Country Article / Postcards
Better than Ever in Bali
Date: 10/27/2004
Glorious, sun-drenched Bali is as beautiful as any tucked-away treasure on earth…yet undervalued…uncrowded…and misunderstood by many, especially after recent travel warnings about Indonesia.
Dear International Living Reader,
As advertised, you will find Bali naturally gorgeous, tropical, and sunny year round due to its proximity to the equator. Stunning views of rocky cliffs and picturesque beaches ring the island, with volcanoes, lush hills, rolling rivers, and rice paddies filling the interior. The sparkling Indian Ocean is comfortably warm. Friendly and smiling faces greet you everywhere, and the locals are consistently welcoming to visitors.
But tourism is down. The bombings that took place in Bali in 2002 naturally discouraged visitors, and since then several western countries have issued travel warnings concerning Indonesia in general. These should be respected--but many don't realize that the island of Bali is culturally and socially different than the rest of the country, and that the Balinese have come together as a result of the bombings in an effort to move forward positively. Security measures have been increased for the safety and well-being of Bali's tourists, including more guards at the entrances of hotels. Personally, we felt secure and comfortable throughout our nine-day stay.
The slump in tourism has created fierce competition within Bali's tourism industry. To compensate, the finest resorts are now offering bigger discounts and more amenities than before. Add in the favorable exchange rate, and a luxurious, world-class resort and spa like the Ritz-Carlton can be as reasonable as $150 per night (see their website: http://www.ritzcarlton.com/resorts/bali/). Transportation and fine dining are also very affordable. And for less than what it would cost to fill the gas tank at home, a driver will accompany you for a day-long guided tour of the island.
For more information about visiting Bali, visit the Balinese government's tourist information website: http://www.balitourismauthority.net/.
Jason Havens and Sue Zatorski
For International Living
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