Baliguide

POPULAR BALI ACTIVITIES

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Water Sports: Swimming, snorkeling, banana boat rides, water ski, parasailing, etc. are arranged by most hotels and at the Beluga Marina in Tanjung Benoa. There are also small sail boats, catamarans, and boards for wind surfing for rent along Jimbaran Beach.

The most challenging of Bali's famous surfing spots are near Ulu Watu (only for experts in top physical condition who are comfortable surfing over coral reefs on large, powerful waves that break in shallow water) and along Bali's West coast North of Canggu; the best time is during the dry season from June to September. For details on the various locations please visit the Baliwaves web site or check Peter Neely's "Indo Surf & Lingo" guide book.

You can also buy a day-guest ticket (telephone before as prices vary from US$45 to US$55 per person and seem to depend on their occupancy!) and enjoy all sports facilities at Nusa Dua's CLUB MED until 17:00 in the afternoon. They offer sea kayakking, wind surfing, snorkeling, and many other sports activities such as water aerobics, archery, tennis, and ping pong tournaments, beach volleyball, bocci ball lessons, and a circus school for adults. The day-guest ticket includes a lunch buffet with a choice of Western, Indonesian, Chinese, Japanese and Korean dishes and unlimited table wine, beer and soft drinks.

A large free-form swimming pool with a life band playing during the afternoon on the center island is the main attraction of the new HARD ROCK BEACH CLUB in Kuta. There is a pool-side restaurant for various snacks, a pool bar serving exotic drinks, and you can even rent your private pool-side "Cabana" if you wish to draw the curtains for some privacy. Pool use is 100,000 Rupiah per day for non-resident guests, and for the "Cabana" they charge 140,000 Rupiah per day.

Spending an afternoon in the Aquatonic Pool at the new RITZ-CARLTON THALASSO & SPA is an experience not to be missed! The roofed 650 sq. meter (7,000 sq.ft.) pool contains 700 million liters (153 million gallons) of heated seawater. With a maximum depth of 1.3 meters (4 ft.) the pool includes different zones at variable temperatures with numerous strong jets providing aquatic massages to improve blood circulation, tone up the muscles and provide relaxation. There is a cross current walking corridor, cross current swimming corridor, cubicles for leg, tight and stomach massage, aqua seats and cubicles for back massage, swan necks for neck and shoulder massage, several jet pools, bubble bath areas, geysers and aqua beds providing a relaxing bubble massage and a panoramic Indian Ocean view. One-time access to the Aquatonic Pool for two hours is US$35 +20% tax & service per person (minors below 16 years are not allowed). Not cheap but well worth it!

* Spa & Beauty Treatments: A wide range of treatments is offered in the RITZ CARLON SPA adjacent to the Aquatonic Pool for US$50 to US$80 +21% per hour. Other famous spas in the upper price category are at the NUSA DUA BEACH RESORT, at THE LEGIAN in Seminyak, and the KIRANA in Ubud features a spectacular setting. Numerous other spas in all tourist areas offer treatments at lower prices, and when you stay at many of Balivillas.com's villas you enjoy free massages and spa treatments including the famous Mandi Lulur at substantially reduced rates. For bookings and more information call 703-060.

* Scuba Diving in Bali: A number of PADI certified companies offer diving tours (no spear fishing in Bali) with experienced guides and equipment from one day to several days. The best Bali diving sites (some with ship wrecks) are along Bali's East cost near Candi Dasa, Amed and Tulamben and near Nusa Penida. The area around Menjangan Island near Gilimanuk (ferry to Java) is regarded by many experts as over-rated, and do not try diving near Nusa Dua and around the Southern peninsula — it's a waste of time and money. About US$60 to US$90 (depending on the destination) per person for one-day tours; US$350-US$400 plus extra costs or US$450 including everything for four day courses including your PADI certificate. For bookings and diving information call 703-060.

* Game Fishing: A number of companies offer yachts and fishing boats with guides for charter. The catch includes Tuna, Wahoo, Mai-Mai, Mackerel, or Marlin - and Snapper, Cod and Coral Trout to be caught reef fishing should you so desire. From US$40 per hour for a small boat, US$500 per day (US$250 half-day) for a 30-foot catamaran with satellite navigation, top-of-the range fish finder and sonar as well as Brownie diving equipment, and US$660 per day for a state-of-the-art BLACK WATCH game fishing vessel with experienced crew, full insurance, and all electronics and safety gear. For bookings and charter information call 703-060.

* Day Cruises: There are daily cruises to nearby Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan islands off the South-East coast of Bali. Guests spend the day either at one of the cruise companies' beach clubs (with restaurant, swimming pool, water sports equipment) or on a floating pontoon, and you can go snorkeling, scuba diving, take Banana Boat rides, or view the underwater world from a semi-submersible vessel. You can choose between modern, air-conditioned motor cruisers accommodating 100 and more guests and a number of smaller sailing boats. For the more adventurous there is now also a 12-meter inflatable Ocean Raft carrying up to 24 passengers. Departure is usually around 9.00 a.m., and you return in the afternoon. About US$65 to US$85 per person including lunch, children from 5 to 14 years 50%. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Dinner Cruises: Some of the boats which leave in the morning for the regular Island Cruises offer also a Dinner Cruise starting around 17:45 p.m. After cruising around the Benoa harbour, an international buffet dinner and some entertainment by folk singers and live bands you return around 20:45 p.m. to the pier. US$40 per person, children up to 16 years 50%. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Island Cruises: There are a number of cruises from Bali through the Lesser Sunda Islands, to Sulawesi, and the Moluccas. You can choose from modern cruise liners, luxurious private yachts, and traditional Buginese schooners, and either join a scheduled cruise from 3 days to 12 or 15 days, or even charter your own yacht or schooner with 2 to 16 cabins, experienced crew, and a Western tour guide. Please look at the different cruises and yacht charter options available or call 703-060 for information.

* Submarine Safari: You can book a tour which brings you about 70 feet below the sea of Amuk Bay, Padangbai. The small submarine can carry about 36 guests, and large port holes allow you to view and photograph underwater reefs and corals, many marine creatures, and a large variety of fish including sharks. The Odyssey Submarine offers you 45 minutes dive with 1.5 hour free program. Rate is US$69 per person. For bookings and charter information call 703-060.

* Playing Golf in Bali: The "Bali Handara Kosaido Country Club" near Bedugul in the mountains is probably Bali's most attractive golf course. There is also a 18-hole course at the "Bali Golf & Country Club" in Nusa Dua near the Bali Hilton, a 9-hole course at the Grand Bali Beach Hotel in Sanur, and the new "Nirwana Bali Golf Club" with a 18-hole course near Tanah Lot. If you are interested in playing golf in Bali, please call 703-060 for bookings and information.

* Tennis & Squash: There are Clark Hatch Sports Clubs at the Sheraton Laguna and Nusa Indah Resort, Kartika Plaza Hotel, and Nikko Hotel each of which has several outdoor tennis courts, indoor squash courts, and complete fitness facilities. Playing partners as well as lessons are available. Most other 5-star hotels have at least some tennis courts which can also be booked by outside guests. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Paragliding: Located on the Bukit (the hill South of the airport), a well-trained instructor accompanies you on a 20 minute tandem flight over the most spectacular strip of Bali's coastline. For bookings and information call 703-060. Note: Available only in the afternoon, confirmation can be made one hour prior to the activity.

* White Water Rafting: Several companies offer exciting white water rafting tours (grade 2 to grade 4 rapids) on the Ayung river North-West of Ubud and — during certain times of the year — also on the Unda river North of Klungkung. You pass waterfalls and volcanic cliffs, deep sided gorges, tranquil rice terraces and remote villages. From morning to afternoon, US$56-US$85 per person including transfers from and to your hotel and lunch. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Other Organized Adventures: Lake and Sea Kayakking, Jungle Trekking, and Mountain Cycling are arranged by the companies listed above. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Bungy Jumping: A. J. Hackett in adjacent to Double Six, Legian, is the island's only beach bungy tower with a lift. US$62. With the "Sling Shot" at the "Adrenalin Park" in Kuta you can get shot 52 metres into the air in just over one second, and they have an overhanging climbing wall, too. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Horseback Riding: Experience Bali on horse back, ride through rice fields and along deserted beaches. Tours can be organized mornings and afternoons. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Paintball War Games: The newly operated "Paintball Bali" is located on Jimbaran Hill and occupies about 3 hectares of exciting playing fields. Facilities include a large parking area, lobby with audio-video facilities, individual changing rooms and lockers as well as a staging area. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Nature Tours: Visit the Bali Barat National Park in the West of the island, the Butterfly Park "Taman Kupu Kupu" in Wanasari, Tabanan, or the Botanical Gardens in Bedugul. Guided bird watching tours are offered starting from Ubud (in the village of Petulu a few miles north of Ubud you can also watch between 5:30 and 7:00 p.m. every day the arrival of thousands of white herons who are nesting here), and you can visit the bull races in Negara. If you stay near Lovina in the North, get up early one morning and hire a boat to watch hundreds of dolphins. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* The Botanical Garden, Ubud: This covers an area of five hectares and accommodates a natural ravine. There are an Orchid Garden, a vast collection of ferns, palms, bamboos and tropical trees, as well as Bali's first maze. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Bali Safari and Marine Park: This newly opened safari park is set in 40 hectares of land and located near Gianyar; there are safari vehicles to cruise the park and interact with 400 animals from Asia including Indonesia, India, and Africa. Introductory entrance fee is US$25 per person. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Bali Zoo: "Nature's Education Center" is home of more than 350 animals and located in Singapadu near Ubud. Daily programs include animal feeding (lions, crocodiles, tigers etc.) as well as animal petting e.g. you can touch and hold various birds and baby monkeys. Entrance fee is US$18 per adult. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Harley Davidson Rental: For real bikers who want to explore Bali in a different way, Harley Davidson bikes are available for rent. Various families of Sportster (883cc), Dyna Low Rider (1,450cc), Fat Boy (1,450cc) or Heritage Softail Classic (1,450cc) are available at US$70 to US$150 per day. Additional US$30 if you need a guide for tandem riding. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* ATV Quad & Buggy Tour: An adventurous journey off-the-beaten track on 250-350cc ATV's through lush forests and mountain streams to enjoy some of the best views of Bali's rice terraces. Rates start at US$69 per person. For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Paint A Pot: Jenggala is pleased to offer handpainting of ceramics – raw glazed of ceramics range from US$5 to US$21 each. A course in ceramic hand building is also available. This includes slabwork, pinch and coil techoniques, drop moulds and handthrowing. Rate starts from US$10 (2hrs per session - course completed within 1 week.) For bookings and information call 703-060.

* Not Only for Children: Take a stroll through Denpasar's bird market near the northern end of Jalan Veteran where you see not only a large variety of tropical birds but also tropical fish, cats and dogs, monkeys etc. You can visit the Taman Burung bird park with 1,000 different species of birds (and even a small Komodo dragon in the adjacent Reptile Park) in Singapadu about 20 minutes north of Denpasar, the Waterbom Park with four slides and a flowing river in tropical surroundings in Tuban, or enjoy jungle treks on top of Sumatran elephants starting from the Elephant Safari Park in Taro, a village about 50 kilometers north of Denpasar. Camel rides on the beach are offered at the Hotel Nikko Bali in Nusa Dua.

* Balinese Dance & Music Classes: The YAYASAN POLOS SENI (Foundation for Pure Art) in Banjar Teges Kanginan, Peliatan, Ubud, e-mail polos@goarchi.com, offers Balinese dance and music classes for students who wish to become fully involved with the dance & music culture of Bali. Enrolling in one of these classes (one-to-one tuition and participation in group rehearsals and performances) means becoming a member of the family of students and teachers and an in-depth experience of the world of performers and performances in the Ubud area. There are also 2-week courses to learn playing the Gamelan at the MUSEUM SENI KLASSIK in Klungkung (e-mail anggie@gggamelan.com) which are open for all levels of experience. Beginners as well as "non-musicians" are welcome.

* Meditation Classes: Free Raya Yoga Meditation classes and regular sessions in Ubud and Denpasar, tel. 976-206. There are also free lessons every Monday 19.00 at the Denpasar Meditation Shop, tel. 237-260. Information on daily meetings, classes, books, tapes and videos from Bali Osho Information Centre, telephone 423-595.

* Balinese Cooking Classes: Discover the secrets of Balinese cuisine by joining one of the 1-Day Cooking Classes held by Heinz von Holzen, the author of the book "The Food Of Bali" and former food guru of the Grand Hyatt and Ritz Carlton hotels in Bali. You can visit Heinz in his beautiful BUMBU BALI restaurant in Tanjung Benoa next to Nusa Dua and enjoy their fabulous dishes at any time. If you wish to enrol in one of his popular classes, you better book in advance.

Balinese cooking classes are also held in Ubud at the BUMBU Restaurant (tel. 974-217), at CASA LUNA (tel. 96-283), and at the nearby Sua Bali Culture and Information Centre (tel. 941-050).

* Culinary Events: Aimed more at the local community than at tourists are the "Wine & Cigars" and other special dinners at the AMANUSA and RITZ CARLTON as well as the BVLGARI Resort (900,000 Rupiah to 2,800,000 Rupiah per person).

The monthly lunch meetings of the "Bali Wine Club" and the "Chaîne des Rôtisseurs" Black-Tie dinners are for members and their guests only. If you've booked a villa through Balivillas.com and are seriously interested in good food and wine, please call their Service Center at 703-060 to arrange your attendance.

* Hash House Harriers: There are three groups of Hash House Harriers holding regular runs on every Monday, Thursday and Saturday at 4.30 p.m. You can find up-to-date information at the GLORY restaurant in Legian, LIPS Country & Western Bar and BALI BAKERY in Kuta, ALAS ARUM supermarket, ARRI'S CAFE and ARENA Sports Bar in Sanur, and at NAUGHTY NURI'S bar in Ubud. For more details please visit their web site.

* Social Clubs: Rotarians, Lions, Scal Club members, etc. hold regular meetings in various parts of Bali. Schedules are published in the local newspapers.

BALINESE DANCE & DRAMA

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Balinese Dances

Most Balinese dance performances are held in the evenings, however, you can also see some Barong Dance performances in the morning.

If you prefer to watch one of these Balinese dance performances in a hotel after a sumptuous dinner buffet, the OBEROI is recommended because of the beautiful beach front setting. For those who do not wish to have dinner here, there is a US$10/person fee to enjoy the dances; Classical Dance on Tuesdays and Ramayana Dance on Thursdays, starting from 8:30 p.m.

Bali Dance Festival offers daily dance performance during buffet at US$25 per person. The restaurant opens at 7:00pm for dinner and on 8:00pm the performance starts. For further information and booking, please call 703-060.

If you have rented a villa, you can contact our local Service Center at 703-060 to arrange a private Balinese dance performance in your garden at any time convenient for you. 40 to 60 dancers and musicians in beautiful costumes will perform the Balinese dances of your choice and be afterwards available to explain anything you might wish to know.

* Barong Dance: This Balinese dance is about a contest between the opposing forces of chaos and destruction ("Rangda") and order (the "Barong"). Performances in Suwung and Kesiman (suburbs of Denpasar), and in Batubulan daily from 9:00 or 9:30 a.m.; in Banjar Abasan, Singapadu, daily from 9:30 a.m., and at Puri Saren in Ubud, Friday from 6:30 p.m.

* Legong Dance: A highly stylized, extremely difficult dance performed by young girls. Choreographed to the finest details, and no improvisation allowed. Performances at the Peliatan Stage, Friday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Dalem, Puri Peliatan, Saturday from 6:30 p.m., at Pura Peliatan in Ubud, Sunday from 7:30 p.m., and at Puri Saren, Ubud, Monday from 7:30 p.m.

* Kecak Dance: A ritual dance created in the early 1930's for the movie "Island of the Demons" by the German painter and intellectual Walter Spies who combined the chorus of the "Sanghyang" trance dance with a story from the "Ramayana" legend. Very impressive with its circular chorus of sometimes over 100 bare chested male singers. Performances are held at the Arts Center, Denpasar, daily from 6:30 p.m., and in Banjar Tegal, Ubud, Sunday from 6:00 p.m.

* Fire Dance: The Fire Dance is an exorcist dance against spirit possession. Girls in trance dance barefoot among glowing coals. Performances in Bona Kangin, Gianyar, Friday. Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 p.m. In Bonasari, Gianyar, Friday, Monday and Wednesday from 7:00 p.m., and in Batubulan, daily from 6:30 p.m.

* Ramayana Dance: There are occasional performances of this Balinese dance Nusa Dua Beach Hotel & Spa. This cultural dinner show is available on Tuesdays from 8:00 p.m at Rp. 240,000 + 21% tax and service charges per person.

If you are seriously interested in Balinese dance and music, you should contact the YAYASAN POLOS SENI (Foundation for Pure Art) in Peliatan near Ubud. They offer dance and music lessons at reasonable prices (see under "Balinese Dance & Music Classes" at Popular Bali Activities).

Wayang Kulit, Traditional Drama & Other Performances

* Wayang Kulit: In the Indonesian shadow puppet play, beautifully painted and gilded leather puppets are used although only the shadows are visible to the audience. The stories come from the spirit world and are full of symbolism and myth. A highly skilled puppeteer controls hundreds of puppets, speaks with a different voice for each character, and controls the musicians. Plays go on for several hours. Performances can be seen at Oka Kartini, Tebesaya, Peliatan, Ubud, on Saturdays from 8:00 p.m.

* Balinese Temple Festivals, Drama, Other Performances: See the "Bali Post" daily newspaper and the Friday edition of the English language "Jakarta Post" for details.

SHOPPING IN BALI

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You can go shopping for fine art and handicrafts such as antique, semi-antique and modern furniture, all kinds of paintings, delicately crafted gold and silver jewelry, wood and stone carvings, masks, woven and dyed fabrics, etc. in many shops in the Kuta/Legian area, in Sanur, in various handicraft villages, the Sukawati market on the way to Ubud and in the town of Ubud.

In most of the shops you can and should bargain for the best price. Be especially careful with the vendors near popular tourist attractions such as Tanah Lot or, for instance, the rip-off artists in the Bali Aga village Tenganan who are well-known for selling fake "antique" fabrics (even spray-painted instead of woven cloth) for very high prices.

Popular buys in Bali are DVDs featuring even very recent movies. These are illegal copies but they sell for just 10,000 Rupiah per piece or 100,000 Rupiah for 11 and are available everywhere in Bali. Beach wear, T-shirts, pants and other clothing, shoes and leather goods, sea shells, trinkets, etc. are offered at low prices in numerous shops in Kuta and Legian as well as – much more expensive – in many hotels.

Well-known shopping centers are Geneva, Jalan Raya Kerobokan in Seminyak for very cheap handicrafts, Kuta Square with many shops and a branch of the Matahari Department Store and Supermarket offering everything a tourist could be interested in as well as Bali Galeria behind the DFS Komplex on the By-Pass where you find many different outlets including Vinoti, Prada, Body Shop, Planet Sport, a Periplus book shop, a branch of Marks & Spencer and many shops selling sports shoes, surf and party wear.

The huge, fully air-conditioned beachfront Kartika Discovery Mall in Jalan Kartika in Tuban next door to the Discovery Kartika Plaza Hotel and opposite the Waterbom Park was opened in 2004. It accommodates a large underground car park and the three storey mall with the Centro Department Store featuring famous international brands and designer labels including Esprit, Guess, Giordano, Polo, Prada, La Senza (for lingerie), cosmetics and fragrances from Bulgari, Gucci, Estée Lauder, Revlon, Clinique, Shiseido etc, surf shops such as Quicksilver, Billabong and Planet Surf, boutiques for ladies and gents fashions, several optical shops, Kids Station and Guess for Kids, Vinoti Living, specialist shops for beautiful watches and jewellry, a Sogo Department Store on street level, a Periplus bookshop, Boots Chemist, Starbucks, Bread Talk, KFC, Pizza Hut, Baskin & Robbins, Black Canyon Cafe and several other restaurants. Opening hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

There are a number of other shopping centers in Kuta, Tuban, Seminyak and Denpasar. The Nusa Dua Galleria has been reopened after renovations in December 2005 as Bali Collection and is dominated by the Sogo Department Store offering hundreds of international brands and designer labels; there are also several other shops and a small number of restaurants.

The newest shopping center is Carrefour at the Sunset Road which features the huge hypermarket of the French retailer on the top floor selling on over 8,000 sq.m. food, baked goods, prepared food, wine, diary products, fridges, TVs, luggage, clothing, furniture, computers etc. all in one place similar to a Wal-Mart in the US. The lower floors accommodate a variety of shops including a Periplus bookshop, an Apple-authorized reseller and many food outlets. Opening hours are daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

The attractive tableware you see in many restaurants, hotels, and the better homes in Bali is made locally by Jenggala Keramik Bali. Started by the New Zealand-born designer-potter Brent Hesselyn who disappeared while diving near Nusa Penida in late 2002, Jenggala has been producing for over 20 years hand-made high-quality ceramics which can be seen and ordered at their modern factory in Jimbaran, Jalan Uluwatu II. This new complex includes in addition to a show room an exhibition area for antique and new Indonesian art, a demonstration area where Jenggala's potters display their skills, and a branch of the popular "Kafe Batu Jimbar" serving light meals and a choice of coffee, tea and other beverages.

Avoid the DUTY FREE SHOPPERS outlets by all means! All local products are ridiculously expensive here.

Tip List Of Honeymoon Vacation In Bali

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Bali is the paradise for honeymooner that many couple wish to spend such a special occasion on the island. It's mesmerized various views such as; beaches, mountain, rice field, and romantic place to stay like: Bali hotel, resort, villa, Bali private villa shall enable you to get a perfect honeymoon, no disturbance, no noisy sound, truly serenity, just sound of nature.

Fresh atmosphere will refresh your mind & body. Bali rich culture would contribute to make your honeymoon the unforgettable one, you'll find something that is unique, beautiful, memorable and fun, the experience of a lifetime, which cannot be gained at other places.

Bali is a tiny island but has so much wonderful things to offer. Many travel agents / tour operator provide worldwide choice of honeymoon ideas.

Here are some tips to get comfortable honeymoon in Bali:

- Schedule your departure day two days after the wedding to give you ample time for rest after the activities and the celebrations. If you must travel immediately, remember to leave in the middle of the day and not the early morning so you'll get a good night's sleep.

- Ask your travel agent for Honeymoon Packages, these usually offer the best destinations for honeymooners, not to mention discounts and freebies.

- Never, ever overbook day trips, you're not just travelling, you're with your new spouse, better save up some energy for the night's fireworks.

- Don't be afraid to ask questions, ask about certain perks, events.

- In addition to the above, don't be afraid to request extra stuff, like a big bathtub, a double bed, or a romantic view.

- Don't forget to bring your marriage certificate along with you, especially if the name of the bride is already under her husband's name.

- Pack your camera and lots of film; you won't want to miss anything. You might also want to pack a disposable underwater camera and extra batteries, these are absurdly pricey in tourist spots, and you wouldn't want to overspend.

- Mention to anyone, especially in the cafÃ© or in the tour boat, that you're on your honeymoon, yes this may sound a bit embarrassing, but some restaurants give extras like free drinks or gifts for honeymooners. This also works for birthday celebrants.

- If you want an active honeymoon, research and prepare for water sports; the tropics are a great place, to learn them, always remember to consult hubby before you try one though.

- Stock up on sun protection. The higher the SPF the better, as you'll probably be spending whole days out in the sun; you wouldn't want to get skin cancer after just two weeks of marriage. - Ketut Sukarya

Nightlife in Bali

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Bali's main areas that attract visitors also all have their night spots. The tastes are different, so for some people the nightlife has something to do with the "Happy hour" offered at many bars and restaurants, others just wake up at this time of day to get ready for the night according to the motto the-later-the-better. A preferred area is the Kuta-Legian-Seminyak strip, busy at all times of day and also open 'til late" or even 24 hours.

We could write a long list of restaurants and venues with 100's of names - instead we like to take you on the Classic Clubbers' Trail, as recommended by the founders of Bali night clubbing. If you never have done this you're in for a new experience to see Bali after sunset and some of the classic "in" spots.

1) At around 8-9 PM it's time to visit the restaurant that raised your attention this afternoon on the way back from the beach. It's time for dinner. Be careful and selective, don't eat all that looks promising on the menue, there will be other opportunities later today.

2) Woops! Time went so fast while talking and dining, it's already 10 PM and you are on your way to Made's Warung to have coffee and some desert. See who else is in Bali this week.

Appreciate the fact that "Latin music" was here on the turntable 10 years before it went mainstream. We like to pay credit to a original site that served excellent food to "Bali stylists" that have been ALWAYS years ahead in world

behavior/design for the last 20 years. No, I'm not kidding.

3) Well, it was difficult not to meet a lot of people there and now we all are on the way to Goa 2001 for more chat and

drinks. At midnight it's getting real crowded here. You have to be a person that can focus on detail to not lose control

on how many interesting people are here. Walk around, mingle with the crowd and have a mouthful of "small snacks" offered in japanese, balinese and other flavors.

4) It's 1 am and still looking fresh, now it depends on your personal preference to visit Double 6 Disco, Gado-Gado Club

or to go back to Hard Rock Cafe in Kuta, but they might close soon, so better stay in Seminyak for more pub-disco action. How to find these places? Don't be shy, talk to the person next to you, most will know.

5) Depending on how you arranged your personal immediate future you could end up on a private party in one of the houses in the area, or if you really are The Night Dancer to will be still in one of the discos until 5 am.

Now at this point of history we do not advise to go straight for breakfast that early, it would be kind of overdoing it, it really is now time to go home.

There are many variations to this strategy plan, this is however the original Classic Bali Clubbers "1'1'1" (no "0") as delivered by the founders of Bali night clubbing. Have fun!

Villa Air Terjun

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Introduction

Villa Air Terjun is a secluded and stylish retreat in the cool hills of central Bali, 20 km to the north of Ubud. The villa consists of nine buildings with traditional alang-alang (thatch) roofs, set in 3000m² of tropical gardens over a hillside with wonderful views stretching to the volcanoes of western Bali. The villa can accommodate 8-10 people in four spacious and independent bungalows, each with an iron four-poster bed and a Balinese garden bathroom.

Members of our friendly and discreet staff are present at the villa and at our guests' service around the clock. The team includes a talented chef who prepares high quality Indonesian and international food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The villa is especially suited for families, for yoga and meditation groups, and for anyone looking for comfort and relaxation away from the heat and bustle of the more touristed areas of the islands.

The Facilities

Dining

Our chef prepares high quality Indonesian and international food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wine, beer, cocktails and soft drinks are served. Feel free to place your special requests with our chef in advance.

Swimming Pool and Hot Tub

The villa has a beautiful and private pool of 10 x 5 m, with two bale bengong (pavilions) and a grassed area for sunbathing. We also have a hot tub next to the pool.

Television and Games Room

Satellite television is available in our games room together with a DVD player and a games console, traditional board games and a library of DVDs, books and magazines.

Local Attractions

The attractions of Ubud are also 30 minutes from the villa by car, with a number of fine restaurants and spas between the villa and Ubud.

Villa Air Terjun is approximately one hour's drive from the beaches of Sanur, and the same time from the North and North East coast of the island.

Transport

We arrange transport to and from the airport. We can also provide a vehicle and driver at other times, at reasonable rates.

Internet and Telephone

We have a dial-up internet connection which guests may use. Broadband is available at internet cafes in Ubud. We also have a fixed line telephone. There is mobile phone coverage (GSM and GPRS) of variable quality.

Rates

VILLA TYPE	RATES
One bedroom villa	USD 150.00
All compund	USD 550.00

Note :

Surcharge for high season (July 1 - August 31 USD 25.00)
Surcharge for peak season (December 25 - January 5 USD 50.00)
July / August and Christmas / New Year should be booked well in advance to insure availability

Address

Villa Air Terjun

Bali Off the Beaten Track

Phone: +62 3617801896

Fax : +62 361 981321

Email : sales@villaairterjun.com

Villa Nataraja (Majapahit Beach Villas)

2007-11-20T19:19:00.001-08:00

Ocean View Villas - Ketewel- Price range: From US$ 500 >

This sea view two-storey villa is characterised by a walled garden featuring a 14 x 4 metre lap pool, which is 1.8 metres in depth and lined with green Java stone. A massage pavilion rests at one end of the pool and a bale bengong (relaxation pavilion) is located in one corner of the garden, sunloungers, timeworn stone-carvings, terracotta carved wall panels, palms, sweet scented frangipani trees and coastal shrubs and plants.

A walled pathway leads from the garden to a sliding door, which provides access to a 13-metre, beachside buff with timber decking and wooden steps leading down to the beach. This area is shared between guests staying at Villa Nataraja and the next-door Villa Raj. This is the place to chill out beneath the tall coconut palms and gaze at the graceful kites scattered throughout the sky, or watch both the sunrise and the sunset create a warm pink glow across the mysterious, towering, sea-cliffs of Nusa Penida Island.

Villa Nataraja's semi-open air living and dining area borders the swimming pool. Open at each end, equipped with bamboo blinds and cooled by ceiling fans, this is tropical living at its very best. A Jacuzzi extends into the living space and overflows into the pool creating an attractive waterfall feature. A hi-fi system with surround sound is provided for the entertainment of the guests, and wireless high speed Internet access allows guests to send and receive their e-mails inside the villa or beside the pool, in the garden or on the beach. The contemporary furniture is set off by a myriad of textures from smooth white Palimanan stone to carved antique doors framed by dark grey volcanic rock. Impressive local artwork adorns the walls, harmonized with primitive artifacts. A rustic coffee table, and comfortable sofas and chairs, are complemented by richly colored silk cushions, together with a woven rattan and wood-skin mat resting upon the Merbau wood floor. A striking feature is the curved floating staircase, fashioned in richly patterned wood and supported by eight columns. The open plan dining area is furnishing with a table for six and overlooks a lotus pond. The pond is traversed by stepping stones that lead through a pebbled courtyard to the fully equipped service kitchen where the staff will prepare delicious meals. Every need of the guests has been considered, and a particularly thoughtful touch is the provision of a barbeque. A series of wide stone pillars create a partition, for privacy, between the kitchen and the living and dining area.

The air-conditioned master bedroom, complete with en-suite bathroom and wide balcony, covers the whole of the upper floor under a soaring pitched roof. A queen size bed is made up with top quality linens and a red and black Chinese silk bedcover. Rich drapes frame the windows, local paras stone bricks form a wall behind the bed, old photographs enhance the decor, and a wooden cabinet houses a satellite TV, DVD and CD player. Glass doors and fly screens open out onto a timber balcony deck commanding breathtaking views of the coastline and ocean. The en-suite bathroom comprises two mirrored dressing rooms with ample storage space, together with two separate washing areas linked by a covered balcony walkway. This clever design allows the dressing rooms and bathroom to be accessed by two different doors from the bedroom, and the walkway is enclosed with fretwork wooden walls, which allow the cool breezes to permeate. One of the grey terrazzo-floored bathroom areas features a black terrazzo corner bathtub and twin washbasins. The other area features a shower, toilet and washbasin.

The two remaining air-conditioned bedrooms are located downstairs and are mirror images of each other, each with en-suite bathroom, satellite TV, DVD and CD player. Glass doors and fly screens in each room open onto a personal terrace furnished with daybeds, and a dressing area is located behind the bed. Each garden bathroom features 'his 'n' hers' washbasins, toilet, and a black terrazzo sunken bathtub and shower, bordered by plants, together with a three-tiered running water feature, and a wall for privacy.

The Location

The recent construction of the Sanur-Kusumba by-pass road has made this area accessible to the rest of the island and positions Villa Nataraja within easy driving distance of most of Bali's tourist attractions. Villa Nataraja is just forty-five minutes drive from Bali's international airport, thirty minutes from the cultural town of Ubud, ten minutes from Sukawati art and handicraft market, ten minutes from Sanur, and thirty minutes from the restaurants, shops and nightlife of Kuta and Seminyak. Ketewel village is the origin of the famous Legong Bededari Dance, and the neighbouring village of Sawa produced the finest Legong dancers on the island. The beach of Pabean, in front Majapahit Beach Villas, was once a small port through which oriental traders brought their products; at low tide you can still see the structure of the old harbour and a Chinese cemetery is located nearby. Balinese Hindu purification ceremonies are held beside the ocean at the sacred Pura Segara sea temple, and the nearby reef is renowned for its world class surf breaks.

Facilities at Villa Nataraja:

- 3 fully air-conditioned bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom and queen beds, satellite TVs and DVD players.

- Living and dining area opening directly onto pool and Jacuzzi

- Sea view from the Master bedroom

- Specially allocated 13-metre beachfront area shared with guests at the next-door villa

- 14 x 4 meter lap pool

- Relaxation bale pavilion

- Massage pavilion

- Fully equipped service kitchen

- TV/ DVD/CD player in living area and each bedroom

- Wireless high speed Internet access

- IDD Telephone line

- Safe deposit box in each bedroom

The Staff

The complex is served by a full team of staff, including waiters and butlers. A professional service kitchen and trained chef caters to the culinary whims of the guests in 5-star fashion. A car and driver is also available for each villa.

Majapahit Beach Villas are fully serviced by:

A full time Villa Manager - supervise and co-ordinates the staff and is available to assist guests during their stay.

Butlers - on hand 24 hours a day to look after every need of the guests.

Pool Boy - providing service around the pool and garden area during day time.

Chef and Cook - trained in the preparation of both local and international cuisine. A menu is provided and the staff will do all the market shopping.

Villa Attendants - responsible for housekeeping duties and taking care of daily laundry and dry cleaning service.

Security Guards - duties are to guard the villa 24 hours a day to ensure the security of the guests.

Gardeners - tending the garden and the grounds of the villa, and cleaning and maintaining the swimming pool and Jacuzzi.

Maintenance team - created to ensure all Villa equipment are well maintain and are in working order.

Villa Nataraja (Majapahit Beach Villas) - Villa Rates

Validity: Year-round

Villa Type	Villa Rates (USD)				B'Fast
Villa Type	Low	High	Peak	Promo	B'Fast
3 Bedroom Villa	500	600	700	N/A	Excluded

Rates
All rates are net/villa/night, inclusive of applicable government tax, service charge, refreshing welcome drinks upon arrival and return airport transfers. Rates do not include breakfast. Long term rate and last minute rate are available upon request.
High & Peak Season Periods
High season period: July 15 - 31, September 1 - 15 and April 14 - 21
Peak season period: August 1 - 31 and December 20 - January 8
Minimum stay: LOW season: 2 nights; HIGH season: 5 nights; PEAK season: 7 nights.

Summer Dream Promo at Uma Sapna

2007-11-20T08:53:00.001-08:00

Summer Dream Promo

US$ 100++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private spa pool

US$ 140++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private swimming pool

US$ 220++ 2 Bedrooms Villa with private swimming pool

All rates are include:

- Complimentary return airport transfer in air-conditioned private vihicles

- Complimentary welcome drinks and cold towel upon arrival

- 15 minutes complimentary welcome massage

- Daily breakfast for 2 people serve in the villa

- Daily tropical fresh fruit arrangement

- Complimentary resort Wi Fi internet connection

Term and cnditions:

- Rate subject to 15.5% government tax and service charge and valid from September 16th to December 31st, 2007

- High seasons surcharge will be applied at USD 30.00++ per villa per night during December 20th to 31st, 2007.

Family/Groups Package Promo at Uma Sapna

2007-11-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

Uma Sapna Dream Homes Package

3D/2N Stay in a one bedroom villa with private spa pool only at US$ 295.00net

3D/2N Stay in a one bedroom villa with private swimming pool only at US$ 395.00net

All packages will include:

- 3D/2N stay in a one bedroom villa with private spa pool or one bedroom villa with private swimming pool

- Complimentary return airport transfer in air-conditioned private vehicle

- Complimentary welcome drink and cold towel upon arrival

- 15 minutes complimentary welcome massage

- Complimentary daily tropical fresh fruit arrangement

- Daily American breakfast served in the villa

- One time in villa dinner for 2 people

- One time complimentar 2hours spa treatment for 2 people

- Complimentary daily restock non alcohol minibar

- Complimentary laundry service for maximum 4pcs/day

- Complimentary resort Wi Fi Internet connection

Package Conditions:

- Rates are includes 15.5% government tax and service charge and valid from September 16th to December 31st, 2007.

- High seasons surcharge will be applied at USD 30.00++ per villa per night during December 20th to 31st, 2007.

Honeymoon Promo at Uma Sapna Villa

2007-11-20T08:42:00.000-08:00

Honeymoon at Uma Sapna

Stay 4 Days 3 Nights with us

US$ 450++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private spa pool
US$ 615++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private swimming pool
US$ 725++ 2 Bedrooms Villa with private swimming pool

Stay 3 Days 2 Nights with us

US$ 350++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private spa pool
US$ 475++ 1 Bedroom Villa with private swimming pool
US$ 520++ 2 Bedrooms Villa with private swimming pool

Honeymoon package benefit:

- Return airport transfer
- Complimentary welcome drink and cold towel upon arrival
- 15 minutes complimentary welcome massage
- Daily tropical fresh fruit arrangement
- Daily American breakfast for 2 persons
- 1 x In villa happy lunch set menu for 2 persons
- 1 x In villa Candle Light dinner for 2 persons
- Complimentary honeymoon cake and house wine
- 1 x 2hours SPA treatment for 2 persons
- Villa decorations

Rate subject to 15.5% government tax and service charge.
Valid until March 31st, 2008.
Extentions stay at USD 90++ per night in a one bedroom villa with private spa pool, USD 130++ in a one bedroom villa with private swimming pool and USD 210++ in a two bedrooms villa with private swimming pool.

Uma Sapna (2)

2007-11-19T09:15:00.000-08:00

Gallery

for more information please contact:
Uma Sapna
Jl Drupadi No 20xx Basangkasa
Seminyak, Bali
Indonesia

Tel: +62 361 736 628
Fax: +62 361 736629

Uma Sapna (1)

2007-11-18T10:56:00.000-08:00

Overview

Experience privacy and luxury, “just the way you like it” at the newly completed Uma Sapna boutique villas in Bali.

The resort is situated in a residential environment in the heart of Bali’s upscale Seminyak village. Featuring twelve one and two bedroom villas, scattered over the property, each protected for privacy. Shopping and international dining are within five minutes walking distance.

Uma Sapna boasts all the expected comforts and services you will find in a five-star resort. Private dining can be enjoyed in your own villa. The Uma Sapna Spa offers a luxurious full-service massage and body therapy in any of our three spa treatment rooms or in the privacy of your villa.

Massage

Slimming Massage

This body treatment applies slimming oil to all parts of your body. The isometric massage stimulates the blood and lymph flow, improving circulation. At the same time it softens the subcutaneous fat and flushes it out of the body via the usual elimination channels. It is a natural, safe and painless method of enhancing your figure.

Warm Stone Massage

Warm stone massage originates from ancient Hawaii. The Kahunas’
(Hawaiian Shamans) used heated river stones in combinations with
massage to alleviate tension accumulated in the muscles. We use similar techniques, combined with aromatherapy, to melt the tension from your body and restore your back and face with vibrancy.

Foot Massage or Reflexology

We offer choices of aromatherapy-blended oils (Our pure essential oils only blended with natural cold pressed carrier oils, such as Soya beans)

Jet Leg Departure (Relaxing)	Optimism (Balancing)
Jet Leg Arrival (Relaxing)	Awakening (Energizing)

Reservation in advance is needed.
Treatment can be done in privacy of your room from 9a.m. to 10p.m.

Meditation Meditation & Pranayama
	Sitting still in meditation is the practice by which there is constant observation of the mind for the specific purpose of discovering that infinite well of wisdom which lies within. Pranayama (prana=life-force; yama = restraint or ayama = expansion) is literally translated “breath control” covering a wide range of yogic breathing techniques to open blockages in the nadis (the body’s energy channels), calm the mind and invigorate the body. Pranayama provides a method to go beyond one’s normal boundaries to attain a higher state of vibratory energy.


Private Yoga Class
	The word yoga (from the Sanskrit word yuj means to yoke or bind) refers to union between body and mind or body, mind and spirit and within the traditional acceptance as union between one's individual consciousness and the Universal Consciousness. Practicing yoga in asanas is a physical postures program designed to purify the body and provide physical strength, subtleness and stamina. Uma Sapna offers yoga classes in Sivananda, Vinyasa Flow, Asthanga and general Hatha adjusting to all levels and held in various languages (English, Japanese, French, German, Indonesian). Also offering Partner Yoga classes especially designed for couples.


Yoga Day Spa
	A holistic day combining yoga, meditation and pranayama with massage and relaxation accentuated by an especially designed health menu.


Uma Sapna Yoga Retreat
	A 3-day or even 6-day in-villa yoga retreat with daily 4 hours of yoga, meditation and pranayama.

Wellness Body Treatment
	A full body exfoliation prepares the skin for the application of a granular traditional herbs based paste. The body is then carefully covered to dilate the process and absorb the nutrients of the product. This treatment is very relaxing, yet detoxifying, removes dead cells and smoothes the newly polished skin. Your choice of 4 specially prepared body scrub Rice Scrub Coffee Scrub Javanese Lulur Balinese Boreh


Traditional Facial
	Treatment to refine the facial skin and reduce wrinkles. It includes a facial scrub, clay mask and an acupressure point massage


Manicure & Pedicure
	Manicure or Pedicure 50 Minutes Manicure & Pedicure 100 Minutes


Aqua Soul Therapy
	This unique nurturing water based therapy is a precious way to give yourself natural healing energy. Your body will be gently massaged and moved, like a dance, on the surface and under the water. As you are cradled in the supporting arms of your therapist, where your spine will expand and your range of motion increase, you will find yourself transported to a blissful netherworld by skillfully guided stretches and movements together with the application of other divine modalities. Aqua Soul Therapy will clear the mind and conscience thoughts, invoking one of the most natural forms of meditation.


Healing Treatment with Practitioner
	This treatment is deeply healing for acute and chronic ailments and injuries. It relieves pain and facilitates the body’s natural energy flow through removing blockages using key pressure points through acupressure and deep tissue massage relieving the very basis of the problem areas.

Honeymoon accomodation in Bali, The Balé (1)

2007-11-16T09:57:00.000-08:00

The Balé, member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is a unique boutique resort located on the hillside of Bali's fashionable Nusa Dua area, overlooking the Indian Ocean and walking distance from the secluded, white sandy beach of Geger. It is only 12 km away from Ngurah Rai International Airport, 20 minutes by car. And also close to Bali Golf & Country Club and shopping center.

From the moment each guest arrives, our enthusiastic and positively motivated team will pamper them in a unique way. A butler will meet and consult each guest upon arrival to ensure their stay is custom-made for their complete comfort, convenience and peace of mind.

The Balé is a member of The Small Luxury Hotels of The World, which was formed in 1991 based on excellent experience of international hotel marketing to represent the collective interests of the most luxurious, independent, exclusive hotels and resorts around the world. Now SLH brand is a collection of over 300 independently-owned exclusive hotels in more than 50 countries.

The Concept

The Balé is a serene, luxurious retreat whose every purpose is to help you relax and re−energise... in style. We have just 29 immaculately designed pavilions, each with a sleek modern interior and refreshingly simple garden, blissful daybeds inside and out, and its own private swimming pool.

Our ‘no children’ policy allows a couple to really be a couple, and spend every moment reconnecting with each other.

Consider The Balé your private tropical retreat. Think of this as a luxurious stay with a small family of friends, where you can be as public or private as you wish.

Our superbly trained staff are your personal 24hr butlers: catering to your every need and advising on our uniquely varied collection of health and wellbeing treatments and programmes, and our exciting list of artistic and cultural escapes. Check-in, chill out and give your body and mind the ultimate holistic holiday renewal.

Culture

The Balé’s imaginative programme of artistic and cultural escapes ensures our guests get a genuine taste of Bali’s incredibly rich history and lifestyle.

We engage storytellers, musicians, dancers, historians, apothecaries and holy men from the local neighbourhoods, to come and thrill us.

The programmes provide the most genuine and enriching cultural experiences for guests and give them a chance to meet and learn from the warm Balinese people. Also, they benefit the local society and economy, which builds trust and friendship.

Many of our artistic and cultural experts speak good English and are happy to explain the background to their specialist areas.

These are once−in−a−lifetime experiences which leave guests feeling a real spiritual connection to this beautiful island.

Facilities:

» Air Conditioning
» Airport Transfer
» Bathtub
» Buttler Service
» Gymnasium
» Internet Facility
» Mini Bar
» Private Pool
» Reflexology
» Restaurant
» Shower
» Spa Treatment
» Sundeck
» Tea & Coffee Facilities
» Transportation Service

Address

Jl. Raya Nusa Dua Selatan. PO BOX 76

Nusa Dua - Nusa Dua 80363