How to Choose Your Bali Vacation Package

Bali is a wonderful place to holiday. With such a great variety of locations, hotels and sightseeing options, it's worth considering the factors most important to making your dream getaway a success. A few of these points are worth considering in regards to your Bali accommodation before taking the plunge.

Location - Lively or Relaxed?

If you are looking for excitement, nightlife and a lively atmosphere, then Kuta's a great place to be based.

Sanur might be your place if relaxation is key. Less development and a slower pace remain in Bali's first beach resort area.

Surrounding Environment - Beach, or Mountains, or Rainforest?

Bali is blessed! Beaches are scattered all over the island, giving the visitor plenty of choice here. Ubud, considered by some as the cultural centre of Bali, by comparison, sits up in the hills. Further north and north east are the imposing volcanoes of Batur and Agung. Hikers take note.

The fortunate thing is Bali's relative compactness. As long as one has more than a few days, one can sample a variety of these locations, with plenty of tour operators equipped to whisk you there are back.

Availability of Local Amenities

Most amenities are located in the South Eastern part of the island. Should you be travelling with any medical issues, please be aware that hospitals may not be as numerous or accessible in some other parts of the island. Transportation is usually quite easy to come by, but don't get caught in a remote rural area just before your return flight, and expect to return in time. Then again, in idyllic Bali, maybe that might not be such a bad predicament!

Family Friendly?

When looking for a hotel, investigate options for the kids. A children's pool or supervised pool will keep the kids occupied. A children's playground is also a great asset. A location away from traffic and wild nightlife might mean a place outside Kuta, at placid locations like Jimbaran or Sanur. Amed in the east, or Lovina in the north are quieter still.

Hotel Services and Facilities

Bali is warm all year round, so a pool is an indispensable asset, particularly if one is not located close to the beach. If one is staying out of town, it is also worth checking that your hotel offers money exchange, a restaurant, airport transfers and transportation to other locations. Many hotels can also book tours on your behalf, leaving you with maximum relaxation time.

Proximity to Local Attractions

The main tourist precinct, in the south-eastern part of Bali allows access to many attractions within an hour or so, and is therefore very convenient. If one has very specific plans however, then another location may be more suitable. Lovina, in the north, for example is renowned for Dolphin watching. The area around Amed, in the east has great snorkelling, just off the beach, including a sunken Japanese ship!

When considering various Bali hotels, take the factors above into consideration. Whatever your holiday preferences, Bali is sure to be a great host.

Looking to book holidays to Bali? Then find Bali hotel accommodation, other tourism resources and Bali island tours with Bali Dream Tours. Make online bookings for hotels and villas in Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Tuban, Seminyak, Ubud, Kuta, Sanur and other areas of Bali by visiting Bali Hotels.

Bali - A Luxurious World of Tranquility

Bali is truly deserving of its honorary title, the Island of the Gods. Bali luxury holidays offer the discerning traveller extraordinary natural beauty, a rich cultural history and all the indulgence of superb 5 star resorts. Most importantly, this island paradise and its serene people will provide you with a tranquil retreat from the stresses of modern life. If you looking for a place to rest and rejuvenate your mind, body and spirit, let Bali be your oasis.

Many of the two million tourists who come to Bali each year spend their time in Kuta, enjoying the world-class surf beach, bargain shopping and legendary nightlife. However, those who look further afield will discover a stunning array of idyllic destinations and more than enough variety to satisfy even the most jaded tastes.

To experience the pristine white sand of the southern coasts in style, come to Nusa Dua and enjoy the very best in Bali luxury resorts. Surrender yourself to complete relaxation in this haven of endless blue skies and sparkling ocean. Melt under the expert hands of your personal masseuse; float in the warm, protected waters of the Indian Ocean; or indulge in a speciality spa treatment. You can have all this and more at the renowned Bali luxury hotel Club Med Nusa Dua. Find your oasis resting beneath the palms, or perhaps with more active pursuits such as snorkelling, yoga or golf.

Lovers of fine art and culture should head to the mountain village of Ubud, nestled in the cool, green heart of Bali. In the 1930s Ubud was one of the most fashionable destinations for international artists and their work is now displayed alongside Balinese and Javanese pieces, both traditional and modern, in the hundreds of galleries dotted throughout the area. The Agung Rai Museum of Art is not to be missed with a remarkable collection, and performances of Balinese classical music and dance.

While in Ubud you can seek the source of Bali's magic in ancient temples and palaces, have a close encounter at the nearby Elephant Safari Park or Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, or simply soak in the lush beauty of the surrounding tropical forests, emerald valleys and

terraced paddy fields.

For an exclusive view of this breathtaking landscape, take a luxury tour by private helicopter. You can see much of this relatively small island by air, including the volcanic craters of Mt. Batur and Mt. Agung, and return to the dedicated landing pad just a few metres from one of the most opulent and elegant Bali luxury resorts, the Viceroy Bali.

The Viceroy Bali is located on the slopes of the Pentanu valley and offers guests exquisitely appointed private villas with individual swimming pools and expansive views of the dramatic river gorge below. You'll want for nothing in this spectacular retreat which incorporates the very finest holistic spa. Restore your spirit with a personalised program of relaxation, meditation and whole body wellness treatments.

Connoisseurs of find food will have difficulty choosing from the magnificent restaurants of Ubud ranging from French inspired cuisine at Viceroy Bali's own CasCades, to the modern fusion degustation served the renowned Mozaic, to local style 'warungs' featuring Indonesian and Balinese dishes.

However a brief dip into the intoxicating tastes of Bali is not enough for some. The answer is a specialty luxury tour to the Four Seasons Resort Cooking School in Jimbaran Bay. In this southern fishing cove you will have your pick of the freshest catch from the sea, the lushest produce from around the island and the most aromatic of Bali flavours including chilli, saffron, lemongrass and turmeric. Whether novice or experienced cook, you will master the secrets of Balinese and South East Asia cuisine and enjoy the fruits of your labour with a sumptuous feast.

Of course you will need appropriate pampering after your culinary efforts and the Four Seasons Resort spa will detoxify and energise with lavish array of health and beauty services including massage, body scrubs and wraps, and facials. At the end of a busy day you can retire to your elegant Balinese villa with separate sleeping, bathing and living pavilions and ocean views from your plunge pool.

Come to the Island of the Gods and discover your own private world of tranquillity and happiness with a Bali luxury holiday.

Karen Cooke is a professional consultant with Travel Associates, an exclusive Australian travel agency catering to the premium travel market. More helpful travel tips and suggestions are available at http://www.travel-associates.com.au

Asia - The Best Travel Destination

If the time has come for your vacation or a holiday getaway, read this article before making your plans. There are many places of great beauty and interest to be seen in the USA and Europe. But, whether transportation, touring, theme park, or food and lodging, it is expensive. This article is written for every traveler, whether a backpacker on a budget, or a first class - five star traveler.

Travel in Asia is inexpensive and opens the door to different cultural experiences. Planning can be for a short holiday, an extended stay, or choices of laying the groundwork for the ultimate stay, retirement. Nowadays, with so many opportunities to make money using the Internet it is not out of the question to "retire" early.

Medical Tourism in Asia growing in popularity. It is high quality and affordable. Just one of International standard hospitals in Bangkok serves 400,000 international patients annually, In the USA cataract surgery for one eye runs around $8,000. At a prestigious International hospital in Thailand cataract surgery can be performed on both eyes for around $2,500. It is possible to have quality medical care, and an Asian holiday, for a fraction of the cost of the same procedure in the USA.

Let us take a tantalizing glimpse at just some of the countries.

Thailand - Land of Smiles. Often referred to as the most exotic country in Southeast Asia. A visit to the Grand Palace in Bangkok for sure. Trips to a floating market or to the Bridge on the River Kwai. From pristine beaches in the Southern Islands to the Northern mountains with its waterfalls, elephants bathing in mountain streams, and Hill Tribe villages.

India - Delhi is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world. India Gate, an imposing structure, has emerged as one of the most popular tourist spots in Delhi. The Red Fort Delhi, a masterpiece of architecture, is a popular spot. A trip to India would not be complete without a visit to Agra, famous as the site of one of the world's most romantic, graceful and photographed buildings, the Taj Mahal.

Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos - Three small countries neighboring Thailand. Each opens a different world of exploration. Cambodia - the highlight is visiting Angkor Wat, an architectural masterpiece constructed in the jungle in the early 12th century. Vietnam - is a varied country, offering beaches, mountains and hundreds of years of history from the ancient Cham Towers to remnants from the Vietnam War. Laos - savor the crafts, culture and hospitality of Laos with a river trip, visits to ancient temples, gorgeous palaces, and traditional villages.

Nepal - Adventure, travel, trekking, birding, wildlife, and cultural & overland Safaris. Take an air flight along the Himalayas and view magnificent Mount Everest. Nearby, discover the serene beauty of Tibet, the country which inspired the Dalai Lama.

Indonesia - Jakarta, the capital city of the world's fourth most-populous nation. Bali is Indonesia's main holiday destination. Flores is a pretty lush green island with forests, palm and banana trees, rice fields and many volcanoes. Highlights are the three small offshore islands of "Gillis" that invite snorkeling, diving and relaxing. For hikers, a climb to the top of the volcano Rijani.

Philippines - An island nation comprising over 7,000 islands in the western Pacific Ocean.

Manila, the bustling capital has powerful reminders of the country's past, along with attractive parks, fine museums, and exhilarating nightlife. The Ifugao Rice Terraces are a testimony to the early technological advancement of the Ifugao people. Take a jeepney ride to the market. Be brave, try balut, a Philippine delicacy. Go diving in the Visayas.

Singapore - Shopping on famous Orchard Road, the dream of every woman. The Night Safari at Singapore Zoo is fabulous. Chinatown, a little glitzy, but you can buy all the souvenirs you want there. Interestingly, one of Singapore's most beautiful Hindu temples is smack dab in the middle of Chinatown. Decide if a Singapore Sling is worth the hype in the Long Bar at Raffles Hotel. There's more to Singapore than urban glitz, like rambling in the rain forest of Bukit Timah Nature Reserve.

Japan - Tokyo is the capital city and home of the Imperial Residence and Emperor's Palace. Select a popular destination or region in Japan and explore its attractions. Ride the Bullet Train to the magnificent city of Kyoto. Visit Hiroshima and the Peace Memorial Park. Castles, temples, gardens, the list of top destinations in Japan is too long for this article..

Taiwan - Taipei, the country's booming, vibrant capital remains steeped in Chinese, Japanese and native Taiwanese cultures. Some of its most impressive sights include the Grand Hotel, topped by the largest Classical Chinese roof in the world, the Shihlin Night Market, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial with the National Theater and Concert Hall located directly across from each other on the grounds. A popular day trip is Tailuge (Taroko Gorge), considered one of the natural wonders of the world.

Hong Kong - the Pearl of East and jewel of The Orient. Nathan Road is lined with shops, restaurants, nightspots and cheap places to stay. If you're in Hong Kong with the little ones, they'll probably appreciate Ocean Park (aquarium), Water World (swimming pools and water slides), and of course Disneyland. If you're in Hong Kong for more than a few days, then there's plenty of outlying islands to discover.

It is often said that for the traveler that has seen it all and done it all, there is still Katmandu, Nepal. And, that too is in Asia!

If you do not visit Asia, you will be missing not only a paradise of affordable travel, but the chance to see an alternative living location. For retirees, it is luxury living for pennies, not just getting by on their pension. Asia, a paradise experience is waiting for you.

Brian Bees has lived and worked in Asia for 28 years.

Bali: Beaches, Spas, Nightlife and Shahrukh Khan

For me, arriving at Bali was a travellers' delight. Nothing could beat travel fatigue better than the friendly, smiling Balinese faces at the Customs and Immigrations at the Denpasar airport and the ' Visa on arrival' stamped on my passport for 10 USD in 15 minutes flat!

I had heard that Bali was an island of temples, dances, and age-old rituals; with over 95 per cent of the 3 million people practice a form of Hinduism. But nothing prepared me for the spot-on recital of 'Gayatri Mantra' by my taxi driver, followed by a song from Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in the same breath. I was amazed by the Bollywood craze in this Far East city, so much so, that I was instantly labelled 'from Shah Rukh Khan's country' by every taxi driver and local I met!

Arriving at the airport, most tourists head straight for the beach areas of Kuta, Sanur, Jimbaran or Nusa Dua, I chose Kuta simply because it is still arguably the centre of night life activities along with an array of shops, boutiques, and galleries- what more could I ask for!

Bali offers a vast section of hotels for all budgets, right from simple and cheap accommodation for backpackers to five star hotels with indulgent spas for those seeking pure luxury. I stayed at the Hard Rock Hotel, a stone's throw away from the Kuta beach.

At sunset, the Kuta beach comes alive, with people wanting to enjoy the stunning panorama. Teeming tourist, locals selling the colourful sarongs and batiks and a Balinese dance performance somewhere on endless stretch of the beach...and if you want to dance away into the wee hours of the morning, you wont be disappointed- pubbing is amazing in Kuta, with a wide choice of with pubs and discos that offer a vibrant nightlife.

The best way to enjoy Kuta is by simply asking the locals, who are very friendly an always ready to help you. I was lucky to have a very successful Indian friend in Indonesia- Kishore Pridhnani, who along with his wife Radha took me for a night tour of all the chic places in Kuta. The one that left a lasting impression on my mind was Ku De Ta, a fancy restaurant overlooking the beach. I absolutely loved the ambience in the night and would recommend this restaurant to anyone.

However, if your kind of vacation is to relax and chill out, head to the southern peninsula, with world-class, self-contained luxury hotels set on quiet stretches of beach of Sanur and Nusa Dua, as well as in Jimbaran Bay. (which is also very popular for very reasonable Sea food) These white sand beaches dotted by thousands of mangrove and coconut trees and sheltered by coral reefs, create an ideal haven for honeymooners or those preferring solitude.

To take a break from the hustle and bustle of Kuta, I headed for Ubud, which I must say has retained the feel of a cosy village retreat, despite of the growing tourism industry. Ubud is the arts and crafts capital of Bali, so in addition to streets lined with lined with shops and workshops specialising in traditional crafts, there are a number of different art galleries and museums to visit.

The next I headed for a day-trip cruise from Benoa Harbor that took me to the Lembongan Island, a popular spot for surfers and scuba divers. (at approx. USD 60 onwards for the day-cruise inclusive of lunch, I think it's a worth a visit). Arriving on the white sandy beaches of Lembongan Bay, you can take the guided snorkelling trips and glass-bottom boat cruise or simply walk amidst the native Balinese villages

If you want to take a break from the beach scenario, I suggest a trip into the cool mountains of Kintamani with its green rice fields, the placid Lake Batur that rests in a huge crater and the impressive Gunung Batur volcano that dominates the landscape. The evenings tend to get cooler, so carry a warm pullover or a shawl and make sure you have camera with you to capture the spectacular view of Mt Batur.

Bali is one of the Spa Capitals of the world where you can indulge yourself in a spa treatment at very reasonable prices. If you want to spoil yourself then you can sample from an elaborate menu of lulur massages, rice-paste exfoliations, flower petal aroma baths and indulgent cream baths. I would suggest you check some of the local spas that work spa therapies into your holiday schedule on a daily basis. And don't forget the traditional drinks made of herbs and roots- 'jamu', a local Balinese remedy for fatigue, headaches, aching bones or chills.

For the adventurous and sporty, Bali offers a host of adrenaline-pumping water-sports, both below and above water. Surfing, scuba diving, banana boats, snorkelling, parasailing, Jet Ski, Bungee Jumping, Bali offers it all.

Do try the river rafting on the Ayung River amidst a wild tropical forest. Ride the fast-flowing Ayung river as it carves its way with numerous hairpin curves and swirling rapids. A full day programme would only cost you about USD 35 onwards and I found the experience thoroughly stimulating.

For those who love underwater world and always wanted to dive, there is spectacular scuba diving and snorkelling off the unspoiled coral reefs around the island, with the most amazing and colourful underwater life. There are even learner's courses by qualified professional instructors for the amateurs (you can take a day's course for less than USD 100)

And while you are on the beach enjoying the water sports, do indulge in the locals who cajole you into trying hair braiding, getting tattoo done or even have a relaxing massage.

If you are travelling with your kids, be sure to take them to the Waterboom Park. My kids and I enjoyed a day of waterslides and pools in all sizes with restaurants and snack bars within arms reach...good family fun for kids of all ages!

When you feel like venturing outside for a meal, there are lots of breezy open sided bamboo cafes serving authentic Balinese food as well as an array of sumptuous international cuisine. But for those who miss Indian food, I suggest you try out a delicious meal at the Queen's Tandoor in Seminyak, where the owners Puneet and Neeta Malhotra go out of the way to pamper you with personal attention.

Another big pastime here is shopping!

For those who do not want to wander too far from the beach, Sanur, Kuta and Ubud have more than enough to appease any shopper, from sarongs and sandals to wooden statues, stone carvings and iron and bronze works. But if you are keen on shopping, you can buy branded stuff from malls like Mahatari or also look for Factory Sales of branded clothes.

You'll find the ultimate in open-air market browsing in southern Bali, where traditional Asian-style shopping still thrives. Do check out the local painting styles. I suggest, you always go in at less than a third of the price and even walk away, until you get the price you want. .

And before you leave Bali don't forget to buy their chilly sauce called Sambal (its one of it's kind and you can even pick it up at the duty free at Bali Airport.)

From the locals raving over Shah Rukh Khan to the colourful Balinese-Hindu culture, this tropical paradise lures Indians, not just by its natural exquisiteness but more importantly by its culture and the warmth of the Balinese people.

With Bali becoming more accessible and affordable, with cheap extension packages from Kuala Lumpur or Singapore and great deals from Garuda Indonesia Airlines that have daily flights connecting the Island for as little as USD 160 for a round trip ticket, I would defiantly recommend this island getaway as your next travel itinerary!

Copyright (C) Manoj Gursahani

Manoj Gursahani is the Chairman of India's first ecommerce travel portal- TravelMartIndia. Visit the blog for more travel tips and destinations.

Are You Looking For a Luxurious Beach Hotel & Resort in Pattaya?

Pattaya is well known for its nightlife and beaches and is located about 150 km southeast from Bangkok. By car you would have to spend about 1.5 hours as the motorways are very developed. Starting as a fishing village, Pattaya has grown tremendously the last 40 years. The hotel industry has flourished with lightening speed due to ever increasing number of tourists visiting Pattaya (about 5 million per year). Hence, it's the most popular and profitable business of this region. For this purpose only, the right hotel with lots of offerings at low rates is very easy to find. Pattaya has a lot to offer for anyone such as theme and amusement parks, golfing, ease of access to beaches, scuba diving, sailing, para-sailing, bungee jumping, go-karts, and a very vibrant nightlife. Pattaya also has a wide variety of international cuisine as well as great sea food at the restaurants along the beach. You can also find some great bargains on clothing in Pattaya. Although not as extensive as Bangkok, it still has some great shopping venues.

The general factor for choosing a right resort at Pattaya would usually be the starting price. You can visit each hotel's official site to see and check their offerings. You can also browse directories and travel sites by price, by class or even by top 10 lists. This can ease your work of finding the right accommodation partner when you visit Pattaya; little bit of searching can get you more than what you invest for the stay.

However, there are few points to be noted before choosing a hotel for your stay. Price should not be the only factor in choosing the right hotel. Other factors like location, services do matter in choosing the right hotel. If you want a cheap hotel yet want to see

the beach from the room, then it's not difficult job to find one as there are lots of accommodations which offer cheap accommodations.

But, if you plan to stay in a luxurious hotel then you need to decide about the location, as you may be expecting high quality service for the money you spend.

If you have a fair budget and want all the luxuries of a hotel but also want to see the beach from the room of your hotel, then you might consider Siam Bayshore Resort & Spa located between "Walking Street" and Bali Hai pier. This hotel consists of 12-beautifully designed low-rise pavilions are set in acres of manicured tropical gardens and quiet lagoons. You can definitely feel a sense of privacy from your hotel room. Each room has a balcony overlooking the gardens, pool or ocean. This resort also offers six tennis courts for the avid tennis player, fitness room, 20 acres of lush gardens, swimming pool, children's pool, Jacuzzi, spa services such as Thai massage, full aromatherapy treatment and massage, facials and foot massage, full conference and high speed internet connection. As the life in Pattaya can get a little hectic at times, many people prefer to stay in a serene and private resort located by the beach. Daily tours and arrangements to enjoy beach activities are available and highly recommended if you plan your holiday in Pattaya.

Are you looking to find a Pattaya Beach Hotel You can grab the best deal for your money and find real luxury at this Resort in Pattaya

Planning a Vacation in Benidorm

Benidorm, Spain is considered the hottest, most popular resort area on the Costa Blanca. Located about an hour from the Alicante airport, on the Mediterranean Sea, this tourist mecca is home to over 1000 restaurants and 30 nightclubs. Whether you're traveling with adults or children, you'll find something to enjoy here.

This area, located north of Alicante and south of Altea, offers the most family fun, with amusement parks and a water park to enjoy during the day. It also offers the most exciting nightlife on the coast. The Terra Mitica amusement park is based on five different ancient civilizations, including Greek and Roman. The Aqualandia Water Park has slides, pools and other water activities the whole family can enjoy. Mundomar Marine Exotic Animal Park boasts dolphins, parrots, turtles, sea lions, penguins and many more animals that are sure to delight children and adults alike.

The history of Benidorm winds through the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Arabs and the Catholic Kings. Each one of these civilizations has left its mark on the city, through architecture and artifacts in museums and churches. You can spend all day wandering through history, walking through ancient buildings and touring ruins. By day, this city is a great place to explore the area through group tours as well as through independent excursions. By night it's the place for exciting nightlife, from restaurants to bars to nightclubs.

Of the thousands of hotel rooms in Benidorm, the grandest ones can be found at the Hotel Gran Bali. This 52-story hotel is right on the beach, and is the tallest hotel in Europe. It offers the most indulgent of amenities, including a spa, game rooms and heated pools. It also offers rooms with panoramic views of the sea, the mountains or the golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus. Whether you lounge by the pool or enjoy a massage at the spa, your experience at this world-class won't ever be forgotten.

The two beaches in Benidorm, the Levante and Poniente, are highlights on the Costa Blanca. The Levante beach is the livelier of the two, as it's the one closest to the city center. Here you'll find a variety of restaurants and water sports, including waterskiing and surfboard rental. The quieter of the two beaches is Poniente. Here you'll find an area to relax and sunbathe all day. Rock formations in the Bay of Benidorm create coves to explore from the water. Depending on your mood, you have your choice of a laid-back, tranquil beach or a more upbeat one.

The resort area of Benidorm offers more attractions and activities than nearly any other area in Spain. The perfect weather, beautiful surroundings and ample activities make for a vacation to remember.

Johnathan Bakers' detailed articles can be found on countless web pages tied to information on Alicante and Altea. You can discover his abstracts on Benidorm at http://www.alicante-spain.com and many different sources for Benidorm knowledge.

Visit Kuta Bali - Buy Handicraft

Talking end for end Bali, there is many beautiful and interesting places that you can visit, for a month you going around at Bali, I think, it is not enough to exploring that graceful Deities lovely Island.

First if you visit Bali, please let ask your tour guide that you have to endure to Kuta, and I guaranty that you will get some experience that in no degree same with your other visit.

Interesting place around Kuta.

Kuta Beach.

Kuta Beach is very famous. You can remark the beautiful sunset at this beach everyday. In that place is many hotels, restaurant and other places you can stay or pure relaxing by enjoying the beautiful sunset. The International hotels/places like Mercure Hotel, Hard Rock Hotel etc, or any other restaurants just a few step from the sands. You do not believe how imaginary it is, until you come and be delighted with it. You may go around to other place, however do not remember to go favor to Kuta beach about 04.00 PM o clock to enjoy the sunset. If you like to surfing or just want to learn about surfing, you know that Kuta is the right place for it. There are many tourists from Europe, USA or Australia or other countries come to Kuta for one thing, surfing and surfing.

Bali Water Boom.

Of course you can find the best water boom in Indonesia at Kuta. There is clean, many foliage with a scarcely any leaves and safety. Here the place to swimming, sunning, and you could do the water sliding as high as 30 meters heights. This place is located at Kartika Plaza Road (about 3 kilometers from Kuta Beach). There are many hotels, restaurants, and cafes through the Kartika Plaza Road. You can buy the handicraft souvenirs at this place.

Legian.

Through that street, you testament find many souvenir shops and cafe/restaurant. Like at Kuta beach, the nightlife in Legian is very attractive to. I recommend to you to make a photograph at Bali Bomb II Monument at Legian.

Kuta Square - Kartika Plaza.

Kuta Square at Kartika Plaza is the center of sales the exported handicrafts. At Kartika Plaza there is a shopping mall named Discovery Mall, there is a cafe at behind mall that you can relaxing and enjoy the beach at there. And you can buy the handicraft at this mall moreover. Near the Discovery Mall there is various famous places probable Kuta Centro, Musro, Cabaret Cabaret, There is many luxurious hotels through the Kartika Plaza Road.

Visit to Indonesia? Do not slight to endure to Bali, If you visit to Bali, do not forget to stay at Kuta, and in imitation of all you will find the beautiful and interesting really hand made handicraft, souvenir and gift.

Risno Lamin is the owner of Bali Indonesia Handicraft, an online Bali Indonesia handicraft, gift, souvenir, antique, art, collectibles, statue,etc. and live in Indonesia. He make also http://www.balidoll.com, an online Indonesia handicraft store special for Indonesian only.

Bali Honeymoon Packages: Accommodate Honeymooners of All Budget Ranges

Bali, the island of magic, wonder and unspoilt beauty presents the perfect ambiance for the honeymooners to enjoy a memorable honeymoon. With Bali honeymoon packages you can actually learn what the words "scenic beauty" and "breathtaking beaches" exactly means. The soothing ambiance, the natural and pure environment and heavenly feel can only be experienced through Bali tour packages.

High end villas at your disposal

When you are searching for the perfect accommodation facilities in your Bali tour packages, you are actually in for a surprise! You will find numerous options for accommodations in Bali. Apart from the large number of hotels, you will also discover that Bali is the home to various high end private villas. There are times when the tourists look out peace and tranquility and therefore demand accommodations accordingly while booking their Bali honeymoon packages. With the ever increasing demand for the secluded and private resorts, the number of the private villas is also on the rise in Bali. These villas will not only furnish quiet and peaceful atmosphere but also offers amenities similar to a five star hotel. From magnificent rooms, private swimming pools, splendid spas, luxurious rooms, mouth watering delicacies to enticing pubs, Bali villas offer it all to the tourists.

If you want to spend your honeymoon in a beachside villa, you can always book Bali honeymoon packages in Nusa Dua, Uluwatu or Canggu. There is also no need to ponder much about the budget. You can discover Bali Tour packages which accommodates all budget ranges. If you desire for a luxurious stay, you can find similar packages or if your budget is limited, you can still obtain cheap but comfortable Bali honeymoon packages.

Enjoy the enthralling nightlife

If you love parties and are looking forward towards plethora of entertainment and rocking music while planning your Bali tour packages, the nightlife of Bali will just take your breathe away. The pubs, clubs and countless restaurants of Bali will give you a glimpse of the enthralling and colorful nightlife.

Bali may be a small island, but the fun, adventure, spectacular view and entertainment that it provides to the tourists are limitless! Just the testimony of thousands of satisfied vacationers will confirm that the Bali tour packages make the best option to make the full utilization of your holidays. The different flavored food items, spas treatments, beaches and the hiking trail to the active volcano will marks the Bali tour as a complete package. To avail the unlimited fun and delight you will discover that one trip is simply not enough! You will keep on wanting for more and are sure to book another Bali package soon.

Author is an associate editor for Bali Honeymoon Packages. Get all possible information about International Tour Packages and Bali Tour Packages. We also provide information about Online Hotel Reservation, Flights Booking and Holiday Packages.

Lombok Island is an Undiscovered Paradise

Do you need a vacation? Or do you need time to relax and unwind? You don't want to go where there are millions of other tourists there which will spoil your time off from work. One place that you may not have heard of is Lombok Island. It is an undiscovered island paradise in Indonesia which may be the answer to your dreams.

What type of vacation are you looking for? Do you want to simply relax and do nothing? Or perhaps you want a vacation filled with plenty of activities that have intriguing sights and sounds. Or maybe you want to have an exotic adventure filled with nightlife and shopping. Any one of these and many others can be attained at Lombok Island.

This island is located east of Bali and is the owner of magnificent white sand beaches, a tropical climate and friendly people. Mount Rinjani National Park is also located here which has the third largest volcano in Indonesia with a measurement of 3726 meters. The best time to plan your trip is from the months of May to October. The peak season during the months of July and August so you will want to plan your trip early and make sure you have reservations!

There are many activities to do on the island of Lombok. You can do rock climbing, scuba diving, trekking, biking, sailing, snorkeling, bamboo rafting, surfing, fishing, boating, paragliding, parasailing, and even golfing. If you can name it you can do it here. You can trek on the mountain or on a natural trail. Most trips are usually done with an average of 15 to 20 people and accompanied by a local guide. You can even go camping and view some of the natural animals and vegetation.

The major city of Senggigi holds plenty of local nightlight filled with many dining establishments and dining restaurants. You will be sure to find something that will want to remind you of your visit and other unique items to take back as gifts. You will find exotic foods that will provide you with experiences unlike any other.

You can also take a small trek or tour to view the local plant life. There are also wetlands that you can view and enjoy. While there you might see a komodo or other natural animal life on the island. This is your chance to see animals in their natural habitat that you would normally see in a zoo.

When you visit Lombok Island you might not get a chance to see everything. You might be so overwhelmed by all the activities and adventures that happen here. You might decide not to do anything at all but simply meditate, relax, and get pampered. That can be done here as well. Whatever your vacation ideal is you can have it when you come to Lombok Island. It is a tranquil place with unheard of beauty and lulling waters that soothe your senses. The colors are so vibrant they appear to have been painted by an artist. You will not want to leave.

LombokHotelOnline.com provides you the best Lombok Hotels to chose for your vacation in Lombok and Gili Island. Visit our website to get special offers for this month.

Great Things to Do on Your Holidays To Benidorm

Benidorm, a city in the Costa Blanca region, is today a popular tourist destination. People, from the whole of Spain, troop to this wonderful city for their holidays to Benidorm. Its tourism industry is much to be desired so tourists always return to have a renewed taste of this city. Also, it is not only Spaniards that visit this wonderful city, you now see around Europeans and other nationalities from different countries throughout the world coming here year after year.

The Costa Blanca in general has a lot to offer for the tourist. But if you are staying in this city there are many different things that you should see while you are here. For your tour of this city, stop by its attractions found in Levante, Poniente, Old Town and Ricon de Loix.

Playa Levante

This is the busiest part of the city, where people enjoy the offerings of the beaches, hotels and nightlife, for which the Costa Blanca and especially this particular city has become famous for. Thousands of hotels, ranging from the two stars to five stars hotels, have been built here constituting the very many skyscrapers that have become an iconic part of the landscape. Some of these hotels have night time live entertainments. There are cheaper inns and apartments that are also available in this area. This place is the centre of a unique kind of nightlife. There are theme parks, bars, restaurants and shops all around Levante area.

Playa Levante is a favourite popular beach - one of Europe's best. This leads to Ricon de Loix and it comprises of two kilometres of golden sand. This beach is frequented by tourists who want to relax on the beach and those who want to take part in different water sports events. This is one very safe beach since lifeguards never fail to patrol the area. Here in Levante, one will have a chance to visit two theme parks. The Aqualandia is one of these fun parks which have a dolphinarium as well as a bat cave. The other park, Mundomar, offers water activities from its giant water slides.

Poniente

The place has a beach of golden sand - Playa de Poniente. This is a quieter area compared to the Levante. It has a promenade with slow moving one way traffic. The coastline continues westward to the even quieter area of La Cala. What you see in Levante is also present here - bars, shops, cafes and hotels. The 52 floor Hotel Bali is erected in this place, one very expensive and luxurious hotel!

A Visit to the Old Town

This place symbolizes old Spanish culture. The blue domed church is one of them. The white houses built along winding cobbled streets depict the period of ancient Spanish culture. You will find here the Benidorm Aquarium - a place where children, as well as adults, can have fun with the sea animals. There are many hotels erected in this place and these accommodations lead to the Levante, Poniente and Malpas beaches. It will be a more enjoyable time if you will experience one of the 50 fiestas being celebrated here, so try and coincide your trip for one of these celebrations.

The Very Modern Ricon De Loix Are

This is the exact opposite of the Old Town - the modern Benidorm. Its special offering is the lively indoor market. It is full of hustle and bustle - with all the different kinds of shops and 2 British supermarkets. Hotels, bars and restaurants are also found here. Benidorm Palace is in this area of fantastic entertainment.

Your holidays to Benidorm will not be complete without experiencing the waters of the three beaches - Levante, Poniente and Malpas. The four different places, with their specific attractions are Levante, Poniente, Old Town and Ricon de Loix.

Harry Stepson is a freelance author who contributes to various website pages about the Costa Blanca and Cheap Benidorm Car Hire. For more details about what to do in Alicante you should visit the site where you can find more info about your Car Hire in Benidorm.

Vacations For Teens - Five Affordable Destinations

Five Affordable World Travel Destinations

Locations That Offer More But Cost Less

So you want to travel the world but you have a tight budget? Are you tired of reading about everyone else's exotic adventures and ready to have some of your own? Have you always wanted to take an international vacation but thought you couldn't afford it? There are numerous travel destinations across the world that are both exciting and affordable. Five of them are described here to give you ideas and get you started planning your own getaway.

There are two ways to approach affordable vacations to distant destinations. Either you will save money getting there or the savings will occur once you arrive at your selected spot. If you want the trip there to be affordable, many travel consolidators recommend choosing well-known destinations that are served by numerous airlines and receive millions of travelers each year. The competition for customers usually drives costs down for everything from lodging to tour packages. Airfares between major hubs tend to be more affordable and there are often plenty of discounts and last minute travel deals.

London

In Europe, London is a top pick for affordable vacation destinations, for these exact reasons. Not only do you have more flights to choose from, they are cheaper than if you flew to a more remote location. On average, staying in London may be a bit more expensive than other European destinations, but the seemingly endless choices in hotels, restaurants, transportation, tours, and other travel essentials gives travels opportunities to mold their vacation to fit their budgets. And you can use London as your home base to set out on day trips to other more exotic locations or buy a Eurorail pass and see those more remote countries without the expense of flying there.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This theory also works well for traveling in the Caribbean. Belize is an appealing destination, with wonderful Caribbean beaches and a lush tropic setting, but since it has only recently emerged as a popular travel destination, it is more expensive than Cancun, Jamaica or other well-traveled locations along the Mayan Riviera. With fewer flights, getting there is more expensive, and there are few moderate lodging options. Development of larger luxury resorts have begun to boom, but the only real alternative for those on a budget is staying in local facilities that may be hard to locate from home and may be more rustic than most travelers are willing to try.

Although there are many options for affordable vacations in the Caribbean, an excellent pick is Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Accessible via flights to Cancun, which are often some of the cheapest in the region, Playa is just a half hour away. It is filled with a multitude of lodging choices, from expansive luxury resorts on the ocean to quaint but clean hotels downtown. From Playa, travelers can branch out and visit Tulum and other locations on the Mayan Riviera or take the ferry across to the island of Cozumel where snorkeling is prime and the attractions are many.

For Asian destinations, travelers often do better to focus on saving money once they get to their destination. Depending on your country of origin, getting to just about any spot in Asia is going to be a sizable chunk of your travel budget. The difference will come from the cost of lodging, food, entertainment and other travel expenditures once you arrive. By choosing destinations where you get the most for your money, you can save a great deal on your international vacation. A drink or dinner in Tokyo will costs you many times more than what it would in Saigon. The key here is to go where you dollars buy you more and where the local cost of living is low.

Tioman Island

An affordable yet exotic choice for Asia is Malaysia and specifically Tioman Island, knows as the mythical 'Bali Hai' from the film 'South Pacific.' Tioman Island is located at the southern end of the east coast of Malaysia on the South China Sea. It's sandy beaches, bordered by lush jungles and stunning mountains make it a relaxing yet intriguing destination, ideal for sun lovers, snorkelers and divers. The island also has many villages for exploring and shopping. English is widely spoken and the rates are amazingly affordable, with a two night lodging package for a suite at a lovely oceanside resort averaging around 100 U.S. dollars. Typically visitors reach the island via the speed ferry from the mainland. Although the trip can take over two hours, it is enjoyable and provides opportunities for dolphin watching along the way.

Buenos Aires

South American also has many destinations that are affordable because of the savings once you arrive. Locales like Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, the areas top destination, are coming down in price but are still more expensive than cities such as Buenos Aires in Argentina, where the rates are lower and the U.S. dollar goes further.

A huge metropolis that is more European than South American, the city has much to offer including cultural events, thriving nightlife, shopping, local sports, and a host of tours and excursions. La Boca, with its street performers, shops, and unique architecture is a big tourist draw. The large number of choices for lodging, restaurants, and activities provides opportunities for budget travel and savings. Airfare to the city is relatively reasonable for an international destination, with discount fares from the U.S. averaging around $500 round trip. Buenos Aires might not be one of the most exotic or inspiring destinations in South America, but it is a city that everyone should see at least once, and with some of the most affordable rates and fares around, it makes the list as a top South American destination.

Las Vegas

The list would not be complete without a North American destination, and the champ of all affordable locales is Las Vegas. It too is a city that should be seen at least once, and many world travelers return again and again for the gaming, art, shows and people watching that just can't be found anywhere else. Close enough to other top U.S. attractions like the Grand Canyon, Vegas provides other options for those who have had their fill of casinos.

The city has long been known for its cheap vacation packages with hotels and resorts that offer discount rates for rooms, meals and entertainment in hopes of attracting people to their gaming tables. Airfare rates into Vegas are some of the most reasonable in the United States, no matter the origination destination. And with more than 100,000 hotel rooms to choose from, there is sure to be a lodging choice that fits your budget.

The world provides hundreds of affordable travel destinations. With all the options available, there is no excuse to put off that life-long desire to travel to exotic places at the far ends of the earth. Destinations can be researched on the Internet or your travel consolidator can make recommendations and help with locating discount flights and hotel deals that fit your budget. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the world.

About the Author

C.J. Gustafson is a freelance writer for VacationsForTeens.com, a site about vacations for teens and travelers who are on a tight budget.

Copyright 2009 VacationsForTeens.com

Holiday & Travel Guide For Bali

Beaches

Bali in Indonesia is a small island that can be pretty much navigated around by car in around an hour, but it has some beautiful beaches with many activities available. Like the popular Kuta beach, for example, where water sports like wakeboarding, surfing and swimming are offered and on the beach there are activities like kite flying as well as slingshot activities. But if you're looking for something more relaxing while you're lying on the beach then there are many pleasurable experiences to be had with wonderful massages, manicures and hair braiding. It's ideal for those of you wanting to bake in the sun and be pampered at the same time. For family fun there is a brilliant waterslide park called Waterbom. It is filled with exciting slides and exhilarating raft experiences, along with wall climbing and tubing. There is plenty to do there for a full day excursion in this tropically green and lush environment.

Sightseeing

There are so many highlights to this small island as it is crammed with culture and nature, from volcano tours and botanical gardens to amazing rice fields and trips to see the beautiful Hindu Temples that are dedicated to different spirits. These Temples are dotted all around the island. The court house Kerta Gosa is a fabulous building built in the 18th century that has now become quite famous for its bright and lavish ceiling paintings that depict the hell that awaits the law breaker. Some of the buildings in Bali are truly amazing and there are so many photo opportunities.

Shopping

As to be expected on such a small island, there are no malls, or international chain stores, but what there are is plenty of buying opportunities, because this small island has plenty of small shops selling designer fashion ware. There are also open air markets to tempt you with handmade clothing to your personal preferences, beautiful jewellery and many handcrafted items. Not forgetting the bright and wonderful art work. The prices are excellent, but a little haggling won't do any harm. You won't be going home empty handed, so be sure to leave some spare room in your suitcase.

Eating

There are many eating establishments in Bali, but very few selling typical Bali food like suckling pig with rice. Most of the restaurants and hotels sell international cuisine to appeal to the tourist market. Eating out in Bali is very cheap and not to be grumbled at as there are very few cheap places left nowadays. The outdoor markets sell some delicious fruits for you to taste and there are beach hut vendors selling snacks and drinks.

Nightlife

There are plenty of nightclubs and bars around this small island, but they don't open until around midnight and the best place to be at that time is in Legian; any of the taxi drivers in your resort will take you there. The clubs are very popular in this area, it is very well known as it's more upmarket, the place where everyone dresses to impress in their designer clothes. International imported drinks can be very expensive in these places though, so don't expect the night life to be cheap.

Happy Holidays

Trevor Butler, co-founder and owner of holidayholiday.co.uk, specialists in cheap holidays and last minute holidays worldwide.

Tahiti, Mon Amour

Every time I write of Tahiti I find myself using the cliche - Tahiti, Mon Amour. But Tahiti is my love. A place that I have returned to more times that I can count. A place to which I shall return again and again.

We had landed at Faaa airport in Tahiti at two o'clock in the morning. The air was warm and heavy with the scents of tropical flowers and fruits. Vahines in pareus had put garlands around our necks. The bus was taking us from the airport to the main town of Papeete. There was a full moon.

On our right was the dark bulk of Tahiti. On our left, the sea - a silver tray in the moonlight. In the centre of the sea, the black high mass that is the island of Moorea. Along the harbour walls were moored the island traders and the yachts. Ahead were the flickering lights of Papeete. The Australian lady behind me tapped me on the shoulder and said: 'Excuse me, if this was the Parramatta Road, would this be about Homebush?'

Thankfully most travellers to Tahiti have a little more romance in their soul. I am at one with Maurice Baring who wrote: 'Tahiti is the whole thing; the real thing; the thing that one has dreamt about all one's life; the thing that made Stevenson leave Europe for ever. All tellers of fairy tales, and all poets from Homer downwards, have always imagined the existence of certain 'Fortunate' islands which were so full of magic and charm that they turned man from his duty and all tasks ... and held him a willing captive.'

Tahiti is, indeed, the Fortunate island. It is so damn beautiful it hurts your eyes. True, Tahiti has changed, is changing.

No longer is Quinn's on the waterfront the bar for ramping, stamping, tearing, swearing sailors, French legionnaires and misfits. (Was it not there that a legionnaire, taken with le cafard, smacked a wine bottle against the side of my head because, as he later explained, I reminded him of someone he disliked? It was).

And LaFayette, the most notorious night spot of the Pacific, no longer runs from late night to dusk with a non-stop demonstration of the hip-snapping tamure - a dance which is, indeed, a vertical expression of a horizontal desire - or features fights on the hour, every hour.

Yes, some of the sweet simplicity of the islands and the vahines is now missing, but this is still Tahiti. The island of Gauguin, of Nordhoff and Hall, of Melville and Somerset Maugham, of Pierre Loti and of, yes, Marlon Brando. A Fortunate isle which is the most romantic spot on earth.

No longer can you clamber on a slow steamer and work your way to Tahiti through a pattern of islands. Instead, fly direct to Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. The cheapest way to visit Tahiti is by package tour. You need a visa.

Please note that there is no tipping in Tahiti. Tipping is considered offensive by Tahitian standards and customs and you will look an illiterate boor if you insist. Do not tip.

Bring certain essentials with you for in Tahiti, where everything is imported over a long distance, they can be expensive. The essentials are sunblock - and a lot of it, insect repellent and at least three swimming costumes and a pair of reef sandals so that you do not cut your feet on dead coral. You need bring no formal clothes and, indeed, hardly any clothes at all. This is not a formal dressing up sort of place.

The weather is never less than perfect. The scenery never less than stunning. There are, in theory, two seasons. From April to November it is said to be cooler and drier and from November to March warmer and wetter. I have never noticed this.

In the past I always stayed on the island of Moorea opposite at the Bali Hai simply because of the insanity of the then owners Muk, Jay and Kelly.

On the lawn of that splendid hotel I played frisbee with Art Buchwald and James Michener and lost. And then sat with a bucket of banana daiquiris and listened to Shel Silverstein sing mad, bad songs and then danced the tamure through the night.

I was younger then.

The Bali Hai Hotel is still there as both a time share establishment and a hotel.

Kelly has gone but the place is now run by Rose, a most splendid person,with Muk and Jay around there somewhere. If you stay at the Bali Hai try and get an over-the-water bungalow, well worth the extra money. The hotel used to have an advertisement - If you are coming to Tahiti and are not booked into the Bali Hai someone has made a terrible mistake. One of the few advertising campaigns with which I ever agreed.

The Hotel Hyatt Regency Tahara'a probably is the most upmarket hotel and is visually stunning; built on a cliff face. A bus takes you down to the beach for water sports. I also have stayed at what was The BeachComber and is now the InterContinental Resort Tahiti and has amazing views of Moora. The Puunui hotel is on Tahiti Iti, the small extension at the end of the island which tourists rarely visit. It has spectacular views and is near the golf course.

Purely in theory to get around there is le truck which is unscheduled, disorganised, impossible to predict but great fun. Most visitors never venture although it is an amazing experience for this is the basic form of transportation on Tahiti and may very well get you to where you are going, eventually. These open-sided trucks start from the market in Papeete. Taxis are ruinously expensive and should be avoided. Around midnight the prices double. Most hotels provided regular bus shuttles. Hire cars are widely available and are good value.

The French influence in Tahiti is all pervasive.

The serious restaurants range from good to very good. Your only problem may be getting a table, especially on Sunday lunchtime when tout Tahiti goes out to eat. Wine is a silly price and can range from rotgut to sublime.

Restaurants where I have eaten and which I can recommend are L'Auberge du Pacifique, Le Rubis, and Les Trois Brasseurs. The local French population is serious about food and standards generally are high and the prices match this. At some stage try a Tahitian tamaara'a feast. But it is not a gourmet experience. Do not eat at your hotel. It is too damn expensive. Wander into town when you want breakfast. It will be half the price and twice as good.

In the evening there is a site on the waterfront - cooked food stalls called les roulottes. Inexpensive, good food, very Tahiti. Not expensive certainly compared to hotel food prices.

What else do I do when I am in Tahiti?

Hire a car and drive around (the road does not go all the way around the island). Go up into the singing mountains. Visit the Gauguin museum. See how accurately he portrayed the beauty of the place and the people. Visit poor Pierre Loti's pool. See the only memorial to a member of a royal family - the Pomare dynasty - that incorporates a bottle of Benedictine. Sit at a sidewalk cafe in Papeete and watch the passing parade. In ten minutes you will see a dozen of the most beautiful women in the world. Noel Coward did this and hated it. In this, as in much else, he was wrong.

Go out to the lagoonarium - oh, horrid word - at Punaauia and see the fish life of the Pacific. Take the ferry to Moorea - about 45 minutes on the Moorea ferry. While on Moorea go horse back riding on the Rupe Rupe Ranch or ride underwater in an aqua-submarine and pretend you are a fish.

One of the great attractions of Tahiti is the staggering beauty of the islands and the even more staggering beauty of Tahitian women. Because of fiction, because of Mutiny on the Bounty, because of folklore, because of the unbelievably sexy dance, the tamure, there is a worldwide myth that they are morally loose and available. Nothing, nothing could be further from the truth. Act with respect and decorousness and all will be well. Push your luck and you will be in for a bad time. Tahitian girls are gorgeous, proud, smart and sophisticated and not into falling for holiday making visitors. For certain sure.

That still leaves the dancing.

In 1820, article 23 of the law of the Leeward Islands was passed. It stated clearly that 'all lascivious songs, games or entertainments are strictly forbidden'. A law, thanks be to all the gods, eventually totally ignored. The true nightlife of Tahiti, of Papeete, revolves around the tamure, a dance which has no equal. The Tahitians love music, love to dance, love to celebrate. Papeete reflects this. Especially on a Friday night when the town is wild. There is a tradition in Tahiti that you should wear a flower behind your ear. Wear one and go out on the town.

Useful sites

Tahiti Tourism

http://www.tahiti-tourisme.com/

Club Bali Hai Moorea

http://www.balihaihotels.com/

Tahiti

http://www.tahiti.com/

Tahiti Explorer

http://www.tahiti-explorer.com/

Gareth Powell is a writer for China Economic Review