Bali is still one of the most popular holiday spots for both Westerners and Asians. With its natural beauty and many interesting facets, one can see why
We count down just 10 of the numerous interesting facts about or things to see and do in Bali to give you a glimpse of this paradise on Earth.
10. Bali is the only place in Indonesia, a Muslim country, which is predominantly Hindu in religion. Hinduism was brought to the island around the 11th Century, and later when most of Indonesia converted to Islam, the Hindus fled to Bali.
9. Bali’s Hinduism is a different brand from that of India, and is a unique combination with traditional animism. Bali is called the Island of the Gods as they have a god for almost everything: from the house to the trees to the padi fields, and so on. You can check out the many different and interesting temples there are in Bali.
8. There are many stalls in Kuta at which you can purchase souvenirs, cheap surf clothes, and even food. At night, there are a number of clubs and pubs in Kuta that thump to the beats.
7. The monkey temple in Uluwatu is both scenic and filled with these adorable, mischievous creatures. But do be careful to keep your belongings close to you, closed, or tied down, or these cheeky monkeys may steal them! This precaution extends to sunglasses and hats.
6. Ku De Ta may be a little atas (slang for high-browed) but it has a reputation for being one of the premier clubs in the region. Join in their theme parties or simply have fun on their regular clubbing nights. They also serve good food here.
5. The Miss World beauty pageant will take place in Bali in September 2013. It will be the first time that Indonesia is staging the event, and the first time that the event is held in Southeast Asia.
4. The Bali Safari Marine Park is quite the complete experience with a safari, aquarium and dolphin show, theme park rides such as rollercoasters, and even a cultural show, all in one place. There are about 300 species of animals there.
3. From the beginner to the pro, Bali has various surfing spots to suit anyone. Kuta beach and Seminyak tend to be better spots for beginners, while there is Uluwatu, and Balangan, among others, for the more advanced. Other spots included Sanur and Nusa Dua. You can ride the waves all day if sun, sea and surf are what you love.
2. What greater thrill is there than to scale a volcano? Visit the mount of the gods in Bali, Mount Agung. Balinese legend holds that it is a replica of Mount Meru, the central axis of the universe. Be aware, though, it is an active volcano, having last erupted in the early 1960s.
1. Tanah Lot is quite a sight, being a great temple partially covered by trees, on the very edge of the sea. This is a great place to see, with a very ethereal feel about it. No wonder the Balinese gods are worshipped here.
These are but some of the numerous interesting facts and sights in Bali.
It is a place you have to experience for yourself. Countless travellers have been to Bali at least once in their lives.
Do make time to explore Bali, even if it is a short getaway over a long weekend.
Republished from Issue 37.
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