the hottest tourist destinations over the past few years. Despite recent unfortunate events such as the 2002 bomb blast and other terrorist threats, epidemic threats which results in travel bans from several Western countries, the proof is in the numbers. Statistics show that more and more people are lured to visit Bali and are having the time of their lives here.
Bali is unarguably the only place in Indonesia where almost 100%of its residents are Hindus. The religion is apparent in the everyday life of the locals, as it is in the arts and cultures. Temples can be located at almost every corner of the streets, and in the morning there are always locals spotted presenting daily offerings to the Gods.
Balinese people are generally very friendly and are always willing to help. But despite what you might have heard, sure there are some locals who will try to sell their products at crazy prices - but let this not prevent you from visiting the island, because it has so much to offer.
Bali seems to have something for everyone; thanks to the beaches, mountains, forests and warm weather. Ubud is well-known for its arts and culture show-off and several famous painters and writers are known to once reside there. In October there is an annual event of Ubud Readers and Writers Festivals, which offers a chance to meet and greet big-name writers from around the world. Whereas in Kuta, life is a beach. For those who are seeking pure leisure - laying on white sandy beaches, surfing in a crystal-clear water, or merely looking for a suntan - this is the spot to hit. Kuta Karnival has been an annual event, too, and it is two weeks full of fun, games, events, parades and festivities.
If it is views of rice paddies that you are looking for, then head to Canggu and Petitenget areas, where you will get the first-hand experience of traditional Bali. The areas are quite secluded and offers an utmost private holiday. The districts of Uluwatu and Jimbaran offers ocean views and the beaches are famous for both amateur and professional surfers. Some even admitted - repeatedly - to have found a hidden spot there. And they are not telling where it is.
There are a lot of things you can do in Bali. Water activities include swimming, snorkeling, diving, jet-skiing, ocean-walking, surfing, canoeing and rafting. Balinese mountains and forests also offers chances for hiking, trekking, bike-touring, climbing and camping. In areas where tourists flock and expatriates reside (namely Kuta, Seminyak, Sanur and Ubud), food tourism is the next big thing. Enjoy Balinese sate lilit, Indian tandoori chicken, Thai's tom yum gong, Japanese sushi, American pork ribs, Italian pizza, Dutch rijjstaffel, and many more - all in one district.
And when you don't feel like doing anything else, there's always another 24-hour club and pub around Seminyak area that is waiting for your visit.
