Asian Paradises

INDONESIA www.paradisesonline.com 29 metres up the slopes of Gunung Agung is Bali's most important temple, Besakih. North of Denpasar is the temple of Taman Ayun in Mengwi, spacious and memorable for its moat and large grassy outer courtyard; and Bedugul, which has a leisure park at the southern end of Lake Bratan and lovely botanicial gardens. It is the south of Bali that is the real tourist mecca: the areas of Kuta, Tuban, Legian and Seminyak. Kuta has an incredible concentration of shops and services, as well as Bali's most famous beach—the only place in Bali where the surf breaks over sand instead of coral. Kuta and Legian come alive at night, with shops and market stalls selling every Balinese handicraft imaginable. Various cultural performances are staged nightly, with one of Bali's best Kecak (traditional dance) performances to be seen in Kuta. The increasingly busy area of Tuban is situated close to the attractions of Kuta and Legian but with a more tranquil beach. Safer swimming combined with Bali's only watersports park, Waterbom Bali, makes it an appealing option for family holidays. Southern Bali, encompassing Nusa Dua, Sanur and Tanjung Benoa, is where most of the island's international 5-star hotels are located. Sanur has a palm-lined beach and its waters are protected by reefs making it ideal for watersports. Reasonably priced restaurants are found in Tanjung Benoa and Bualu village, and the nightlife is relatively sedate. There are other beaches at Lovina in the north, and Candi Dasa in the east. Popular activities on Bali range from surfing, scuba diving and sea walking to indulging at pristine spas or attending an exciting cooking school. As it continues to attract an increasing number of international visitors every year, dining in Bali is very cosmopolitan yet inexpensive. Bali has amazing fresh seafood and the local lobster, sold at prices that will have you coming back again and again, is not to be missed. A huge range of international cuisines including Chinese, Malaysian, Italian, Greek, Moroccan and Mexican, to name just a few, are available. Be sure to enjoy local delicacies such as nasi goreng and sate campur. Bali is also recognised as a shopper's paradise. Whether you are looking for casual or tailored clothing, locally crafted jewellery, handicrafts, antiques and artefacts or leather goods—including leather coats, jackets and handbags—you will find it all at amazing prices. Don't forget, bartering is the local custom at the markets so have fun and get the best price you can. If you need a quieter pace, try the fixed-price department stores in Denpasar. Bali offers every standard of accommodation ranging from modest, yet charming bungalow-style hotels nestled in lush tropical gardens through to some of the most exclusive and sophisticated hotels in the world. There is without doubt something to suit every budget. The abundance of cultural and historical sites here makes for a fascinating holiday. Blue Season Bali Jl Danau Poso, Gg Wanasari 3B, Sanur 80228, Bali INDONESIA Tel: +62 361 270 852 Fax: +62 361 270 842 Email: diving@blueseasonbali.com www.baliocean.com Discover an underwater paradise with the premier dive operation in Bali. Whether you are just a beginner, a seasoned professional or a snorkeller, Blue Season Bali is committed to showing you the most awesome diving destinations in Bali. With a priority on your safety and enjoyment, the highly trained dive team will ensure that have a fantastic and unforgettable diving experience. Blue Season Bali's knowledgeable and friendly dive staff have an enviable reputation as Bali's best at spotting elusive marine life, including the famous Mola Mola in season (July to October). Daily trips to the best diving around this tropical paradise include Tulamben, where you can dive the world famous USAT Liberty shipwreck that is covered in wonderful sponges, sea fans, corals and home to an amazing abundance of sea creatures and marine life. This site is suitable for experienced and new divers alike and it is even a great place to make your very first 'try dive'. Nusa Penida is a must for its beautiful clear waters, including the aptly named Crystal Bay and there is a great chance of spotting manta rays all year around at Manta Point. Other great sites include Blue Lagoon with a white sandy bottom and great coral pinnacles, and Amed, a calm and gentle bay full of interesting creatures including the rare pygmy sea horse. Snorkellers can join all-day trips and will be delighted with the huge variety of highly coloured tropical fish and the beautiful healthy corals. These sites are great for children too so bring the whole family and make this a most memorable day.

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