Nusa Dua. Many foreigners have built lavish villas and bungalows here and this is the preferred place for up-market, long-term stays on the island, especially in the BatuJimbar and Blanjong areas.

The main attraction here is the white sand beach bordering a reef-sheltered lagoon. The beach stretches south from The Grand Bali Beach Hotel and ends up in the mangrove marshes opposite Serangan Island . Due to the protection of the lagoon, this beach is one of the safest on the island, and thus perfect for families. There is no surf apart from out on the reef, and one cannot swim at low tide, but at other times this is the best place in Bali for windsurfing and sailing.

Sanur can be divided into several sub-areas:

The Grand Bali Beach Hotel area
West and south of the hotel, at the point where the black and the white sand beaches meet. This northern section of Sanur is popular with local crowds.

Sindhu
Is east of JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai, and south of JI. Segara Ayu extending south to the first stretch of JI. Danau Tamblingan. This area is classier, with good hotels on the beach, night and art markets, and good restaurants.

Batujimbar
Further south, has few hotels, but is the location of expatriate and Indonesian jet set society mansions. Exclusive beaches are reached via small lanes.

Semawang
stretches south from the Bali Hyatt Hotel to the Sanur Beach Hotel and beyond. It houses both the priciest hotels and restaurants, as well as the red light district.

Get to Sanur from the airport by taxi. Tickets available at the airport taxi co-op counter outside customs, near “left luggage”. The set fare is Rp. 60,000 to Sanur.

Within Sanur either rent a car or catch one of the many public bemos that ply Jl. Danau Tamblingan for Rp 2,000. These can be chartered for short hops around Sanur ($2-$3), and for trips to Denpasar or Kuta ($4-$6). Bargain hard. The terminal of the Praja Taxi company is in Sanur, Phone 289191, 289090. Bali Taxi is in Jimbaran, Phone 701111, 701621, 701633. Pan Wirthi Taxi is in Kuta, Phone 723355, 723388, 723952.

Biking around Sanur is also fun. At the Tri Dewi Art shop, JI. Danau Tamblingan 48, in Semawang, you can rent a bike for Rp 15,000/ day; try bargaining. The bicycles aren’t the greatest. It may be wise to pay more by renting through your hotel.

Sanur is an ideal base for trips to Bali ‘s rice growing heartland and the mountain areas. Rent a self-drive car or a minibus with driver on a daily basis. There are car rental companies on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai and on JI. Danau Tamblingan. Cars and minibuses for hire are found outside all major hotels, or go through one of many car rental companies.

The most reputable self-drive rental agencies are Avis, which has desks at Jimbaran, in the Nusa Dua Beach Hotel and the Sheraton Lagoon Nusa Dua; Bali Car Rental on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai; and Toyota Rent a Car at the airport, Jimbaran, on JI. Raya Airport 99X, in the Bali Padma Hotel in Legian, and Kartika Plaza Hotel in Tuban.

A day-trip in a minibus with a multilingual guide costs around $35, including gas, depending on the itinerary. Group tours cost as little as $10-$15 for the main tourist destinations. Contact Pacto, Tunas Indonesia, Mekar Wisata, or your hotel travel agent.

Private Houses

An alternative to standard accommodations is to rent luxury bungalows owned by affluent foreigners. These can work out relatively reasonably, if food and drink are bought at supermarket prices. Prices range from $250/day for a villa for two, to $1,500/day for a two-hectare beachfront estate with 14 staff, an archery range and use of a game fishing boat

Eating Out in Sanur

The Bali Hyatt, The Grand Bali Beach and Sanur Beach hotels have a wide variety of restaurants, buffets, and coffee shops. The food is mostly European, but they also offer Indonesian, Chinese and Japanese cuisine.

Restaurants outside the hotels offer a greater variety of food in a broad price range. Most close at 10 pm .

The cheapest and most colorful food spat at night is the Sanur Night Market, located in the Art Market. The food is spicy, but nothing is cheaper; you can get a nasi campur for Rp 5,000-Rp 7,500.

For cheap, but better quality local food-the kind of place where your guides prefer to eat go to the street restaurants in Sindhu, on Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai between JI. Segara Ayu and JI. Sindhu. Try Haji Imran’s (sate), Cak Muk or Depot Robby’s (Chinese).

Warung Jawa Barat, on the corner of JI. Mertasari and JI. Kesumasari in Semawang, has a range of Sundanese food from Western Java , such as grilled fish, karedok (mixed raw vegetables in coconut sauce) or sate. Prices are good: between $1-$1.50.

For late-night eaters, Sanur has several moderately priced Padang restaurants open all night. 15-20 spicy dishes are laid out for you to choose from: you pay only for what you eat, so keep track. Cinto Bundo is in Batujimbar, where as Sari Bundo and Murah Meriah are in Semawang, in the midst of the red-light area.

There are two village cooperative restaurants in Sanur. Geared to tourists’ palates, they have the advantage of being located right on the beach, a privilege denied to their competitors. Sanur Beach Market, at the end of Jl. Segara Ayu, is outdoors. Specialties include sate, nasi goreng, fresh grilled fish, grilled lobster; all reasonably priced. Profits from here and the nearby market go to the Sanur village foundation to run schools, clinics and art classes.

Banjar Restaurant is at the end of JI. Duyung in Semawang and offers the same range of Indonesian and Chinese food. The association also rents boats for sailing trips on the lagoon.

Sanur Restaurants

Sanur’s “in” place to eat is the Cafe Batujimbar in Batujimbar. Its hanging vines and sturdy furniture gives it the look of a Riviera roadside cafe. This is the haunt of the local expert colony, many of whom live in the sumptuous Batujimbar Estates just across the road. The cafe offers light, healthy food with daily specials at reasonable prices. Coffee is a specialty.

Koki, on JI. Bypass, is favored by local foreign residents. A pub atmosphere and generous servings of European-style food and billiards, make this a versatile stop. Another simple, yet cozy place, is the Agung Restaurant just before the Semawang crossroad. For all palates, including Australian, European as well as Japanese, at under $5. A similar place, with music, is the popular J.J. on JI. Tamblingan. Those looking for American food should try the Borneo , conveniently located among the trees of A. Sindhu. Open until 11.30 pm. For an Irish flavor go to Tamarind restaurant and bar JI. Merta Sari (next to the British Consul) and try their sausage and mash, cottage pie and other classics from the emerald isle.

Luxury Restaurant in Sanur

Some of the best places for those who want to dine in luxury are found in hotels such as La Tavema (good seafood, brick-oven pizza) and Tandjung Sari. The latter is famous for its Indonesian rijsttafel and its Balinese palace atmosphere. Dine to the strains of a bamboo tingklik orchestra while looking out over the sea, or have a drink in the seaside bar. A romantic spot for dinner by moonlight.

A few stylish places can also be found on Jl. Danau Tamblingan, including Istana Garden in Sindhu, Bayu Garden in Batujimbar and Lotus Pond ( free transportation in Sanur area), in Sindhu, which floats on a pond of lotus flowers, is decorated with antiques and serves great fresh pasta. A Royal Indonesian Buffet (Rjstafel) is available every night. If you want a pleasant Balinese ambiance, try Gazebo’s Kuri Puti, on JI. Danau Tamblingan 35, or Kul Kul, further down the road in Batujimbar. All offer similar fare and prices-menus generally feature grilled seafood. Many also stage dance performances and offer pick-up services.

Telaga Naga (“Dragon Well”), opposite of and operated by the Bali Hyatt, has the best Chinese food on Bali in the most exclusive setting: a lotus garden. Great Szechuan food. Try their chicken with dried chili peppers or the roast duck. Lenny’s on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai was the first Chinese restaurant in Sanur. It features good Indonesian/Cantonese style dishes (very fresh vegetables) at reasonable prices. Sin Bo Lan, or SBL, is a favorite of the local Chinese. Tasty spring rolls. Janur Garden , JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai, marvelous squid and shrimps. Wayang Bali, also on the bypass, offers an international menu of sizzling steaks, delicious pasta, healthy salads and sandwiches in AC comfort. Live music on Friday and Saturday nights.

Trattoria Da Marco’s, in Semawang, claims to serve “the best Italian food on Bali .” Their grilled fish, spaghetti carbonara, bean salad and delicious steaks prove it. Ball Moon makes marvelous lasagna.

Japanese and Korean

These restaurants cater mostly to the increasing number of Japanese tourists. Kite on J1. Danau Tamblingan offers sukiyaki, yakitori and tempura. Ryoshl on JI. Danau Tamblingan 150, is an island-wide favorite for dependable fresh sushi and typical Japanese fare. Chong Gi-Wa features all the standard Korean favorites including kimchee and bulgogi barbequed beef in sweet soya.

Sanur Night Life

A quiet family resort, Sanur is not known for its nightlife, but there are two discos. The Banjar on JI. Duyung, near the beach next to the Bali Hyatt, opens until 2 am , with reggae music on Saturdays. Janger Bar and Disco opens from 8 pm-5 am , I think Janger is now close, but you should check this out.

Kafe Wayang has an innovative Asian menu and a lively jam session on Friday and Saturday nights. Right next door, Jazz Bar and Grill promotes live jazz music every night and features a huge bar, pool table, and a Cal/Mex menu. Both are on the intersection of JI. By-Pass and JI. Hang Tuah and are open to 2 am .

The Bali International Sports Bar, next to Borneo on JI. Sindhu, is a popular spot for expats with its western menu and live satellite sport broadcasts on the big screen.

Sanur Dance Performance

Sanur is just a short taxi ride away from Denpasar and Batubulan, where barong, keris, fire, and kecak dance performances are held regularly. Contact a travel agent. Most hotels offer Balinese buffet dinners with dance performance for about $15 a head. A number of restaurants offer similar shows at lower prices.
Sanur Shopping

Tourist shops line all the main streets of Sanur. Although there is more choice in Kuta and Legian, prices are similar if you bargain well. Otherwise, go to the arcades in the main hotels for high quality goods and no bargaining

Books. The main hotels and photo centers on JI. Danau Tamblingan have P range of guides to Bali and Indonesia in English and other languages. Also try Kita Bookshop at Café, Batujimbar, and Klik Klak Studio, next door, for coffee table books on Indonesia and postcards.

Clothing and Batik. Kartika Chandra Batik Center and Serasa Batik Collection on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai, Tohpati, west of Sanur, sell a complete range of high quality but expensive batiks. For fancy clothing, Nogo Ikat Center has two shops along JI. Danau Tamblingan at no. 98 and no. 208, selling elegant, hand-woven ikat designs. Shoes, handbags and accessories from natural textiles are available at Miranda Inti Alami, JI. Hang Tuah 43, across from the entrance to The Grand Bali Beach Hotel.

White embroidered dresses are available at Bali High, JI. Danau Tamblingan at the JI. Karangsari intersection, Uluwatu JI. Danau Tamblingan, and Mama & Leon, JI. Danau Tamblingan 99A. Raffiesia, on JI. Danau Toba sells leather clothing. Imba Leather City sells fashion bags, shoes, and garments, and makes to order at JI. Danau Tamblingan 8, near JI. Danau Toba. For high fashion, try the major hotel arcades.

Food. Gelael Dewata Supermarket on JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai is the place for imported cheeses and meats, as well as general toiletry items. Alas Arum, JI. Danau Tamblingan, has a wide selection of imported goods and sometimes has wine and spirits. Many other general stores in Sanur such as Bagus Store and ABC Store offer cold beer and soft drinks at a fraction of hotel prices.

Home Furnishings. For decorative objects go to Bali Curious Goods on JI. Danau Tamblingan 94, next to Bayu Garden Restaurant. For creative ceramics, try Café Batujimbar’s ceramic shop on JI. Danau Tamblingan or visit the factory outlet across the street in Batujimbar Estate. Pejaten at Griya Market has decorative plates, cups, etc.

Jewelry. Suarti Designer Collection, JI. Danau Tamblingan 69, is well-known for export quality silver jewelry.

Paintings. For good genuine contemporary painting, go to Wianta’s, JI. Pandu, 300 meters from the Renon junction, on the road to Denpasar. Souvenirs. The Sanur Beach Market has a good range of inexpensive gift items. JI. Danau Tamblingan has dozens of shops selling local handicrafts: textiles, carvings, paintings, leather, and silver goods. Eden has rattan-leather items such as purses and pencil cases.

Serangan (Turtle Island)

Serangan Island was labeled for some major development projects until the political and economic turmoil of recent years put everything on hold. Unfortunately this was a little too late for the island which had been completely cleared and leveled in preparation for the proposed development. Although the village and turtle farm still exist, the rest of the island is nothing but a flattened wasteland. There is only one advantage to all this-there is now road access, via a man-made causeway, off the Sanur By-Pass (opposite Macro Supermarket) to the former island and the famous surf breaks just offshore. Email me at Lisa@baliforyou.com if youre interested in visiting this island

Sanur activities: water sports

You can find almost every watersport imaginable here. Most of the facilities are found right on the beach in front of the big hotels such as The Grand Bali Beach, Segara Village and the Bali Hyatt. The excellent Blue Oasis Beach Club at Sanur Beach Hotel rents Hobiecats, Lazers and windsurfing boards. Courses for those wishing to learn windsurfing are also available.

Sanur offers diving and snorkeling, although not the best in Bali . There are several agents that organize trips. In Sanur, Bali Marine Sports on Jl. Bypass Ngurah Rai. Baruna Sport has beach booths in front of The Grand Bali Beach and the Bali Hyatt. Surya Water Sports is at JI. Karang Sari 1, offering diving, parasailing, banana boat, glass bottom boat, jet ski, Turtle Island , and dolphin tours. The beach counter is on JI. Duyung.

The only operator specializing in tours to Komodo Island is based in Sanur and has a fully equipped dive boat running charters on request for a minimum of five passengers. They also organize several one day and charter excursions east of Bali , diving packages and charters. Grand Komodo Tours, JI. Hang Tuah 26, Sanur.
Besides the charter services offered by various tour agents, Spice Island Cruises, JI. Padang Galak 25, Sanur, offers 3and 4-day luxury cruises aboard the 140-passenger Bali Sea Dancer and the 120-passenger Oceanic Odyssey. Departs every Mon and Fri, includes stops on Sumbawa , Komodo (and Lombok with the 4-day trip). Rates, including cabin, food and Komodo tour, start at about $500 per person.

Sanur beach ceremony

To appreciate the beach from a more Balinese perspective witness the daily ceremonies that take place along the shore: cremations, reduction and presentation of offerings, ritual bathing, among others. Inquire at the beaches and dress appropriately (no swimwear) to attend.

Banks: Bank Dagang Negara at Bali Hyatt (Phone 281234). BDB at intersection of J1. Bypass Ngurah Rai and JI. Sindhu. Bank Desa Sanur, JI. Danau Buyan (Phone 288246), JI. Sudamala (Phone 288402) in front of the Grand Bali Beach .

Money Changers: PT Dewi Segara at Gelael Supermarket, J1. Bypass Ngurah Rai at Turismo Indonesia , JI. Danau Tamblingan 85, across from Café Batujimbar.

Post Offtes: Most hotels provide postal services. Post office at JI. Danau Buyan, open daily 8 am-2 pm. Closed Sun. There are small post offices next to Sanur Beach Hotel and Café Batujimbar. Go to Denpasar’s main post office in Renon for full services.

Telecommunications: Citra Agung, JI. Danau Tamblingan (Phone/fax: 288864/5) and Anggar Ari Agung, JI. Danau Tamblingan 174 (Phone 288020, fax: 285035).

Massage: After a long journey around Bali , have a Japanese shiatsu massage at LG Club Sehatku. Sauna, steam, whirlpool, Indonesian herbal lulur baths are also available.

Medical Treatment: If there is no medical service in your hotel, see Dr Anak Agung Made Djelantik at JI. Hayam Wuruk 190, near the Renon crossroads. For a dentist, see Dr. Retno Agung at JI. Bypass Ngurah Rai close to the intersection with JI. Danau Buyan.

AUSTRALIA
(also rep. Canada, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea & other commonwealth in emergencies)
Australian Consulate
Jalan Prof. Moh. Yamin No.4 Renon Denpasar.
Tel : 62-361-235092, 235093, Fax 231990
Email : ausconbali@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

CZECH REPUBLIC
Consulate of the Czech Republic
Jl.Pengembak 17, Sanur
Tel : 62-361-286465, Fax : 62-361-286408
Email : czechbali@my-deja.com

FRANCE
Consular Agency of France
Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai No. 35X, Sanur 80228 Denpasar.
Tel / Fax : 62-361-285485
Email : emilie@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

GERMANY
Consulate of Germany
Jalan Pantai Karang 17, Sanur Denpasar.
Tel. 62-361-288535, 288826, Fax 288826
Email : dtkoncbali@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

ITALY
Honorary Vice Consulate of Italy
Lotus Enterprise Building Jalan Bypass Ngurah Rai, Jimbaran, Denpasar
Tel. 62-361-701005, Fax 701005
Email : italconsbali@italconsbali.com

JAPAN
Consulate Office of Japan
Jalan Raya Puputan No.170, Renon Denpasar
Tel. 62-361-227628, Fax 231308
Email : hatadps@indosat.net.id

MEXICO
Honorary Consulate of Mexico
Puri Astina Building Jalan Prof. Moh. Yamin 1-A, Renon, Denpasar
Tel. 62-361-223266, Fax 244568
Email : astina@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

NETHERLANDS
Consulate of The Netherlands c/o KCB Tour and Travel Jalan Raya Kuta 99, Kuta
Tel. 62-361-751517, Fax 752777
Email : purwa@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

NORWAY & DENMARK
Royal Norwegian Consulate Royal Danish Consulate
Mimpi Resort, Kawasan Bukit Permai, Jimbaran
Tel. 62-361-701070 (ext 32) Fax. 62-361-701073, 701074
Email : mimpi@mimpi.com

SPAIN
Honorary Consulate of Spain Jl.Raya Sanggingan, br lungsiakan, Kedewatan Ubud
Tel. 62-361-975739, Fax. 62-361-975726
Email : rabik@indo.net.id

SWEDEN & FINLAND
Consulate of Sweden and Finland Segara Village Hotel Jalan Segara Ayu, Sanur 80228
Tel. 62-361-288407, Fax 287242
Email: segara1@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

SWITZERLAND & AUSTRIA
Consular Agency of Switzerland Swiss Restaurant, Jalan Pura Bagus Teruna, Legian
Tel. 62-361-751735, Fax 754457
Email : swisscon@denpasar.wasantara.net.id

UNITED KINGDOM
Honorary consulate of the United Kingdom
Tamarin Restaurant, Jl.Merta Sari No.2 Sanur
Tel. 62-361-270601, Fax. 62-361-270601
Email : tamarind@dps.centrin.net.id

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Consular Agency of the United States of America
Jalan Hayam Wuruk 188, Tanjung Bungkak Denpasar 80235
Tel. 62-361-233605, Fax 222426
Email : amcobali@indo.net.id

Beaches

For the lovers of sea, sun, and sand, Bali has anything you may expect from a tropical beach. From black, golden, and white sandy beach. From pristine water for snorkeling to tunnelling wave for surfing.

Religious Ceremonies

Balinese locals are very conservative Hindu regardless of their open mind to visitors. Ritual ceremonies are amongst unique attraction you might not want to miss out. Large ones are scheduled announced far in advace.

Traditional Dances

Some are sacred and only performed in holly occasion. But many of them are performed regularly for tourists. Batubulan is the town you should try to go first dor scheduled performance.

Scuba Diving

Bali itself has a number of spectacular diving sites in addition it also the gate to unexplored beauty of Eastern Indonesian sites. World class diving operators and PADI instructors are available.

Golf

Bali has at least four world class golf course designed by world’s top designers. World class tournaments are regularly performed mostly at Nusa Dua (voted as ones of the Asia’s best).

Hillside

Bali is large enough to host anything you could ever expect from a tropical area. In addition to beaches Bali is also granted with serene tropical hillside with cool climate and beaitiful misty scenes.

Lakes

Bali has at least four lakes. One is at the misty crater of magical mount Batur while the other three are side-by-side at the hilly cool area of Bedugul.

Mountains

Bali has a number of mountains with two significalt and active ones. The holly mount Agung where the mother temple of Besakih located is believed as the residence of the Gods.

Rice Fields

Rice is the main food of most Balinese and therefore ricefield is everywhere offering a beauty by itself especially in hilly area where the farmers craft terraces to keep flat ponds.

Daily Rituals

Regardless of their open mind to visitors, most balinese are conservative Hindu with all of its rituals. Everybody are prepared to stop their activities when time for praying, submit offering, or ceremonies come.

Rivers

Bali is mostly hilly and therfore tivers tend to be narrow and fast. You can just enjoy its scenic views or jump into the water, a number of operators with world class safety offer a white water rafting tracks.

Sunrise

Sanur is the most popular area for sunrise but some other tourist area like Lovina, Candidasa, and Amed are gaining their popularity. Other scenes like mountains and ricefields also offers magnificent sunrise.

Sunset

Kuta is the most sought for sunset. But other places on the islan can also magnify the beauty of the sunset. Jimbaran bay is next after Kuta.

Temple

Despite of tourism development on the island Bali is still gaining its magical characher from the religion of the people. Temples are mainly everywhere but some got so popular for their unique distinction.

Valley

Recently valleys are getting more popular expecially for up-market accomodations like five starred resorts or villas. Sayan near Ubud is one of the most sought but other neighboring spots are also interesting.

Traditional Villages

In most cases “modern” development affect traditional style. In bali it works the opposite way. Newly developed holiday accomodations were built in traditional style. Some of original traditional villages are still remain to explore.

Surfing

For the ones with more energy than just lay back for sun-bath Bali is the paradise for water-sports. Surfing is the one requiring specific type of wave and wind. It is so fortunate tha Has more than 10 surfing beaches.

Most of the heat comes from the string of Kita – Legian – Seminyak where most bars and pubs in various styles are located almost next to each other. Different from other part of Moslem populated Indonesia , Balinese community is more tolerant in seeing night amusements and allow these night spots open till dawn.

There are a few in Nusadua and Jimbaran which mostly a part of five-starred hotels. In Ubud where live tend to be slow-paced and nights are a bit shorter they open and close their doors earlier.

Following are some spots which are famous to foreign visitors. But whilst you are scanning streets in tourist centers and the capital city of Denpasar you would find hundreds more one of which my turn your adventure spirit on.

Nusadua and Jimbaran

SALSA
At the Grand Hyatt, this outdoor cocktail bar offers an intimate candlelit setting with stunning Indian Ocean views – good specialty cocktails and pizza. Grand Hyatt, Nusadua.

Tuban

ALL STARS SURF CAFÉ
The fist surf café opened its doors right here in Bali . Expect all kinds of revelry, surf memorabilia, sumo nights, happy hours and frothy margaritas. Live bands 10pm – 2.30am . American-style food. Kuta Centre, Tuban.

GRACIE KELLY’S
Bali ‘s only real Irish pub, this place has all the atmosphere and action that you would expect. The pub grub is solid with good hot-stone specialties. Live music comes every night from the Kintamani Shamrocks, playing Irish folk and just about everything else.

MUSRO
At the Kartika Plaza Hotel, Musro is famous for its nightly live cabaret show with all the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas ! Also live music ana karaoke rooms. Jl. Kartika Plaza, Tuban.

STADIUM CAFÉ
A magnet for sports fans offering large screens and all the action. Good food, cold beer, and sport paraphernalia. Opposite Kuta Paradiso, Jl. Kartika Plaza.

Kuta and Legian

BOUNTY SHIP 1
The original Bounty ship has funky bar that plays top-40 music, offers cheap drinks and attract a young holiday crowd. 8pm until after midnight.

BOUNTY SHIP 2
An update of the original ship, the new Bounty has special theme nights, big buffets and a large bar playing top-40 hits. 10pm until late.

CLUB INC.
Intimate club with dance floor, lounge, and outdoor terrace. Also has Tapas.

DE JA VU
Super slick new offering from the people that brought you the Spy Bar, this one has direct sunset views from the outdoor terrace. A very “Metropolis-“ like sculpture in the entrance let’s you know you’ve arrived. Good spot for sipping s cocktail sundowner and watching the world go by. Jl. Arjuna / Blue Ocean Beach No. 7X Legian Kaja, Kuta.

HARD ROCK CAFÉ
Presenting a monthly program of rock and roll bands on their downstairs stage, the Hard Rock is quality venue that is popular all year. Nightly bands start at 11pm on the Hard Rock’s stage, 10pm on Sunday.

HARD ROCK HOTEL
One of the kickingest venues in town for live music, Centre Stage ht the Hard Rock Hotel is pretty hard to beat with coll impromptu bat flair displays from the amiable bar staff, top local rock bands playing bang-on covers, and regular events, parties and promotions so there’s always something happening. Recommended. Jl. Pantai Kuta.

KORI RESTAURANT AND BAR
A comfortable bar at he front of the restaurant for those who prefer things a little quieter. Excellent cocktails and an adjoining pool and cigar room provide a great place to spend an evening. Poppies Lane 2, Kuta.

PEANUTS
Renovated over a year ago, but still pretty laid back and funky. A large air-conditioned disco playing top-40 hits. Enjoy the bar, play pool, people watch or hit the dance floor. Jl Legian, near the corner of Jl. Melasti.

PADDY’S RELOADED
A Kuta institution, Paddy’s endures and has reopened in its new location in front of Bounty 2. A solid – no frills pub set-up combines with reasonably priced cocktails and drinks to give the average punter exactly what he or she wants.

Seminyak

AINA BAR
The ultimate “unconditioned bar”, intimate. On the left as you turn into the top of Eat Street . Jl. Laksmana.

DOUBLE SIX
The original and still the busiest club on the island. Thousands of people pack in nightly to her the latest techno dance music and look cool at various bars. Good late night pizzas. On the beach, open late. Jl. Double Six.

HU’U BALI
Hu’u offers an all day and into the night service. Poolside lunch or anytime snacks and cocktails flow into happy hour, dinner, and then cheeky pre-club cocktails. Lcoated on Jl. Petitenget. Open from 11am – 2am.

JP’S WARUNG CLUB
An intimate venue offering live acoustic music seven nights a week. Jl. Dhyana Pura.

KAFE WARISAN
A stylish French restaurant with a great ambience, excellent food, cigars, and a good cocktail bar. Drop in for a cold glass of bubbly. Jl. Raya Kerobokan.

KUDOS
Huge, state-of-the-art sound system, awesome lighting set-up, funky design and cruisy outdoor terrace area (a great place to sit and watch the manic social madness that is Jl. Dhyana Pura) have made this latest ‘alternative’ new-comer to ‘Dring-Street’ a huge instant success. Opposite Q Bar.

KU DE TA
Sleek and extremely trendy, Ku de ta’s cigar bar, Fidel’s, boasts an amazing location, great food, a cigar lounge and loads of style. Definitely somewhere to check out. Jl. Laksmana.

LIQUID BAR
Recently doubled its size. Luminescent blue and green bar. New upstairs “Red Lounge”. Jl. Dhyana Pura.

LOLA RESTAURANT & BAR
Classy French restaurant with chic lounge serving signature Lola cocktails and classic French wines accented by up-tempo music. Jl. Raya Kerobokan.

LUSH
Comfortable contemporary lounge bar conveniently located on the corner of Jl. Legian and up-and-coming Jl. Kunti. Good place to chill out and quaff a few aperitifs before kicking off preceedings for the evening.

OXYGEN
Another pearl in the string that is Dhyana Pura, Oxygen goes absolute minimalist, with concrete floors, white everywhere, stainless steel and glass. As one punter put it “it’s like having a party in someone’s unfinished baselent”. Kick-ass Bose sound system and freaky projections across the wall and ceiling upstairs set the mood nicely. And no, they don’t serve oxygen.

Q-BAR
The original bar for the ‘alternative’ crowd, Q is famous for its drag queen show, fashion parades, and other raunchy events. Upstairs lounge has some pretty interesting artworks. Good balcony for watching the nightly madness of Jl. Dhyana Pura unfold.

SANTA FE
The original bar in the nightlife street, Jl. Dhyana Pura, this western style bar recently underwent a renovation that doubled the size of the interior. A large stage accommodates live bands. Eclectic mix of food surprisingly good and includes sushi, Mexican and great oven-baked pizzas. Jl. Dhyana Pura.

SPACE
True to its name it has plenty of it. Balcony, dance floor, chill-out lounge, and private party room upstairs. The “SEX” drinks tables are nice touch.

THE A BAR
One of Bali ‘s most popular cocktail bar with the thirty-something crowd. Cool music and some of the best cocktails on the island. 10am – 2am . Jl. Dhyana Pura.

THE BUSH TELEGRAPH
Smack in the middle of Bali ‘s trendiest strip comes a taste of Australia complete with corrugated iron, timber booth and the coldest VB’s in town. Aussie steaks are on the Barbie and the tinnies are suitably cold. Jl. Dhyana Pura 10xx.

THE BOTTLE SHOP
For those anglophiles and Aussies who miss the local pub, you will find a good drinking crowd here almost anytime but especially around 5pm when the coldest beers in town go down a treat. Great pub food, televised sporting events. 9am until midnight . Jl. Kunti, Seminyak.

THE LEGIAN
This sophisticated cocktail bar offers live jazz, a great selection of Cuban and local cigars, including one made specially for the hotel, and fresh sea breezes. A great place to start or end and evening. Legian Suites Hotel. Jl. Laksmana, Petitenget.

Ubud

BARANDI
Already earning s reputation for a mean lychee martini, Ubud’s newest lounge bar is oftenstanding-room only on Saturday nights, when live music draws a bubbly mix of locals, expats, and tourists. The upstairs fine dining restaurant is a great place to start the night. Jl. Hanoman, Ubud.

EXILES
Saturday night is the night here when local jazz musicians turn up for a lively jam. Pretty basic otherwise, but good fun.

JAZZ CAFÉ
A real hit in Ubud, the live music is always good, sometimes great, very easy atmosphere, quality of drinks and plenty of people to talk to in between sets. Snack off the menu or enjoy a full dinner. Live music nightly except Sundays and Mondays, 7.30pm until 20.30pm . Jl. Sukma No. 2 Tebesaya, Ubud

NAUGHTY NURI’S
Balinese warung with a touch of New York , Naughty Nuri’s is a busy local hangout filled with Ubud-style characters. Very laid back communal tables, a small bar, roadside barbecue and a mean martini. Jl. Raya Ubud, near Neka Museum.

PUTRA BAR
Casual bar, offering live reggae music. Good placed to hang out if you can’t be bothered dressing up. Jl. Monkey Forest , until 12.

SAI SAI BAR
When it is hot, when it is not, well… come back another time. Live music, theme nights, parties and rests in between. Saturday night is the busiest. 7.30pm until 11pm. Jl. Monkey Forest.

TERAZO
Enjoy a bite to eat or just sample a few cocktails at the bar at this stylist eatery. Cool music, great food. Jl. Suweta, Ubud.

WUNDERBAR
With a unique and bright-colored design, delicious international cuisine and well stocked bar, Wunderbar is certainly tuning heads. Check it out for yourself. Jl. Raya Pengosekan, Ubud.

Sanur

JAZZ BAR & GRILLE
Televisions, newspapers, posters, murals – it is all happening at the Jazz Bar & Grill. Big, American menu, long bar and live jazz seven nights a week. Open all day, music from 9.30pm until 1am . Jl. ByPass, Komplek Sanur Raya.

KAFE WAYANG
Right next door to the Jazz Bar & Grille, Kafe Wayang features innovative menu and a lively jam session every Friday and Saturday night. 9pm until 2am . Jl. By-Pass, Komple Sanur Raya.

KOKI PUB
Great local pub atmosphere, everyone knows everyone and the menu offers delicious home-style cooking. Pool tables, lively bar and televised sporting events. Jl. By-Pass Sanur.

LAVA LOUNGE
Chill-out bar and martini/cigar lounge; great spot for a post-dinner drink or two. Funky “volcanic” design. Jl. Danau Toba No. 12, Sanur.

THE WINE AND CIGAR BAR AT PALA
This new venue brings air-conditioned elegance to Sanur. A large range of moderately priced wines from all over the world can be drunk in comfort here or taken home. Jl. By-Pass Ngurah Rai 121xx, Sanur