Challenging waves, lush nature, and dramatic mountain scenery make Bali the perfect destination for anyone from adrenaline junkies to those looking for clean family fun.No one can go to Bali without testing its waters. Some of the best surfing here, and indeed the world, can be found off the Bukit peninsula at Uluwatu and along Bali’s west coast north of Canggu. Although roads leading to there beaches are quite well hidden, the journey is well worth it for they are rarely visited by swimmers and beachcombers. For other water sports beside surfing, Tanjung Benoa to the north of Nusa Dua is the place to go. Windsurfing, parasailing, water-skiing, and all things aquatic are well served by operators from individual resorts. From here, it’s a short boat ride to the nearby islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan.
For something completely different, go to Amuk Bay in eastern Bali, where a submarine safari will bring you some 20 meters below the sea to witness the beauty of underwater reefs and corals – you might even spot a shark or two. Seekers of active fun can also delight in the hubhub of Kuta and Legian, both famous for their convenience and accessibility. Especially popular among family visitors, these villages have a wide variety of activities for children and your people: bungy jumping, horseback riding on the beach, and water sports are just some of the diversions that can be enjoyed. Heading up to Ubud, more choices for outward-bound pursuits await. The rushing waters of the Ayung River, a lush gorge to the west of Ubud, is ideal for a day of rafting. Animal-lovers should include the Bali Bird Park and Reptile Park in their itinerary, as well as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary and the Elephant Safari Park. Excursions to all these can easily be arranged through hotels or operators in the area.
Water-Boom parkEnjoy the world's flushest waterslides, Waterbom Park, main gate admission give access to all the park facilities. Enjoy exiting waterslides; fast runs, leisurely runs, winding river and gentle slides for kids on a park over 600metres beautifully landscaped surrounding and setting for relaxation at the pleasure pool with sunken bar and underwater music.
Farther north, get ready to get up-close and personal with the wild. Bali’s northern reaches are dominated by dramatic mountain landscapes and stretches of grayish-black volcanic sand, one of which is the breathtaking Lovina Beach. The abundance of coral reefs just off the coast makes it a popular diving and snorkeling site, but the area is also famous for to its resident dolphin population. To the east of Lovina, Pemuteran village is the ideal basis from which to explore the surrounding nature and the 19,000 hectare Bali Barat National Park. The village has direst boat access to the island of Menjangan, a nature reserve that offers some of the best snorkeling in bali. Also be sure to visit Singaraja, Bali’s second city largest city and onetime capital during the colonial era. It is one of the few places on the island where visitors can still see quaint Dutch warehouses, especially around the harbor and waterfront.
Adventures aside, Bali offers a great opportunity to fill up with fresh air and tropical bliss. Loosen up tired muscles with spa and beauty treatments by the cliff’s edge or on one of the island’s pristine beaches. Recommendations include the Ritz-Carlton Spa and the Kirana in Ubud. For lovers of meditation, classes and regular sessions can be found throughout Ubud and Denpasar, including free Monday night lessons at the Denpasar Meditation Shop. If culinary adventure is more to your liking, join the cooking classes at Bali’s Grand Hyatt and Ritz-Carlton. Held by Heinz von Holzen, founder of the Bumbu Bali restaurant in Tanjung Benoa, the sessions will reveal the secrets of the island’s cookery and allow you to bring the sublime taste of Bali back home.
Get high with Bali Eye BalloonTake a unique look at Bali from the skies with the new Bali Eye hot air balloon in Nusa Dua (Phone: 0361 770 101). Hover 100 meters above the manicured Nusa Dua gardens and treat yourself to a majestic view of the south of the island. Passengers remain aloft for approximately 10-15 minutes. Don't forget to bring your camera. The balloon is tethered to terra firma to prevent any unplanned trips to Antarctica but we anticipate some bungee balloon activity in the very near future.
Bali Zoo for ZoolanderBali Zoo (jl. Raya Singapadu, Sukawati, Gianyar, phone: 0361 294 356) opened their gates in October 2007 for the new night zoo with over 350 endangered animals in 3.5 hectares of tropical gardens. Expect to see Kecak fire dances and Joged jungle dances with the added bonus of barbeque dinners at the Star Bhoga restaurant. Open: 9am to 5pm. Every day of the year (except Nyepi - Balinese day of silence) www.bali-zoo.com
