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Bali

Relax on Kuta beach, Bali Lying between the Indonesian islands of Java and Lombok, Bali is quite rightly one of the most popular destinations for tourists, backpackers and visitors to this part of the world. It is well known for its arts – in particular, dance, sculpture, painting, leather, music and handcrafts.

The island itself is surrounded by coral reefs with a host of diving spots for the adventurous and slightly less adventurous. The best spots like Tulamben, Amed and Menjangan are a particular treat for nature lovers as they are home to a host of exotic creatures. These include the Hawksbill Turtle, Giant Sunfish, the Giant Moray Eel, Bumphead Parrotfish and various species of shark.

The rest of the island’s landscape is a mix of waterways, beaches, mountains and volcanoes – in fact Bali has at least two active volcanoes just daring you to trek amongst them.

Lovina village in Bali

Kuta

An infamous tourist hotspot, Kuta is a favourite for many travellers. Not far from the airport or the main city of Denpasar, this raucous Balinese town is a great place to start before venturing out into the serenity of Bali’s other coasts. ‘Fun in the sun’ is the perfect slogan for Kuta which is sure to leave you with some fantastic lasting memories of the island.

Lovina

A delightful mix of charming coastal villages (including Pemaron, Tukad Mungga, Kalibukbu and Temukus), Lovina is a great base for touring the north coast or the mountainous centre of Bali. Its beaches of volcanic sand are protected by reefs and therefore remain remarkably clean, calm and clear.

Denpasar

As the island’s capital, Denpasar has been the focus of most of Bali’s growth over the last 20 years. Many visitors stay here and use it as a transportation hub to get out and about and explore the far reaches of the island. Whilst being a busy and somewhat noisy city, Denpasar is jam-packed with attractions such as the market at its centre, an arts centre, lots of shops and a museum.

Whilst Bali may be the most popular island in Indonesia and perhaps suffers from a somewhat ‘touristy’ description, it really is worth a visit, if only for its sheer beauty. You may well be surprised at just what this place has to offer.

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