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i n t r o d u c t i o n |  |
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Bali on the map seems such a small island. Indeed it covers a small area of just 5,620 square kilometers, and is one of the smallest islands in the Indonesian archipelago. How ever, it is a great mistake to think that you can see all of Bali in a couple of days. Apart from a stunning range of scenery that varies every few kilometers and maze of crises-crossing roads to explore there are thousands of places of interest to discover, and a culture and lifestyle full of exciting events to witness. “Hello ! Hello” Hands wave and ready smiles flash as curious pedestrians leave it to the last exasperated beep of the horn to adroitly step off the main thoroughfare. Double and triple rows of immaculate school children riding abreast on bicycles, the odd regiment of ducks marching field wards in military precision, even religious processions that stretch for miles, all common road hazards in Bali, not to mention those lazy, indolent gods that seem to think the main street is for sunning. Bali’s roads seem to have a surprise around every corner, and when touring you are bound to be entertained by visual feast : picturesque vignettes of local life are interspersed with stunning views of natural scenery that change with a rapidity astounding for such a small island. The side the road us sports ground marching arena, local market, meeting place and in general the hub of communal activity. Routes generally pass through the main streets of villages and towns. Rice and sweet potatoes are. Spread out on the verge to dry in the sun. Rows of cocks in baskets are lovingly set out for a daily sunning. Towering offerings are borne gracefully temple wards, balanced on the heads of brightly dressed women. Your destination may be volcano, temple, palace, dance performance or craft center. Or a number of these combined to make up an exciting half-day or full-day tour. Bali is crisscrossed by a maze of interconnecting routes that range form modern highways to narrow roller-coaster routes and unsealed backcountry paths passable only by motorbike or jeep. A good map is invaluable tool, whether on tour or venturing out unescorted. The best and busiest roads connect Denpasar with the main towns and tourist resorts. Tour buses and taxis generally limit themselves to these routes, and travel agents can arrange hire of more adventurous explorers Public transport is definitely recommended only for those who have mastered a little of the language and are prepared to put up with local conditions. Public vehicles are generally loaded to full capacity, and follow unpredictable schedules making a journey of any length a test of patience and endurance for the unanimated. The two main public bus stations in Denpasar, Kreneng, serving the east and central parts of the island, and Ubung, serving west Bali, offer a choice of local and inter-island buses speeding horn-harping minibuses called “colts” persons plus innumerable shopping baskets livestock and various market-bound goods squeezed into every possible space. For shorter distance, novelty rides there is always the dokar pony-cart that will that you at a sedate pace along local roads and thoroughfares. Even getting lost in Bali can be fun! The island is too small to be lost for long and every turn in the road promises the unexpected. Hiking is another experience altogether Paths should be worked out well in advance and an experienced tour guide is needed, as the best routes follow the natural terrain, passing cross – country follow the natural terrain, passing cross-country thorough terraced rice fields, traversing gorges to isolated villages where the local people can be seen at their at daily work. For those who love the sea Bali has an off shore playground comparable to none. Scuba diving and snorkeling tours are available with a number of tour agencies to the many and varied dive sites which have been carefully selected for their special attributes. Sailing tours on local outrigger sailboats can be arranged departing form Sanur, Benoa Harbour and Nusa Dua, as well as on the north coast, and keen fishermen can arrange the hire of equipment. Besides lounging under the palm trees and sipping delectable tropical cocktails as your hotel bar, recovering from pre-holiday pressures and jet-lag, there is a whole new world discover in Bali. So much to see in fact that advance planning is well advised. |
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copyright
2005 Bali Tropical Paradise Tour design by baliwebhost.com |
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