Vacation of a Lifetime: Bali

by Denise Gabbard
(Richfield, OH )

Bali is exciting and fun for those who wish to partake in an exquisite holiday. It is a rather small land that is enriched with a tropical climate, due to the fact that it lies just eight miles south of the equator. Bali is situated between the islands of Java and Lombock, in Indonesia and several hundred miles off the northwestern coast of Australia.

Many people choose Bali as a place to celebrate their nuptials, as it is an island paradise that offers plenty of things to do when spending time on the island. The climate is very mild, with the average temperature generally staying right around 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and with little seasonal variation. In fact, the weather is the same almost all year, except for the wet season between September and February. Like many tropical locales, the area often gets intense downpours during a very short time in the afternoon, sandwiched by sunny skies, during the peak of the wet season.

Bali is known the world over for its famed rice terraces. The island produces coffee, vegetables, and spices, and the Balinese people are well known for cattle farming. They often use the cattle as working animals prior to their ultimate use as food.

The island of Bali is known for its inhabitants. Originally the island was inhabited and characterized by people from other parts of Asia. It was only in the 16th century that it became known to those of Western descent. It was colonized by the Dutch during a long and difficult time. Many of the Balinese people were sold into slavery in the 1600’s by the Balinese kings.

Many of the Balinese are of the Hindu faith and are very religious, with their religion playing an important part in their daily lives. This is prominent in their ballet or other forms of dance performed on the island.

Some of the important sights to see while in Bali are the many museums that depict the history and struggle of the Balinese people. These museums hold early artifacts as well as agricultural tools that helped them plant and irrigate the rice fields. Bali receives over one million visitors annually, and tourists enjoy Bali’s unique identity.

Another place of interest is the Gua Gajah or Elephant Cave. The Elephant Cave is named after a Buddhist monk or temple and the cave entrance has been delicately carved to resemble a grove. The cave walls have writings that were done in the 11th century, and religious ceremonies still take place in the cave courtyard.

While on holiday in Bali, visitors can partake in shopping in one of the many local markets where fresh fruit and vegetables are sold on a daily basis. Clothing, costumes, and other apparel can be bought from one of the many vendors at the market.

Fine dining and entertainment is offered at many hotels and restaurants that line Bali’s downtown core. Other holiday adventures include taking part in water sports or basking in the sun as you enjoy the rich, sandy beach that dots Bali’s coastline.

To get to know Bali personally, why not check out Bali Holiday Packages ?