With the reputation of being one of the most beautiful and diverse tourist spot in Asia, Bali annually attracts almost 7,000,000 visitors from around the world.
Geographically, Bali is situated between the island of Java and Lombok.
The island, home to about 3.5 million people, has 5.632 square kilometers, stretching approximately 140 km from east to west and 80 km from north to south, and has been well-known since the year 70s. It is divided into eight regencies: Badung, Tabanan, Gianyar, Klungkung, Karangasem, Bangli, Jembrana and Buleleng.
Bali is predominantly Hindu in culture and great respect should be shown for all festivals, events and ceremonies which will most likely be of religious significance. Although originally from India, is comprised of a unique blend of Hindu, Buddhist, Javanese and ancient indigenous beliefs; it is very diffrent from the Hinduism practiced in India today.
The Balinese worship the Hindu trinity Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu, who are seen as manifestations of the Supreme God Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa. Balinese people also strongly believe in magic and the power of spirits, basing much of their religion on this.
Actually, Bali is really an island of agricultural with a system of paddy fields and irrigation established hundreds of years ago. The main tourist area stretches from Kuta to Seminyak. Kuta became a major attraction because of its famous white-sand beaches, the surf, stunning sunsets, hundreds of hotels, bars, restaurants and shops. For those in search of little peace and quiet tend to head for more sedate resorts of Candi Dasa on the east coast, Lovina in the north and Nusa Dua on the southern-most peninsula of the island. The central village of Ubud, in the hilly region of Gianyar, has also blossomed as a tourist attraction and is now considered to be the artistic and cultural centre of Bali.
Balinese society is based on the Pura (Temple), which is the center of religious, civil, family and social life with the Banjar as a cohesive center of the community.
Visitors are advised to show great respect for all ceremonies and be patient in dealing with officials at events, parades and temples.
At that time, Bali is truly an island of natural beauty and still 'virgin'. No wonder some western artists called it as "Morning of the world", "Paradise on earth", "The island of The Gods" and so on...
And some of them even decided to live and be a "balinese' for ever till the rest of their life, like the late legend of Ubud, Mr. Antonio Blanco.
It’s landscape of hills and mountains, coastlines, sandy beaches and beautiful rice terraces provide a fascinating view.
Indeed, this combination of natural beauty and friendliness bali community have made Bali as world's property, not only owned by the balinese themselves.
As 'a balinese' (you could claim yourself too :D) of course the pride is ours.
To maintain this pride someone should understand the concept of living that the 'real' balinese clinging on since the old days.
It is the TRI HITA KARANA or Concept of life Balancing:
- Between human life with The Creator (Spiritual)
- Between human life with other fellow human beings (Tolerance)
- Between human life with its surrounding environment (Friendly Environment)
Nowadays, Bali has a lot to offer travelers with a spirit for adventure and a desire to see one of the most beautiful islands in the world, from outdoor activities to spiritual escapes. No matter what your travel style or budget there are lots of options for you to customize your dream vacation.
So..."When in Bali do like the balinese do". It is belong to you too, isn't it?!
