BALI INDONESIA

Tourism Office Bali Government Tourism Office Jl. S. Parman No. 1, Niti Mandala, Denpasar-Bali 80235, Phone (62-361) 222387, Fax (62-361) 226313 , Website : http://www.tourism.baliprov.go.id/ , Email: infotourism@baliprov.go.id

Description

 Bali has been the favorite destination for locals and international tourists for ages. Bali has been the favorite destination for locals and international tourists for ages. Full of magnificent beaches, breathtaking sceneries, marvellous trinkets and interesting culture, Bali is ideal for people wanting to escape from daily activities, enjoy a honeymoon, or even, have a great time with family and friends. Bali is an Indonesian island located at 8°25'23?S 115°14'55?E, the westernmost of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east. It is one of the country's 33 provinces with the provincial capital at Denpasar towards the south of the island. With a population recorded as 3,151,000 in 2005, the island is home to the vast majority of Indonesia's small Hindu minority. 93.18% of Bali's population adheres to Balinese Hinduism, while most of the remainder follow Islam. It is also the largest tourist destination in the country and is renowned for its highly developed arts, including dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking and music. History

History

Though no artifacts or records exist that would date Bali as far back as the Stone Age, it is thought that the very first settlers to Bali emigrated from China in 2500 BC, having created quite the evolved culture by the Bronze era, in around 300BC. This culture included a complex, effective irrigation system, as well as agriculture of rice, which is still used to this day. Bali’s history remained vague for the first few centuries, though many Hindu artifacts have been found, which lead back to the first century, indicating a tie with that religion. Though it is strongly held that the first primary religion of Bali, discovered as far back as 500 AD, was Buddhism. Additionally, Yi-Tsing, a Chinese scholar who visited Bali in the year 670 AD stated that he had visited this place and seen Buddhism there. By the 11th century, Hindu and Javanese influences became very important to Bali. In fact, when the Balinese Prince Airlanggha’s father died in about 1011 AD, he moved to East Java, uniting it under one principality and appointing his brother, Anak Wungsu, the ruler of all of Bali. Following this time, there were many reciprocal political and artistic ideas that formed. Javanese language, called Kawi, became the aristocracy’s preference, among other Javanese traits and customs that were worked into Bali life. When Airlanggha died in the mid-11th century, Bali remained quite autonomous until 1284, when East Javanese king Kertanegara conquered Bali and ruled over it from his home in Java. Kertanegara was assassinated in 1292, and Bali was once again liberated, until 1343 when it was brought back into Javanese control by Hindu-Javanese general Gajah Mada, of the Majapahit empire. At this time, the 16th century, Islam was spreading throughout Sumatra and Java, and the Majapahit Empire started to fall, creating a large exodus of aristocracy, priests, artists and artisans to Bali. This brought Bali great prosperity, becoming Bali’s golden age of cultural history for the following centuries. Bali soon became the major power of the region, taking control of its neighboring country, Lombok, as well as pieces of East Java. In 1597, Dutch seamen were the first Europeans to land in Bali, though they had no true interest in Bali until the 1800’s. In 1846 the Dutch returned with colonization on their minds, having already had vast expanses of Indonesia under their control since the 1700’s. The Dutch sent troops into northern Bali, and by 1894, they had sided with the Sasak people of Lombok to defeat the Balinese. By 1911, all Balinese principalities were under Dutch control. After World War I, a sense of Indonesian Nationalism began to grow, leading to the declaration of the national language in 1928, as Bahasa Indonesia. World War II brought the Japanese, who expelled the Dutch and occupied Indonesia from 1942 until 1945. The Japanese were later defeated, and the Dutch returned to attempt to regain control of Bali and Indonesia. However, in 1945, Indonesia was declared independent by its very first president, Sukarno. The Dutch government ceded, and Indonesia was officially recognized as an independent country in 1949.

Entry

Most international visitors will fly to Bali directly.
  Flights

 * Numerous direct flights from Europe, America, Australia and most Asian Countries.

 * Domestic flights to and from major cities within Indonesia.
Sea
 * Regular passenger ferries from Java and Lombok.
 * Cruise ship stop-offs.
 Overland
 * By car or bus from Java.

People & Culture

People & Culture Bali's reputation as a tourist destination is already established in the minds of so many people around the world. It is known as a beautiful island with mountains, temples, palaces and visits of terraced rice fields. It is known as a place where traditions of art and culture predominate, where the village way of life based on their strong religious beliefs is still in place. But, it is also a place where modern sports such as diving, sailing, rafting and above all surfing have taken hold and are enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year. It is a place where the ultimate luxuries of life: fine dining, spas and massage have reached the peak of perfection. Behind all of this is a single unseen premise; none of these practices, pursuits and pleasures are created as tourist industries in Bali, but are based on the talents, dedication and skills of the Balinese people in their normal course of life.

Cuisine

Like the food of other regions in Indonesia, Balinese food is rice as the central dish served with small portions of spicy, pungent vegetables, fish or meat and served almost always with sambal or chili paste. Bali is a few of the regions in Indonesia whose majority of its people are non Muslims, thus babi guling or roasted suckling pig is a specialty, as is bebek betutu, smoked stuffed duck wrapped in bamboo leaves. In Jimbaran area, for instance, you can sample seafood dishes while sitting on the beach. Visit this place in the evening, the cool atmosphere and caressing breeze will make your dining experience remarkable.

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10 BEST THAILAND BEACH RESORTS

With hundreds of beautiful tropical islands, Thailand has no shortage of fine beach resorts. This list presents the best beach resorts in Thailand, as rated by visitors. Although hotels in Thailand are available in every price range, the resorts on this list rank at the higher end. The best prices for accommodation can be found during Thailand’s low season, which not surprisingly also coincides with the region’s monsoon season.

10 - Bo Phut Resort & Spa **** 
Combining an exotic and tranquil setting, the Bo Phut Resort & Spa resort is situated in the northern tip of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand. The 32 villas and 29 deluxe rooms are designed in a Modern Thai style, featuring modern amenities.

09 - Le Meridien Khao Lak *****
Tucked between primeval forests and 10 kilometers of pristine beach, Le Méridien Khao Lak Beach and Spa Resort offers an indulgent experience. The extensive facilities include three swimming pools, an award-winning spa, six restaurants with creative menus, and an array of sports facilities.

08 - Mai Samui Beach Resort & Spa ***** 
The Mai Samui Beach Resort is a stylish hideaway situated on the west coast of Koh Samui. The resort consists of 97 rooms ranging from the chic Deluxe Room and the decadent Mai Pool Villa. The hotel spa host a number of pampering treatments, from purifying facials to aromatic salt scrubs and ancient Thai massage all delivered by professional spa therapists in a wonderfully soothing environment.

07 - Sri Panwa Villas Phuket *****
This boutique hotel is situated high above the waters of the Andaman Sea on Cape Panwa in the south east of Phuket. It offers both panoramic views from the top of Cape Panwa, as well an exclusive private beach. The resort offers accommodation in one- or two-bedroom pool villas and family suites. Amenities in all the villas include a private infinity swimming pool with a jet stream spa pool and outdoor soaking tub.

06 - Ko Yao Island Resort ****
The Koyao Island Resort is located on the island of Ko Yao in the Phang Nga Bay near Phuket in southern Thailand. Remote but still accessible, the beach resort is surrounded by secluded beaches, rain forests and uninhabited islands. The hotel has 23 luxury villas, designed in traditional Thai architectural style, each villa facing the beach with its own private garden.

05 - Sandalwood Luxury Villas ****
Sandalwood Luxury Villas is situated on a hillside amongst lush tropical gardens on the island of Koh Samui. The villas are a stylish combination of traditional Thai design and modern elegance. Each of the 40 villas has its own unique charm and features a balcony or terrace from which guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Siam.

04 - Layana Resort And Spa *****
 The luxury beach resort Layana Resort and Spa is located on the west coast of Koh Lanta Yai, at tje Phra-Ae beach. Facing a 3 kilometer stretch of fine white sandy beach, the hotel is set against a picturesque backdrop of forested hills. The hotel provides 50 rooms each with four guestrooms, nestled within landscaped gardens, balcony, satellite and multi-lingual TV channels.

03 - Paresa Resort Phuket ***** Perched high on a cliffside, amid tropical forests, overlooking azure blue waters and a picturesque panorama of the Andaman Sea, the Paresa Resort is an oasis of tranquility and luxury. All villas and suites face the ocean and offer different views of the sea and nature. This Thailand beach resort in Phuket is situated close to many attractions, including Patong Beach, and close to Karon Beach, as well.

02 - Long Beach Chalet ***
Perhaps the most affordable among this list of Thailand beach resorts, Long Beach Chalet is located on the island of Ko Lanta, close to Long Beach and Klong Dao Beach. A beach bar, a poolside bar, and a lounge bar are all open for drinks. Each of the 15 individually furnished and decorated rooms have a balcony with garden views. The rooms also contain free internet and cable television.

 01 - Banyan Tree Samui *****
The Banyan Tree Resort boast a collection of private villas, each with its own private infinity pool. Each villa in this luxury Koh Samui resort is designed with Thai elements using local materials. Large glass windows and sliding glass doors open onto the open decks. The resort overlooks the rocky cliffs and sandy beaches along Lamai Bay in Koh Samu and is just a half hour’s drive from Samui International Airport.

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HALONG BAY VIETNAM

Halong Bay is one of Mother Earth’s most amazing natural wonders and one of Vietnam’s most prized treasures. A comfortable 3 hours drive from Hanoi, Halong Bay is in Northeastern Vietnam on the shores of the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay is dominated by more than 1,600 limestone karsts and islets which rise out of the waters of the bay to heights of up to 100 meters (330 feet) and the numerous caves and grottos spread throughout the bay. Abundant scenic beauty, archeological and geological significance, cultural and historical connections, fresh seafood and proximity to international gateways make Halong Bay one of Vietnam’s most popular places to visit. Such is the significance of Halong Bay that in 1994, UNESCO recognized the heart of Halong Bay as being a site of natural World Heritage and stated that "Apart from Halong Bay there are no equivalent sites on the World Heritage List..."

Geographical Location/Distribution

 Halong Bay is located on the Western side of the Gulf of Tonkin in Northeastern Vietnam. The bay is approximately 35 km (21 miles) Northeast of the port city of Hai Phong and approximately 170 km (105 miles) by road from the capital Hanoi. The town of Halong is situated on the coast to the North of the bay. The journey from Hanoi to Halong takes approximately 3.5 hours. Halong Bay is formed by Cat Ba island to the South, Ngoc Hung and Van Canh islands to the East and the Vietnamese coastline to the North and West. The bay covers a total area of 1,553 square kilometers (600 square miles). Occupying the heart of the bay between Halong town and Cat Ba island, the central World Heritage area stretches for 434 square kilometers (167 square miles).

Natural Features

Islands and Karsts

The most outstanding feature of Halong Bay and undoubtedly its greatest attraction are the 1,696 islands, islets and rocky karst outcrops. 989 of these islets and rocky outcrops have been been given imaginative names by the locals over the years. These have been derived from their perceived shapes and include names such as Man’s Head, Fighting Cocks, Wading Ox and Wallowing Buffalo. With heights ranging from 50-100 meters (160-330 feet) and a height-to-width ratio of about 6:1, the majority of these karst pinnacles and islets have sheer, vertical cliffs. They are uninhabited and unaffected by human activities. The pure size and numbers of these outcrops provide a stunning contrast and backdrop to the turquoise waters of the bay when viewed from sea level. 

Caves and Grottos

Another exceptional geological feature of Halong Bay is the number of limestone islands which have caves and grottoes within them. The total number of caves has never been determined and there are almost certainly more which are yet to be discovered. In order to preserve the natural state and integrity of the large number of caves and grottos in the World Heritage Area, only some are open to visitors. The most commonly visited are Thien Cung (Heavenly Palace) cave, Dau Go (Wood Tip) grotto, Sung Sot (Surprise) cave and Trinh Nu (Virgin) grotto. The shapes and formations on the sides and rooves of the caves, many now being part of local folklore and legends, bear witness to the different stages of formation over the ages. Some cave features, such as calcified shell-beds, are the direct result of ancient human activity.

 Sea and Lakes 

The lower chambers of some caves and grottos are below sea level. Due to the porous nature of limestone, these chambers are often partially filled to form tidal lakes and pools. Although most of these are shallow, the depths of some have never been determined. The geomorphology of Halong Bay indicates that it is almost certain that there are undiscovered and fully entombed lakes within many of the islands. Dau Be (Goat’s Head island) alone has 6 different tidal lakes. The sea in Halong Bay is generally less than 10 meters (33 feet) deep and boasts a rich biodiversity of about 1,000 species of marine animals. Over 160 species of coral have been identified. Coral reefs make up 30% of the seabed and in some areas as much as 80% of the seabed is covered in coral reefs. Most coral reefs are at a depth of 4-6 meters.

 Flora/Fauna 

The majority smaller islets and karsts are capped with a low shrubby ’crown’ The larger islands are home to dense tropical forests featuring abundant bird life. The island of Cat Ba on the Southern flank of Halong Bay is a rich treasure trove for nature lovers. The National Park which occupies much of the island, and some of the surrounding waters, ranges in diversity from double-tiered primeval tropical rainforest on the slopes of the hills, down to tidal mangrove forests and inshore coral reefs. The island is home to several plant and tree species highly prized for their medicinal properties, and one of the rarest primate species on earth, the Cat Ba (Golden-headed) Langur. There may be as few as 50 of these animals between here and extinction.

Culture/History

Human History 

Archeological evidence suggests humans may have inhabited the area in and around Halong Bay for as long as 18,000 years. Some of these are distinctly different enough to have been given their own names, such as the Soi Nhu from the Mesolithic age and the Halong culture from the Neolithic age. Van Don in the Southeast of the bay was once one of the most important trading ports in Vietnamese ancient history. 

Folklore

There is perhaps a greater number of myths, legends and folklore surrounding Halong Bay than any other area in Vietnam. The current name of the bay (Descending Dragon) is itself a mystery. Some say it can be attributed to the French in the late 1890’s, others say it comes from a famous Vietnamese folk tale. Myths and folklore surround many of the caves and grottos. Tales of life’s love lost; of forbidden love forever together cast in stone; wedding celebrations of truly celestial splendor; of poverty and power, and more. Other legends have at least some bases in fact. Some of the famous exploits of Vietnamese warriors from history, such as national heroes Ngo Quyen and Tran Hung Dao have become legends involving Ha Long Bay and the surrounding areas. Ngo Quyen is most famous for finally defeating the Chinese after 1,000 years of occupation. Tran Hung Dao is remembered for bringing those same guerilla tactics back to life 300 years later. The following tale is recounted to serve as an illustration of the connections Halong Bay has to Vietnamese history and why the bay is so deeply entrenched in the Vietnamese national psyche. 

Tran Hung Dao and his Battle of the Bach Dang River 

After being driven out of Vietnam by Ngo Quyen in 938, the Chinese repeatedly attempted to regain their former serfdom for several hundred years more. In 1288 another Han fleet appeared off the coast to make invasion preparations. The Vietnamese fleet under the command of Generals Tran Hung Dao and Tran Khanh Du was vastly outsized, outnumbered and outgunned ... but not overawed. They made their own preparations. Using Ngo Quyen’s example from 300 years earlier, Tran Hung Dao ordered that wooden stakes be cut and sharpened. It is said some of these were moved into a forward staging area in a cave on an island in Halong Bay . We know this cave today as Hang Dau Go (Wooden Stake Cave) on the island with the same name. Under cover of darkness the Vietnamese drove the stakes into the bed of the upper reaches of the Bach Dang river mouth (near present day Hai Phong) until the tips of the stakes were hidden just below the surface of the water at low tide. The shallow draft Vietnamese ships continued to move about, positioning themselves for battle, feinting attacks and creating diversions. When preparations were complete, Tran Hung Dao waited for favorable wind and tide conditions. Late in the year 1288, the conditions were right. The Vietnamese forces assembled in battle formation and set out to engage the Han fleet. After ensuring the Chinese fleet was fully engaged, the Vietnamese ships turned against the ebbing tide and fled back into the Bach Dang river. The Chinese followed in hot pursuit, growing ever more certain of victory. As the tide reached its full ebb, the deeper draught Chinese ships became impaled on the stakes. The smaller, nimbler Vietnamese fleet then picked off each impaled ship one-by-one, like lions might harass and harangue a much larger wounded elephant ... until the final demise.

 Attractions and Activities

Undoubtedly Halong Bay’s greatest attraction is its natural scenery. The towering limestone outcrops jutting skywards from the emerald-blue waters. The sheer numbers and size of the islands, islets and karsts within the bay serve to humble even the most jaded traveler. Swimming, kayaking, hiking and of course photography are favorite pastimes for visitors to Halong Bay - one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Vietnam. Abundant fresh local seafood is another delight. Floating fishing villages are the most popular human attraction. Entire village populations live, work and die on these ’floating islands’ in Halong Bay. The villagers are mainly fisherfolk and ply the waters around their villages selling their fresh produce to the passing tourist trade.

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TOP 10 BEST VIETNAM LUXURY RESORTS

Accommodation in Vietnam ranges from simple dorm accommodation in backpacking hostels to world-class resorts, both in large cities and in popular coastal and rural destinations. This list presents the best luxury resorts in Vietnam, as rated by visitors, picked from an ever-growing selection of boutique hotel stays, luxury hotel hideaways and romantic retreats.

 10 - The Nam Hai ***** 

The Nam Hai hotel is situated on a tranquil area along the pristine China Beach. The resort offers 60 beautiful guesthouses and 40 pool villas. All accommodations are tucked away amidst lush landscape and feature spacious areas, en suite facilities, and a walk-in closet. Several accommodations also offer guests magnificent views of the South China Sea and Cham Islands. Guests can swim in one of the 3 beachfront swimming pools, or enjoy a challenging game of tennis on one of the hotel’s 4 courts.


09 - Park Hyatt Saigon *****

The Park Hyatt is situated on Lam Son Square in Ho Chi Minh City, providing guests with easy access to such attractions as the Saigon Opera House and the Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater. The 252 guestrooms available at the Park Hyatt Saigon include amenities such as air-conditioning, cable television, and high-speed Internet access. Guests can also enjoy a swimming pool, a fitness center and a full service spa, which offers a selection of massages and beauty treatments.

 08 - Ana Mandara Villas Resort & Spa Da Lat *****

The Ana Mandara Villas Resort & Spa offers a 5-star experience in arguably Da Lat’s premier location. In addition to an outdoor pool and a steam room, the resort features a sauna and a beauty center. The resort also features a day spa, offering a range of massage treatments and beauty therapy. The rooms are equipped with satellite TV while the bathrooms conveniently include a Jacuzzi.

 07 - Evason Ana Mandara Nha Trang ***** 

Situated at Nha Trang’s beachfront, the Evason Ana Mandara offers stunning views of Nha Trang Bay. Featuring luxury, elegant design and decor, the luxury resort offers guest rooms that are either situated in the plush tropical gardens or with spectacular views of the sea. Each unit is provided with a Jacuzzi and have free internet access. There are several dining options, from the Pavilion Restaurant that offers Vietnamese and International specialties to the Beach Restaurant where visitors can taste freshest local seafood by the infinity swimming pool.
 06 - La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa *****

Located in the heart of Hue, the La Residence Hue Hotel & Spa is made up of 122 spacious guestrooms. All of these accommodations are gracefully appointed with a wide array of modern amenities. Enjoyable local, regional, and international cuisine can be appreciated in hotel’s restaurant and guests can sip on their favorite drink at the cozy bar. Visitors can work out in the gymnasium, take a dip in the swimming pool, soak in the sauna or enjoy a variety of spa services.

 05 - Sunrise Nha Trang Beach Hotel & Spa *****

The Sunrise Nha Trang Beach Hotel & Spa offers 120 centrally air-conditioned rooms. Every room and suite has a 180-degree view of the sea while the exclusive Sunrise Suite also features a jacuzzi on the balcony. The hotel boasts a unique Roman style outdoor swimming pool and Nha Trangs highest Cocktail Bar: The Sky Lounge which overlooks the bay. Guest can access the internet anywhere and anytime they want to at the resort, even while having a free neck massage or sipping a refreshing tropical fruit juice.

04 - Pilgrimage Village ***** 

The Pilgrimage Village is located 4 miles from Hue’s city center and offers guests a rustic village setting. The luxury resort was renovated in 2007 and offers a blend of local culture, modern art concepts, and traditional Vietnamese style elements. A total of 99 accommodation units are available including 72 deluxe units, 15 honeymoon bungalows, 5 honeymoon pool huts, and 3 traditional Vietnamese pool houses.

 03 - Princess d'Annam Resort & Spa *****

Facing a century-old French light house and placed in a picturesque surrounding amidst magnificent sceneries, the Princess d’Annam Resort is Vietnam’s first all-villa luxury boutique resort. The hotel is situated on the pristine bay of Ke Ga about a 4 hour drive from Ho Chi Minh city. Overlooking the South China Sea, it is features stunning mountains, red canyons, sand dunes and a rich ecosystem. Guests can participate in a wide range of outdoor activities from four-wheel exploration on dirt roads or spectacular mountain raids, to playing at one of Vietnam’s best golf course.

 02 - Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi *****

Situated right outside the very center of Hanoi, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is within a 10 minute walk to Hoan Kiem Lake and the National Museum of Vietnamese History. The hotel offers an outdoor heated pool. Wellness facilities include a Turkish steam bath, a jacuzzi and a spa bath and a relaxing massage session can be requested. Family-friendly rooms are available, big enough to accommodate guests traveling with kids.

01- Sheraton Nha Trang Hotel and Spa *****

Overlooking one of the most beautiful bays in the world, the Sheraton Hotel in Nha Trang provides easy access to the beach. The idyllic seaside setting is an ideal jumping-off point for island hopping, scuba diving, snorkeling or a simple stroll through the sand for a drink in a beach bar. Each of its 284 rooms has an ocean view. Hotel facilities at one of the best Vietnam luxury resorts include a a full-service spa, a health club, an outdoor pool and no less than six restaurants.

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