Villa Bali Biz

Villa Semadhi

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:16:08 +0800

Location

Pemuteran is in the North West coast of Bali, a 3, 5 hours scenic drive from the Airport in Denpasar. It is close to Bali Barat National Park, Menjangan island diving sites and some of the most important temples in Bali.
Villa Semadhi lies directly at the beach with the Bali sea in front and nine mountains as dramatic backdrop. The sea is calm and free of strong currents and waves which affect most other parts of the island. A place with beautiful scenery, the largest area of shallow coral reefs in Bali and a serene beach far away from the hustle bustle of south Bali. A perfect place for those who give more emphasis on natural beauty and peacefulness.

Description

Villa Semadhi is a luxury private villa situated in a large secluded beach front garden and can host 8 people comfortably. There are 4 air-conditioned suites with king size beds, private bathrooms, a lounge room with TV/DVD, 2 veranda’s, separate dining and kitchen pavilion in a lotus pond, a bale, Jacuzzi and a 4 x 14 meter swimming pool, outdoor shower and beach pavilion.
Villa Semadhi is part of Puri Amertha. This resort is built on the foundation of community participation. Local wisdom was applied to every aspect of its development, with the purpose of creating an island paradise for visitors, and providing income for the local community.
The villa can be rented in total or per room depending on availability. On the grounds is a bungalow for the staff and service is available 24/7.

Villa Services

Semadhi is under management of Amertha, one of the leading resorts in the area. Breakfast is served at the villa. You can enjoy your lunch and dinner at the villa or at one of the local restaurants. A cook can be provided or if you wish you can prepare your own meals. There is a free shuttle service to the excellent restaurants of Taman Sari and Amertha, a few minutes away.
All services, trips, spa treatment, massage, laundry, telephone calls, internet connection or transport can be arranged through the staff. If you wish, one of our English-speaking drivers can pick you up at the airport or any other location and drive you to Pemuteran in an air-conditioned comfort car.

Villa Naga Maya

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:30:15 +0800

Location

Nestled back in the quite lanes of beautiful Legian, only 400 meters from alluring Legian Beach, and strategically located in the midst of fine dining establishments, invigorating nightlife, and of course the best shopping Bali has to offer.

Description

A Private Tropical Oasis Awaits You in Bali at Villa Naga Maya. This Holiday Villa has all the Five-Star Resort amenities. These picturesque Villas provide an oasis of tropical gardens, elegant pools and traditional Balinese atmospere. Villa Naga Maya is a delightful haven to make one's stay in Bali a unique experience of tropical Island living.

Villa Services

The villas have a staff of seven, including: maids, gardeners, and security. All the amenities and features of a Five star Resort. These picturesque Villas provide an oasis of tropical gardens, elegant pools and traditional Balinese atmosphere. A delightful haven to make ones stay in Bali a unique taste of tropical island living.

Villa Features

A true private oasis awaits you at Villa Naga Maya. Each brand new tropical luxury villa consists of:

2 spacious air conditioned bedrooms with king size platform beds, teak cabinetry, flat screen TVs, beautiful custom made 'Kelambu' (mosquito net), digital security box and private balcony.

2 bathrooms with a large unique terrazzo bathtub.

Living rooms with large flat screen TV, DVD player with a home theatre surround sound system, and cable vision with 40 plus channels.

Modern kitchen with appliances and terrazzo counter tops.
11.5 m. Swimming pool, all surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

Elysian Bali Villas

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:26:45 +0800

Location

The Elysian Bali
18 Jalan Sari Dewi
Seminyak, Kuta
Bali 80361
Indonesia

Description

Bali Villa with private pool and full hotel, resort facilities in the heart of Seminyak - Bali’s most fashionable neighborhood - a stones throw from white sand beaches, restaurants, shopping and nightlife.

Our aim is to focus on the experience of staying in Bali whether it’s making a reservation, spoiling yourself in the spa, enjoying a sunset drink at the bar, borrowing a pre loaded ipod or simply relaxing in your villa in Bali we want the experience to be positive, pleasurable and special.

Villa Services

Bali Villa Accommodation within its own private garden with 8 x 3 meter pool, sundeck, double bedroom & living space. Sleep on the finest King Koil mattresses and soft cotton sheets, soak or shower in an oversized sunken tub, laze on a day bed, enjoy private dining in the lounge or sunbathe and swim all in the comfort of your own holiday villa in Bali.

Our Bali Villa Rental also features broadband internet connection, 40 channel cable television, DVD/VCD/CD player, Preloaded Ipod Nano on request & Bose sound dock, IDD telephone, pantry mini bar, safe, and can be enjoyed open and fan cooled or enclosed and air conditioned.

Villa Features

Broadband internet connection
40 channel cable television
DVD/VCD/CD player
Preloaded Ipod with Bose dock
IDD telephone
Pantry mini bar
Personal safe
Open and fan cooled
Enclosed and air conditioned

Azur Villa

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:19:55 +0800

Location

Azur Villa Seminyak Bali is located in the heart of Seminyak, walking distance from the Gado Gado beach (400 meters) and a few steps from the retaurants of Jalan Oberoi, shopping and night life.

Description

This traditional contemporary styled villas is a quiet and private place near all your needs in Bali. Featuring 3 double bedrooms (extra king size bed) ensuite bathrooms, the perfect base for discerning travelers to immerse themselves in Bali's thriving social scene of fine dining and exciting nightlife.

Villa Services

Services included:
Daily breakfast
Daily cleaning
Domestic staff and gardener.
Airport transfers

Services on demand:
Driver & tour
Baby Sitting
All meals
Personal laundry

Villa Features
3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, swimming pool.
2 storeys. building area : 205 square meters - land size : 2,8 areas.

Kembali Villas

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:13:09 +0800

Location

Located in the Oberoi area of Seminyak "Kembali Villas" are well situated. The Villas are in the area that hosts Bali's most popular restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Within walking distance to the renowned "Ku De Ta" and an easy walk just minutes away from Seminyak beach.

Description

Opened March 2004 - 4 private luxury and modern (2 bedroom) comfort villas. These spacious two bedroom villas have been designed for the discerning traveler and family. Each villa affords our guests with stylish luxury and modern comforts. Located at next door of The Oberoi Hotel and offering the ultimate experience - ensuring guest satisfaction.

Villa Services

Each Villa has a room maid who will prepare your breakfast from 8:00am. At the same time the gardener and pool attendant will service the pool and garden area. After breakfast the maids will make up the bedroom and leave you to your privacy. All villas are equipped with an electronic safe. A complimentary transfer is provided to and from the airport. A wide selection of DVD's and books are available from the office. Assistance with flight bookings. Office & Secretarial Services.

Villa Features

4 private, 2 bedroom villas
Air Conditioned suites
Private swimming pool
Kitchen
Personal maid and chef
Satellite TV, CD player
IDD Telephone system
High Speed Internet Access

Villa Eight

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:00:02 +0800

Location

Villa 8 is ideally situated in Basangkasa village on the Northern boundaries of Kuta - an area widely known for its large expatriate community - but without Kuta's tourist atmosphere. Bali's most popular restaurants, shops and beaches are an easy walk away for Villa 8 guests.

Description

Private entrances to each villa open onto lush landscaped lawns and colorful gardens that surround your own large swimming pool and lounge chairs; creating an environment of comfort and relaxation in a secure, private, and completely discrete setting.

Villa Services

Onsite Manager
Valet Laundry Service
Foreign Exchange
Doctor on Call
Safety Deposit Box
Fax and Internet Service
Tours, Car Rental and Motorbike Rental
Spa Treatments on Call
24 hour Security
Fully Staffed. Maids and Chef

Villa Features

Whether on business or on holiday, Villa 8 will make you feel right at home. Although located close to the beach and walking distance from restaurants and shops, Villa 8 still envelops tranquility, away from the crowds. The well-appointed and designed Villa 8 concept allows families and business people to enjoy wide, open-plan living with all the comforts of home; combined with that special Balinese touch.

Villa Kubu

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:38:21 +0800

Location

Located in Seminyak, away from the dizzy rush and bustle of Kuta - Bali, yet still near to the exciting shopping, restaurants and nightspots. Our villa accommodation is within easy walking distance to Legian Beach and only a 15 minute drive from Bali International Airport.

Description

Villa Kubu is a unique group of luxurious villas, each with its own private swimming pool. Relax and rejuvenate in our private apartments with swimming pool, amidst lush tropical gardens, all accommodation luxuriously designed with your comfort in mind.

Villa Services

Complimentary:
2x airport transfer
Daily Breakfast
In-house computer and internet access
Welcome fruits and fresh drink upon arrival
1 bottle of mineral water
Fresh flowers upon arrival
Daily house keeping service
24 Hours security

Prices upon request:
Laundry service
Baby sitting
Latest DVD movies
In-villa massage and complete spa
Restaurant delivery
In-villa dinner or lunch
Room service
Grocery shopping

Villa Features
In-Villa Spa
Massage
Cascading waterfall (selected villas)
Lotus pond
Garden bale
Total privacy

Bali Villa Rentals - Seminyak

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 16:42:54 +0800

Villas in Seminyak

Villa Kubu
Villa Kubu is a unique group of luxurious villas, each with its own private swimming pool. Relax and rejuvenate in our private apartments with swimming pool, amidst lush tropical gardens, all accommodation luxuriously designed with your comfort in mind.

Villa Eight
Luxurious Private Villas - where contemporary design meets tradition. This well-appointed design concept allows both families and business people to enjoy wide, open-plan living with all the comforts of a modern home, while still captivating Bali’s timeless traditions.

Kembali Villas
Located in the Oberoi area of Seminyak "Kembali Villas" are well situated. The Villas are in the area that hosts Bali's most popular restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Within walking distance to the renowned "Ku De Ta" and an easy walk just minutes away from Seminyak beach.

Azur Villa
This traditional contemporary styled villas is a quiet and private place. Featuring 3 double bedrooms (extra king size bed) ensuite bathrooms, the perfect base for discerning travelers to immerse themselves in Bali's thriving social scene of fine dining and exciting nightlife.

Bali Villa Rentals - All Areas

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 16:34:49 +0800

Villas in Seminyak

Villa Kubu
Villa Kubu is a unique group of luxurious villas, each with its own private swimming pool. Relax and rejuvenate in our private apartments with swimming pool, amidst lush tropical gardens, all accommodation luxuriously designed with your comfort in mind.

Villas in Kerobokan

Subaliku Villas
Surrounded by rice fields, big skies and beautiful views, Subaliku truly is a dream place. Come and stay in a haven where you will experience the magic of Bali, yet be close enough to the hustle bustle of Kuta for shopping, business or fun.

Villas in Canggu

Villa Mawar Berawa
Located Jalan Pantai Berawa - Gang Mawar - Tandeq in the middle of the rice fields. The amazing and romantic pool that measures 10 by 6 meters has a beautiful overflow out on to a sun terrace. Enjoy an amazing sunset on the island of Bali in Indonesia.

Villas in Jimbaran

Jimbaran Bay Villas
Conveniently located just ten minutes from the airport, between the upscale resorts of Nusa Dua and the shops, restaurants and nightlife of Kuta/Legian. A short walk from Jimbaran Bay with it's brightly painted fishing boats and famous seafood restaurants on the beach.

Bali - Current News & Information

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 16:06:19 +0800

Travel News and Information

Lonely Planet Guide
Destination : Bali - Tips and Information

Indonesia Post
Regional Newspaper - English

Travel Advice
Australian Government Travel Assistance Website

Latest Bali News

Changing Money in Bali

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 16:02:51 +0800

Exchange facilities for the main foreign currencies are available in the major business centers of Bali. Rupiahs come in denominations of: 100.000, 50.000, 20.000, 10.000, 5000 and 1000 in bank notes.

In Bali you have any number of ways to change money. Banks are OK, Hotels are OK. Check to see who gives you the best rates. Look for a reputable location.

You are able to get a cash advance on your credit card of around $400.00 per day in most banks for just a few dollars in fees plus what your own bank charges.

Note. If you try and change older US bank notes, or if your bank notes are old and worn, or if you change smaller bill denominations, you will receive a lower exchange rate.

Video About Bali

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 16:00:23 +0800

This Bali tourist promotion video is several years old however the content is still relevant. It is a very nice little introduction to the island of Bali and the many features, both cultural and tourist. The quality has been sacrificed to allow web presentation, although the file size is still 20 MB. Please note the download progress bar below. The video will start when a sufficient amount of the file has been downloaded. Be patient...

Bali Visa Requirements

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:42:53 +0800

General

All visitors must possess a passport valid for at least six months after their arrival date in Indonesia. Immigration officials reserve the right to deny entry to any visitor who, in their opinion, is not properly dressed or groomed (long hair is okay), lacks the proper funds, or "may endanger the country's security, peace, and stability or the public health and morals." These unfortunate undesirables will receive a transit visa upon arrival that allows them to hang out at the airport until the first available flight out.

Tourist Visa

60 days (previously) valid, non-extendable. You have to leave the country and return to get another stamp in your passport. A round-trip flight from Jakarta to Singapore costs around US$140, a round trip from Denpasar to Singapore about US$230. Some expatriates have experienced that after a number of these stamps are placed in one's passport, the officials at the airport may hassle and accuse the frequent tourist of working. Maintaining honestly that one is a a tourist and remaining patient is recommended.

Presidential Decision No. 18 of 2003 dated 31 March 2003 states that for most countries the Tourist visa (short stay permit) now is valid only for 30 days, and now requires the payment of a fee (US$25.) This decree has been implemented since February 1st, 2004 and affects visitors from 21 countries. You may be able to contact your local Indonesian Embassy and arrange the visa prior to leaving; otherwise the fee will be payable at immigration upon your arrival. [more details]

Social Visa

Valid for visits that are social, cultural, religious, or medical in nature. This includes visiting family or relatives and social organisations, and exchange visits between academic, art, or sports institutions. 60 days valid, monthly extendable to a total of 6 months. One requires an Indonesian 'sponsor' and letter from this sponsor. One can only obtain such a visa outside of Indonesia. In Singapore there are agents who can arrange the 'Sosial Budaya' within a day. Usually it takes 3 days to get one.

Bali Holiday Pemuteran

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:40:18 +0800

PEMUTERAN

Located in Bali's far northwest, Pemuteran sleeps quietly between Bali's national park and the Bali sea. About 15 minutes to West Bali National Park and Menjangan island diving sites, 1.5 hours to Singaraja, capital city of north Bali and about 3 hours drive from Denpasar, the capital of Bali in the south.

This peaceful place is ideal for natural excursion activities such as trekking at the National Park, swimming, snorkeling and diving. Famous for its reef and turtle conservation programme, Pemuteran is also great as a base for short or long jungle treks or bird watching trips. Other activities include sea kayaking, cycling and horse riding both along the beach and into the surrounding hills. Pulaki temple, one of Bali's oldest and most important temples, is close-by as are some relaxing hot springs.

Bali Holiday Lovina

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:36:01 +0800

LOVINA

Lovina nestles at the bottom of steep hills on the north coast of Bali and is renowned for its gentle waves, cool sea breezes, sunsets and laid back beach life. Nearby are medicinal hot mineral springs, a Buddhist temple, waterfalls and exhilarating mountain village walks. Located only 4 km. west of Singaraja, the capital of North Bali, and a 90 km. drive from Denpasar.

Singaraja, the old Dutch colonial capital gives you the chance to soak up the atmosphere of a typical Indonesian town. Within an hour's drive are lakes and waterfalls, hot springs and a Buddhist Monastery. A little further afield is the active volcano of Batur. Scuba diving excursions can be arranged to view the local reef off Lovina Beach which is rich in coral and tropical fish. Within a 1 hour drive is the West Bali National Park which has the best coral in Bali. Tulamben is close also, where you may dive the wreck of the USS Liberty. Early morning dolphin sightseeing tours can be arranged from Lovina.

Bali Holiday Amed

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:33:10 +0800

AMED

Amed is approximately 3 hours drive from Denpasar Airport and the southern resorts of Kuta and Nusa Dua. The area is a series of small bays and quiet fishing villages. The beaches are lined with colorful Jukung fishing boats that sail each morning at sunrise and return later to unload their catch.

The safe, calm waters are perfect for swimming and their is an abundance of vibrantly colored fish and beautiful coral. Some of the best snorkeling and diving in Bali can be found in this area. New species of marine life are often discovered here.

Activities in Amed include Diving, Snorkeling, Fishing, Sailing, Trekking, Guided Tours.

Tirtaganga and its majestic water palace. Cool, crisp, clear water and amazing views of the rice terraces.

Bali Holiday Candidasa

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:29:02 +0800

CANDIDASA

Candi Dasa is approximately 2 hours drive from Denpasar Airport and the southern resorts of Kuta and Nusa Dua.

Enjoy peace and serenity in the sleepy seaside village of Candi Dasa. From here one has easy access to East Bali's spectacular unspoiled beauty. Dramatic views of Mt Agung, Bali's sacred mountain; lush green rice terraces clinging to steep and sweeping valleys; traditional villages following age-old customs; colourful rituals and ceremonies; and crystal-clear seas rich in coral and marine life. Here there is a timeless quality as ancient cultures and traditions remain unchanged - an essential element of daily life

Discover the pre-Hindu weaving village of Tenganan and watch the textile-weavers create the magic cloth, "geringsing"; scuba-dive or snorkel in the abundant ocean - or skim across it in a glass-bottom boat, enjoying a fishing expedition! Explore the rich and diverse hinterland by bicycle, enjoy an easy trek or tackle the summit of the sacred mountain Agung.

Bali Holiday Ubud

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:21:10 +0800

UBUD

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's pre-eminent centre for fine arts, dance and music.

While it once was a haven for backpackers, cosmic seekers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs. Famous names walk its busy sidewalks everyday. Elegant five star hotels and sprawling mansions now stand on its outskirts, overlooking the most prized views in Bali.

Nonetheless, Ubud is still popular with backpackers, mystics and all the finest fringe elements of global society. Ubud is not "ruined." Its character is too strong to be destroyed. It still draws people who add something; people who are actively involved in art, nature, anthropology, music, dance, architecture, environmentalism, "alternative modalities," and more.

The center of Balinese painting, Ubud's Museum "Puri Lukisan" has a permanent collection of modern works of Balinese art dating from the turn of the century. There are also several art galleries and homes of famous artists, including the Dutch-born Hans Snel and American Antonio Blanco. The "Young Artist" style now popular in Balinese painting was introduced by the Dutch painter Arie Smith. In the past, other foreign painters inspired Balinese artists to adopt western techniques, but traditional Balinese paintings are still highly collectable. The Neka Museum has a wide collection of paintings by Indonesian as well as foreign artists who used to live in Bali.

Bali Holiday Denpasar

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:19:16 +0800

DENPASAR

Don’t make the mistake of skipping Denpasar while touring the island. Although, like any city, it is noisy and polluted, there is lots to see and do in this ancient town. Denpasar was rebuilt after the Puputan massacre of 1906; when the royal families committed suicide rather than surrender to the invading Dutch Army.

Today Denpasar is a bustling city of some 450,000 inhabitants - and more vehicles per capita than Jakarta. There is an excellent art center, a museum and the colorful (and cheap) market in Jl. Sulawesi. There are also several large department stores such as Hero and Matahari. You will also find many restaurants and fast food stores. The restaurant selection is wide and varied. Some dedicated searching will discover excellent Chinese and Asian food varieties.

Denpasar is the largest and busiest city on the island and originally developed from a trading center. The name means "east of the market." It is the headquarters for the government, the media, the island's principal banks, airline offices, and hospitals. A hot, dusty, cacophonous city, Denpasar has grown fifteen-fold over the past 10 years. The inhabitants consist of Bali's original gentry, the priest class, and the new Balinese techno and bureaucratic elites; as well as Indonesians drawn from other islands to this economic magnet. Denpasar is one of Indonesia's most fully integrated and tolerant cities, with separate kampungs of Bugis, Arabs, Indians, Chinese, Madurese, and Javanese. Without doubt it is the richest, most important city in Eastern Indonesia.

Bali Holiday Canggu

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:15:50 +0800

CANGGU

It is worth traveling on the main road that follows the western coast up towards Gianyar in the north for the scenery alone, but these drives can also lead to some beautiful uncrowded surfing condition. Just out of town is Canggu, where some hillside villas here offer simple under stated comfort and make the most of the great ocean views and wonderful surfing opportunities.

The mix of temperate whether and tropical water makes Canggu a surfing wonderland. Many people have been attracted to Canggu because of the great surfing it has to offer, and it is now one of the top surfing destinations in Bali. Canggu is surrounded by rice field, quite and calm area. Located about 40 minutes drive from airport and 15 minutes drive to Seminyak and Kerobokan area.

Located near Canggu, just across the boundary of Badung regency, Tanah Lot is the most well-known and photographed temple. A truly remarkable and feature temple, Tanah Lot is built on a stony narrow piece of terrain, which the high tides transform into an island, making right of entry from the land impossible. Tanah Lot is particularly spectacular at sunset when the illumination springs back over the waves.

The beach around Tanah Lot is less comfortable for swimming but great for horse riding and watching spectacular sunset. Although you can surf in this area, it is not recommended for the beginner.

Bali Holiday Sanur

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:13:22 +0800

SANUR

The best way to describe Sanur is like a small Balinese mountain village - by the sea. Sanur has one lazy street which winds its way behind the beachfront hotels, dotted with small restaurants, and shops which cater for every taste.

Up until 1991 Sanur was the favoured area by the majority of tourists to Bali. With the advent of resorts in Nusa Dua and the Kuta side of the Island, it was relatively forgotten except for those who new better.

Sanur is one of the best places to stay in Bali if you are looking for some relaxation but still having the convenience of local shops and restaurants - without the constant hassling from hawkers. It is easy to travel anywhere from Sanur, the frenetic shopping and bartering and nightlife of Kuta is only 20mins away by taxi, Ubud is only 40mins, and the airport 20mins.

The beach in Sanur is protected by a reef so is very safe to swim but only at high tide. At low tide, rock and some reef become exposed. The beach is white sand and quite wide. The best part about the beach here is the views offered across the water from a number of small hotels and the restaurant at the Raddin.

If you are looking for small Balinese style villas with perhaps a thatched roof or a resort style property with beautiful gardens, you will find it in Sanur. If shopping and eating in a laid back, relaxed style, contained within peaceful surroundings is what you are looking for, this is the place.

Bali Holiday Nusa Dua

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:09:02 +0800

NUSA DUA

Nusa Dua was designed for the luxury conscious with a heavy concentration of big name hotels lining the beautiful white sand beach. Some of the resorts have private beaches but most areas are accessible. The stretch past the Hilton Resort has been a public beach and during the wet season, the outer reef boasts a popular surf break. You will find some simple warungs selling good food at cheap prices along this beautiful stretch of white sandy beach that offers excellent swimming conditions in a protected lagoon.

Bali's southern peninsula is where you find most of the island's international 4 and 5 star hotels. Set in a manicured (not traditionally Balinese) garden environment. Quite nice beach with shallow water, no high waves. All kinds of water sports and an 18-hole golf course. Restaurant choice is limited outside the hotels and price is generally slightly higher than the Kuta or Sanur areas. Some more reasonably priced reaturants are located in adjacent Tanjung Benoa and Bualu village.

Shopping is split between the clothing markets at the front of Nusa Dua where you can barter for anything from socks to copy watches; and the designer stores of Galleria.

Nusa Dua is only 25 minutes from the airport and 35 minutes from all the shopping and life of Kuta. Nusa Dua's location makes it very easy to enjoy the best of both worlds. If up market villas and extensive resorts with huge pools overlooking the ocean; or being able to walk to a golf course, is what you visualize for a holiday, then Nusa Dua is the place.

Bali Holiday Kuta

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 15:04:16 +0800

KUTA

Kuta, first discovered by the surfers and hippies of the 60's, has now become known around the world for its magnificent sunsets, surf beach and nightlife. Once a sleepy fishing village it has now been transformed into the center of all the Bali action.

Whether you are looking for leather, fashion, handicrafts, jewelry, shoes, music tapes or CD's, paintings or exotic wood carvings - don't forget to bargain. Kuta with its markets, street vendors, night clubs, hotels, restaurants, bars and plenty of entertainment, is full of nonstop action. If you want to find a bargain to bring home, just want to relax on the beach, or perhaps "party till you drop" - then you'll find Kuta is everything and more.

Kuta, with its daily spectacular sunsets, is also the centre of night life activities in Southern Bali and a shopping mecca. It has rows of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Restaurants line the streets and accommodation ranges from small, inexpensive homestays to luxurious resorts.

The beach of Kuta is one of the first beaches discovered by tourists and is still a favourite. On the south, the beach is fenced by the airport’s runway, which gives you a breathtaking landing experience. The beach stretches as far north as the eyes can see. As short walk away, north, the waves will invite you to test your surfing. Kuta is very short drive from the airport, and transport is readily available.

Bali Holiday Airport

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 14:37:28 +0800

Arrival

Proceed through customs & immigration. Change a small amount of money before you exit the terminal if required. Better exchange rates in town.

Your driver will find you and take you to your villa. If a driver is not arranged you should proceed to the Taxi Booth and purchase a voucher to your destination. The voucher system ensures that your fare is the standard fare. Note: Kuta, Seminyak, Kerobokan are all around the same area - however a slight fare difference is incurred.

A Visa Entry Tax of US$25.00 may be required.

Departure

Check your ticket and arrive 2 hours before your flight is due to leave. Your villa should provide a driver. Note: Purchase gifts, etc. before you leave. Airport prices are more "international."

A Departure Tax of Rp 100,000 will be required.

The Culture of Bali

Thu, 8 Oct 2009 12:42:18 +0800

Although there are no artifacts or records dating back to the Stone Age, it is believed that the first settlers in Bali migrated from China around 2,500 BC, and by the Bronze era, around 300 BC, quite an evolved culture existed in Bali. The complex system of irrigation and rice production, still in use today, was established around this time.

History is vague for the first few centuries. A number of Hindu artifacts were been found dating back to the 1st century (AD), which suggests that the main religion, around 500 AD, was predominantly Buddhist.

It wasn't until the 11th century that Bali received the first strong influx of Hindu and Javanese cultures. With the death of his father around AD 1,011, Airlanggha, a Balinese prince, moved to east Java and set about creating unity. Having succeeded, he then appointed his brother, Anak Wungsu, as ruler of Bali. During the ensuing period there was a reciprocation of political and artistic ideas, and the old Javanese language, Kawi, became the language used by the aristocracy.

With the death of Airlanggha, in the middle of the 11th century, Bali enjoyed a period of autonomy. This proved to be short lived as in 1284, the East Javanese king Kertanegara, conquered Bali and ruled over it from Java. In 1292, Kertanegara was murdered and Bali took the opportunity to liberate itself once again. However, in 1343, Bali was brought back under Javanese control by its defeat at the hands of Gajah Mada , a general in the Majapahit, the last of the great Hindu-Javanese empires.

The Island of Bali

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 23:47:55 +0800

Bali lies between the islands of Java and Lombok and is one more than 17,000 islands that makes up the Indonesian Archipelago. Bali is small, stretching approximately 140 km from east to west and 80 km from north to south. Slightly off centre, and running east to west, are a string of volcanic mountains. The tallest is Gunung Agung, which last erupted in 1963, and is 3,142 m. at its highest point.

Lying just 8° south of the Equator, Bali boasts a tropical climate with just two seasons, wet and dry, a year and an average annual temperature of around 28° C. The rich volcanic soil and healthy monsoon season make this island extremely fertile and a range of crops are grown here. The wide and gently sloping southern regions play host to Bali's famed rice terraces, among some of the most spectacular in the world. In the hilly, northern coastal regions, the main produce is coffee, copra, spices, vegetables, cattle and rice.

The Balinese people have strong spiritual roots and despite the large influx of tourists over the years, their culture is still very much alive. The main religion is Agama Hindu Dharma, which arrived in Bali With the spread of Hinduism through Sumatra and Java during the 11th century. Although originally from India, the Balinese religion is a unique blend of Hindu, Buddhist, Javanese and ancient indigenous beliefs, with customs that are very different from the traditional from of Hinduism practiced in India today. With the arrival of Islam in neighbouring Java during the 15th century, a large number of courtiers, artists, musicians and craftsmen fled to Bali, creating an artistic renaissance.

Private Bali Villa Rental

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 23:43:08 +0800

Many people fall in love with Bali. They are enchanted by her beauty - her unique culture and diversity. Bali is unique! It is totally different. Bali's culture and customs cannot be found anywhere else in the world. This natural beauty examples the best of Asia. International lovers of Bali continually return to the island. They feel that Bali is their second home.

Many people assume that the only option for their holiday is to book a hotel room and plan their accommodation from this assumption. Many hotels on the island do offer excellent holiday package deals. Occasionally it may preferable to take these deals, for a brief vacation, and include all of the hotel services at your fingertips. But then, let's face it - hotels do have that generic affect of being the same the world over.

Many visitors to Bali have discovered that an attractive alternative to hotel accommodation is your own private Bali villa accommodation.

Create a most memorable holiday experience. From the terraced mountain sides of Ubud to the water's edge; our selection of villas range from a one bedroom honeymoon retreat to your own private luxury villa on the Island of the Gods. These villa accommodations include staff. The staff act as your personal assistants during your vacation, providing you with a sense of security - and a sense of genuine contact with the local inhabitants. Renting a Bali villa is an opportunity to connect more closely with the Bali experience.