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One of the most enchantingly beautiful islands on earth, it may be possible to drive around Bali’s entire spectacular coastline in one long day, but its reputation far exceeds its size.
The island is a rich tapestry of arresting sights, sounds and experiences, from the fabulous beaches and surfing breaks, to the mesmerizing music, dance and drama viewed in Bali’s ancient temple courtyards and in its many colourful festivals. Bali is also renowned for its painting, sculpture, wood carving and handicrafts, and its kaleidoscope of natural wonders which include fragrant frangipani trees, stepped rice fields, beautifully wild landscapes and forest clad hills.
Within this gentle, relaxing way of life, our hand-picked luxury hotels and resorts each offer a haven of modern luxury and creature comforts, skilfully blended with the timeless and beautiful architecture of an altogether more peaceful way of life. The spas in particular are legendary for their soothing and regenerating treatments, while the more active can enjoy white-water rafting, surfing and diving, with some fascinating wrecks to explore. And with such blissfully romantic surroundings, where better to celebrate the perfect wedding or honeymoon.
Out and About
Experience the real Bali by immersing yourself in the culture with a few of our suggestions.
• Celuk village, roughly 5 kilometres from Denpasar town, is the place to visit for gold and silver
jewellery and its main road is adorned with galleries showcasing the local craft. Surrounding
villages also show immense skill in their own art forms, with Batubulan village displaying expertise
in Barong dancing and stone carving and Batuan village in traditional painting.
• Ubud is a beautiful town in the foothills of Bali’s cultural centre, which exudes a spellbinding and
spiritual ambience. Home to picturesque rice paddies, forests and rivers it also has a strong focus
on tradition, with evening dance performances at Puri Saren Agung (Royal Palace), which are highly recommended. Monkey Forest, a sacred nature reserve with a small temple and a population of cheeky long-tailed macaque monkeys is also worth a visit.
• Jimbaran Bay and Nusa Dua boast the best beaches in Bali with beautiful soft sands and glorious, calm swimming waters. Or if it’s elegant, fashionable bars and restaurants that you want, head to the trendy and laid-back Seminyak.
• For a more spiritual experience, take a trip to the 14th Century Pura Besakih Temple in eastern Bali, the largest of the island’s 11,000 Hindu temples. This is the principle temple of twenty two, which cover the slopes of Mount Agung and the surrounding hills, and is a truly awe-inspiring place.
Food and Drink
Balinese cuisine is delicious and varied with influences from all over the world. Most recipes revolve around spices, often partnered with coconut milk, to create a rich flavour and creamy texture in dishes of tropical vegetables, poultry, meat and fish. Traditionally, a main serving of rice is taken first, followed by a small portion of three to four dishes of vegetables or meat known as lauk, which are placed in the centre of the table for all to share.
Bali boasts a fantastic range of world-class restaurants including KU DE TA a Seminyak beachside retreat which is ‘the’ place to be seen and our favourite Mozaic Restaurant, Ubud where tables are widely spaced in a tropical garden with an ever changing menu.
Getting There
Flights to Bali are with Malaysia Airlines via Kuala Lumpur, or Qantas via Singapore in both
directions. Total journey time: 16 hours 50 minutes (including stopover in Kuala Lumpur) or 26 hours (including stopover in Singapore).
Malaysia Airlines Departures from Heathrow to Denpasar daily on B744, B734 and A330 aircraft
with Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class cabins.
Qantas Departures from Heathrow to Denpasar on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday on B777 and A388 aircraft with Economy, Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class cabins.
Note: All our inclusive holidays are based on Malaysia Airlines Economy flights. Prices with Qantas are also available on request.