about bali
- General Information
- General Information
Nature
Bali Island located between the islands of Java and Lombok. Bali is considered as the most developed tourist area In Indonesia. The island is 150 km long from east to west and 80 km long from north to south, administratively it covers 5,780 km2, or 5,577 km2 without Nusa Penida District, its population density is roughly 750 people/km2. Height up to 3142 m (Mount Agung), known as the "mother mountain" which is an active volcano.
Bali is also the largest tourist destination in the country and is renowned for its highly developed arts, including traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking, and music. A tourist haven for decades, the province has seen a further surge in tourist numbers in recent years. The island is surrounded by coral reefs. Beaches in the south tend to have white sand while those in the north and west have black sand. There are various of tourist attractions and objects such as waterfalls, lakes, rice terraces, etc. Every place has different thing to offer.
Culture
Balinese culture was strongly influenced by Indian, Chinese, and particularly Hindu culture, beginning around the 1st century AD. The name Bali dwipa ("Bali island") has been discovered from various inscriptions, including the Blanjong pillar inscription written by Sri Kesari Warmadewa in 914 AD and mentioning "Walidwipa". It was during this time that the complex irrigation system subak was developed to grow rice. Some religious and cultural traditions still in existence today can be traced back to this period. The Hindu Majapahit Empire (1293–1520 AD) on eastern Java founded a Balinese colony in 1343. When the empire declined, there was an exodus of intellectuals, artists, priests, and musicians from Java to Bali in the 15th century.
Weather
Equatorial and sub-equatorial climate . The average temperature is around 25 C. Bali has two kind of weather, they are dry and wet. Dry weather starts on October to April, and wet weather starts from April to October.
Language
Indonesia has many kind of local languages, almost every island has different local languages and dialects. But Indonesia has one national language that everyone can speak - Bahasa Indonesia. In Bali people speak in Bahasa Indonesia and Balinese language. Most people in Bali are able to speak english.
Currency
Indonesian Rupiah (IDR). 1 USD equals around IDR 14.000, and keeps changing. Rates are constantly fluctuates markedly. Banknotes of IDR are 1000, 2000, 5000, 10.000, 20.000, 50.000, and the biggest amount is 100.000. Coins are 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 Rupiahs. It is recommended to exchange your money in authorised money changer. Credit cards are accepted mainly in expensive hotels, restaurants and shops, but not comfortable for daily expenses.
Visa and Custom
All tourists traveling to Indonesia must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry and has one blank page. You can get Indonesian visa from the embassy or visa on arrival.
You are allowed to bring maximum 1 litre of alcohol per person.
- Kuta and Seminyak
- Kuta and SeminyakThe most popular tourist area!
Surfing
This royal sport attracts tourists to Bali from around the world, Australians, Japanese, Germans, French, Italians, Russians, etc. come because Kuta is known as great surfing spot, and you can do surfing in any time of the year.
The beaches in Kuta and Seminyak are sandy with good waves. it is a perfect place to study the basics of surfing for beginners and also great for professionals. You can take a surf lesson from one of many surf school here or with local surfers at the beach.
Waterbom
If you love water, pool, water slides, this is the water park you want to visit. Well-desinged water park with many types of water slides, from the fun to the scariest ones are placed here. This place is great for anyone, any age. Waterbom is located in front of Discovery Mall.
Party
Party time in Kuta is every time.
Legian - one of the main streets of Kuta, where you can find a lot of night clubs that is open all days in the week: Sky Garden, Bounty, Eikon, Apache bar and many others.
Luxury oceanfront clubs in Seminyak - open also for children's activities and family dinners, and at night turn into dance floors with the best cocktails on the island: Potato head, KU DE TA, Living Room, Cocoon beach club, Hu'u bar and many others.
Restaurants with live music
Great live music you can find in Jps warung in Diana Pura street, Hard Rock cafe and Espresso bar in Kuta
For jazz lovers we recommend you to have your dinner at Japanese restaurant with the best jazz live music on the island - Ryoshi in Raya Seminyak street.
Boutiques and shopping centres
Lets shop! Here you will find many brands of famous and lesser-known designers. You do not need to bring a lot of clothes when you visit Kuta and Seminyak because there are many great clothes shops with affordable price!
Kuta beachwalk - a huge tropical style mall located in front of Kuta beach. There are cinema and children's playrooms, some restaurants, cafes, boutiques, one of the best mall on the island.
Discovery shopping mall - shopping center on the beach in Kuta also. There are large number of boutiques and shops selling souvenirs and clothes, many wold-known brand shops also. Some restaurants and bars. Also every saturday night there is “Cinema under the moonlight” where you can sit in front of big screen, under the open sky in the evening, enjoying the movies.
Kuta square - the whole street is filled with popular youth and surfer brands. Products from python skin i.e. handbags, wallets, shoes, accessories. We recommend you to go to Eta Rossiya Shop that is located in Benesari street in Kuta, where you will find a many products, good prices and excellent quality.
Massages and SPA
When you feel tired after a lot of sun and activities, you can easily find massages and SPA place around Kuta. They’re almost everywhere and not pricey.
Looking for a great holiday atmosphere, shopping and surfing - Kuta and Seminyak is your choice!
- Canggu
- Canggu
Canggu, Bali: A Lively Coastal Paradise
The quiet village of Canggu has blossomed into a hive of activity in just a few years. This active coast resort unites the simplicity of traditional Balinese culture and dynamic aspects of modern growth. Whether you are an explorer, foodie or just want time out for yourself, this is just the place to be.
Accommodation
From lavish villas with personal swimming pools to delightful boutique hotels, Canggu provides accommodation to suit everyone’s needs and budgets. Many establishments have been designed around sustainability by incorporating modern amenities with environmentally-friendly practices. Wake up to the sound of the waves crashing against the shore; dine on breakfast while overlooking rice paddy fields; experience Bali’s famous warm welcome.
A Gastronomic Encounter
Food lovers will not get enough of Canggu; there are numerous delicious dining options here. You will find eateries that serve up smoothie bowls with avocado toast on trendy brunch menus, but also restaurants offering outstanding global dishes. Make sure to taste some genuine Balinese meals cooked with fresh local products.
Exciting Things to Do
Visitors looking for adventure can find it in any corner in Canggu. The coastline here has some of the best waves for surfers in Bali – from beginners to professionals. Biking and hiking trails traverse beautiful landscapes and fertile rice fields, which allow you to explore natural beauty spots within the area. Yoga studios and wellness centers abound too, giving peaceful retreats for individuals searching for rejuvenation or relaxation.
Finns Recreation Club
Finns Recreation Club in Canggu is a premier family-friendly destination offering a variety of activities. It features a water park, trampoline center, bowling alley, kids' club, and sports field. With facilities catering to all ages, Finns provides endless entertainment options, ensuring fun and relaxation for the whole family.
Beach Clubs and Nightlife
Canggu has a wide range of nightclubs that burst into vibrant life at nightfall. Sunsets are celebrated in beach clubs located along the coast, which is an ideal setting for nursing a drink as you watch the sun go down over the Indian Ocean. Live music, DJ sets or themed parties make sure there is always something going on after dark. Whether you like to chill at laid-back bars on the beach or go to a wild club, Canggu has everything one may want.
Summary
Canggu is not just another place but rather a way of life. The fast pace of development has brought colorful atmosphere into this area yet its natural beauty as well as cultural heritage have remained intact. It combines traditional and contemporary influences creating unique atmosphere combining fun and relaxation in one package. No matter if you are here on a short visit or plan staying in Canggu forever, there is something about this coastal paradise that makes it most beautiful place possible.
- Uluwatu
- Uluwatu, Bali: Coastal Jewel
On the southern tip of Bali lies Uluwatu; it is characterized by scenic beauty. This amazing place is known for its beaches with fine white sand, cliffs that offer panoramic views, popular surf points and unforgettable sunset.
Beaches and Cliffs
Bali’s most magnificent beaches are found in Uluwatu; they have fine white sands and clear water. Among them are Padang-Padang, Dreamland, Melasti, Bingin Beaches, and many more hidden beaches. The tall cliffs around provide great sights of the Indian Ocean that makes it a perfect spot for photo shooting and relaxation.
Surfing Paradise
Famous for its world-class waves, Uluwatu is a favorite destination for surfers worldwide. Some of the renowned surf breaks in this area include experienced surfing spots like Uluwatu Beach. Beginners can also get to enjoy surfing lessons or gentle waves.
Sunset Magic
Uluwatu is known for its incredible sunsets. As the sun sets below the horizon, the combination of these three elements creates an awe-inspiring array of colors.Cliff top Uluwatu Temple provides another fantastic location from where you can view this event daily.
Cafes, Restaurants and Shops
Uluwatu is also a good place for delicious meals and buying things easily. It has numerous cafes where various dishes of local Balinese tradition, as well as international fare are offered. There are also many grocery stores that make it easy for tourists to find what they need while on vacation.
Beach Clubs
Yes, Uluwatu is packed with options to have a good time whether swimming or having fun. For coffee and casual meetings, there are many cafes and for a chic and elegant drink or a few cocktails in the evening – beach clubs. Similar to Single Fin and Omnia Dayclub, beach clubs provide amazingly beautiful sights, delicious beverages, and plenty of energy levels to calm you down after quite an adventurous day.
Summary
Uluwatu is indeed a charming coastal paradise with natural grandeur and exhilarating activities. Uluwatu guarantees an unforgettable experience whether you love beaches, surf or simply enjoying the tranquillity of sundown. There is plenty of food variety in this part of town along with shopping facilities making one’s stay pleasant.
- Jimbaran
- Jimbaran, Bali: A Coastal Treasure
Surfing
Because of the moderate swell that is experienced in Jimbaran, it is advisable for amateur and intermediate surfers. The water is comparatively still and is thus ideal for learning the sport; there are several centers for learning surf lessons. As for the fit sunny spots for kiteboarding, it is bound to Balangan beach and Dreamland, which are considered to be more advanced for experienced surfers.
Restaurants
Jimbaran is famous for seafood restaurants located right on the coast. People go there particularly for delicious fish barbeque, prawns and lobsters which are just caught and ready to be served. Eating seafood by the beach side most preferably during sunset cannot be emphasized ; several restaurants are located by the sandy beaches such as Jimbaran beach.
Shopping Center
Jimbaran certainly does not lack any of the cuisines, and for the shopping lovers there are always opportunities for that as well. The Samasta Lifestyle Village is a great and all in one shopping mall which comprises of traditional Thai shops, brand shops and souvenir shops. It also contains several numbers of cafes and restaurants, that is why it is a perfect place to stroll in the afternoon.
Fish Market
Now, it will focus on the fish market and is one of the most vibrant areas and one can feel the atmosphere of the Indonesian culture here. People go fishing in the morning and sell the fish they caught, including cooked one that is available in small food stalls. It is, quite possibly, one of the best places to get the juiciest and most succulent seafood you are likely to find in Bali.
Summary
Jimbaran, Bali is a beach paradise that one would love to explore being a relaxation ground and at the same time an area of sporting activities. From swimming in shallow waters, to entertaining beach side seafood dinner, shopping at colorful malls, and observing the dynamism of the fishing market, everyone will find something in Jimbaran. One of the most popular places in Bali thanks to its wonderful beaches and warm hospitality of local people.
- Nusa Dua
- Nusa DuaNusa Dua is located in east part of Bukit area. Favorite vacation spot for a lot of tourists.
Nusa Dua is divided into two parts:
The hotel complex where the world-class hotels of Bali are located, with access to the white sandy beach and ocean is calm and has no waves.
There is a large shopping centre called Bali Collection, where you can go shopping or have a lunch in one of the restaurants here.
Outside of the hotel complex there is Tanjung Benoa.
Ocean is calm almost without waves and you can find here a lot of water sport activities: you can do parasailing, ride on a jet ski, banana boat, sea walker, etc. From the hotels complex of Nusa Dua to Tanjung Benoa is just 5 minutes drive.
We also recommend visiting the beach club Sakala, there sometimes you can join parties, barbecues and some other events. Along with stunning kitchen and wine list, you will find a truly luxurious atmosphere!
We recommend you to visit new beautiful Pandawa beach. This beach is a great place to relax, swim in the calm ocean and try delicious fried bananas in a small cafe on the beach.
Benoa Square - a large shopping center, located between Nusa Dua and Jimbaran, here you will find the money exchange, branded stores, Burger King, Domino's Pizza, Baskin Robbins and Hero supermarket.
Hardy's Nusa Dua - a large supermarket, you can buy essential products and a variety of crafts by local craftsmen.
Nusa Dua and Tanjung Benoa are ideal for families with children.
If you choose to stay at villa in Nusa Dua, the villa will be around this area, all the best beaches are close by!
- Sanur
- Sanur
The oldest tourism area in Bali and one of the most peaceful place on the island.
Sanur gives power and balance to tourists by its white sand beaches, quiet and warm life. Sanur is a great place for family vacation and elderly who are looking for serenity.
To go around Sanur, you do not need a car or motorbike, just walk or rent a bicycle that you can find almost everywhere. Don’t worry, the is no traffic jam in Sanur and the street is not crowded also.
You also can easily fly some kites here as the wind is ideal for kite-flying, if there’s a kite competition, it usually will take place in Sanur.
An of course it’s also a great place to do kite surfing, you can find Rip Curl School of Kite Surf that is located at the beach of Sanur. Away from the shore, the ocean offer good waves for surfing.
Sanur beach also has many restaurants with beach view, they’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
What you can find around Sanur:
Beach cafe - one of the most beloved, cozy and stunning kitchen. Here beside tables await you sunbeds on the beach. You can sip a cocktail or a delicious lunch.
Jco donuts is originally from Indonesia. They serve the best tasty donuts with many variants of flavour and the donut itself is super-soft. They also serve several types of coffee and tea and frozen yoghurt.
Massimo - a great Italian restaurant with a stunning kitchen and a pleasant atmosphere. With a large tropical garden, open kitchen and delicious Gelato ice cream! Benno's Restaurant - sea food restaurant with many choices of seafood, it is located on the beach.
Sari Bundo - Indonesian restaurant with excellent cuisine and the best curry sauce!
Sanur beach market - You can find many kind of Balinese souvenirs here. It’s located on the side of the small lane along the beach.
Street cafe - one of the best in Sanur, excellent foods and a great lounge.
Serenity - Spanish bar and restaurant - very beautiful place with great service and very delicious food with good price.
In Sanur you will also find many SPAs, where you can have the best Balinese massages and scrubs.
Danau Tamblingan street, here also you can find many cafes and restaurants, live music or dance salsa.
Rent one of Villas in Sanur and find peaceful Balinese hospitality. People in Sanur are pleasant and kind.
From Sanur it takes around 30 minutes to go to Bali Zoo and Bali Safari and Marine Park.
From Sanur harbour some boats leave to beautiful island around Bali, i.e. Lembongan island, Ceningan and Penida island.
And about 40 minutes drive to the big port Padang Bay, go where boats and ferries to other islands of Indonesia.
Only about 50 minutes drive to the black sandy beach of Candidasa and one of the most beautiful beaches - White sand beach.
- Ubud
- Ubud
A place that is surrounded by magical energy, green rice terrace, and valleys with small rivers. Ubud has cooler weather and great atmosphere. This place is filled with special power, known by its famous artists.
Pass through the centre of Ubud you will arrive in Tegalalang where is the centre of absolutely unique gifts and souvenirs stores. The souvenirs is made by many kind of matters such as ceramic, glass, wood, clay, shell, silver etc. There are also some clothes boutique by well-known designers. Everything is very unusual, affordable, and beautiful.
Look for unusual gifts and souvenirs - here their whole street, it's called Tegalalang and it passes through the center of Ubud on the way to Kintamani. Here beautiful ceramics and glass, whimsical works of masters of wood and clay, shops unusual instruments and pendants made of shells, Silver products, boutiques with clothes for yoga and little-known designers shops. Everything is very unusual, very affordable and very beautiful.
Passing through Tegalalang you will find beautiful rice terraces. You can make beautiful pictures and have tasty lunch or just drink coffee at the restaurants around it and enjoy the scenery of the rice terraces.
Passing rice terraces and a little further to the north brings you to the exciting world of Balinese coffee plantation, where you can stry different type of coffees and teas and also to witness pretty animal luwak which produces one of the most expensive coffee in the world, relax in a cafe look at the rice terraces and the river valley and see how to process a real Balinese coffee. You 'll see how to grow coffee, cocoa and other tropical plants and fruits.
There are some informations about restaurants in Ubud, they are so many, and write about all of them is almost impossible. You want to spend some of your time to go around trying every restaurants and cafes, because Ubud is also known by its great restaurants and cafes.
Sari organic - wonderful organic restaurant, great vegan foods and also they sell organic cosmetics. And this restaurants has a splendid view of the rice fields and a pleasant atmosphere.
Gelato ice cream - small cafes with delicious Italian ice cream!
White box - great cake and cupcakes! Be sure to visit this small cozy cafe.
Bali Buddha - Organic cafe with delicious foods, desserts, tea, and natural cosmetics.
Clear cafe - European style cafe with delicious cuisine and pleasant atmosphere.
Cafe des artistes - very tasty foods and many variants of cuisine. Here you can see exhibition of local artists - highly recommended!
Sisha lounge - a place with awesome atmosphere, excellent cuisine and hookah, with sofas and live band in the evening. Recommended look here in the evening.
Havana club - a great restaurant with live music and salsa dance club in the evening!
Ubud - this place is perfect place for yoga and massage, you can take private lessons or sessions, have the best yoga and massages in the nice small house in the valley with the river views, send us email for more information: booking@rentdomnabali.com.
For children, there are also interesting things to do - Monkey forest -great relic forest with monkeys that is located in the center of Ubud, you can feed them, and take pictures also.
Reptiles and birds park located near Ubud, here the have many types of birds and reptiles from all over the world.
Be sure to spend a few days in Ubud - this is an awesome place with great nature!